Scabies is a contagious disease brought about by the infestation of Sarcoptes scabiei, a species of itch mite. People affected by this condition may experience symptoms including persistent itchiness, the presence of blisters, rashes, and redness in the skin.

Studies showed that about 300 million cases of scabies occurred every year all over the world.  The number drastically increases as it can easily spread from person to person. The risk may even become higher to chronically sick people and those in crowded places. Additionally, scabies has been known to be an important cause of morbidity in countries other than the US.

If you experienced scabies, then you are already aware of how irritating and disgusting this condition can be. Good thing, there are effective home remedies that you can use  for scabies. These will not only improve the uncomfortable condition brought about by the symptoms of scabies, but also help in promoting a healthier skin. Read on and learn the best treatments that you can try in your home.

Effective Home Remedies for Scabies

1.  Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin which is a chemical that can reduce the pain sensation in the skin.  This can reduce the discomfort and relieve the itching symptoms of scabies. Other claims also stated that the application of cayenne pepper to the skin can kill the causative agents of scabies. However, there are still no scientific studies to prove this claim of killing the parasites.

•  Add one cup of cayenne pepper to hot bathwater. Sit on the bath until the water turns colds. Rinse well. Avoid getting into your eyes as it may lead to burns or sting.

•  Alternatively, make a paste by adding cayenne to about two drops of water. Apply the paste to the affected areas of your skin.

2.  Tiger Balm

Tiger balm can help lessen inflammation and relieve pain in the muscles. This can also act as an analgesic agent due to its clove oil and camphor component. It will not bring remedy but will give immediate relief while waiting for the scabies treatment to be given.

•  Gently apply tiger balm to the affected area of your skin for instant relief to pain and discomfort.

3.  Anise Seed Oil

Anise seed oil has an insecticidal property that can treat scabies and other conditions caused by parasites. However, caution should be given to the pregnant woman when using this treatment.

•  Apply ample amount of anise seed oil to the affected areas to help treat scabies.

4.  Clove Oil

Clove oil contains antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties that help dry the blisters and rashes caused by scabies. A study showed that it is highly lethal against parasites including scabies mites due to its eugenol component.

•  Mix ten drops of clove oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil and one teaspoon of honey. Apply and rub it gently to the affected area twice a day.

5.  Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol which helps kill the scabies mites.  It also contains antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, antiseptic, disinfectant, and wound-healing properties that make it one of the best home remedies for scabies. Both nursing mothers and pregnant women should avoid using tea tree oil as it can irritate sensitive skin.

•  Combine one tablespoon of tea tree oil with one tablespoon of olive oil. Apply it to the affected area with the use of a cotton ball. Do this twice a day for three weeks to lessen swelling and pain.

•  Alternatively, add 12 drops of tea tree oil to lukewarm water. Use this when taking a bath.

6.  Neem Oil

Neem oil, being a botanical pesticide, can help treat skin problems including scabies due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It removes the bacteria and fungi present in the skin. The smell of the neem oil can also inhibit the parasite from reproducing, so shorten duration of the problem.

•  Directly massage pure neem oil to the affected area. Let it stay for a few minutes before rinsing.

•  Alternatively, combine two ounces of neem oil and two ounces of ground turmeric powder. Apply the cream to the affected area three times a day.

7.  Zinc

Zinc helps in preventing fungal infections and outbreaks as well as fighting off the secondary infections of the skin. However, this will not directly treat the scabies condition.

•  Grind two to three tables of zinc. Add water to the fine powder to make a thick paste. Add a little amount of turmeric for better efficiency. Apply it to the affected area and leave until it dries up. Rinse using lukewarm water.

•  You can also eat foods rich in zinc such as sunflower seeds, wheat bran, whole grain products, and soybeans.

8.  Turmeric

Turmeric is known to be a wonder herb due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It gives an effective relief to the different symptoms of scabies on your skin, making it one of the best home remedies for scabies.

•  Make a paste by mixing one tablespoon of turmeric powder to few drops of water and lemon. Apply this to the affected skin and let dry for about an hour. Rinse with lukewarm water.

•  Alternatively, combine one teaspoon of turmeric powder, one teaspoon of neem powder, and few drops of water. Gently dab the paste to the affected area. Let it dry for a few minutes before rinsing or washing.

9.  White Vinegar

White vinegar has always been acidic in nature. This can lead to the changes in the pH level of the skin, causing the mites and other parasites present to die.

•  Combine equal amounts of white vinegar and water. Apply it to the affected area with the use of a cotton ball. Let it stay for a few minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.

10.  Aloe Vera

Aloe vera contains antimicrobial properties and other medicinal factors. It helps in speeding up the recovery and healing process of several skin conditions brought about by scabies and other parasites.

•  Gently rub fresh aloe vera gel on the affected areas of the skin. Let it dry for a few minutes before washing with lukewarm water.

•  Alternatively, combine two tablespoons of aloe vera gel to a handful of calendula powder and a pinch of turmeric. Mix these well and apply to the skin.

11.  Lavender Oil

Lavender oil helps in the proper regeneration of the skin. It also helps in killing parasites such as mites that are causing scabies.

•  Add five drops of lavender oil to warm water. Soak in the water bath for about 15 minutes. Rinse well.

•  Alternatively, combine equal amounts of lavender oil and alcohol. Apply and massage gently this on the affected area to allow better penetration in the skin.

12.  Bleach

Bleaching agents are among the popular and helpful home remedies for scabies that can help kill  scabies mites.

•  Mix a part of bleach to four parts of water. Spray the solution on the affected area for the skin at least twice a day.