Neem Lice Treatment

Indigenous to India, the neem tree is famed for its extensive medicinal properties. Rising in popularity as a cure-all herb, neem is reported to be an effective remedy against head lice.

History

Neem has been used for thousands of years in India to cure skin and scalp infections, including head lice infestations. It is a popular ingredient in many Ayurvedic (traditional Indian medicine) remedies for skin diseases.

Significance

Notorious for affecting school-age children, head lice are tiny insects that infect the human scalp. Conventional lice treatments contain chemicals that may not only result in side effects but may also be ineffective as lice populations become resistant to them. With a high safety and efficacy profile, neem is gaining popularity as a natural alternative to these treatments.

Potential

A January 2007 Egyptian study published in the journal "Parasitology Research" reported that a shampoo containing neem seed extract was effective against all stages of head lice when it came in contact with the scalp for a minimum of 10 minutes.

Expert Insight

According to DiscoverNeem.com, an authoritative blog on the herb, shampoos must contain high concentrations of neem to make them effective against lice infestations.

Safety

The Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Database gives neem extract a low hazard score of 0, making it a safe ingredient when used externally.

References

• "Parasitology Research;" Efficacy of Neem Seed Extract Shampoo on Head Lice of Naturally Infected Humans in Egypt; Fathy Abdel-Ghaffar and Margit Semmler; 2007
• Environmental Working Group: Skin Deep Database: Neem Extract
• DiscoverNeem.com: Neem Oil for Head Lice

Resources

• Cornell University: Neem