Scabies, also known colloquially as the seven-year itch, is a contagious skin infection commonly seen in children and young adults. Scabies is caused by a tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei, they burrow under the skin to lay their eggs, and they create bacterial infections in the process. The characteristic symptoms of a scabies infection include intense itching and superficial burrows, it also triggers the formation of blisters, rashes and pimples. They affect various parts of the body, areas most affected include finger webs, feet, ventral wrists, elbows, back, buttocks, creases of the breast, and external genitals. Scabies is highly contagious, fortunately, there are many cures for scabies that can help you get rid of the annoying mites or at the very least provide relief from the symptoms. Read on to find 7 different home remedies for scabies.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is one of the most popular remedies for eliminating scabies. It contains a compound called terpenin-4-ol that is thought to kill both the adult mites and their eggs. Apply tea tree oil after diluting it with olive oil to reduce its strength. Alternatively, add 10 to 20 drops of the oil to bathwater. Take a bath in this water twice daily for a few weeks. Note: Do not take tea tree oil internally; it is toxic if swallowed. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid using tea tree oil.
Cool soaks
Another famous home remedy for scabies is to soak the affected area in cool water for 15-20 minutes. A cool soak is a quick way to relieve the intense itching and pain and prevent the infection from spreading through itching. Wipe the affected area with a wet cool towel and then apply some calamine lotion, which you can buy from the market without a prescription. Calamine lotion is soothing and can relieve the pain and itch.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is known for its medicinal values. It is often used to heal wounds, skin disorders, insect bites and acne. This cooling gel has also been found to be an excellent treatment for scabies. Apply fresh aloe vera gel on the affected skin to relieve various symptoms associated with the problem of scabies, at the same time it will help you to repair damaged skin.
Neem Oil
The list of home remedies for scabies will remain incomplete without neem oil. It is a tree-derived, non-toxic pesticide but can be harmful if swallowed. Neem oil is strongly antiviral in nature and also helps the skin to heal from the infection caused due to scabies. Mites or any other pests and insects cannot survive after being introduced to neem oil. Apply pure neem oil directly on the affected area and massage gently until the oil penetrates deep into the skin. Wait a few minutes and then take a bath.
Clove oil
Cloves are a popular food spice, but with Clove Oil, its properties are analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory. Research has identified clove oil as an active cure against scabies. Clove oil can be applied on the affected areas of the skin for instant relief from itching and pain. You can also crush a clove and add some olive oil or water and apply on the affected area.
Zinc
While zinc does not directly treat scabies, it can be used to help fight the secondary infections that occur under the skin and to prevent opportunistic fungal outbreaks. Zinc powder and tablets can be prepared as a paste and applied directly onto the skin. You can also add a little bit of turmeric to make it more effective. Repeat nightly until the scabies infection is gone.
Cleaning Your Environment
An unclean environment = an constant risk for re-infestation. You need to clean all clothes, bedding, towels, rugs, blankets, couches. Remember, everything you come in to contact with it’s a good idea to disinfect. The heated water and soap will kill off any mites. Moreover, by the time scabies is diagnosed in one person, many other people may have been infested. If everyone is not treated at the same time, treatment is likely to be unsuccessful.
