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 | Are there any herbal treatments for head lice? |
|  Anise is an herb that has been used to treat head lice, tiny insects that infest the head and live on the scalp. Medical research has not proven anise’s effectiveness in treating head lice, and anise has not been directly compared to over-the-counter or prescription medicines.Available as an oil extract, anise is applied to the surface of the scalp. Anise may cause skin to become more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn easily. Less often, it causes allergic skin reactions. Don’t swallow anise, because it can cause vomiting, fluid in the lungs, and seizures.Over-the-counter products are the most effective therapies for lice.Sources:Peirce, A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines.William Morrow & Co., 1999.The Review of Natural Products. Facts and Comparisons, 1999.The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Pharmacists Letter Inc., 2000.This answer prepared 10/25/00. |
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