Anuradha Varanasi
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Written By: Anuradha Varanasi | Updated : June 1, 2016 11:12 AM IST
Read this article in HINDI
Scabies is a highly contagious skin disease that it is caused by mites known as Sarcoptes scabiei. It spreads via direct skin-to-skin contact and the most common symptom is extremely severe itching. The worse part about this skin disease is that the mites, which aren t visible to the naked eye, can live inside your for almost two months.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are 300 million cases of scabies per year. Other symptoms of scabies include skin rashes that look like pimples on the face, neck, hands and the soles of the feet. Scabies most commonly afflicts children but adults are in no way immune to it. This skin condition can also cause scaly and flaky skin that looks grayish once the bites start burrowing in to the skin. While conventional treatment for scabies includes a range of topical ointment and even oral medicines, you could give these six natural remedies a try as well for faster relief:
1. Anise (Pimpinella anisum)
Anise or aniseeds is a flowering plant most commonly found in Mediterranean regions and has been used as a herbal medicine for centuries. It has antibacterial and insecticidal properties and topically applying anise seed oil on the affected areas can help in providing some relief [1]. However, pregnant women should avoid using this herbal remedy.
2. Neem
The neem tree is indigenous to India, and every part of the plant is used medicinally. In a study of more than 800 villagers in India, a paste of neem and turmeric applied topically was reported to treat chronic scabies [1]. Even applying neem oil is helpful in reducing itchiness and skin inflammation caused by scabies. These are the 6 benefits of neem for your skin and hair.
3. Prickly Chaff Flower or Apamarga
This herbal remedy is commonly found all over India as the Prickly Chaff flower or Aparmarga grows as a common weed. Different parts of this weed are used for a wide range of ailments in Ayurveda and the leaves are also used for Ganesh pooja. You can buy the leaves from your local market and make a fine paste of it and apply it twice a day on the affected areas for some relief from scabies [1]. However, remember that it should not be used on pregnant women.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has strong anti-bacterial properties and it is known to help in balancing the pH levels of the skin and helps in attacking the mites infestation on the skin [1]. Instead of directly applying tea tree oil to your skin, you can mix it in equal proportion with coconut or olive oil. These are the 7 reasons why you need tea tree oil in your cabinet.
5. Clove Oil
This oil also has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties and studies have found that it helps in getting rid of the Sarcoptes scabiei mites infestation [2]. However, don t use this oil in an undiluted form. Instead, mix it with coconut oil before applying it on your skin. You will see some improvements in your symptoms within two to three weeks. Did you know, clove oil can also help relieve toothaches?
6. Turmeric
Turmeric or haldi makes an excellent home remedy for skin conditions like scabies [1]. While it works well with neem oil, if you are looking for a herbal remedy that is easily available at home for getting some quick relief from the severe itching, simply add a few drops of lemon juice to one tablespoon of turmeric and form a smooth paste before applying it. You could also try these 6 home remedies for itchy skin.
References:
[1] Tabassum N, Hamdani M. Plants used to treat skin diseases. Pharmacognosy Reviews. 2014;8(15):52-60. doi:10.4103/0973-7847.125531.
[2] Pasay C, Mounsey K, Stevenson G, et al. Acaricidal Activity of Eugenol Based Compounds against Scabies Mites. Munayco CV, ed. PLoS ONE. 2010;5(8):e12079. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0012079.
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