11 Best Herbal Teas For Lice

Herbal teas for lice are natural remedies made from various herbs and plants that have been used to treat and eliminate lice infestations.

These teas can treat lice because they contain compounds that suffocate the lice, prevent their eggs from hatching, or repel them altogether.

Examples of herbal teas that can be used to treat lice include tea tree oil, which has antiparasitic properties, peppermint tea, which can help soothe and calm the scalp, lavender tea, which has antiseptic properties that can help eliminate bacteria and fungi associated with lice, chamomile tea, which can help reduce itchiness and inflammation, and neem tea, which has natural insecticidal properties that can kill lice and their eggs.

Additionally, other herbal teas such as eucalyptus tea, rosemary tea, and lemongrass tea have also been used to repel and eliminate lice due to their strong and pungent scents.

Below there's a list of the 11 best herbal teas for lice.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia teas

Melaleuca alternifolia teas, also known as tea tree oil infusions, have been traditionally used to treat lice and other scalp-related issues due to their antiparasitic and antiseptic properties.

The bioactive constituents of this herbal preparation, including cineole and terpinen-4-ol, help to repel lice and their eggs by creating an environment that is inhospitable to their survival.

This herbal preparation helps to treat lice by killing the lice and their eggs, reducing the risk of re-infestation and promoting a healthy scalp environment.

The benefits of using Melaleuca alternifolia teas to treat lice include reduced itching, inflammation, and discomfort, making it a popular natural remedy for this common scalp issue.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers.
2. Boil 2 cups of water in a pot.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of dried Melaleuca alternifolia leaves to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat and let it steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain the liquid.
5. Mix 1 part of the tea with 1 part of water to make a final solution. Use this solution to rinse the hair and scalp after shampooing.

Usage:

1. Soak hair in 1 cup of warm water with 2 tablespoons of Melaleuca alternifolia tea.
2. Leave the mixture on for 1-2 hours or overnight.
3. Use a fine-tooth comb to remove dead lice and nits.
4. Repeat the treatment every 2-3 days for 2 weeks.
5. Shampoo hair with regular shampoo after each treatment.

Melaleuca alternifolia teas can be used to treat lice ailments, but its use may cause side effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and gastrointestinal issues in some individuals.

When using Melaleuca alternifolia teas to treat lice, it is essential to take precautions, including avoiding eye contact, using a diluted solution, and applying a small patch test before full application to prevent any adverse reactions.

2. Rosmarinus officinalis teas

Rosmarinus officinalis teas, a herbal preparation derived from the rosemary plant, have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their potent insecticidal and antiparasitic properties.

The bioactive constituents of this herbal preparation, including camphor, bornyl acetate, and rosmarinic acid, contribute to its effectiveness in treating lice by repelling and killing the lice and their eggs.

These constituents help to disrupt the lice's life cycle and prevent re-infestation, ultimately leading to a reduction in lice populations and alleviation of associated discomfort and itching.

The benefits of using Rosmarinus officinalis teas to treat lice include its natural, non-toxic, and cost-effective approach, making it an attractive alternative to traditional chemical-based treatments.

Recipe:

1. Gather ingredients: 1 cup of fresh or dried Rosmarinus officinalis leaves, 1 cup of boiling water, and a strainer.
2. Measure 1 tablespoon of Rosmarinus officinalis leaves into a cup.
3. Pour boiling water over the leaves and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a separate cup to remove the leaves.
5. Let the tea cool down before applying it to the hair as a treatment for lice. Use as directed and repeat as needed.

Usage:

1. Use 2 cups of boiling water to make 1 cup of Rosmarinus officinalis tea
2. Drink 1/4 cup of tea 3 times a day for 7 days
3. Wash hair with mild shampoo 2 times a day for 7 days
4. Use a fine-tooth comb to remove lice and nits daily
5. Repeat process for 2 weeks for effective lice removal

Rosmarinus officinalis teas can be used to treat lice, but it may cause side effects such as allergic reactions, skin irritation, and increased heart rate due to the presence of volatile oils.

Precautions should be taken, including avoiding the use of Rosmarinus officinalis teas on broken skin, on children under the age of 6, and during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the essential oils may be absorbed through the skin and cause harm to the developing fetus or baby.

3. Eucalyptus globulus teas

Eucalyptus globulus teas have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their anti-parasitic and insecticidal properties.

The bioactive constituents present in this herbal preparation, including eucalyptol, limonene, and pinene, help to repel and kill lice by disrupting their nervous system and preventing egg-laying.

These constituents also aid in reducing itching and inflammation caused by lice bites, providing relief to affected individuals.

The benefits of using Eucalyptus globulus teas to treat lice include its natural and non-toxic nature, ease of preparation, and ability to provide quick relief from lice infestations.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Eucalyptus globulus leaves.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of dried Eucalyptus globulus leaves to 1 cup of boiling water.
3. Steep the leaves for 5-7 minutes, then strain the mixture.
4. Combine the strained mixture with 1 cup of water and bring to a boil.
5. Let the tea cool and use it as a final rinse after shampooing to help repel lice.

Usage:

1. Check lice infestation and consult doctor if necessary.
2. Shower with regular shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
3. Mix 2 tablespoons of Eucalyptus globulus oil with 1 cup of coconut oil.
4. Apply mixture to hair and scalp, leave for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
5. Repeat treatment 2-3 times a week for 2-3 weeks, with daily shampooing.

Eucalyptus globulus teas can be used to treat lice ailments, but using them may cause side effects such as allergic reactions, skin irritation, and digestive issues in some individuals.

When using Eucalyptus globulus teas to treat lice, it is essential to take precautions, such as using it in moderation, avoiding contact with sensitive areas, and performing a patch test before applying it to the affected area.

4. Artemisia absinthium teas

Artemisia absinthium teas have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their potent antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe the scalp and eliminate the lice.

The herbal preparation's bioactive constituents, including thujone, camphor, and borneol, work synergistically to repel and kill lice, making it an effective treatment for this ailment.

By using Artemisia absinthium teas, individuals can benefit from a natural and non-toxic solution that not only eliminates the lice but also helps to prevent their recurrence and reduce the risk of infestation.

The antimicrobial and antiseptic properties of this herbal preparation also help to prevent secondary infections and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Artemisia absinthium leaves.
2. Measure 2 tablespoons of Artemisia absinthium leaves and place them in a heat-resistant cup.
3. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the leaves and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another cup, discarding the solids.
5. Use the tea as a final rinse after shampooing your hair to help repel lice.

Usage:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of dried Artemisia absinthium with 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Soak the hair with the tea for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Rinse the hair thoroughly with warm water and shampoo.
4. Repeat the process 2-3 times a week for 2-3 weeks.
5. Use a fine-tooth comb to remove lice and eggs after each treatment.

Artemisia absinthium teas can be used as a treatment for lice, but it may cause side effects such as allergic reactions, skin irritation, and gastrointestinal issues due to its thujone content.

Precautions should be taken when using this herbal preparation, including avoiding excessive consumption, as it may lead to headaches, dizziness, and other neurological symptoms, and ensuring that the tea is brewed at a safe temperature to prevent burns.

5. Cymbopogon citratus teas

Cymbopogon citratus teas, also known as lemongrass tea, have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their potent insecticidal and anti-parasitic properties.

The tea's active compounds, including citral and geraniol, help to repel and kill lice, as well as their eggs, thereby treating the ailment effectively.

The bioactive constituents present in lemongrass tea, such as limonene and beta-pinene, contribute to its lice-repelling properties, making it a popular natural remedy for this condition.

The benefits of using lemongrass tea to treat lice infestations include its non-toxic and environmentally friendly nature, making it a safer alternative to chemical-based treatments.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Cymbopogon citratus leaves or 1 tablespoon of dried leaves.
2. Combine the leaves with 1 cup of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture into a cup and discard the leaves.
5. Drink the tea twice a day, 1/4 cup each time, for 7-10 days to help eliminate lice.

Usage:

1. Drink 1 cup of Cymbopogon citratus tea 3 times a day for 7 days.
2. Add 2-3 drops of tea essential oil to shampoo or hair conditioner.
3. Apply the tea-infused shampoo to hair, leave on for 30 minutes.
4. Repeat shampooing and rinsing with warm water 2-3 times a week.
5. Comb hair with fine-tooth comb to remove lice and nits daily.

Cymbopogon citratus teas can be used as a potential treatment for lice, but it may cause side effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and digestive issues in some individuals.

When using Cymbopogon citratus teas to treat lice, precautions should be taken to avoid applying excessive amounts to the skin, as this can cause increased irritation and potentially lead to infections, especially in individuals with open wounds or compromised skin.

6. Lavandula angustifolia teas

Lavandula angustifolia teas have been used for centuries to treat various health issues, including lice infestation.

The antiparasitic properties of this herbal preparation help to treat lice by disrupting the life cycle of the parasites and reducing their reproduction rate.

The bioactive constituents of Lavandula angustifolia, including linalool and linalyl acetate, exhibit potent insecticidal and antifungal activities that aid in treating the lice ailment.

The benefits of using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat lice include a natural and gentle approach, reduced risk of resistance, and minimal side effects, making it a popular alternative to chemical-based treatments.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers.
2. Add 1 quart of boiling water to a saucepan.
3. Steep the dried flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid and discard the flowers.
5. Use the cooled tea as a final rinse after shampooing your hair to help repel lice.

Usage:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of dried Lavandula angustifolia with 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Let the tea steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain it.
3. Shampoo your hair with a medicated lice shampoo, then rinse.
4. Apply the Lavandula angustifolia tea as a final rinse, 2 times a week.
5. Repeat the treatment for 2 consecutive weeks to ensure lice removal.

Lavandula angustifolia teas can be used as a natural remedy to treat lice, but it may cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and stomach upset in some individuals.

When using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat lice, it is essential to take precautions such as performing a patch test before application, avoiding contact with sensitive areas, and using a gentle shampoo to minimize potential side effects.

7. Thymus serpyllum teas

Thymus serpyllum teas, also known as wild thyme, have been used traditionally to treat lice infestations due to their antiparasitic and antimicrobial properties.

The bioactive constituents of wild thyme, such as thymol, carvacrol, and ursolic acid, help to repel and kill lice, as well as soothe the scalp and alleviate itching.

This herbal preparation works by creating an environment that is unfavorable for the lice to survive, ultimately leading to their elimination, and also helps to reduce the risk of re-infestation.

The benefits of using Thymus serpyllum teas to treat lice include its non-toxic and environmentally friendly nature, making it an attractive alternative to chemical-based treatments.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Thymus serpyllum leaves. You can grow them in your garden or buy from a store.
2. Wash the leaves with water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a cloth.
3. Steep 1 tablespoon of the dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture and let it cool. You can add a sweetener like honey if you want.
5. Use the tea to wash your hair and scalp to help remove lice. Repeat the process daily for best results.

Usage:

1. Dampen your hair with water for effective tea absorption.
2. Use 1-2 tablespoons of Thymus serpyllum tea for a cup of warm water.
3. Soak your hair in the tea mixture for 30-45 minutes.
4. Repeat the tea treatment 2-3 times a week for 2-3 weeks.
5. Comb your hair with a fine-tooth comb to remove lice and eggs.

Thymus serpyllum teas can be used to treat lice, but it may cause side effects such as stomach upset, allergic reactions, or interactions with other medications.

When using Thymus serpyllum teas to treat lice, it is essential to take precautions, such as avoiding consumption if pregnant or breastfeeding, and carefully monitoring your body's reaction to the herbal preparation.

8. Achillea millefolium teas

Achillea millefolium teas have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe the scalp and reduce itching.

The bioactive constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, contribute to the herbal preparation's ability to kill lice and their eggs, ultimately leading to the eradication of the infestation.

The antiseptic properties of Achillea millefolium teas also help to prevent secondary infections and promote a healthy scalp environment.

Regular use of Achillea millefolium teas as a natural remedy may offer benefits such as reduced reliance on chemical treatments, fewer side effects, and a more gentle approach to treating lice infestations.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Achillea millefolium leaves and flowers.
2. Dry the leaves and flowers completely by air-drying or using a food dehydrator.
3. Use 2 tablespoons of dried Achillea millefolium to make a tea.
4. Steep the dried herbs in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and use it as a natural treatment for lice, repeating the process as needed.

Usage:

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of dried Achillea millefolium with 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the liquid.
3. Drink 2 cups of the tea per day, 2 times a day.
4. Use the tea for 2-3 weeks to help treat lice infestation.
5. Repeat the treatment after 1 week for effective results.

Achillea millefolium teas can be used to treat lice infestations, but possible side effects may include allergic reactions, skin irritation, and potential interactions with other medications.

Precautions include avoiding use on broken skin, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with sensitive skin, as well as monitoring for signs of allergic reactions or increased heart rate.

9. Ocimum basilicum teas

Ocimum basilicum teas, derived from the sweet basil plant, have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal preparation helps to treat lice by killing the lice and their eggs, as well as relieving the itching and discomfort associated with the infestation.

The bioactive constituents of Ocimum basilicum, including eugenol, linalool, and ursolic acid, have been shown to possess insecticidal and ovicidal properties, contributing to its effectiveness in treating lice.

The benefits of using Ocimum basilicum teas to treat lice include a natural and non-toxic approach, reduced risk of developing resistance, and a soothing effect on the scalp, making it a popular choice for those seeking a herbal remedy.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Ocimum basilicum leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep the Ocimum basilicum leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture and add 2 tablespoons of honey to taste.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the mixture for extra benefits.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day for 1 week to help eliminate lice.

Usage:

1. Shampoo hair with regular shampoo before using basil tea treatment.
2. Mix 2 tablespoons of Ocimum basilicum tea with 1 cup of water.
3. Apply the basil tea mixture to the hair and scalp, 2 times a week.
4. Leave the solution on for 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
5. Repeat the treatment for 2-3 weeks to ensure complete lice removal.

Ocimum basilicum teas can be used as a natural remedy to treat lice, but it may cause side effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

When using Ocimum basilicum teas to treat lice, precautions should be taken to avoid overconsumption, which can lead to dizziness, nausea, and stomach upset, and to perform patch tests before applying the tea to the scalp to minimize the risk of an adverse reaction.

10. Zingiber officinale teas

Zingiber officinale teas, derived from the rhizome of the ginger plant, have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their antiparasitic properties.

The bioactive constituents, including gingerols and shogaols, help to repel and kill lice by disrupting their nervous system and preventing them from feeding on human blood.

By inhibiting the lice's ability to multiply and survive, Zingiber officinale teas provide a natural and non-invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from lice infestations.

The benefits of using Zingiber officinale teas to treat lice include reduced risk of chemical resistance, fewer side effects, and a more environmentally friendly approach to parasite control.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh ginger root and 2 cups of water.
2. Wash the ginger root and slice it thinly.
3. Boil the water in a pot and add the sliced ginger.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, then let it cool.
5. Strain the liquid and drink 1 cup, 2-3 times a day, for 7-10 days.

Usage:

1. Steep 1 tablespoon of Zingiber officinale tea in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
2. Let the tea cool down to a comfortable temperature for hair treatment.
3. Apply the cooled tea to the hair, focusing on the scalp and lice-infested areas.
4. Leave the tea on for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing with warm water.
5. Repeat the process 2-3 times a week for 2-3 weeks to effectively eliminate lice.

Zingiber officinale teas can be used to treat lice infestation, but possible side effects include stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea due to its high ginger content.

To avoid these side effects, it's essential to start with a small dose, gradually increase as needed, and choose high-quality teas from reputable sources to minimize contamination risks.

11. Hyptis suaveolens teas

Hyptis suaveolens teas have been traditionally used to treat lice infestations due to their insecticidal and antiparasitic properties, which help to repel and eliminate lice from the scalp.

The bioactive constituents present in Hyptis suaveolens teas, including thymol, carvacrol, and eugenol, exhibit potent insecticidal and antiparasitic activities, making it an effective remedy for lice treatment.

The antiparasitic properties of Hyptis suaveolens teas help to kill lice eggs and prevent their hatching, thereby providing long-term relief from the infestation.

The benefits of using Hyptis suaveolens teas for lice treatment include their natural origin, non-toxicity, and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular alternative to conventional lice treatments.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of dried Hyptis suaveolens leaves.
2. Boil 2 cups of water in a pot.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of dried leaves to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and let it cool before using it to treat lice.

Usage:

1. Wash hair with shampoo to remove dirt and lice
2. Make a tea with 1 cup of Hyptis suaveolens leaves and 1 cup of water
3. Soak hair in tea for 30 minutes to 1 hour
4. Repeat every 2 days for 2 weeks, then once a week
5. Use a fine-tooth comb to remove lice and eggs after each treatment

Hyptis suaveolens teas can be used as a natural remedy to treat lice ailments, but it may cause side effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and digestive issues in some individuals.

When using Hyptis suaveolens teas to treat lice, take precautions by diluting the tea with water, avoiding contact with the eyes and sensitive areas, and performing a patch test before applying it to the affected areas.