What Is Scabies?
Scabies is not an infection. It is a parasitic infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabei. These are microscopic mites that burrow into your skin, where they make tunnels and lay eggs. This causes redness, itching, blisters, and rashes on your skin. The eggs hatch inside your skin, and the larvae move to the surface and other parts. This condition is highly contagious and can spread through:
Skin-to-skin contact Sharing personal items (clothes and bed linens, etc.) with the affected individual
Scabicides (prescription medicines for scabies) are usually used to treat this condition. However, scabicides can only kill the mites and not the eggs. Moreover, scabies mites are becoming increasingly resistant to scabicides. Hence, many people resort to natural remedies for treating scabies infestation.
How Is Tea Tree Oil Good For Scabies?
Tea tree essential oil is an extremely effective and natural way to treat scabies. It is mainly due to its antimicrobial, insecticidal, and anti-inflammatory properties (due to the presence of Terpinen-4-ol) that this oil works on many skin conditions, including scabies. It is also proven to be effective in managing pruritic skin conditions (skin conditions that cause itching) (2). A study examined the effect of tea tree oil on scabies mites and concluded that it could be used as an alternative treatment method for controlling scabies in humans as well as animals (3). Another study claims that 5% tea tree oil is highly effective in killing scabies mites. The terpinen-4-ol in tea tree oil is effective against S. Scabei (4). Since scabies is contagious, it is crucial to treat your family members too, even if they aren’t infested with the mites. Note: Dermatologists generally still use medicated malathion solution or permethrin to treat scabies. Scabies can be secondarily infected or associated with eczema, both of which need medical care by an accredited dermatologist. Home treatments with essential oils might result in severe irritation (known as allergic or irritant contact dermatitis). There are several ways to use tea tree oil for scabies. You may use only tea tree oil or mix it with other ingredients. Scroll down to find some effective remedies to try at home.
How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Scabies
Note: Avoid using pure tea tree oil on your skin. You need to dilute it with a carrier oil and then use it (find dilution ratio mentioned in each recipe). Also, a patch test is mandatory before using any natural ingredient on your skin to check whether you are allergic to it or not. To do a patch test, apply a bit of the ingredient on the skin right behind your ears and leave it on for 24 hours. If your skin doesn’t react, the ingredient is safe to use.
1. Pure Tea Tree Oil For Scabies
Tea tree oil is extremely effective in killing scabies mites and helps to get rid of itchiness and pain associated with the condition.
2-4 tablespoons of carrier oil (you may use sweet almond or jojoba oil) 5-10 drops of pure tea tree oil
Do this two times every day. [Read: How To Manage An Oily Nose]
2. Tea Tree Oil And Neem Oil For Scabies
Neem is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various skin ailments. Neem extract is a safe way to treat scabies and shows promising results in reducing the infestation (5). You can use neem in any form to treat scabies.
2-4 tablespoons of cold-pressed neem oil 5-10 drops of pure tea tree oil
Do this two times every day.
3. Tea Tree Oil And Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper doesn’t cure scabies. However, it contains capsaicin, which can help in reducing pain (6). It has a numbing effect that reduces pain caused by scabies.
1 cup cayenne pepper (powder) 15-20 drops of diluted tea tree oil (dilute it with 2-4 tablespoons of any carrier oil)
Once every day. [Read: Home Remedies For Oily Nose]
4. Tea Tree Oil And Epsom Salt
Epsom salt alone cannot treat scabies. Epsom salt is often used in bath soaks for its rejuvenating effects. It also acts as a dispersant and helps to mix tea tree oil in water.
1 cup Epsom salt 30 drops tea tree oil 2 tablespoons carrier oil (use coconut or olive oils)
Repeat once every day.
5. Tea Tree Oil And Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is known for its skin-soothing properties. However, it is also effective for treating scabies. A preliminary study shows that aloe vera gel is as effective as benzyl benzoate in treating scabies (7).
½ cup pure aloe vera gel (freshly scooped) 2 tablespoons neem oil 15-20 drops of tea tree oil
One to two times every day.
6. Tea Tree Oil And Clove Oil
Clove oil is toxic for scabies mites. It contains eugenol, which can kill scabies mites within an hour of contact (8). Note: A patch test is mandatory for this recipe. Also, clove oil may cause a mild stinging sensation, but it is normal.
5-6 drops of pure clove essential oil 5-6 drops of pure tea tree essential oil
One to two times every day.
7. Tea Tree Oil And Anise Essential Oil
Anise essential oil is extracted from anise seeds. It has antibacterial and insecticidal properties and is an excellent treatment option for head lice and scabies (9). Note: A patch test is mandatory for this recipe.
5-6 drops of pure anise essential oil 5-6 drops of pure tea tree essential oil
One to two times every day. Tea tree oil is a common ingredient found in all types of skin products (like moisturizers, creams, and face washes). Although it is safe to use, you cannot deny the possibility of side effects. Let’s take a look at the risk factors involved.
Tea Tree Oil For Scabies: Are There Any Risks?
Tea tree oil is safe as long as it is diluted, and you do not use it on your skin directly. However, you can be allergic to it. In such cases, it can cause rashes, redness, irritation, and itching. It is, therefore, always suggested to do a patch test before using any essential oil. Apply diluted oil on the skin right behind your ears or the inside of your arms. Wait for at least 24 hours. If your skin doesn’t react, you can use it safely. Do not use tea tree oil to treat any condition without consulting a dermatologist, especially if you are considering using it on a child. If you are using a tea tree oil moisturizer or any other product (ointment or cream) for scabies, make sure that they contain pure tea tree oil with a concentration of at least 5%. Any product with less than this percentage will not be effective in the infestation. Scabies is highly contagious. Hence, make sure that you use the remedies on all parts of your body and not just the affected area – because there is always a chance that the mites might spread. Also, clean your belongings, including towels, linens, clothes, and bedding, in hot water before using them. If you live with your family, they will have to undergo the same skincare routine and cleaning process as you, irrespective of whether they have the infestation or not.
Safety Tips To Follow While Choosing Tea Tree Oil For Scabies
You can use either pure tea tree oil or products that contain tea tree oil to kill scabies mites. There are a few safety tips you need to keep in mind in case you are purchasing either of them: Usually, it might take several weeks before you are entirely cured. Though the mites might die within 24 hours, the eggs and fecal deposits can be there on your skin and might take two to four weeks to clear up completely. Continue the treatment until the rashes are gone. If itching and skin irritation continues even after four weeks, you may need a re-examination. Consult a doctor for physical examination and further diagnosis. What essential oils kill scabies mites? Tea tree and clove oils are considered the best for killing scabies mites. How long does it take for tea tree oil to kill scabies mites? It may take 1 hour to even a few days. This is because initial exposure may kill the mites, but the eggs may remain unaffected. Hence, it might take a few days or weeks to become scabies-free.
