Herbal Remedies for Scabies

Scabies is an infection of the skin by the burrowing mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Also called the "itch mite," its secretions cause intense itching and burning of the skin. Scabies is highly contagious and can be easily passed from one person to another by casual or sexual contact.

The modern medical treatment is often with the strong chemical parasiticides hexachlorophene or lindane cream--both of which can have unpleasant side effects, including skin irritation. An alternative herbal treatment is the application of 10% sulfur ointment to which 10-20 drops of tincture of balsam of Peru has been added. Apply this preparation over the affected areas of the body each evening for 3 nights. The following mornings, take a shower with a mild soap, scrubbing the skin well with a luffa or skin brush. If a rash develops from the treatment, consult a qualified health care practitioner or physician. Essential oils of cajeput or camphor may also be applied externally. Scabies is highly contageous, so launder affected clothing and bedding before reuse.

Herbs Used To Treat Scabies