Sarcoptes scabiei, commonly known as scabies, is a parasitic mite that causes intense pruritus (itching), rashes, and lesions.
Although infestation is not life threatening, scabies is a nuisance disease that is commonly found in healthcare facilities and can result in crisis, fear, and panic.
Scabies outbreaks can be costly to control and may easily reoccur if not properly contained and treated.
While medical treatments are often necessary to eliminate the mites, there are important natural ingredients that can help soothe the itch and provide relief.
In this blog post, we’ll explore various natural remedies for scabies itch, offering you informative and friendly guidance on how to alleviate symptoms using ingredients you might already have at home.
Scabies Itch Treatment
Scabies itch has a bad effect, often disrupting sleep and daily activities. Before exploring our specific remedies, it’s essential to understand the nature of scabies and why the itch is so persistent.
The mites cause an allergic reaction in the skin, leading to intense itching. While taking care of the mites is crucial, managing the itch is equally important for your comfort and to prevent secondary infections from scratching.
Geranium
Geranium oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Making it a valuable ally in soothing scabies itch. To use geranium oil:
- Dilute the Oil: Mix a few drops of geranium oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
- Apply to Affected Areas: Gently massage the diluted oil onto the itchy areas. Repeat this process twice daily.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass oil is another excellent natural remedy for scabies itch due to its antimicrobial properties.
It can help reduce inflammation and provide relief from itching.
- Create a Mixture: Combine lemongrass oil with a carrier oil in a 1:3 ratio.
- Massage into Skin: Apply the mixture to the affected areas, ensuring thorough coverage.
- Use Consistently: Apply the treatment twice daily for best results.
Ahibero
A lesser-known but effective natural remedy.
Ahibero (also known as brucea javanica), has shown promise in treating scabies itch.
- Prepare an Ahibero Infusion: Boil a handful of ahibero leaves in water for 10-15 minutes.
- Cool and Apply: Allow the infusion to cool, then use a clean cloth to apply it to the itchy areas.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is not just a delightful spice;
Its oil has potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mix Cinnamon Oil: Combine a few drops of cinnamon oil with carrier oil.
- Apply to Skin: Gently apply the mixture to the affected areas.
- Caution: Be careful with cinnamon oil as it can be potent and may cause skin irritation if not properly diluted.
Ravintsara
Ravintsara oil, derived from the camphor tree, is known for its antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
It can help reduce the itch and discomfort caused by scabies itch.
- Dilute Ravintsara Oil: Mix a few drops with a carrier oil.
- Massage onto Itchy Areas: Apply the diluted oil to the affected areas twice daily.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oill is perhaps one of the most well-known natural remedies for scabies.
Its potent antimicrobial properties can help kill the mites and soothe the skin.
- Dilute Properly: Mix tea tree oil with carrier oil in a 1:3 ratio.
- Apply Directly: Apply the mixture to the affected areas twice daily.
Tea Tree Oil 5% + Benzyl Benzoate
Combining tea tree oil with benzyl benzoate can enhance its effectiveness in treating scabies.
- Create the Mixture: Mix 5% tea tree oil with benzyl benzoate.
- Apply to Skin: Apply the mixture to the affected areas, ensuring thorough coverage.
- Use Regularly: For best results, apply the treatment once daily.
Other Treatments for Scabies
While natural remedies can provide relief, it’s important to combine them with medical treatments to effectively eliminate the mites.
Sulfur Cream
Sulfur has been used for centuries to treat scabies. It kills the mites and helps soothe the skin.
- Apply Sulfur Cream: Follow the instructions on the product for application.
- Consistency is Key: Apply the cream daily until the scabies are completely gone.
Permethrin Cream
Permethrin cream is a prescription medication that effectively kills scabies mites and their eggs.
- Use as Directed: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for applying the cream.
- Ensure Complete Coverage: Make sure to cover all affected areas thoroughly.
Comparison of Sulfur ointment and Permethrin cream
Patients that were diagnosed with scabies in the dermatology outpatient clinics of Karabuk University Training and Research Hospital between April, 2021 and September, 2021 were investigated retrospectively.
“Age, gender, date of diagnosis, topical agent used for scabies treatment, and response to the treatment at the control examination in the second week were recorded.” The patients were divided into two groups receiving 5% permethrin cream or 10% sulfur ointment.
This study showed that 10% sulfur ointment was significantly more effective in treating scabies than 5% permethrin cream (p < 0.001). However, younger patients who had scabies responded better to both treatments.
Therefore, 10% Sulfur ointment can be considered an effective and safe topical option in the treatment of scabies. The resistance to 5% permethrin cream, which is the most commonly used agent for scabies, can be a concern as an unexpected low success rate was obtained in this study. “According to National Library of Medicine”
Conclusion
Dealing with scabies itch can be challenging, but with the right natural ingredients and treatments, you can find relief and comfort.
Whether you’re using essential oils like geranium and tea tree oil, or combining these remedies with medical treatments like sulfur and permethrin creams, there are plenty of options to help soothe your skin and reduce itching.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you’re dealing with a severe case of scabies.
FAQs
What is the fastest home remedy for scabies?
Tea tree oil, when diluted properly, is often considered one of the fastest natural remedies to provide relief from scabies itch due to its potent antimicrobial properties.
What is a homemade cream for scabies?
A homemade cream for scabies itch can be made by mixing coconut oil with a few drops of tea tree oil and lavender oil. Apply this mixture to the affected areas twice daily.
How do you stop itching if you have scabies itch?
To stop itching, you can use natural remedies like diluted tea tree oil or aloe vera gel. Over-the-counter antihistamines and applying cool compresses can also help reduce the itch.
