The human head louse is a tiny, brown and grey insect that moves quickly and blends easily into most hair colors. These insects feed on the blood of human hosts by biting the scalp. The females lay hundreds of yellow-white eggs, called “nits,” which cling tightly to the base of the hair shaft. These eggs hatch in seven to ten days, and the infestation worsens. A few head lice can quickly multiply and cause a serious infestation of the hair.

While humans are subject to other types of lice infestation, such as crab lice which infest body hair, the particular species known as headlice are only found in the hair of the head. These insects can be passed between people easily by close contact, such as touching heads when hugging or whispering. They can also be passed by sharing combs, brushes, barrettes or hair clips, or hats and scarves. Because close contact is more common with children, headlice infestations are more widespread in schools, but anyone, including adults, can be infested.

Many people believe that head lice are only found on people who are “dirty” or practice poor hygiene. This is simply not true. Head lice can infest anyone at any time. Many children who are clean and well-kept pick up head lice at school, and adults often pick them up from their own children.

Natural Remedy for Head Lice

In order to treat lice, a thorough approach must be taken to the problem, which includes more than just the live insects. The eggs and the environment must also be treated. There are many natural head lice remedies that can treat the problem globally, such as those offered by Head Lice Doctors. This natural head lice remedy includes treatment which affects the nervous system of the adult head louse, making it easier to kill, and affects the eggs as well. A follow-up treatment is necessary to kill all newly-hatched lice a week to ten days after initial treatment, and a preventative oil applied to hair helps to prevent re-infestation during the treatment period.

Treating the environment is the final piece of the puzzle. Any natural remedy for head lice will be far more effective if the things surrounding the person are also treated. Bedding must be washed in hot water or sealed for a week in a vacuum bag. Carpets, mattresses, and upholstery must be vacuumed thoroughly. Clothes should also be washed in hot water, especially scarves, mittens, and headgear. By following these steps, and using natural remedies for head lice, re-infestation becomes far less likely.