A comparison of botanical and synthetic substances commonly used to prevent head lice (Pediculus humanus var. capitis) infestation
Canyon, Deon V., and Speare, Rick (2007) A comparison of botanical and synthetic substances commonly used to prevent head lice (Pediculus humanus var. capitis) infestation. International Journal of Dermatology, 46 (4). pp. 422-426.
|
PDF
Download (151kB) |
Abstract
Background: Pediculosis, caused by head lice (Pediculidae: Pediculus humanus var. capitis), is experiencing a global resurgence, with the prevalence in primary schools averaging as high as 40% in some areas regardless of socioeconomic factors. Control efforts using chemical treatments are becoming increasingly ineffective, with insecticide resistance recorded in several countries. Prevention using repellents and oils would be useful if they limited transmission. Many commercially available substances reputedly have effective repellent qualities, but remain untested.
Methods: This study tested the preventative efficacy of N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) against several commercially available botanicals to clarify their value as transmission inhibitors, irritants, repellents, and antifeedants.
Results: The transfer of head lice to treated hairs was limited by the slippery nature of the oils rather than their repellent qualities. Irritancy was not important because lice proceeded despite being highly irritated, except in the case of coconut. Tea tree and peppermint caused the most repellence, and tea tree and lavender prevented some blood feeding on treated skin. Comparatively, tea tree oil was most efficacious, with DEET ranking equal second overall with coconut, peppermint, and a botanical mixture.
Conclusions: Neither DEET nor any of the botanicals tested showed sufficient preventative efficacy to be endorsed.
Item ID: | 2339 |
---|---|
Item Type: | Article (Research - C1) |
ISSN: | 1365-4632 |
Keywords: | ectoparasites; head lice; pediculosis; repellents; prevention |
Date Deposited: | 10 Jun 2009 03:16 |
FoR Codes: | 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111706 Epidemiology @ 100% |
SEO Codes: | 92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920404 Disease Distribution and Transmission (incl. Surveillance and Response) @ 100% |
Downloads: |
Total: 2488 Last 12 Months: 34 |
More Statistics |