In aiming to discuss remedies for scabies we first have to have a full understanding of what we are treating. We must never try to cure ourselves with over the counter medicines and application creams for scabies unless we are diagnosed by the doctor with scabies. In determining the cures for this itchy disease, one must keep in mind the nature of the situation.
First we start by introducing scabies in the simplest way possible. Scabies is a skin disorder caused by a parasite called Sarcoptes scabiei. It is a very small parasite that the naked eye cannot see. It must be viewed under the microscope. The parasites causing scabies live on human skin, breed on human skin and feed on human blood. These little mites can live in inanimate objects as well. However, they only last up to 3 days. Their life span is much longer in human skin.
To further have an idea of scabies and its treatment, one must have an idea as well on how it looks like and what signs and symptoms show in a person’s skin that is infected with it. Scabies is distinguished with other skin diseases because it is characterized by severe itchiness. This severe itchiness in the infected skin is remarkably noted most especially during the nighttime. The itchy areas are infested with reddish or pinkish lesions that are accompanied by bumps. Scabies is most accurately diagnosed with the detection of the “S” trail or a zigzag mark on the skin.
The most common location in the skin where scabies usually affect is the hands, wrists, in between the fingers and toes, feet, forearms, under the breast, in the groin area, and in the external genitalia. These are the places where the skin is moist and warm. And the scabies parasites love that area.
How exactly do we get scabies? Number one culprit is poor hygiene. This includes neglecting of hand washing and bathing. Skin to skin contact is another way of spreading scabies. If you live in a dorm or an overcrowded environment, there is a higher chance for you to get this itchy skin disorder. Sharing clothes, towels, linens, bed, pillows and blankets is also another way. Cuddling is another mode of transmission.
The people who are at risk for getting scabies are hospital personnel, people living in overcrowded areas, people who are confined in the hospital or in a nursing home, travelers, persons with low immune system and those who are poor in hygiene.
I have one brainy quote from Desiderius Erasmus. It is none other than the ever popular “Prevention is better than cure.” The ways to prevent scabies are bathing, hand washing, changing of clothes after you sweat, after you get out of the gym. Bed linens, pillowcases, comforters and blankets must be washed and changed at least after every 1 or 2 weeks. It is also advisable to take a bath before you jump in the bed. Bed cushion, mattresses or pillows must be washed and changed into a clean one at least after every month or as often as you like.
Visiting a sick friend or a sick relative in the hospital is indeed a very sweet gesture, but you must always wash your hands after your visit and you can even take a shower right after.
There are two treatments for scabies, the natural home remedy and the medical remedy. There are pros and cons for the two kinds of treatments. Let us discuss the medical treatment first. Medical treatment is obviously not self prescribed and it is not advisable to buy over the counter medicines as this is harmful and might even have a long-term effect to those that did not take the medicine properly.
Medical treatment is entirely dependent on the doctor’s discretion. They are the only ones who can help people infected with scabies by giving medicines orally and even directing patients to apply lotion or cream to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms brought about by scabies. The common medicines prescribed are oral steroids. Steroids can relieve itchiness. There are also ointments with steroids. When applied directly on the infected parts, the itchiness is alleviated 15 – 20 minutes after application. Soaps with sulfur also help.
Another treatment of scabies which is all organic is the natural remedy. The natural remedy involves what there is in the soil, such as different herbs and plants. Water is also involved under the natural remedies. Cool water bath helps a lot in relieving itchiness. You can soak in the tub with cold water. Hot water is definitely not recommended. Remember that scabies parasites love warm areas and taking a hot bath will make matters worse.
Oils are not only aromatic and good for massage, but oils are also therapeutic. Neem oil comes in concentrated most times so mixing it in water before applying to infected skin must be done. Neem oil has properties that act similar to pesticides. It shoos away nasty mites and even other insects in the house. This oil can also be dropped in pillowcases and bed linens.
This next oil is another nature’s wonder and it originated from the country Tahiti. It is Tamanu oil is out there in the market that has antimicrobial properties. It reduces rashes, sores and swelling. The success rate of tamanu oil in treating scabies is 70 – 75%.
Rosemary is a popular herb that is used all over the world and is usually found in aromatic dishes. Rosemary is also used to treat scabies because of its antifungal, anti-parasitic properties. It also acts like an astringent. This natural herb improves circulation and controls pathogenic organisms like Sarcoptes scabiei that is solely responsible for causing this itchy skin disorder.
There are numerous herbs out there listed for the treatment of scabies, but I have compiled a few ones. And the last herb to be discussed is Coconut oil. Coconut has vitamin E and also has moisturizing properties that prevents the skin from getting dry. Besides all the above mentioned uses of coconut oil, the most important thing of all is its antimicrobial function just like the other oils. It fights scabies and relieves the infected person from itchiness and discomfort.