Head lice is an infestation caused by lice, small parasites that feed on human blood and grow in dry and clean environments, such as our hair. Generally this last characteristic is typical of children’s hair, for this reason pediculosis is often associated with childhood.
What is meant by pediculosis and how lice develop
Pediculosisit begins with the deposition of the eggs by an adult female as close as possible to the scalp, so as to ensure a warm and fertile environment for the eggs when they hatch. Having found their ideal environment, the lice anchor themselves to the epidermis with their teeth and let their stylets penetrate which go to pierce the blood vessels to suck blood and start nutrition.
As the louse feeds, it releases a saliva that irritates the skin and triggers the typical itch. Every day the adult specimen can lay between 6 and 7 eggs, ready to hatch in about a week, allowing the larva to exit. Just as long after, we witness the transformation of the latter into an adult louse.You can imagine how exponential their spread can be, not to mention that the color of the lice is similar to that of the hair and therefore it is difficult to identify them before they have multiplied.
The causes, symptoms and how head lice are transmitted
The causes of head lice can be direct or indirect: in the first case, the infestation derives from transmission by an already infested individual; while in the second case it occurs by contact with combs, brushes or other clothing. Fortunately, lice are not able to jump or fly, so the infection cannot occur by simple proximity to those affected. But a hug is enough for it to spread from one person to another.
The main symptom is itching which can lead to abrasions, scratching injuries and infections of the scalp. Other symptoms may be small white spots on the hair and red bumps on the scalp. To limit discomfort and inflammation it is important to identify the presence of lice as soon as possible. When their number is still small, it is easier and faster to remove them.
Natural remedies for pediculosis
Pediculosisit must be stopped as soon as possible, before the number of lice increases rapidly, causing painful inflammation and increasing the risk of contagion. To eliminate them, action must be taken on two fronts. Follow a specific treatment to remove them from the scalp. Disinfect objects used for hair (such as brushes, clips, headbands, etc …), toys, sheets and linen.
Lice survive normal washing, which is why targeted treatment is needed to create an unfavorable environment and eliminate them. In particular, to remove lice and nits from the head it is good to choose a product free of aggressive chemical agents. In fact, these could further inflame the skin and damage the hair.
Among the natural remedies against pediculosis, there are treatment lines of natural origin that exploit plant extracts and essential oils (in particular those of rosemary, thyme, anise, eucalyptus and lavender) to protect the natural environment of the hair. Thanks to its natural principles, the essential oil penetrates directly into the eggs and promotes the mechanical removal of lice, facilitating the export and protecting the skin in depth. At the time of lice removal, this must be done with a special fine-toothed comb. Anti – lice products of natural origin also have the advantage of being able to be used in complete tranquility for frequent washing and regular hair hygiene.
Finally, to prevent the spread and reproduction of lice, wash clothes and sheets at a temperature above 60 degrees. Also, place all risk items in a tightly closed plastic bag and place it in the freezer for 24 hours. If this is not possible, keep the items in the bags for at least 10 days. The minimum safe time for the death of adult lice, larvae and eggs. Cutting your hair , on the other hand, is not a remedy, but it is still a way to facilitate checks and treatments.
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Curiosity
Head pediculosis is more common in children than in adults and in urban areas than in rural areas. The highest peak of lice infestation occurs between September and October.
