Scabies is an infestation of the skin by Sarcoptes scabiei (itch mite). The lesions are created as the female scabies mite burrows into the outermost layer of skin to bury her eggs.
Symptoms of scabies (rash and itching) occur about 30-60 days after initial contact. They occur sooner if you previously had scabies, usually within a few days. Itching can be extreme, especially at night.
Areas of the body that are mostly affected by scabies include between the toes and fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, under the breasts, stomach, buttocks, genitalia, and knees.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil contains a substance, terpinen-4-ol, that is lethal to scabies mites and eggs. It can also kill bacteria and help treat inflammation. Scientists in Darwin, Australia found tea tree oil to be just as effective as commonly prescribed pesticides.
Add 10-20 drops of pure tea tree oil to warm bath water and soak for 15 minutes. Do not get in the eyes or mouth. Do this every day for about 3 weeks.
You can also add 6 drops of pure tea tree oil to 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel, mix, and apply to affected areas.
Neem and Turmeric
Instead of killing mites directly, neem stops the reproduction cycles of mites. Turmeric has been used for centuries to treat itchy skin and has an antiseptic effect that can help the healing process. Turmeric is not necessary to treat scabies.
Researchers at the Medical and Cancer Research and Treatment Centre, Nagercoil, India had very impressive results from treating 814 people with scabies using a paste of neem and turmeric. 97% of the people were cured within 3-15 days.
To make a paste, pound 1 part turmeric root and 4 parts neem leaf using a pestle and mortar. A little bit of water my be needed. After bathing, spread the paste over the affected areas and leave on to dry. Repeat this daily until cured.
You can also add neem leaf tincture, neem leaf extract, or a strong cup of neem tea (made from dried or fresh leaf) to warm bath water and soak in it for 15-20 minutes. Afterwards, you should wash your body with neem soap (buy soap that contains 20-40% neem oil). Do this on a daily basis until all symptoms are completely gone.
These home remedies for scabies in humans will help get rid of mites but to prevent reinfestation, you must clean everything that came in contact with the infected person (mites can survive for 2-3 days off the body). Everyday, vacuum, clean furniture, and wash all clothes, towels, and bedding in hot water (you can add a few drops of tea tree oil) and dry them in very high temperatures. It is also best to treat all household members, even if they have no symptoms.
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