Used medicinally for centuries in India, neem oil, from the tree of the same name, makes a particularly useful natural pesticide and insect repellant. The oil is frequently used to treat the skin disorder scabies, an infestation of a form of tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. Scabies results from the mites burrowing into the skin to feed on blood. In the process, they cause intense itching. Scabies is very contagious and can spread quickly through families, schools and other places where direct physical contact is common. Neem oil is an effective alternative to synthetic treatments such as permethrin, according to DiscoverNeem.com.
Minor Infestations
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Step 1
Pour some pure neem oil onto a clean cloth or gauze pad and apply the oil directly to any minor and localized scabies infestations.
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Step 2
Leave the oil on the skin for fifteen to twenty minutes to help eliminate the mites and reduce the swelling, itching and inflammation associated with scabies.
Step 3
Repeat the oil application twice per day until the infestation has resolved.
Established Infestations
Step 1
Pour several tablespoons of pure neem oil into a small bowl and combine it with 1/8 cup of liquid soap. Mix thoroughly to emulsify the oil with the soap.
Step 2
Add the mixture to a hot bath and bathe thoroughly, for well-established or pervasive scabies infestations.
Step 3
Soak in the bath for fifteen to twenty minutes. A neem-based lotion or cream can also be applied after bathing.
Step 4
Continue this treatment once every day until the infestation has completely resolved. Repeat the treatment for any recurrences.
Warning
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Consult with your physician before using any self-prescribed treatment regimen.