3 Natural Remedies For Scabies

Scabies (itching) is an infection caused by the parasite Sarcoptes scabiei . This mite lives in the skin, and the initial symptoms it produces are difficult to identify. Discover below the best natural remedies for scabies!

Sarcoptes scabiei penetrates the skin and causes allergic reactions. If not treated in time, this symptom can lead to secondary infections. But a quick and effective treatment can eliminate scabies and make it a temporary problem.

It is important to mention that scabies is contagious and can be easily spread through physical contact in families, classrooms, nursing homes, etc. For this reason, doctors recommend treating all people who have been exposed.

Symptoms of scabies

According to a study published in the British Medical Journal , scabies symptoms begin 1-2 weeks after the initial infestation. But reinfestation can cause symptoms within 48 hours.

One of the most visible symptoms of scabies is intense itching, especially at night. Initially, small red spots form. As the disease worsens, crusts will form or the skin will peel.

• Mites look for folds or cracks in the skin: between the fingers, in the wrists, on the elbows, buttocks or nipples and even in the intimate regions.
• But you have to be careful because these parasites can also hide in accessories such as watches, bracelets, belts and rings.

One thing worth noting is that the symptoms of scabies can be intermittent. They may disappear temporarily, but that doesn’t mean you got rid of the infection.

How is scabies treated?

If a doctor suspects that his patient has scabies, he will first look for signs and symptoms of infection, such as the characteristic pimple-like rash. He will then sample the skin and examine it under a microscope. However, if the patient already has symptoms of scabies, treatment should be started just before the diagnosis is confirmed.

Treatment for scabies involves topical medications that fight the infection and keep the symptoms under control. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common medications are:

• Permethrin Cream: A topical cream that kills mites that cause scabies and their eggs.
• Lindane lotion: This treatment is prescribed only to people who can not tolerate others.
• Crotamiton: It is available as a cream or lotion. Apply once a day for two days.
• Ivermectin: An oral medicine for people with immune problems or who do not respond to conventional treatments.

These medicines should only be used under medical supervision. The specialist will decide the dose to be administered and will inform you about the side effects and possible interactions.

The simplest natural remedies for scabies

The following natural remedies for scabies cannot replace conventional drug treatments. You can use them with medications to relieve certain symptoms. But everything will depend on your case and the recommendations of the specialist. Here are three options:

1. Aloe vera remedy

Due to its properties, aloe vera is an excellent ingredient to treat itchy skin. Moreover, the gel of this plant has the ability to regenerate the skin, relieve inflammation and heal the affected region.

In an incomparable study at the Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital Complex in Ile-Ile, Nigeria, researchers found that aloe gel can be as effective as benzyl benzotate in treating scabies.

Due to its moisturizing and repairing properties, aloe vera can relieve irritated skin. In addition, it is safe and does not cause side effects, even if used for long periods of time.

ingredients

• Aloe gel

Instructions

• Wash the affected area of ​​skin thoroughly.
• Then apply a thick layer of aloe gel and leave it on for 30 minutes.
• After the indicated time has elapsed, rinse with cold water.
• Apply this treatment twice a day.

2. Remedy with tea tree essential oil

Tea tree oil can relieve itchy skin, but it cannot remove the eggs of mites buried in it. But a study published in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene shows that tea tree oil has potential in treating scabies.

ingredients

• 1 tablespoon tea tree essential oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

• Wash inflamed skin thoroughly.
• Mix the 2 mentioned oils.
• Use a cotton swab to apply the remedy on the skin.
• Apply this treatment twice a day for 3 weeks.

3. White vinegar

There is no scientific evidence to support the safety and efficacy of white vinegar in treating scabies. But these are a classic folk remedy to relieve the itching and irritation caused by scabies. If you want to try it, follow the instructions below:

ingredients

• 1/2 cup white vinegar

• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

• Combine water and white vinegar in a bowl
• Using a cotton swab, apply the solution to the affected area.
• Wait 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
• Apply this treatment 3 times a day for 15 days.

Some tips to follow if you suffer from scabies

• If you experience itching, burning or your skin is inflamed, avoid contact with other people.
• Do not lend your clothes or other items that you use daily to anyone.
• Wash your blankets and bedding with hot water or dry them at a high temperature to remove dust mites.
• If you cannot sleep due to itching and burning or your body is covered in cuts, consult a doctor immediately .

Last but not least, don’t forget to use the medicines for the period of time indicated by your doctor. Although these natural remedies may be helpful, they are not an effective treatment for scabies.