What Is Scabies?
This is an extremely contagious skin disease caused by noxious mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites burrow underneath your skin, giving you rashes that itch like hell. When underneath your skin, these mites dig tunnels (yes!) and deposit their eggs into them. And this is how the disease spreads all over your body if left untreated. According to the International Alliance for the Control of Scabies (IACS) 2020 criteria, around 1577 individuals were classified as cases with scabies out of 9526 participants. This includes 697 cases of suspected scabies and 880 (55.8%) cases of clinical scabies. In 1470 cases (93.2% of the cases), the itch was present, and in 1266 cases (80.3% of the cases), contact history was present. Now you understand why I called it distressing. But luckily, there’s one thing that can help you get rid of these mites easily. And that’s neem oil. This oil is considered the best traditional medicine for scabies treatment as it is natural and good for your skin. I am not claiming this! Research and studies say so. Check it out right here.
Neem Oil: How It Helps In Killing Scabies Mites
There are many scientifically proven neem oil benefits for the skin, including the treatment for scabies. Let us explore them in detail in the list below:
The chloroform extracts in neem oil were found to be extremely effective in killing Sarcoptes scabiei (1). Neem oil contains octadecanoic acid-3 and 4-tetrahydrofuran diester. These two compounds were found to be extremely potent in killing the scabies mites. Scientists found that these compounds interfered with the metabolism of Sarcoptes scabiei and caused death (2). A study investigating the effect of neem seed extract shampoo on Sarcoptes scabiei infested dogs found that topical application of the shampoo healed the dogs completely. It cleared adult mites as well as the mites that were in their developmental stages (3). A study published in Tropical and Geographical Medicine explored the effectiveness of neem and turmeric paste on scabies. The study involved 814 people. In 97% of the cases, the infestation was cured within 3 to 15 days. Also, no toxic or negative effects were observed (4).
Convincing enough? Yes, I guess! Now, let’s look at a few ways you can use neem oil for scabies.
How To Use Neem Oil For Scabies Treatment
In case you have a minor infestation (just in one or two localized spots), or if scabies has just emerged, you may try the following remedies:
1. Directly Applying Neem Seed Oil
Pure neem oil Clean cloth
Note: You may buy pure neem oil from the market. Or you can extract it from the neem seeds. Crush the seeds and put them in a cloth pouch or bag. Hang it over a jar or container (for holding the oil). Add water to the cloth bag (just a bit at a time) and collect the extract in the jar.
2. Neem And Coconut Oil
1 teaspoon coconut oil (unrefined) 1 tablespoon neem oil
Note:The amount of neem oil should always be double the amount of coconut oil you are using. On the other hand, Danica, a YouTuber, shares her story of how she got scabies and how she treated it. She stated, “The first symptom that I got was little lumps in between my knuckles and you really get itchy at night and you start to get rashes all over (i).” Her remedy included applying a mixture of coconut oil and tea tree oil for scabies all over the body. For major and severe infestation, use neem oil in the following ways:
3. Neem Oil Bath
3-4 tablespoons neem oil 2 tablespoons liquid soap
4. Neem Oil Soap
Note:Use measuring cups to make this DIY soap.
5. Neem Oil And Turmeric
6. Neem Oil Balm
7. Neem Body Mask
8. Neem Oil And Aloe Vera
2 tablespoons aloe vera gel 1 tablespoon neem oil 2-3 drops clove oil
Next, let’s discuss commonly asked questions related to neem oil application and effectiveness. Scroll down to read.
When To Apply Neem Oil To Kill Scabies?
It’s typically recommended to apply neem oil before bedtime. Apply it by gently rubbing it onto your skin and leaving it on the affected areas overnight. Also, follow the product instructions for the best results. Additionally, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for proper guidance and treatment.
How Long Does It Take For Neem Oil To Kill Scabies?
The exact timeframe for neem oil to effectively kill scabies can vary from person to person. In one of the animal studies, positive results were observed within 7 to 14 days of using neem-based treatments (3). Also, in humans, the effectiveness can depend on individual factors, such as the severity of the infestation and how consistently the treatment is applied. Can we mix neem oil and tea tree oil for scabies? Yes, applying a mixture of neem oil and tea tree oil can help get rid of scabies. The antipruritici A substance that helps relieve or alleviate itching as well as treat other skin irritations, such as eczema, rashes, etc. , antibacterial, acaricidali A chemical agent or pesticide that kills dust mites and ticks as well as prevents them from spreading. , and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil make it an excellent ingredient to fight infection (5). Can I put neem oil directly on the skin? Yes, you can put neem oil directly on the skin. However, dilute it with water or essential oil if you have sensitive skin. What should I do if neem oil does not seem to work for scabies? If neem oil isn’t effective after regular use, it’s important to see a doctor for other treatment options. They can recommend prescription medications that might be needed for more serious cases of scabies. Can we use neem oil and clove oil for scabies? Yes, the acaricidal activity of clove oil may help treat scabies (6). Therefore, you may mix neem oil with clove oil to get rid of scabies.
Illustration: Neem Oil: How To Use It For Scabies Treatment - 8 Remedies
Discover the power of neem oil as a natural remedy for scabies. Watch this video to learn effective techniques and easy applications to treat scabies.
