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The oils of anise
and ylang ylang may be effective in naturally clearing infestations
of head lice, or pediculosis.
It is estimated
that 10 to 12 million children in the United States are infested
with head lice every year. The condition, which is easily
spread from person to person, making it hard to eliminate,
is characterized by an itchy scalp. Allergic reactions to
the lice and bacterial infections brought on by excessive
scratching can also occur.
Commonly, head
lice is treated with lotions and shampoos made from malathion,
pyrethrins, permethrins, lindane and other insecticides. Not
only do some of these insecticides cause minor rashes and
skin irritations in some people, but many are also known to
be toxic to the nervous system and the immune system. Repeated
use increases their toxicity, and head lice can develop a
resistance to the insecticides.
In a study to determine
other effective treatments for head lice, a natural spray
containing anise, ylang ylang, and coconut oils was compared
with a conventional spray containing permethrin and malathion.
Researchers treated 119 Israeli school children with head
lice with either the natural or conventional spray.
Both treatments
were equally effective, and head lice were eliminated in 92
percent of the group. An itchy scalp immediately following
treatment was reported by one child in both the natural and
conventional treatment groups, though no other side effects
were noted.
Anise and ylang
ylang contain essential oils, which are generally antibacterial,
antifungal, and insecticidal. These oils have long been known
to have such effects; one related study found that the essential
oil of an African
plant, Lippia multiflora, was more effective against head
and body lice than the conventional treatment.
Few other studies
have examined the use of essential oils for treating head
lice, though the positive results studies from thus far could
lead to more widespread use of essential oil for treating
head lice.
Israel
Medical Association Journal October 2002;4(10):790-3
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