10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Lice

Herbal tinctures for lice are concentrated liquid extracts of plants, herbs, and botanicals that have been used for centuries to naturally repel, kill, and prevent lice infestations.

These tinctures contain potent ingredients such as tea tree oil, lavender, and chamomile that soothe the skin, calm itching, and suffocate lice eggs, ultimately eliminating the pesky parasites. For instance, peppermint oil has been shown to repel lice, while lemon eucalyptus oil is known for its ability to kill them.

Using herbal tinctures can greatly improve lives by reducing stress, anxiety, and discomfort caused by lice infestations, allowing individuals to regain confidence in their personal hygiene and social interactions.

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

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree tinctures helps with lice because of its natural insecticidal properties, which effectively target and kill these pesky parasites.

The compound called cineole in tea tree oil has been shown to disrupt the lice's exoskeleton, causing them to dehydrate and die. Additionally, the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree tincture help soothe itching and inflammation caused by lice bites, providing relief from discomfort and anxiety.

This natural remedy is a gentle yet potent alternative to harsh chemicals, making it an effective solution for treating lice infestations.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: Acts as a potent insecticide that kills lice and their eggs by disrupting their nervous system and causing respiratory distress.
• Cymene: Exhibits strong antimicrobial and insecticidal properties, helping to eliminate lice and other parasites by interfering with their cellular processes.
• Limonene: Demonstrates potent insect-repelling properties, which can help deter lice from re-infesting the scalp or skin.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of compounds like cineole, which has been shown to have insecticidal properties.
• Barks: The barks are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, including cineole and other compounds that can repel or kill lice.
• Seeds: The seeds are used due to their oil content, which is often extracted to produce a tincture for its insecticidal properties.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest the leaves of melaleuca alternifolia, ensuring they are fresh and free of contaminants,.
2. Combine the harvested leaves with a neutral solvent like ethanol or glycerin in a clean glass jar,.
3. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool, dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every few days,.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container,.
5. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place, away from children and pets, in glass bottles with tight-fitting lids,.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with lice because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic properties.

The tincture's active ingredients, such as aloe vera's salicylic acid and saponins, penetrate the skin and hair to target lice and their eggs. This allows for effective killing of the parasites without irritating the scalp or skin.

Additionally, aloe tinctures help soothe itching and reduce inflammation caused by lice bites, providing relief from discomfort and promoting a healthy environment for the scalp.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with lice.

• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a type of anthraquinone, has been found to have potent insecticidal and insect repellent properties, helping to kill and prevent lice infestations.
• Acemannan: Acemannan, a polysaccharide, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and heal the skin affected by lice bites, as well as reduce the risk of secondary infections.
• Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid, a phenolic compound, has been found to have insecticidal and insecticidal properties, helping to kill lice and their eggs by disrupting their cuticle and preventing them from reproducing.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for lice.

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of aloe-emodin, a compound with anti-parasitic properties that can help eliminate lice.
• Flowers: Aloe vera flowers contain anthraquinones, which have been shown to have anthelmintic properties that can help kill lice and their eggs.
• Leaves: Additionally, aloe vera leaves also contain aloin, a compound with antiparasitic properties that can help kill lice and prevent their infestation.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves by cutting them from mature plants with a sharp knife or pruning shears.
2. Clean the harvested leaves by rinsing them thoroughly with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Dry the cleaned leaves using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8-12 hours or until completely dry.
4. Combine the dried aloe vera leaves with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight to make a strong tincture.
5. Store the herbal aloe vera tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid for at least 4 weeks before use.

3. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with lice because its potent antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties effectively soothe itchy scalps and skin irritations caused by these pesky parasites.

The tannins present in the plant also help to constrict blood vessels, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with infestations. Additionally, the antioxidants in pot marigold may help to kill lice eggs and larvae, thereby preventing re-infestation.

By using herbal pot marigold tinctures as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals can effectively manage lice infestations and regain a sense of comfort and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Carotenoids: These pigments help in preventing the growth and reproduction of lice by reducing the oxidative stress caused by their presence.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in treating the symptoms associated with lice infestations and preventing further infestation.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds have been shown to have antiparasitic properties, which help in killing and repelling lice, thus providing relief from the infestation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat lice and soothe skin irritations.
• Leaves: Their extracts are applied to help eliminate lice and their eggs, as well as to alleviate discomfort and itching caused by the infestation.
• Seeds: Calendula seeds are used in some tinctures because they contain compounds that have been shown to exhibit antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory effects against lice.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh flowers of calendula officinalis in the morning when the dew is still present on the petals.
2. Clean the flowers thoroughly with a fine-mesh sieve to remove any dirt or debris from the surface.
3. Pack the clean flowers into a clean glass jar with a ratio of one part flowers to one part 80-proof vodka.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and let it infuse for four weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with lice because its potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties effectively soothe itchy scalps and calm irritated skin.

The tincture's natural astringent qualities also help to dry out the lice, making it difficult for them to survive. Additionally, chamomile's ability to promote relaxation can reduce stress and anxiety associated with infestation, allowing individuals to focus on treatment and prevention strategies.

Overall, chamomile tinctures provide a gentle yet effective solution for tackling head lice.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with lice.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that may help to repel or kill lice by interfering with their nervous system and potentially causing them to become disoriented or die.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that has been shown to have insecticidal properties and may be effective against lice by causing them to become dehydrated or die.
• Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene that has antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to soothe skin irritation caused by lice bites and possibly repel or kill lice.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for lice.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most used part due to their high content of azulene, a compound that has been shown to have anti-parasitic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used due to their similar composition to the flowers, which provides a similar therapeutic effect.
• Seeds: The seeds are used as they contain a high concentration of apigenin, a flavonoid that has been shown to have anti-parasitic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest the matricaria chamomilla flowers when they are in full bloom and the petals are fully open.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place away from direct sunlight for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Use a glass jar and a solvent like ethanol or glycerin to make the tincture.
4. Steep the dried flowers in the solvent for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, store in a cool dark place.

5. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with lice because of its natural anti-parasitic properties.

The tincture's active compound, echinacea, has been shown to effectively repel and kill lice eggs and adults alike. Additionally, the antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties of purple coneflower help soothe itchy scalps and skin irritations caused by lice bites.

By using herbal purple coneflower tinctures, individuals can naturally eliminate lice infestations without resorting to harsh chemicals, making it a popular natural remedy for lice treatment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with lice.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help to inhibit the growth and reproduction of lice by disrupting their life cycle and causing cell death.
• Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic properties, helping to reduce the severity of lice infestations and alleviate associated symptoms such as itching and discomfort.
• Alkylphenols: These compounds may possess insecticidal properties, allowing them to kill or repel lice and other parasites by disrupting their cell membranes and causing them to die.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for lice.

• Roots: They are the most widely used part due to their medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
• Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can help in treating various health conditions.
• Flowers: They are used for their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help in treating infections and autoimmune diseases.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of echinacea purpurea roots and flowers in the morning after the dew has dried completely.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces using sharp scissors or a sharp knife to increase surface area.
3. Steep the chopped plant material in 500 milliliters of 35% ethanol for 2 weeks in a dark glass jar.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and reserve the liquid.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks before using it to allow the flavors to mature slowly.

6. Galium aparine

Cleavers tinctures helps with lice because of its ability to effectively eliminate these pesky parasites.

The herb contains compounds that weaken the lice's exoskeleton, making it impossible for them to survive. Additionally, cleavers has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that soothe itching caused by lice bites and prevent infection.

When used in tincture form, cleavers can be applied directly to the affected area or taken orally to provide a comprehensive treatment for lice infestations, offering relief from the discomfort and embarrassment associated with lice infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Galium aparine tinctures that help with lice.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to have potent insecticidal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in treating and preventing lice infestations by disrupting their growth and feeding patterns.
• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been found to exhibit insecticidal and anti-parasitic activities, which can help in eliminating lice and their eggs by disrupting their metabolic processes and causing oxidative stress.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have been reported to have anti-parasitic and insecticidal properties, which can help in treating lice infestations by disrupting their nervous system and causing their death.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of cleavers used to make tinctures for lice.

• Leaves: The leaves of Galium aparine are used to make tinctures for lice because they are rich in chemicals that can repel and kill lice.
• Stems: The stems of Galium aparine are used to make tinctures for lice because they contain compounds that have insecticidal and antiparasitic properties.
• Seeds: The seeds of Galium aparine are used to make tinctures for lice because they contain chemicals that can help to repel and eliminate lice and their eggs.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh galium aparine leaves and stems when plant is in bloom and full of small green flowers.
2. Clean and dry the harvested plant material thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure quality.
3. Use a 1:2 ratio of plant material to solvent such as 70 ethanol and steep for 2 weeks or longer.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to separate plant material from liquid.
5. Store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 6 weeks or more before use.

7. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with lice because it has natural anti-parasitic properties that effectively target these pesky insects.

The tincture's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and citral, disrupt the lice's life cycle and prevent them from feeding on human blood. This leads to a significant reduction in their population, ultimately eliminating the infestation.

Additionally, lemon balm's calming properties can soothe the discomfort and itchiness associated with lice bites, providing relief for those affected.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with lice.

• Rosmarinic acid: It has antiparasitic properties that can help kill or repel lice by disrupting their metabolic processes and preventing them from attaching to hair.
• Linalool: This terpene has insecticidal and antifungal properties, which can help reduce the infestation of lice and other scalp infections.
• Limonene: A terpene that has antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, which can help prevent the spread of lice and other scalp infections by reducing the population of lice and their eggs.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for lice.

• Leaves: They are used due to their antiparasitic properties that help in repelling and treating lice.
• Flowers: They possess antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, which can aid in treating lice infestations.
• Stems: They contain antiparasitic compounds that can help in treating lice and preventing re-infestation.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning when they are at their highest aromatic oil content.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by gently rinsing it with clean water to remove any debris.
3. Combine the cleaned plant material with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for percolation.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it daily for 2 weeks to allow the solvent to extract the bioactive compounds.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the plant material.

8. Petroselinum crispum

Parsley tinctures helps with lice because its natural oils and compounds can effectively repel and kill these pesky parasites.

The tannins present in parsley have antiparasitic properties that can penetrate the exoskeleton of lice, dehydrating and ultimately killing them. Additionally, parsley's antioxidants and volatile oils can soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation caused by lice bites.

By using a parsley tincture in combination with other natural remedies, individuals may find relief from lice infestations without relying on harsh chemicals.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Petroselinum crispum tinctures that help with lice.

• Apiol: Apiol is a lignan that helps with lice by disrupting the nervous system of lice, ultimately leading to their death.
• Myristicin: Myristicin is a phenylpropene that helps with lice by altering their behavior and reducing their reproduction rate, making it difficult for them to survive.
• Furanocoumarins: Furanocoumarins are a class of compounds that help with lice by interfering with their ability to attach to hair and feed, ultimately starving them to death.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of parsley used to make tinctures for lice.

• Leaves: They are commonly used due to their high concentration of volatile oils, which have insecticidal properties that can help repel and kill lice.
• Seeds: Parsley seeds are used for their carminative and antiparasitic properties, which can aid in the expulsion of lice and their eggs.
• Roots: The roots of Parsley contain compounds that have been traditionally used to treat parasitic infections, including lice infestations, due to their antiparasitic and antiseptic properties.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh petroselinum crispum leaves or stems at the peak of their potency early morning.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 40% glycerin in a 1:5 ratio by volume in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks shaking the jar every day or two.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

9. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary tinctures helps with lice because of its potent insecticidal properties, which target the lice's nervous system, ultimately leading to their death.

The menthol and camphor compounds in rosemary also help to repel and suffocate the lice, making it difficult for them to breathe or survive on the scalp. Additionally, rosemary's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and calm irritated scalps, reducing itchiness and discomfort caused by lice infestations.

This natural treatment option offers a safe and effective solution for eliminating lice and their eggs from human hair.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene has been shown to exhibit potent anti-parasitic properties, including inhibiting the growth of lice and other external parasites.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate the discomfort and skin irritation associated with lice infestations.
• Camphor: This terpene has been traditionally used to repel insects and has been shown to possess insecticidal properties, helping to eliminate lice and prevent re-infestation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for herbal remedies due to their high concentration of essential oils, which are believed to have anti-parasitic properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are also used in herbal remedies for their antiparasitic and antiseptic properties, which help to repel lice and soothe skin irritations.
• Stems: The stems, although less commonly used, may be used in some herbal remedies due to their ability to absorb and store essential oils from the leaves and flowers.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has dried completely.
2. Dry rosmarinus officinalis leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 1 hour.
3. Combine 1 cup of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to create the final tincture.

10. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with lice because of its potent anti-parasitic properties.

The natural essential oils within sage, such as camphor and borneol, work to suffocate and repel lice, causing them to leave the affected area in search of food elsewhere. Additionally, sage's antiseptic and antibacterial qualities help soothe and calm irritated skin caused by bites and scratching.

This makes sage tinctures a natural and effective solution for those suffering from lice infestations.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic dimer acts as an insecticide, helping to repel and kill lice by disrupting their nervous system and preventing them from feeding.
• Salvianolic acid: A type of phenolic acid, salvianolic acid has been shown to have insecticidal properties, helping to kill lice by damaging their cell membranes and preventing them from reproducing.
• Thujone: This terpene has been found to have insecticidal properties, helping to repel and kill lice by disrupting their nervous system and preventing them from feeding.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their antiparasitic and antiseptic properties.
• Flowers: They are used due to their antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: They are used due to their antiparasitic and antimicrobial properties.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Chop the leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped leaves with 500ml of 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with lice is a blend of neem, tea tree, and lavender.

Neem tincture works to repel and kill lice, while tea tree tincture has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the scalp. Lavender tincture calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety caused by the infestation. Combine equal parts neem and tea tree tinctures, adding a few drops of lavender for its soothing effects.

Mix with water and apply to the scalp to help eliminate lice naturally.