Head lice can be an embarrassing condition as it itches and is highly contagious. Lice infestations are seasonal for some people, festering in some seasons and then completely dying out. Lice are known to weaken the hair roots and will eventually cause hair loss. If the infestation is particularly virulent it may cause fevers and have to be removed immediately. Head lice is usually accompanied by dandruff, hence the remedies here will help against both conditions.
Preventing Head Lice
Make a mixture out of two tablespoons of lemon juice and a few cloves of ground garlic and apply to the scalp. Allow it to settle for about an hour and then rinse off thoroughly. This aids in eliminating the lice and dirt as well. You can also apply olive oil to your hair and keep it overnight by covering it with a shower cap. Use a lice comb in the morning to get rid of the lice and repeat every 10 days. Make a paste out of margosa leaves and apply onto the scalp. Let it stay for half an hour and wash off. You may repeat this every two weeks or alternatively make a paste out of 25-30 basal leaves and add an equal quantity of margosa leaf paste to it.
Apply thoroughly over the scalp and rinse off in an hour or so. Crush a few onions and extract the juice. Massage it into the scalp thoroughly and leave on for about four hours. The pungent odor and the sulfur content will kill the lice. It is advisable to repeat this treatment for 3-4 days continuously in order to kill off the lice eggs as well. Grind a raw custard apple including the seeds till it becomes a fine powder. Apply it onto the scalp before going to bed and tie your head up with a clean piece of cloth. Wash your hair thoroughly in the morning to get rid of the lice. Make sure to keep the powder in an air tight box when you are not using it.
Apart from these it is necessary to follow certain precautionary measures to prevent lice. Keep your comb and hair brush clean and do share it with anyone. Shampoo your hair once in three days but rinse it with plain water at least once a day. Oil your hair before and after your bath and be sure to massage it well into the scalp. If you have been out in a crowded place, wash your hair as soon as you get back.