Head lice, or pediculosis, is a condition where tiny parasites live within the hair on your scalp. It is hard to see them within the thick of your hair but they are usually visible near the ears, neck and shoulders. Head lice bite on your head and drink the tiny droplets of blood that they create. This leads to itchiness and a desire to scratch the affected area. Their eggs, or nits, are as small as a flake of dandruff. Very soon these nits will hatch into even more head lice.
It is very easy to pass head lice from one person to the other. Using the same comb as someone else is one of the most common ways it is passed along. Using the same towel, pillow or hat as another also allows them to spread easily. The easiest way to get them is to rub your head against someone elses.
Lots of people think that somebody who has head lice is not clean or has poor hygiene but this is a false belief. Anyone can get them regardless of how often they shower or how well they take care of their body's. Kids, between the ages of three and twelve, are the most likely to get them. Then they pass them along to their families. It is important to address head lice right away so they do not cause an infection.
There are many prescriptions and OTC (Over The Counter) drugs available to address the problem of head lice. They usually come in the form of a lotion or shampoo. The ingredients in these products are not good for you because they have pesticides and nasty chemicals in them. Make sure that your doctor is aware of any allergies you have, or asthma. Also be extra cautious if you are pregnant or nursing a baby.
It is important to keep these products out of your eyes. If the product comes with a special comb then you should use it every three days for two weeks. Make sure that everyone in your family is treated and wash all of the bedspreads and pillowcases to be extra safe.
If you are worried about using harsh chemicals on your, or your childs, scalp then you might try herbal remedies and aromatherapy products. They have been successfully fighting off insects for hundreds of years. Neem, Rosemary and Lavender will naturally drive off the head lice and also help to prevent infection. Tea Tree Oil and Rose Geranium are aromatherapy products that also have a proven track record of driving off lice. They build the bodys defenses up so it can resist a secondary infestation.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health & emotional ailments and conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
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