Lice

Head lice are tiny insects that attach themselves to the scalp. Head lice do not jump or fly, but spread from one infested child to another by direct contact. A lice infestation (medically termed pediculosis) has nothing to do with hygiene, but everything to do with proximity. If two children have their heads together sharing a book, working on a project, playing a video game, wrestling, or just rumpusing around, one child can transmit lice to the other. If just one classmate has lice, the whole class can become infested. A child at summer camp is a prime candidate for infestation, if a cabin mate has head lice. Lice spread easily through shared hats, clothing, sheets, pillows, combs, and brushes.

If your child complains of an itchy head, or you notice persistent scratching, take a close look at her scalp. If you see nothing under natural light, use a flashlight. Head lice look like tiny round graying lumps on the scalp. You might see eggs, called nits, along the hair shaft. Check the lymph nodes in your child's neck and the back of her head; enlarged lymph nodes are a possibility if the scratching leads to a secondary infection.

Female lice lay four to five eggs every day, and continue to do so until stopped, so early, aggressive treatment is necessary. If your child has head lice, inform the authorities at school, camp, or any other communal area where the infestation may have been contracted (or communicated to other children). To prevent your child from becoming reinfested, a quick and thorough community cleanup is necessary.

Head lice are very irritating and cause severe itching. Your child's scalp may get raw from scratching, and an impetigo like infection is a possible complication. When washing and combing your child's hair, check for signs of local infection. If you have a reason for concern, consult your health care provider.

Supplements and herbs

• Balsam of Peru has antiparasitic properties and destroys the mite Acarus and its eggs. It is useful against scabies, eczema, and other skin conditions as well. It can be applied to the scalp alone, or diluted with oil. After application, comb your child's hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove lice and eggs from the hair shaft.
• In the event of a secondary infection, give your child an immune-boosting Echinacea and goldenseal combination formula. Give your child one dose, three times daily, for five days.
• Because of its antiparasitic properties, garlic will help your child's body fight a head lice infestation. Give your child one dose, three times daily, for five days.
• Goldenseal tincture, or a strong goldenseal tea, can be used to wash the scalp.
• Tea tree oil (Melaleuca altemifolia) is a strong herbal disinfectant that will help get rid of head lice. Add 25 drops of tea tree oil to 1 pint of distilled or spring water. Rub this mixture into your child's hair and scalp three times daily, and comb your child's hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove lice and eggs from the hair shaft.