Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Head Lice
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Citronella | Spray a 3.7% lotion in a slow-release formula every morning six days per week |  [2 stars] Citronella is a volatile oil that has been shown to help eliminate head lice. |
Quassia | Apply an alcohol extract to the scalp two times, one week apart | [2 stars] Quassia is a tree native to the Amazon rainforest that has constituents with activity against several types of microbes and insects. |
Sugar Apple | Apply a cream containing 20% seed oil to hair and wash out three hours later | [2 stars] In one trial, a cream containing 20% oil of sugar apple seed killed 95% of head lice when applied once to the hair of infested schoolgirls for three hours, and then washed out. |
Anise, Ylang Ylang, and Coconut Oils | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] A combination of anise, ylang ylang, and coconut oils has been shown to be effective against head lice. |
Paw Paw, Thyme Oil, and Tea Tree Oil Shampoo | Apply shampoo to hair and leave on for one hour before washing out | [1 star] An herbal shampoo containing a standardized extract of paw paw, thyme oil, and tea tree oil has been found to be effective in treating head lice. |
Sassafras | Apply a cream containing 20% seed oil to the hair and wash out three hours later | [1 star] Traditional herbalists recommend applying oil of sassafras to treat head lice. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.