That unbearable, persistent itch. That creepy-crawly sensation under your skin. If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with scabies.
Scabies is a skin infestation caused by a tiny mite, Sarcoptes scabiei, that burrows into the top layer of your skin. While prescription medications are the standard treatment, many people seek natural remedies to help soothe symptoms and support recovery.
The defining symptom of scabies is intense itching, which often gets worse at night. This itching is an allergic reaction to the mites, their eggs, and their waste under your skin.
Other common signs include:
The rash commonly appears on the hands (especially between fingers), wrists, elbows, armpits, and along the beltline.
Natural remedies can help manage symptoms, but they are not a substitute for a medical diagnosis. Always consult a healthcare professional to confirm you have scabies and discuss the best treatment plan. Scabies is highly contagious and requires effective treatment to be cured.
The following natural options have been studied for their potential to help manage scabies symptoms. Remember to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying any new substance widely.
Known for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil has been shown in lab studies to kill scabies mites. Its active compound, terpinen-4-ol, is a powerful acaricide (mite-killer).
A traditional remedy for skin conditions, neem oil contains compounds that disrupt the mite's life cycle and can help reduce inflammation. A pilot study found that a combination of neem and turmeric paste was effective in treating scabies in over 97% of cases.
Clove oil is a strong antimicrobial agent. Its main component, eugenol, has demonstrated significant activity against scabies mites in lab settings, making it a promising topical remedy.
Famous for its soothing properties, aloe vera can provide significant relief from the itching and irritation caused by scabies. One study found that aloe vera gel was as effective as a conventional prescription treatment (benzyl benzoate) in managing scabies.
Pro Tip: Keeping aloe vera gel in the refrigerator before applying can provide an extra cooling sensation to intensely itchy skin.
Sulfur has been used for centuries to treat scabies. Available as an ointment (typically 5-10% concentration), it works by killing the mites. It is generally considered a safe, albeit sometimes smelly, option.
While not a cure, ACV's acidic nature may help alter the skin's pH, making it a less hospitable environment for mites. Applying diluted ACV may also help soothe itching and reduce inflammation.
Though available as a non-prescription medication in some places, crotamiton is derived from a plant. It has both anti-itch and anti-parasitic properties, helping to relieve symptoms while fighting the infestation.
This combination is a popular folk remedy. Users often report relief from adding borax and hydrogen peroxide to a bath. However, there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness, and it may cause skin irritation.
While natural remedies can be a powerful part of your plan to soothe scabies, they work best alongside a confirmed medical diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment strategy. This includes washing all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water to kill any lingering mites.
Have you tried any of these remedies? What worked for you? Share your experience in the comments below to help others on their healing journey!
