Using Tea Tree Oil to Kill Head Lice

Olive oil and tea tree oil are two of the most effective methods used to kill head lice. When killing lice, either will work, but tea tree oil can actually discourage new lice from establishing themselves on the scalp. The smell of tea tree oil is offensive to lice, and they will not seek out a scalp that is giving off this odor.

Tea tree oil can be added to your shampoo in order to give your hair the scent of the oil. The scent isn’t unpleasant, but it can be strong if you have thick hair that will hang onto a great deal of scent. It can also be irritating to the eyes for some people. If you do use it in the shower, be sure not to get it near the eyes or allow the tea-tree-oil-infused shampoo to drip into your eyes. Never use it on your eyebrows.

To use this oil to smother lice on the scalp, apply it directly to the scalp and leave it on for at least eight hours. To keep it from dripping into your eyes or onto your clothes, put a shower cap over your hair. You can sleep in the shower cap or go about your day until it’s time to wash it out. The oil will kill lice by smothering them and will leave behind the scent of the oil to deter future lice infestations.

One problem with using the oil to kill head lice is that it may cause larger breast tissue in men. The oil mimics female hormones and can cause breast enlargement in men who use it. It may not be suitable for children to use regularly. Tea tree oil is available in health food stores, some grocery stores an online. If you are unsure whether you want to use it for men or children, consult your doctor with your concerns.

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