[YEA]  06/28/2009: Mel from Clermont, FL: "Demodex mites

I had written before about my ordeal with these terrible bugs. About 3 months ago I noticed that there was some kind of bug getting under my skin. I somehow ended up on this site. I read every posting and tried everything. I mean everything! The first time I used cocunut oil, I saw the bugs shed off my skin, however they did not die. I soaked in borax and baking soda, proxide, ACV, you name it I did it. I bombed my house many times, but they would not go away. It was better, but not gone.

I started to drink ACV, and I saw a great improvemenet. I have been doing this daily 2 to 3 times a day. I take at least 3 tsps a day. Well I am happy to say, they are almost gone.

I spent over $3,000.00 on medicine, which I knew was very poisenous, but I was desperate. I have learned a lot since. Other than the ACV, I washed everything almost daily in hot hot water. Covered matress and pillows with plastic. I can finally feel like I can be at home and feel much better....hey and on top of all, I seem to be loosing lots of weight too. Good luck to you and hope this helps.

Mel"

[YEA]  08/29/2010: Roger from Shady Point, Ok replies: "I tried most everything on this web site and it all helped but I was still overwhelmed by these mites. Not knowing what to do I prayed and that same day I stumbled across an ion air purifier. It zaps mold, bacteria and mites and it worked immediately. I don't know about other brands but this one is good for 3500 sq ft and problem solve. I wanted to share this only to help. Good luck and GOD bless."

11/19/2010: Kathy from Santa Fe, Nm replies: "Where did you find the ion air purifier (for zapping dust mites)? There are so many out there and most do not produce all that many negative ions and also produce ozone, which I don't like. Any more information would be much appreciated, including the cost. Thanks."

02/16/2013: Lou from Tyler, Tx replies: "I tried everything too. Try spraying Lysol disinfectant spray around the house. Put peppermint oil drops on cotton balls around the house. Wash pillows in hot water with pillowcases and dry, dry, dry going at least through 3 drying cycles. Bathe in peppermint and coconut soap (mix the two). Wash hair in coconut shampoo with a few drops of peppermint essential oil. Then shampoo again in tea tree oil shampoo. Use tea tree mint conditioner with a few drops of clove oil mixed in (to kill the larvae). Now, that being said, everyone has these mites and they only get out of hand when your immune system is down or something worse is going on. Not sure if we should be killing larvae as they control excess sebum. But, I did this anyway. Let hair dry on its own, only blow dry when barely damp. Wash face with peppermint soap too, rinsing a few times with cold water to close pores. Borax in the washer, vinegar rinse is good. Take probiotics and B & C vitamins, along with a multi. Zinc is helpful. Use ponds cold cream at night and bacitracin ointment during the day on skin where bites are present. I am going to try mineral oil in the ears and nose (if it persists). No itching or biting today!"

02/19/2013: Kate from Dallas, Texas replies: "Was the mineral oil in the ears and nose effective? What quantity did you use in your ears and nose and for how long please? Thanks!"

05/01/2013: Mary from Atlanta, Ga replies: "I tried mineral oil on my eyelashes and it definitely did work!

Here's what has worked the best for me, after 6 months of trial and error, I'm 95% rid of these things! . Keep your place as cool, dry, and clean as possible. Get a dehumidifier and place it near the air vent uptake, since heat and humidity play a huge role in hatching new eggs. I spray my apartment and car down with a cedar oil spray at least every 3 days, because this hinders the reproduction process. A couple times a day I spray my apartment down with an enzyme based cleaner (which is cheaper) or an orange based cleaner (cheapest). Pay special attention to kitchen and bathrooms- they seem attracted to water and heat. Include light fixtures in items sprayed down, and wipe off electronics too. Showering twice a day is best; use a gentle soap with essential oil and exfoliate with a loofa glove. Shampoo hair, adding essential oils such as peppermint or clove to the shampoo. 5-10 drops should do the trick. Dry your hair immediately. Clothes have posed the biggest problem- I've thrown a lot of stuff out and replaced them with clearance items from stores ending in "Mart". Thin, synthetic materials are best to prevent the bugs from infesting the items. Launder with peppermint oil added to soap (kills larva), and boric acid, and dry thoroughly- very important! Keep clean clothes in bags and put cotton balls drenched with peppermint inside the bags. You can do this with dirty clothes, too. Replace sheets with polyester and wrap mattresses and pillows in water proof encasements. Never wear anything twice without washing. Consider getting a dry steamer for carpets or problem clothes. You can also microwave or iron problem clothes. For bad flare ups, I apply Kerosene directly to my skin for 30 mins before showering. This kills them when nothing else will. Baths never did anything for me, but tanning beds have helped- seems to kill anything under that top layer of skin. I also vacuumed and sprayed my car frequently. I applied fly traps to windows and the backs of computers. Finally, I also reduced dairy from my diet by about 80%, and take colloidal silver, omega-3, and digestive supplements daily."

04/20/2009: Jane from Kanata, Ontario, Canada replies: "It's not Candida, it's probably the Human Demodex:

It sounds like you have a mild case of rosacea. Try Ted's recipe of 50/50 of Borax and Hydrogen Peroxide to kill the human demodex mites. We all have these mites but those who naturally have oilier skin seem to be an ideal host for this parasite.

I have used the following routine which cleared up rosacea in less than a week. My face was full of blackheads, whiteheads, puspules, after I had a stressful minor accident or around PMS. My face felt like I had a sunburn with minor itching, especially on my cheeks. I've always had flare ups on my T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) but noticed blackheads spreading on my cheeks. Benzoyl Peroxide did not help - it caused more flaky skin - dry and oily skin at the same time. Also, my eyes felt like there was always something in it - like a eyelash or grit. One eye was puffy especially in the morning.

My doctor prescribed Topical Metronidazole and to wash with a mild beauty bar soap. Also to wear sunscreen daily.

Day 1: Evening at Bedtime: Topical Metronidazole (0.75%) all over the face including eyebrows and eye lashes, and eye lids. Effect: Felt tingling for less than 5 minutes then nothing. Slept a very deep and restful sleep.

Morning Day 2: Red flushing of cheeks gone. Washed face with mild beauty bar, as directed by my doctor. Skin felt and looked better than the day before. Applied Topical Metronidazole all over. Applied a light mineral powder for makeup coverage.

Evening Day 2: By dinnertime, face was quite an unpleasant greasy feeling but the redness was subsiding but new pimples appeared but looked like they were healing except for one. According to the lifecycle of the human demodex mite, this was normal - the immune system is trying to fight the mite as the mite is dying off in large quantities. That evening, washed face just with the beauty bar twice in a couple of hours. Then applied the Topical Metronidazole at bedtime. No tingling on cheeks but, boy, the eyebrows, eyelashes, and eye lids felt like things were hopping! Washed face again with beauty bar and reapplied Topical Metronidazole with minor tingling (less than before so it was washed off).

Morning Day 3: Washed face with beauty bar. Applied Topical Metronidazole. Found Ted's recommendation of 50/50 borax and hydrogen peroxide. Washed face with this mixture - cupped hand with the borax and poured H2O2 on it and scrubbed face. Let stand for about 5-10 minutes. Wow! My face felt quite clean and refreshed. Small red dots are disappearing. Large pores are shrinking. Oil on pores appears more normal. Minimized blackheads (extracted some)

Evening Day 3: Washed face with Ted's 50/50 Borax & H2O2. Then followed by the moisturizing beauty bar restoring pH level. Applied Topical Metronidazole at bedtime, again, very active around the eyebrows, eyelids, and eyelashes. Do not put directly in the eye - just a light film all over the eye area -

Morning Day 4: Had a warm, soak bath with water and 1/2cup borax, 1/2cup H2O2. Bathed and soaked head too. Washed hair with Sensitve Skin Shampoo (containing sulphur - must be active ingredient). Rinsed. Skin is very soft and subtle.

Now the routine is this:

Morning - Wash with 50/50 Borax & H2O2 then follow with the beauty bar soap. Apply sunscreen & light coverup makeup, if required. Wear a hat on sunny days.

Evening - Wash with 50/50 Borax & H2O2 then follow with the beauty bar soap. Apply Topical Metronidazole at bedtime.

Weekly - Bathe in borax & H202 in tub.

Diet - I didn't change diet. It's a high fiber diet following the Canada's Food Guide. One cup of coffee, water, green tea and occassionally a carbonated mineral water. Occasional glass of red wine or one beer - no more than that at mealtime. Everyday multivitamin. Looking into Apple Cider Vinegar to improve digestion and pH balance.

Exercise - at minimum 30 minutes daily.

Laundry - wash loads with Borax and laundry soap with 1/2 cup of vinegar scented with lavendar oil as the fabric softener. Wash bed linens once or twice weekly. Change pillowcase daily. Change facecloth daily and body towel every other day.

I've found that Ted's Solution expediated the process with amazing results along side with what my doctor prescribed me.

Also, my home, & car environment:

1) I've always used Borax in my laundry routine, mostly for the whites & underwear load. Will definitely use it for all loads especially bed linens, towels, etc.

2) Washing the bathroom with borax with great results compared to filmy, cholrine-based products (nicer on your hands, for the sensitive skin type!)

3) Why stop at the bathroom, the kitchen looks and feels fantastic!

4) Trying dusting with a microcloth with diluted borax and water I use 15mL borax+1L water. Vacuum often (at least 1-3 times a week).

5) No residue on hardwood floors.

6) Borax and hot water in spray bottle - lightly spraying the mattresses, leather sofa, carpets,etc. Test small inconspicuous area first.

7) Borax is a great cleaning agent for the car interior.

8) Change the furnace air filter monthly. Use a mattress cover on every bed.

9) Get rid of clutter - collects too much dust, especially where you sleep - don't forget the kids rooms too. Put things in labelled boxes and get them out when you want to use them. Otherwise, give away. Speeds up the cleaning routine and is motivating!

10) Last, but most importantly, wash the telephone, computer, light switches, etc. where we share each other's space.

I feel like I have more energy. The general malaise is disappearing (even though I was trying to take care of myself and family with good food & exercise. Everyone else was benefiting except for me). Since I'm getting my sleep, I noticed a decrease in stress (or my ability to cope). Less stress is less havoc on my digestive system. General well-being is improving.

Keep up with this routine as the Human Demodex mite life cycle lasts quite awhile until you feel it's in check. The Human Demodex mite is passed on and is normal (just like dust mites) so please don't obsess, just be informed that this microns have a lifecycle and we just have to keep things in check. The website, ____ was helpful in viewing photos of the gradual process that some people may experience as well as the life cycle of the human demodex mite.

Cost:

Topical Metronidazole (Prescription 60mg for $36 CDN)
Beauty Bar - less than $2 each, package sizes vary
Borax $4-5 a box (grocery or pharmacy store)
Hydrogen Peroxide $1 at dollar store or pharmacy
Sensitive Skin Bubble Bath & Shampoo, $1 at dollar store

Wow - for around $50 and some cleaning muscle, this acne and rosacea causing mite called the human demodex can be controlled and minimized to minimize outbreaks. Thank you Ted for posting the 50/50 Borax/Hydrogen Peroxide Solution!

I wish it works well for you! Good Luck!"

04/29/2009: Trish from Toronto, Ontario Canada replies: "Thanks so much - this info is working for me!"

04/10/2011: Lindsey from Fort Lauderdake, Florida replies: "I also have oily skin that is prone to breakouts. I have had great results clearing out blackheads and shrinking large pores by applying a paste of baking soda and water after cleansing my face at night. Just use it as you would a face scrub and wash off. My skin is so much softer and really does glow!"

10/10/2012: Barb from Perth Wa Australia, Australia replies: "Have read these post with alot of interest- it makes sense that mustard would work and any other product that draws. Clay is another product that as a 12yr sufferer of demodex I have found to help. Mustard has been used for centuries as a poultice to draw out splinters etc., clay is the same. Was thinking about the question of a carrier oil. Emu oil penetrates the skin to 6 layers deep. At least this may be a way to penetrate the layers easier and enter the follicles. I also found that using an LED machine has had great results."

01/24/2013: Lou from Tyler, Tx replies: "I read a post on another site that someone got a burning rash from emu oil. Please use care next to your brain."

[WORKED TEMPORARILY]  08/16/2011: Cj from Stamford, Ct replies: "Do you continue to use ACV for mite infestation? Demodex mites appear to be extremely adaptable to all my efforts to kill them."

12/05/2011: Tired Of Itching from College Park, Ga: "I have a question when using the bleach and water after basing and wiping down everything in the house with bleach. But when taking several baths in bleach in water do they get rid of the spots that come from itching and scratching?????"

06/25/2012: Martie from Tampa, Fl replies: "I recently read that taking regular bleach baths destroys the normal skin bacteria needed for healthy skin and can cause the problem to get worse. Since your poor skin is already under attack, you may want to consider a different type of bath, like Ted's borax baths, not to speak of what chlorine bleach can do to your lungs."

05/20/2011: Mama In 'bama from Al, Usa replies: "I know this thread is old, but the idea is brand new and works for anyone taking soaking baths of any kind!

When I and my family figured out we had a demodex mite skin(and home infestation), we took 100% submersed baths using A SNORKEL. Yep, a diving snorkel we found at a national retail store for just a couple of dollars.

Worked PERFECTLY!"

08/24/2011: Jenn from Valley, Nebraska, Usa replies: "I have been infected with mites for weeks now with no relief. I raise mice and rats outside my house and believe thats where they are coming from. I put cedar and cloves on the floor of the rodent structure hoping this will help. Does anyone know if this will work? I am definately going to try the bleach bath cuz I can't stand the constant itching and bleeding from these mites. I have scabs all over me and itch to death. What kind of remedy do you spray on carpet and furniture that is safe? I have cats and dogs as well as snakes. I don't want to harm them. Jenn"

09/10/2011: Mevina from Ransom Canyon, Texas, Us replies: "'... What kind of remedy do you spray on carpet and furniture that is safe? I have cats and dogs as well as snakes. I don't want to harm them. Jenn'

Jenn, you might try cat flea spray with a 3-4 month insect-growth regulator. First try it diluted with water, even as little as 4:1; that is 4 parts water.

Not that I like any of this stuff. But a few drops in a couple tsps of water cured earmites in one of our indoor-outdoor hunting cats after olive oil failed to do the job. An hour or so later I rinsed his ears with OTC sterile ear cleaner.

The mites have not returned in over a year.

Cat insecticide products are said to be safe for dogs but not the other way around. I'd keep the snakes off the rugs for a few days."

08/24/2012: Bonnie from Palm Desert, Ca replies: "Carpeting ? Put some diatomaceous earth or borax into it... Just make sure to get the pets out of the room, first, then put on a respirator type mask.. And distribute or dust around... You can put that onto your mattress, under the vinyl cover. If you wish, one can get the food grade stuff to ingest... It cuts parasites to pieces. Just make sure it goes down into the fibers, so that your dogs do not breathe it in, while rolling around, or laying their heads on the carpeting.

The second thing I used, was an all natural product that does not have fumes... I cannot mention the exact name, but check the Topix health blogs I posted.. It has the name in there... I got a whole gallon of the stuff.. I spray it on my mattress, on the carpet, on the tarps on my couches, in my car, and believe it or not, one can bathe with it in the bathwater.. I also spray enzymes onto my dog... I was using it on my skin, but I was slightly allergic to one of the enzymes.. But I would try that, if I could do so, as well! And it will kill the parasitic mites, dust mites, or dermodex ones, by eating through the exoskeleton, and it causes them to molt prematurely.. If they do that, then they die off! ... So I spray the entire bathroom floor, and everywhere I sat during the day, even near the kitchen sink, my computer table, etc.. All with no fumes, and no toxins. If you spray upholstery with it, say in your car.. It will dry clear, and have no scent after it is dry.. And it eats up dust mites, etc... And breaks down dirt.. So everything smells good, after it is dry. I am so allergic to poisons! Oh yeah, I set my spritzer with 2 onces of it, then add 14 more of the distilled water, then set the sprayer on a harder spray, so it goes into my dog's coat.. It immediately causes the itching to die down, so now he knows what will follow, and does not fight me on this--he simply wants the surface of his fur wiped down, so he is not soggy! Then, the poor baby can sleep..

Oh, yeah, try not to allow pets to sleep in your bed, until both are cured, or you will pass mites back and forth, into infinity! Tomorrow, I will put the mustard, castor oil, and virgin coconut oil onto his skin, for a more permanent treatment, to kill most of them off.. I did that with my own skin, and was shocked at how many died off.. Rubbed it into my hair, then put a shower cap on, overnight! It works! Bonnie"

09/18/2012: Looneygirl from Houston, Texas, Usa replies: "Bonnie can you tell us what this product is or give us a link to the blog. I am not familir with topix health blog and could not locate. I also have been doing the ongoing fight against demo mites/red mange and using Ted's remedy and some others, plus supplement's & diet change for stronger immune system. I thought I had it beat but it looks like it has returned and she is scratching/biting herself like crazy. Sometimes what works for one person/pet does not work for others. Please share the name of this product or a link as there are many other in need of help & assistance with this mite problem.

"The second thing I used, was an all natural product that does not have fumes... I cannot mention the exact name, but check the Topix health blogs I posted""

01/09/2012: Josephine from Live Oak, Fl Usa: "Can 20 mule team borax be used in a bath to help with body mites on humans and animals and if so how much do you use and how much water. I have also heard to mix it with peroxide."

10/01/2011: Phyllis from Goshen, Indiana replies: "I have read where borax is toxic.

DE (diatomacious earth) is taken from the bottom of the ocean as ground up clam shells etc.. It is very effective for killing all sorts of small creatures -spiders, mites, bedbugs, worms, snails and can be taken internally for this purpose also. It can be purchased at graineries in 50lb bags for only 50c lb usually but it must be the type used in grains to kill insects -otherwise it may have arsenic in it. It may help your problem.

One tlbs per 125 lb of body wt is a measure given. It can be taken with foods or juices every day. I take it once a week or so."

10/01/2011: Kelly from Catawissa, Mo, Usa replies: "Great question. I think this one is for Ted. I personally keep his borax solution in a spray bottle, and when I feel the itching or crawling or feel the sandy feeling, I spray the area thoroughly!"

12/09/2011: Veronica H from New York, Ny replies: "Hi I wouldn't drink that thing.... THIS IS WHAT HAS WORKED SO FAR FOR ME.... AND IN ONE DAY ONE CAN SEE THE DIFFERENCE ALREADY.

My case: infestation of the whole apartment and clothing, including shoes and bath tub ( believe or not). My dog got canine mites, and I am super allergic to their bites ( note: there is a difference btw canine mites and human mites do research yourself)... and the worst is that I was sleeping with the dog so it got very very ugly.

1) Isolate the dog: do not let the dog sleep in your bed ever again.

do not let the dog sleep on sofas etc ever again.... dog has to be trained to his bed and his place in the house.

Bathe the dog with shampoo for mites ( 10 minutes) then apply tea tree oil and also apply revolution once every tree weeks for 6 weeks and then once a month for life as a prevention... a dog that dont have good immune system to keep his mites under control is very likely to get reinfected again and again.

2) research, research and research ( doctors and veterinary wont tell you the whole truth.. Bc they want you to be back and back... they will give you remedies but NO ONE WILL TELL YOU THAT IF YOU DO A EXTENSIVE CLEANING YOU WON'T BE EVER CURED OR IT WILL TAKE FOREVER AND A LOT OF MONEY.

In my special case I cured the dog first and then house and then shoes, clothing and also got rid of the mattress ( what a big difference that made... mattress are very hard to clean and even w/ a mite cover depending on the numbers that would not be enough.)

Meanwhile you are getting rid of mites buy yourself an air mattress they are much better to clean as the mite cannot hide in plastic.

3) SPRAY EVERYTHING WITH WINDEX ( you will need tons of this)

4) For awhile do not sit in the sofa.. Put the sofa up and spray the hell of it with a combination of windex and guess what... spider poison.

MITES ARE FROM THE FAMILY OF SPIDERS.. SO ANYTHING THAT KILL SPIDERS WILL KILL MITE.

eat and seat in places that can be easier to clean like a wood table or plastic, and plastic chair... Forget to be seated in sofas or anything w fabric... Anything like this should be put apart in one room and sprayed w windex and lysol if you want and plus the spider killer spray... Leave everything that is made of fabric apart.. Do not seat on it until is past 3 weeks.. so the bastards will be dead dead!!!

Everytime you're gonna seat on a chair, spray windex, eat on table spray windex BEFORE AND AFTER SEATING.

3)THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT... CLEAN FLOORS WITH A MIX OF WATER, BORAX, SPIDER KILLER AND BLEACH. DO THIS ONCE A WEEK. BUT ONE HAVE TO CLEAN THE FLOORS ONCE A DAY WITH BLEACH AND WATER...EVERYDAY.

CLEAN BATHROOM WITH SAME MIX ABOVE ONCE A WEEK INCLUDING BATHTUB... EVERYTIME YOU SHOWER SPRAY WINDEX, BEFORE LEAVING SPRAY WINDEX ON YOUR FEETS AND AFTER LEAVING SPRAY IT AGAIN.

4) CLOTHING:

CLOTHING SHOULD BE WEAR ONCE...

so put in plastic bags, one for white clothing and other for color.

bedding should be washed daily also... If you have airbed spray it windex before and after going to bed and in the morning when you wake up

wash the clothing with hot water and a mix with borax, bleach and soap. let it act 15 minutes in water before washing and also dry it hot for an hour or more.

5) PERSONAL CLEANING:

take shower twice a day: morning and night.

-if your head itches buy shampoo for lice that will kill them.

- buy soap for acne and take shower with it.

- When you are done... spray with lysol or windex your feet.

-I spray my body with alcohol and it kill them all...

acetone too is good.. That kills them very good on the skin.. for real nothing like acetone.

and then put tea tree oil all over you so run away!!!

then you can put permedrin that is what the doctor will prescribe you and some cream for the itching and take benedryl to help u to sleep at night.

IF YOU DONT CLEAN YOUR HOUSE , CLOTHING AND SOFAS ETC THIS WAY I AM TELLING YOU YOU WONT BE HEALED EVER. BC YOU WILL REINFECT YOURSELF ALL OVER AGAIN...

1st step: house, sofas dont seat on them, seat in easy to clean chair and eat in easy to clean tables..

2nd: get a airmatress if you feel you cannot clean your matress... clean the floor very well before using the new mattress.

3rd: I would get rid of bedding if the intensive cleaning is not working... Get new sheets and also new pillows... but first clean the room very well.

4th: clean yourself and desinfect yourself as many times a day as possible... I am carrying with me alcohol and spray on me everytime I feel something and it works wonders.

5th: whatever you cant clean sent it to dry cleaner and tell them to put poison on it, bc you have an infestation in the house... they know what to do.

clean wardrobes with windex and spider killer spray.

clean whatever place you are putting the clothing and spray the hell of it w windex and spider killer spray...

I DID ALL THIS IN ONE DAY AND FEELING A BIG DIFFERENCE.. MY GOAL IS TO GET RID OF THIS IN A WEEK!!!! I WILL I WILL FIGHT THIS BASTARDS!!!!!!! I HATE THEM!!!

Doctors or vets don't tell you this...RESEARCH!!!!!

PEOPLE IF YOU NEED MORE ADVICE OR HELP... CONTACT ME vhomodel(at)gmail.com"

12/12/2010: Self from Ny replies: "Until Ted can get back to you personally:

Borax can dry the skin out, that's part of what may kill the mites. Ted did also recommend this on the rosacea thread (which also deals with mites) that if the skin gets too dry, apply jojoba oil or aloe vera or lavender oil.
Source: http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/rosacea.html

Perhaps you need to lessen the borax to 1/16 a teaspoon or less and take it less frequently as well. Some people are more sensitive than others. If it is still too much, stop. This website will tell of some of borax side effects. Most people who take the borax in the small doses listed in E.C. Seem to tolerate them well. But some sensitive people may experience the side effects listed here. Sometimes doses on E.C. have to be tinkered with as we all react differently to different things.
http://www.ehow.com/list_5998571_effects-borax-skin.html"

10/15/2012: Lou from Tyler, Tx replies: "Shouldn't lavendar oil be put in a carrier oil, like say, sesame oil because the lavendar oil burns, doesn't it?"

12/11/2010: Self from Ny replies: "Yes, the container does say that but in small amounts, it is ok. As long as it is borax and not boric acid. Well with 6% H2O2, you can dilute it down to 3% by mixing equal parts of each H2O2 and water (half each). Yes, you can mix the borax with H2O2 to make it even more effective (men can take 1/4 teaspoon and women can take 1/8 teaspoon of borax and one cap (use the H2O2 bottle cap) of 3% H2O2 in one liter of drinking water and drink a cup every hour. When it runs out, drink regular water. Also take 1, 000 mg of vitamin C (sodium ascorbate) a day to counteract H2O2 oxidation (e.g. Helps prevent detox headaches)

You can also wet some borax in 1% H2O2 and apply the paste to the area and leave it on, don't rinse. If the skin gets dry, use aloe vera or some natural oil to moisturize it. To dilute H2O2 down to 1.5%, just mix one part 6% H2O2 and 4 parts water (e.g. 1 oz H2O2 and 4 oz water)."

07/07/2011: Brenda from Fayetteville, North Carolina replies: "Would this be ok to give to my Jack Russell dog? She has these things too."

01/02/2012: Maddog/chemist from Albuquerque, New Mexico, U.s.a. replies: "For skin itching, I had a Texas M.D. who rec. a self made solution of Sulfur flowers and petroleum jelly.

It has the acid mileu to kill mites, and the smothering effect of the jelly. Has anyone else used this? Must be left on the body for more than say 20 minutes."

07/15/2010: Diane from Berkeley, Ca replies: "Fran: Those sound very much like bed bug bites. They typically come in groups of 2's to 4's, and when irritated can have a "ring" around them like you mention. You may have an infestation. I don't have advice as to a cure, but it's worth looking into this as a possible cause, because if so you will need to treat the home to remove them, and any internal treatments, while soothing may not be sufficient."

07/16/2010: Bill from San Fernando, Luzon, Philippines replies: "Hi Fran. . . I live in the tropics and I had the same problem as you, bites and sores all over mainly my back and lower body. I had a favourite couch that I used to sleep and doze on regularly which had mites in it. This is what I had to do.

* I used a simple combination of 1%-3% hydrogen peroxide and a tablespoon of borax (20 Mule Team is fine) in an ordinary 8 oz flower garden sprayer. Also add one tablespoon of Milk of Magnesia. All I did was to spray my body (particularly the bitten areas) after my shower and before bed with this mix and then wash it off the next morning. I found that, next day, I hadn't been bitten anymore and my bites had actually gone down and didn't itch so much. I still use this mix if some critter bites me, it's very effective. Only use this mix topically and avoid use near the eyes.

* Take your couch/bed mattress and put it outside in the sun and heat for the day. The mites and bugs will hate the sun, they will run away and leave the couch/bed mattress.

* Also make sure you clothes are not infested by washing your clothes with generous amounts of borax.

The borax will kill the mites directly as will the hydrogen peroxide which will also kill any other associative bacteria and viruses as well.

The Milk of Magnesia (MoM) will kill the bugs and anything else in 2 other ways. First the MoM is so alkaline -- pH 10 -- that it will kill any bacteria, virus, fungus or bug easily. As well, MoM contains mainly Magnesium Hydroxide, which is highly hydrohobic (drives water out). So using MoM will also dehydrate the bugs or mites and kill them that way too."

05/12/2012: Jana from Alexandria, Va replies: "Baking soda might also work for the PH."

02/22/2013: Chelle from Hartbeespoort, Nw South Africa replies: "Regarding...

..."Diane from Berkeley, Ca replies: "Fran: Those sound very much like bed bug bites. They typically come in groups of 2's to 4's, and when irritated can have a "ring" around them like you mention. You may have an infestation. I don't have advice as to a cure..."

I just wanted to add that the cure to bed bugs is diatomaceous earth sprinkled everywhere...

For Demodex mites the cure for me is Tea Tree Oil rubbed into skin ... Patiently day after day for 60-90 days... And Mustard added to conditioner for my scalp. Mustard is 1 tsp mixed with 1 tsp water and added to 18 teaspoons [or 6 tablespoons] of conditioner or lotion or whatever you want to use depending on where you want to apply. Can also add to shampoo. I leave the conditioner on 20 minutes simply because that is how I like to condition my hair.

Also Diatomaceous Earth on mattress, pillow etc... It works when dry not wet. I think this can be used on pets too. It is edible. Only use Food Grade quality.

Sorry that this doesn't fit under Borax properly but I really want to give the answer to bed bug infestation.. And add my own experience with Demodex mites. Please feel free to replicate anywhere you prefer."

03/10/2013: Tired Of Being Itchy! from Silver Spring, Md, Usa replies: "Really appreciative of the advice here. I had the same issue... Picked up mites from infected furniture. Have sealed the couch-can't put it outside.

Been using all the suggestions here and wanted to share something that has helped me turn the corner to stop the crawly/itchy sensation: sulfur8. It's for dandruff; readily available at the drugstore. I read on a medical website that sulfur kills mites, and it seems to be true. A word of caution, the menthol in this stuff is a bit powerful for a while after you put it on. Once the menthol wears off, you'll smell like the tip of a match and feel pretty greasy. And, be prepared to be disgusted. I had not actually seen the mites until they came off the surface of my skin, suffocated by the petrolatum and sulfur in this ointment. Quite gross. And effective! I will continue to do this each night until the itching is totally gone. Night #2, and so far, so good. Almost no itchies today during the day.

Now, how to deal with the couch... It's leather, still tightly sealed in plastic... Any ideas short of tossing it out?"

EC: More info on borax can be found here: http://earthclinic.com/Remedies/borax.html

[BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  09/05/2010: Robert Henry from Ten Mile, Tn Usa: "DEMODEX MITES

ON A ROLL, this is my third input today. This is not my procedure as I got it off this site, but I have refined it. I now only put the borax, tee tree oil and hydrogen peroxide solution in my nose where the hair follicles are. Also I have added Vitamin E for the oil. This is more effective and I have been doing this for several years. I have concluded that you never get rid of these buggers, you just control them."

[YEA]  04/21/2013: Robert Henry from Ten Mile, Tn Usa replies: "HI U GOD FEARING PEOPLE DOIN, , , , , , , , , , ,

Well, I'm free of my mites. It was an interesting chore. At first I had no clue. The bumps were just erupting all over my body. I am SJS so it took me a few weeks to figure out what was going on. I first went to my regular doctor and he gave me Premethrin, which is useless as tits on a bore shoat. The mites eat this as dessert.

I learned that mites die at 120 degrees so I began a FIR sauna that was between 150 and 170 degrees. Following that I took a bath using 16 oz of H202 , a cup of Borax and a cup of Epson Salt. Half-way through the bath, I coated my body down with the strongest Cayenne Pepper sauce I could find. What lots of folks don't know is that Cayenne pepper is a natural insecticide. Then I coated my body down with what is equivalent to grain alcohol. None of this is original with me. I got all this off the internet. Listen up good folks, people on the internet will tell you their woes and you need to listen. Some are out in left field but you can figure that out pretty quick. One thing that I did as a Ch E is to buy the 10% Permethrin from the Co-op which is used for animals. I put that on the spots that I knew there were mites and coated that with DMSO gel. DMSO is the strongest solvent there is and will take whatever stuff you got to the problem. I also coated my body with H2O2 and Borax as Ted suggests.

My wife washed my sheets, clothes, and towes, etc. Every day with hot, hot water and borax. I think the thing that killed my critters is heat. I have spent the money to take care of all our old age problems like a Fir sauna and a Ozone generator.

I finally got to see a dermotologist and he put me on a total body jel , Triamcinolone Acetonide. However, the game was over. I had killed the crtitters with natural products. I do think that the sauna heat is what got the little devils.

I took specimans to the Dermotologist but initially he had no clue , so I may not have had scabies. I will let you know in a week or so.

Is life interesting or what ? ======RH=======

Thank you Earth Clinic for spreading the word."

05/01/2013: Robert Henry from Ten Mile , Tn Usa replies: "HI U GOOD FOLKS DOIN, , , , , , , , , , ,

What a saga. I am telling you that your M.D. has no clue as far as parasites are concerned. I had a mite of some description but my dermatologist had idea what it was and did not send it off to be identified. Using 5 % Permethrin is useless as tits on a bore shote. The bugs have been immune to this strength for many years, but the M.D.'s have no idea.

I have defeated the little bastards and here is what I did. First, I have a FIR Sauna and I heated it up to 160 to 170 degrees and stayed in this heat for 20 minutes. They cannot stand this heat. That got most , but on the others I put 10 % Permethrin from the Co-op that they use on animals. On top of that I used DMSO to take it to the source. I also got into a tub of hot water that I had added 16 oz of Hydrogen Peroxide, a cup of Borax , and a cup of epsom salt. Half way through the bath I covered my body with the hottest cayenne pepper sause that our Mexican illegals can imagine. Cayenne is a natural insecticide. On completion of this procedure I then did what Ted says and that is to cover my body with a solution of Hydrogen peroxide and borax.

I then went to a dermotologist and learned the he had no clue. I did what he said but the game was already over. He did not try to learn anything about this parasite. He called it a rash. Kiss my grits. That is the reason that I rely on you folks for my good health.

What I think killed the critters is heat. My wife and I have not slept together since all this came about. If you cannot do this and protect your loved one, then you deserve whatever you get.

That is what an old farse thinks. =====RH====="

[BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  10/15/2009: Izzy3 from Sebastian, Florida: "I am a sufferer for 1 year now of some invisible biting mite, or so I thought, now I feel it might be the Sticktight Flea which also can't be seen without magnification, I noticed the things coming off my body are things exactly like the 3 stages of this biting Burrowing blood sucking creature, it also loves to live in peoples ears ! Which has been my distress for 9 months now in the left ear, however by chance I stumbled upon a site staing that fleas do not like Brewers Yeast, it's used for fleas and other bugs on dogs cats and livstock, so I'm giving it a try, you can find the tablets in grocery stores usually in vitamin section, don't take more than reccomended doseage, especially if on other meds. If you walk in a room and suddenly feel them on your calves or upper body, think about it, fleas are able to jump, mites can't ! we might have some of them too but I am getting reaction from the yeast with the ones in my ears, they are not happy . I'm also on ph drops to build my alkaline and immune booster caps.Good Luck to all fellow sufferers."

02/16/2013: Lou from Tyler, Tx replies: "I picked up a can of brewer's yeast and it said on the can that if you have an allergic reaction to penicillin, you should NOT use it. Be careful!"

[YEA]  05/15/2012: Philip from Toronto, Ontario: "Guys, I suffered from an internal mite infestation for a long time and have it under control now using Cayenne Pepper... It is the only thing that has worked for me. I make a tea with it, add honey and ACV. I have gotten my life back after a nightmare 9 months.

Please share this with others. Thank you!!"

05/15/2012: Suzi from Ny replies: "Philip: How much cayenne do you use and how do you make the tea? How long have you been drinking this? What were your symptoms and have they been totally eliminated? I am on my 9th month now with them everywhere."

[YEA]  01/29/2013: Fran from Rocky Face, Ga: "Half coconut oil and half tomatoe juice helped a friend of mine that was suffering from what we believe to be mites

good luck"