Head Lice

[Alexandra]

Has any one found a good non-chemical means of controling Pediculosis in school age children ? we seem to have an epidemic in our area and the lice are somewhat resistant to the regular methods used to eradicate human head lice.

[JeanthePHN]

YES, OLIVE OIL.CALL THE NPA.

[Meegan]

I guess in the same vein as olive oil is mayonaise. Have heard of this treatment from a school nurse in my district but haven't tried it.

[bernarma]

Not heard of Olive Oil.... but the mayo thing is one of those old wives tales. Unless of course it is left on for a very long time!

Have you checked with the county health department to see what is new? There is something new out there but can't recall at the moment.

[snickers]

Try Tea Tree oil, it apparentlly is quite effective. Check with your local health food store to see how much it needs to be diluted. I have the recipe somewhere, I'll see if I can find it.

snickers.

[snickers]

Alexandra,

Here is the "recipe" for tea tree oil, actually it calls for tea tree oil shampoo. (which you can get at a health food store).

Apply tea tree oil shampoo boosted with ten additional drops of oil. Massage into hair, leave on for 10 minutes, rinse, repeating procedure once or twice a week. Soak combs, brushes, and linens in a Tea Tree solution by mixing several drops of oil into water.

I would first check that the child is not allergic to the tea tree oil, before applying it to their head.

(from "Australian Tea Tree Oil First Aid Handbook, 101 uses Conditions and Suggested Treatments," by Cynthia B.Olsen)

snickers

[boobaby42]

Keep dipping the comb in vinegar. That pH of vinegar will help rid you of those varmits. Blow the hair dry on HOT for additional help.

[LucyGoosey]

Check out Comin' to a head near you -- my post at pediatric nursing for more bad news on head lice direct from AAP who think its okay to have 'em.

http://www.headlice.org/news/aap2002.htm

Freebies here too!

http://www.headlice.org/special/packetoffer.htm