Scabies is a transmissible ectoparasite skin infection characterized by superficial burrows, intense pruritus (itching) and secondary infection. The word ’scabies’ is Latin for ‘itch’.

Signs Symptoms Of Scabies

Caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, variety hominis, it produces intense, itchy skin rashes when the impregnated female tunnels into the stratum corneum of the skin and deposits eggs in the burrow. The larvae, which hatch in 3-10 days, move about on the skin, molt into a “nymphal” stage, and then mature into adult mites. The adult mites live 3-4 weeks in the host’s skin.

The motion of the mite in and on the skin produces an intense itch which may resemble an allergic reaction in appearance. The presence of the eggs produces a massive allergic response which, in turn, produces more itching.

Scabies is transmitted readily, often throughout an entire household, by prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected person (e.g. bed partners), and thus is sometimes classed as a sexually transmitted disease. Spread by clothing, bedding or towels is a less significant risk, though possible.

Home Remedies For Scabies

To treat scabies your doctor will prescribe a cream called Permethrin. This cream will kill the mites. However, if you pay close attention to the side effects of this cream you will want to think twice about using it. The side effects are scary.

Side effects include:

- Itching

- Tingling

- Numbness

- Redness or irritation

Permethrin, like all synthetic pyrethroids, is a neurotoxin. Other symptoms include tremors, incoordination, elevated body temperature, increased aggressive behavior, and disruption of learning. Laboratory tests suggest that permethrin is more acutely toxic to children than to adults.

If you are trying to become or are pregnant you should not use Permethrin. The best and natural way to get rid of the scabies mite is to use something called Tea Tree Oil. What is tea tree oil you ask?

Tea tree oil is the essential oil steam distilled from the Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia. It has also been known as melaleuca oil. The M. alternifolia species is unique to Australia and native to Northern New South Wales.

Its many uses include:

Natural antiseptic, germicide, antibacterial, fungicide, athletes foot, cold and flu, oral thrush, cold sores & canker sores, tooth ache & gum infections , ringworm, candida, head lice or louse, cleanser additive, gum problems, mosquito bites, bug repellent, cockroaches, deter fleas, mouth ulcers, herpes , cuts, abrasions, after shave, sunburn, scabies, anorectal or vaginal yeast infections, unwanted body odors, acne, and toe nail infections.

Herbal Treatments For Scabies

Neem – When applied to the skin this tree’s essential oils has properties that act like pesticides. The oil is also antibacterial and antifungal.

Clove – This spice has been used traditionally to treat scabies. The essential oil of cloves has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, plus antimicrobial activity.

Rosemary – This herb is known to fight many parasites and may help stop and infestation of scabies.

Tansy – A strong tea made with tansy has been traditionally used to treat scabies. This dried herb has a long history of getting rid of insects, so it may work on mites also.