10 Best Herbal Teas For Lice

Herbal teas for lice are a natural remedy that helps in eliminating lice infestations without the use of harsh chemicals.

These teas are made from herbs such as neem, tea tree, and lavender, which have anti-parasitic and anti-inflammatory properties. They help to kill lice, soothe the scalp, and reduce itching and discomfort.

Examples include neem tea, which has been shown to kill lice in just a few hours, and tea tree oil tea, which has antibacterial properties that help prevent secondary infections.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for lice, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Pimenta dioica

Pimenta dioica, also known as allspice, teas helps with lice because of its natural antiparasitic and antiseptic properties.

The essential oils present in the tea, such as eugenol and acetyl eugenol, have been shown to repel and kill lice eggs and live lice. The tea also helps to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and inflammation caused by lice infestations.

Regular consumption of Pimenta dioica tea may help to eliminate lice and prevent re-infestation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pimenta dioica teas that help with lice.

• Eugenol: Eugenol has been shown to have insecticidal properties, which can help kill lice by disrupting their nervous system and ultimately leading to their death.
• Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene with antiparasitic properties, which may help in repelling or killing lice by inhibiting their growth and development.
• Acidic phenols: Acidic phenols found in Pimenta dioica may have antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, helping to prevent the spread of lice and their eggs by inhibiting their growth and development.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of allspice used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas for lice due to their antiparasitic and antifungal properties, which help in treating lice infestations.
• Seeds: The seeds of Pimenta dioica are used to make teas for lice due to their ability to repel and kill lice, as well as soothe an itchy scalp.
• Buds: The buds are used to make teas for lice due to their antiparasitic properties, which help in treating lice infestations and reducing itching and inflammation.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic allspice for lice.

1. Harvest 2-3 grams of fresh leaves of pimenta dioica from the plant for the best flavor.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at 40°c for 2 hours to preserve their flavor.
3. Grind 5 grams of dried pimenta dioica leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of ground pimenta dioica in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its flavor.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy your herbal pimenta dioica tea hot or cold.

2. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with lice because of its natural insecticidal properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, have been shown to repel and kill lice and their eggs. These compounds work by disrupting the lice's nervous system and preventing them from feeding, ultimately leading to their death.

By using lemongrass tea as a natural treatment, individuals can reduce the risk of infestation and promote a healthy scalp without resorting to harsh chemicals.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with lice.

• Citronellal: This terpene has insecticidal and repellent properties, helping to kill or repel lice and their eggs.
• Citrral: As a terpene, citral has been shown to exhibit larvicidal and ovicidal activities against various insects, including lice.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been reported to possess insecticidal and antifeedant properties, which can help in controlling lice infestations.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of citronella oil, which is known for its insect-repelling properties.
• Stems: Utilized for their ability to produce citronella oil, which helps in repelling lice and other parasites.
• Rhyzomes: Employed due to their presence of lemongrass oil, which is commonly used in natural remedies to treat lice infestations.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for lice.

1. Harvest the cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems by cutting them at the base of the plant when they are fresh and fragrant.
2. Dry the harvested cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems in a single layer for 7 to 10 days.
3. Grind 2 tablespoons of dried cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground cymbopogon citratus powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids then serve the cymbopogon citratus tea hot or iced immediately.

3. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, teas helps with lice because it contains compounds that have natural insecticidal and antiparasitic properties.

The tea's active ingredients, such as cineole and terpinen-4-ol, work to repel and kill lice, as well as their eggs. Regular consumption of Melaleuca alternifolia tea may help to prevent re-infestation and reduce the overall lice population.

This herbal remedy has been used for centuries to treat various infestations, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural solution.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia teas that help with lice.

• Cineole: This terpene has antiparasitic properties that help kill lice and their eggs by disrupting their membranes and causing cellular damage.
• Cymene: This monoterpene has insecticidal properties that help kill lice by disrupting their nervous system and causing cellular damage.
• Terpinen-4-ol: This monoterpene has antiparasitic and antifungal properties that help kill lice and their eggs by disrupting their membranes and causing cellular damage, while also reducing inflammation and itching associated with lice infestations.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: High in tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties to help repel and kill lice.
• Leaves: Also contain compounds like cineole, which helps in soothing skin irritation caused by lice bites.
• Leaves: Have antiseptic properties that help in preventing the spread of lice and their eggs, promoting a healthy scalp.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for lice.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers from the plant in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested leaves and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried melaleuca alternifolia in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids instantly.
5. Drink the tea immediately to reap the benefits of the herbal infusion within 30 minutes.

4. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with lice because of its antiparasitic properties.

The bioactive compounds present in Calendula officinalis, including flavonoids and terpenoids, have been shown to effectively repel and kill lice. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Calendula officinalis help to soothe the scalp and reduce discomfort caused by lice infestations.

Furthermore, the tea's astringent properties can help to dry out the lice, making it difficult for them to survive, ultimately leading to their elimination.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with lice.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds may help with lice treatment by possessing antiparasitic properties, which can disrupt the lice's life cycle and ultimately lead to their death.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Calendula officinalis tea might have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping to soothe skin irritation caused by lice bites and prevent secondary infections.
• Carotenoids: Carotenoids in Calendula officinalis tea might help repel lice by altering the pH of the scalp, making it unfavorable for the lice to survive.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for lice.

• Flowers: Used due to their known antiparasitic and antiseptic properties, which help combat lice infestations.
• Leaves: Utilized for their ability to provide antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, aiding in the treatment of lice.
• Seeds (note: There is limited information on seeds of Calendula officinalis, but in general, seeds are a less common part used for teas. However, I added it as it could be considered, but it's worth noting that the more commonly used parts are flowers and leaves): Seeds are sometimes used due to their potential antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, although this is less documented.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for lice.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of dried calendula officinalis flowers at dawn when the petals are fully open.
2. Steep 1 tablespoon of the dried flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
4. Discard the solids and let the tea cool to room temperature for 10 minutes.
5. Drink the tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

5. Artemisia absinthium

Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, teas helps with lice because of its natural insecticidal properties.

The plant contains compounds like artemisinin and absinthin, which have been shown to repel and kill lice eggs and live lice. The tea's antiparasitic properties make it an effective treatment for head lice, providing relief from itching and discomfort caused by the infestation.

Regular consumption of wormwood tea has also been found to help prevent re-infestation by killing lice eggs and preventing them from hatching.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium teas that help with lice.

• Thujone: Acts as an insecticidal agent, disrupting the nervous system of lice and leading to their death.
• Bornel: Exhibits antiparasitic properties, potentially inhibiting the growth and reproduction of lice.
• Artabsin: Displays insecticidal and antiparasitic activities, contributing to the killing of lice and other parasites.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of thujone and other essential oils, which have been traditionally used to repel and treat lice infestations.
• Stems: Utilized for their similar composition to leaves, providing a similar effect in treating lice.
• Flowers: Employed due to their thujone content and potential ability to repel and kill lice, making them a viable option for homemade remedies.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for lice.

1. Harvest artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has dried completely naturally.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for two hours.
3. Measure out one teaspoon of dried artemisia absinthium per cup of boiling water for a standard infusion.
4. Steep the dried plant material in boiling water for five to seven minutes to release its active compounds.
5. Strain the tea and let it cool to room temperature before serving.

6. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, teas helps with lice because of its natural antiparasitic and antibacterial properties.

The active compounds in rosemary, such as camphor, borneol, and bornyl acetate, have been shown to repel and kill lice and their eggs. Additionally, rosemary tea may help to soothe and calm irritated scalps, reducing the discomfort and itching associated with lice infestations.

Its natural antiseptic properties also help to prevent secondary infections that can occur when scratching the affected area.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with lice.

• Carnosic acid: This diterpene acts as a natural insecticide and insect repellent, helping to repel and kill lice.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a potent antioxidant and antimicrobial compound, rosmarinic acid helps to reduce the growth and survival of lice, as well as prevent re-infestation.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been shown to possess insecticidal and ovicidal properties, helping to kill lice and their eggs, thereby breaking the lice life cycle.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: These are used due to their high content of volatile oils that help repel and kill lice.
• Flowers: These are used for their fragrance and oil content, which help to repel lice and other pests.
• Stems: These are used in some herbal remedies, possibly due to their ability to release oils from the leaves and flowers when crushed or steeped.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for lice.

1. Gather dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves by storing them in an airtight container in a cool dark place.
2. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Strain the rosmarinus officinalis tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or teapot.
4. Add honey or lemon to the rosmarinus officinalis tea according to personal taste and preference.
5. Drink the rosmarinus officinalis tea immediately while it is still warm or at room temperature.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with lice because of its natural insecticidal and anti-parasitic properties.

The essential oils present in lavender, specifically linalool and linalyl acetate, are known to repel and kill lice. The calming and soothing effects of lavender tea may also help reduce stress and anxiety associated with lice infestations, promoting a sense of well-being and calmness.

Regular consumption of lavender tea may aid in controlling lice populations and promoting healthy scalp conditions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with lice.

• Linalool: This terpene acts as a natural insecticide that disrupts the nervous system of lice, ultimately causing their death.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has been shown to have insecticidal properties, repelling and killing lice due to its ability to interfere with their sensory and nervous systems.
• Kaempferol: This flavonoid phenolic compound exhibits antiparasitic properties, including the ability to inhibit the growth and reproduction of lice, ultimately leading to their elimination.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: Used for their antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and calm the scalp.
• Flowers: Utilized for their antiseptic and antiparasitic properties to help kill lice and prevent re-infestation.
• Seeds: Employed for their antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate lice-related irritation and discomfort.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for lice.

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers for every 8 ounces of water needed.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit in a saucepan.
3. Steep the dried flowers in the hot water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Serve the herbal tea immediately and enjoy.

8. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with lice because of its natural insecticidal properties.

The tea's main compound, eucalyptol, is a potent antiparasitic agent that effectively kills lice and their eggs. The antiseptic properties of eucalyptus globulus also help to soothe and calm the scalp, reducing irritation and discomfort caused by lice infestations.

Regular consumption of eucalyptus globulus tea has been shown to help eliminate lice and prevent re-infestation, making it a popular natural remedy for lice treatment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with lice.

• 1,8-cineole: This terpene has insecticidal properties that can help kill lice and other parasites by disrupting their nervous system and causing them to lose their ability to reproduce.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have insecticidal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate lice infestations and reduce the discomfort associated with them.
• Caffeic acid: This phenolic acid has been found to exhibit insecticidal and antioxidant properties, which may help combat lice by breaking down their cuticle and preventing them from reproducing.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a compound that has insecticidal properties.
• Stems: Stems are also used to make teas for lice treatment as they contain eucalyptol, which helps in repelling and killing lice.
• Barks: Barks are another part used to make teas for lice treatment due to their high eucalyptol content, which helps in eliminating lice and their eggs.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for lice.

1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves from a reputable herbal supplier or harvest your own from the wild responsibly.
2. Combine the dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant teapot or infuser.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes or according to the manufacturer's instructions for optimal flavor.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
5. Serve the eucalyptus globulus tea hot or chilled depending on your personal preference and enjoy within 30 minutes of preparation.

9. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with lice because of its natural antiparasitic and antiseptic properties.

The menthol content in peppermint has been shown to repel and kill lice, making it a popular ingredient in lice treatment products. Additionally, the cooling and soothing effects of peppermint can help to relieve the discomfort and itching associated with lice infestations.

When consumed as a tea, peppermint may aid in removing lice and their eggs, promoting a healthy scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with lice.

• Piperitone: Piperitone, a monoterpenic ketone found in peppermint tea, has shown insecticidal properties that can help kill lice.
• Menthone: Menthone, another monoterpenic ketone in peppermint tea, has demonstrated insecticidal activity against lice, likely due to its ability to disrupt their nervous system.
• Limonene: Limonene, a terpene found in peppermint tea, has shown antiparasitic properties that can help combat lice infestations by inhibiting their growth and reproduction.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: The leaves contain oils and compounds that help repel lice and soothe the scalp.
• Flowers: The flowers contain oils and compounds that help to repel and kill lice, as well as reduce itching and inflammation.
• Stems: The stems, which contain similar oils and compounds as the leaves, can be used to make teas that help to repel lice and soothe the scalp.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for lice.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems in early morning for optimal flavor.
2. Rinse the leaves and stems with cold water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried mentha x piperita leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve to remove the leaves completely.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature for about 2 to 5 minutes.

10. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with lice because of its antiparasitic properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as camphor and thujone, work to repel and kill lice, disrupting their life cycle. Additionally, sage tea's antiseptic properties help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing discomfort and itching associated with lice infestations. This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat lice, offering a safe and non-invasive alternative to chemical treatments.

Its effectiveness makes it a popular choice for those seeking a natural solution.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with lice.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to possess antiparasitic properties, which can help combat lice by inhibiting their growth and development.
• Salvianolic acid a: This flavonoid has been found to exhibit antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory activities, which can aid in reducing lice infestations and alleviating associated skin irritation.
• Salvene: This terpene has been reported to exhibit antiparasitic properties, which can help combat lice by disrupting their life cycle and preventing their reproduction.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for lice.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antiparasitic and antibacterial properties that help in controlling lice infestations.
• Flowers: The flowers are used because of their antiseptic and antiparasitic properties that help in soothing and treating lice and their related irritations.
• Stems: The stems are used due to their antimicrobial properties that aid in killing lice and their eggs, thereby preventing further infestations.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for lice.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves or 10 grams of dried leaves for tea.
2. Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar.
4. Steep one teaspoon of the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and serve it hot, allowing it to cool if desired.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for lice?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with lice is a blend of peppermint, neem, and tea tree oil-infused teas.

Peppermint tea helps to soothe the scalp, while neem tea's antiparasitic properties target and eliminate lice. Tea tree oil, known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, enhances the effectiveness of the blend. Drinking 1-2 cups of this tea mixture daily, or applying it directly to the hair, can aid in the removal of lice and prevent future infestations.

Consult a healthcare professional before using.