Perhaps one of the grossest skin conditions on the planet is scabies. That’s because it is actually caused by mites known as Sarcoptes scabiei that burrow themselves in your skin, causing severe irritation and itching. An infestation tends to develop on body parts with skin folds such as in between your fingers and toes, although it may also happen on the shoulder blades, buttocks, waistline, armpits and groin. Places with scabies exhibit red bumps that closely resemble pimples or blisters.
There are medical ointments that may be applied on the affected parts of the body to kill off mites causing scabies as well as manage the various symptoms. There are also a variety of home remedies that are tried-and-tested effective against scabies. Continue reading to know some of the best ones.
Soak the Affected Area in Cold Water
A very quick way to attain relief from irritation and itchiness caused by scabies is by immersing the affected skin in cold water for about 10 minutes. Similarly, you may simply place a small washcloth dipped in cold water over the rash. Pat dry afterwards and apply calamine lotion which you can easily buy over the counter.
Massage Diluted Tea Tree Oil on Your Skin
Tea tree oil can kill off bacteria, viruses, fungi and a host of parasites which include Sarcoptes scabiei. That is why it’s an effective home remedy against scabies. Mix equal amounts of tea tree oil and olive oil, then apply on problem areas using a cotton ball. Do this a couple of times everyday for best results.
Add Cayenne Pepper to Lukewarm Bathwater
Other than making all sorts of dishes fiery and more appetizing, cayenne pepper may also help heal scabies naturally. All you have to do is dump a cup of cayenne pepper in a tub filled with lukewarm water. Soak in it for several minutes to have those mites zapped. Make sure that you don’t allow the water to get in your eyes.
Spread Turmeric Powder Paste on the Rash
Another spice that is very good at exterminating those mites that cause scabies is turmeric powder. It is also known to provide effective relief from skin irritation and itchiness. Simply add a few drops of lemon juice to a tablespoon of turmeric powder to come up with a paste. Apply on affected areas and rinse off thoroughly after an hour.
Daub Aloe Vera Gel on Trouble Spots
A lot of anti-aging products contain aloe vera gel because it is loaded with vitamin E that’s good for the skin. This gel is also known to help speed up the healing of irritated skin brought about Sarcoptes scabiei. Break off an aloe vera leaf and massage the gel within on the rash. This gel also helps ward off skin infection.
Spray the Affected Areas with Diluted Bleach
Those mites causing scabies can be effectively killed with bleach. However, it’s important to have this chemical diluted to keep it from irritating your skin. You have to combine 1 part bleach and 4 parts water. Transfer the mixture in a spray bottle and apply on affected skin up to a couple of times daily.