How to Kill Head Lice

Head lice are blood parasites that live in human hair. Head lice infestation is quite common among school children because of the close proximity and the tendency to share headware. Head lice can damage the roots of the hair and lead to hair loss later on. Some people are highly allergic to head lice and respond with a high fever. Because of the high rate of contagion, it is important to address a head lice problem quickly and effectively.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Medical Treatment

1. Contact a physician. Expect to be referred directly to a pharmacy for a "pediculicide," prescription medicated shampoo. that is "neuro-toxic."
2. Read and follow the instructions carefully before beginning treatment with a neuro-toxic shampoo. Understand that some people may be sensitive to pediculicides.
3. Consult with a physician before treating all members of the household for head lice. Be aware that pediculicides are toxic and may not be suitable for small children.
4. Wash all bed linens in hot, soapy water. Place head and throw pillows in the dryer on high heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Launder or discard affected caps, hats or other headwear. Vacuum all upholstered furniture.

Alternative Treatment

6. Treat head lice naturally by juicing one medium onion. Process the onion in a blender, then strain the juice. Apply the juice to the head, working it into the scalp.
7. Wrap the head with plastic wrap then a towel and let the onion juice sit for four hours, then shampoo and use a nit comb. Repeat daily for three consecutive days to kill all the nits.
8. Mix 6 tsp. of tap water and 2 tsp. of white vinegar. Dip a cotton ball in the solution and work it over the entire head, concentrating on the roots. Wrap the head in a cotton cloth overnight while sleeping.
9. Shampoo the hair in the morning after the vinegar treatment. Use a nit comb. Repeat the treatment for three days to kill the remaining nits.
10. Grind three to four cloves of garlic into a fine paste and mix with a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Massage the mixture into the scalp and hair and wrap the head in a cotton cloth overnight.
11. Shampoo in the morning after the garlic-lemon treatment. Use a fine-toothed comb to remove nits. Repeat daily for five days in a row.