Skin
Head Lice and Scabies
Tiny parasites that live on the scalp (lice) or burrow into the skin (scabies), causing itching. A health professional or pharmacist can confirm the problem and recommend treatment.
Most minor skin problems can be cared for at home, but see a doctor for deep, infected or slow-healing wounds, serious burns, or rashes that come with a fever. Several of these herbs can cause skin allergies, especially plants in the daisy family such as calendula and mugwort. These herbs are listed because of traditional use or research, not because they're proven treatments.
4 herbs
Each note says whether the link comes from traditional use or research, and what the research found.
Emu BushEremophila spp.Several species were used as a body wash for scabies. Not studied in people.
NeemAzadirachta indicaNeem is effective against lice. In a small trial, a neem leaf lotion worked as well as permethrin for scabies.
Stemona RootStemona speciesTraditionally used to kill lice and other pests; killed insects in lab studies. Not tested in people.
Tea TreeMelaleuca alternifoliaOnly tested mixed with other ingredients for lice, so its own effect is unclear.