Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition that causes relentless itching and discomfort. While prescription treatments are often necessary to eliminate the mites, many people also turn to natural remedies to soothe symptoms, support skin healing, and reduce the risk of reinfestation. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular natural scabies treatments, compare their benefits, and explain the essential hygiene steps needed to make any treatment successful.
Use the contents table below to navigate quickly to each section:
Contents
- Understanding Scabies and the Need for Treatment
- Natural Treatment Option – Allicin
- Natural Treatment Option – Tea Tree Oil
- Natural Treatment Option – Neem
- Natural Treatment Option – Aloe Vera
- Natural Treatment Option – Clove Oil
- Natural Treatment Option – Oatmeal Baths & Baking Soda Baths
- Natural Treatment Option – Cold Compresses
- Natural Treatment Option – Other Essential Oils
- Natural Treatment Option – Zinc
- Natural Treatment Option – Cayenne Pepper
- Natural Treatment Option – Turmeric & Apple Cider Vinegar
- Natural Treatment Options Compared
- Essential Hygiene and Environmental Measures
- Important Considerations and When to Seek Medical Help
- Combining Natural Support with Proven Treatment
Understanding Scabies and the Need for Treatment
Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by a microscopic mite known as Sarcoptes scabiei. These tiny parasites burrow into the outer layers of the skin to lay eggs, triggering an allergic reaction that leads to intense itching, redness, inflammation, and a distinctive rash. The itching tends to worsen at night and can become so severe that it interferes with sleep and daily life.
This condition spreads rapidly through close physical contact, making it common among household members, sexual partners, and people living in communal environments such as care homes, schools, and dormitories. It can also be passed on through shared bedding, towels, or clothing.
Importantly, scabies will not clear up on its own. Without treatment, the mites continue to reproduce and spread across the skin, increasing the risk of infecting others. Scratching the affected areas can lead to open sores, which in turn may result in secondary bacterial infections like impetigo or cellulitis. In vulnerable individuals such as young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, these complications can become serious.
For these reasons, timely and effective treatment is essential. While conventional treatments typically involve medicated creams or oral prescriptions, many people seek natural remedies either to complement these approaches or as a gentler, chemical-free alternative. In the next sections, we'll explore the best natural options for managing scabies safely and effectively.
Important Disclaimer
While natural remedies can provide relief from itching, inflammation, and discomfort associated with scabies, they should not be relied upon as the sole method of treatment. Scabies is a parasitic infestation that requires medical intervention to fully eradicate the mites and stop the cycle of reinfection.
Prescription treatments such as permethrin cream or oral ivermectin are the most reliable and widely recommended methods for killing Sarcoptes scabiei mites. Natural treatments may help soothe the skin, reduce secondary infections, and support healing, but they do not guarantee complete elimination of the mites on their own.
If you suspect you or someone in your household has scabies, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly. This is especially important for:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
- Infants and young children
- The elderly
- People with compromised immune systems
- Anyone with symptoms that persist or worsen despite home care
Natural remedies can play a valuable complementary role, but they should only be used in conjunction with, not in place of, doctor-prescribed treatment.
Natural Treatment Option – Allicin
What It Is
Allicin is a biologically active compound derived from fresh garlic. When garlic is crushed or chopped, an enzymatic reaction occurs that produces allicin, nature’s potent antimicrobial and antiparasitic agent. AlliTech products harness this power using a patented stabilisation process that preserves allicin’s full potency in liquid, spray, gel, and capsule forms.
Allicin is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and most notably for scabies, its antiparasitic properties. Unlike conventional garlic supplements that may break down in the stomach, AlliTech products deliver a stabilised, bioavailable form of allicin that can be used both internally and topically to support the immune system and target skin-related issues.
Potential Use for Scabies
Although scabies requires prescription treatment to fully eliminate mites, the antiparasitic action of allicin has drawn attention for its potential to support healing, reduce irritation, and help manage symptoms. AlliTech Gel formulated with stabilised allicin is designed for topical application and may be used up to four times a day directly on affected areas. Its soothing gel base makes it suitable even for intimate or sensitive skin.
AlliTech users have reported success using the gel for various skin conditions including fungal infections, sores, and wounds. While anecdotal, these experiences suggest that allicin’s ability to penetrate the skin and neutralise pathogens may make it a useful complementary option in scabies care.
Evidence
Garlic has long been used in traditional medicine to treat parasitic infections, including scabies. In one comparative study, a 10% garlic extract in petrolatum was found to have 83.33% efficacy against scabies, offering promising results when compared with sulphur-based treatment.
→ View the study on ResearchGate
In another study involving poultry red mites, allicin combined with ivermectin resulted in significant acaricidal (mite-killing) effects, with the treated mites eradicated within five days. Although the test was not on humans, it highlights allicin’s potential in mite-related conditions.
→ View schematic of the ivermectin–allicin treatment study
That said, more robust, large-scale human clinical studies are needed to confirm allicin’s standalone efficacy against Sarcoptes scabiei. As of now, allicin remains a promising supportive option, not a substitute for prescribed scabicides.
Considerations
AlliTech products are:
- Free from artificial colouring, flavouring, petroleum products, salt, and gluten
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- Designed for topical use (gel and spray) or oral support (liquid and capsules)
They are well tolerated, even with long-term use, and may provide much-needed relief from the skin discomfort associated with scabies infestations.
Natural Treatment Option – Tea Tree Oil
Benefits
Tea tree oil, extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, is widely recognised for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and acaricidal (mite-killing) properties. For individuals suffering from scabies, tea tree oil may help to:
- Relieve itching
- Reduce skin inflammation
- Promote healing of the rash and irritated skin
Its potential to kill scabies mites has made it one of the most popular natural remedies used alongside conventional treatments.
Application
Tea tree oil should always be diluted before applying to the skin. A common method is to mix a few drops with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or a mild unscented lotion. Apply the mixture directly to the affected areas, ideally twice a day, to soothe itching and support healing.
For added benefit, some people also add a few drops of diluted tea tree oil to their bathwater or use it to treat laundry to help reduce the spread of mites.
Limitations
While tea tree oil has shown acaricidal effects in lab settings, including promising results against certain mite species, it may not be strong enough to kill scabies eggs, which lie deeper in the skin. This means that even if symptoms improve, reinfestation may still occur unless prescription treatment is used to fully eradicate the mites’ life cycle.
Additionally, tea tree oil can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. It’s essential to perform a patch test before wider use. Apply a small amount of diluted oil to a patch of skin and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reaction.
More robust human clinical studies are still needed to determine the full efficacy of tea tree oil as a standalone scabies treatment.
Note: Although not specific to tea tree oil, research into natural acaricidal agents like Allium sativum (garlic) supports the idea that plant-based compounds may hold promise against mites.
Natural Treatment Option – Neem
Benefits
Neem, derived from the Azadirachta indica tree, has a long history in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for treating skin conditions. It is valued for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, all of which make it a strong natural contender in the fight against scabies.
Notably, research suggests that neem may do more than just soothe symptoms, it may also have acaricidal effects, helping to:
- Kill scabies mites
- Disrupt their reproductive cycle
- Render eggs infertile by interfering with mite hormone regulation
This means neem may not only reduce itching and inflammation but could also play a role in slowing or stopping the spread of infestation.
Application
Neem is widely available in various forms including:
- Neem oil: Apply directly to the skin (often diluted with a carrier oil) to soothe irritated areas and help control mites.
- Neem cream: Convenient for targeted application on itchy or inflamed patches.
- Neem soap: Useful for whole-body cleansing, especially when used daily during active infestations to help remove mites and reduce the risk of spread.
Some people also add neem oil to bathwater or use neem leaf extracts to make herbal compresses or rinses.
Limitations
While neem shows great promise in lab and animal studies, further clinical trials on humans are still needed to verify its full effectiveness against Sarcoptes scabiei. Results can vary depending on product concentration and individual skin response.
As with all essential oils and potent plant extracts, it’s wise to do a patch test first, especially for those with sensitive skin or eczema. Also, neem oil has a strong odour that some people may find unpleasant.
Natural Treatment Option – Aloe Vera
Benefits
Aloe vera is a widely trusted natural remedy renowned for its soothing, hydrating, and healing properties. Commonly used to treat burns, rashes, and various skin irritations, aloe vera can offer much-needed relief from the intense itching and inflammation caused by scabies.
Beyond its calming effect, one older study suggested that aloe vera gel was as effective as benzyl benzoate, a commonly prescribed topical scabies treatment. While this is promising, the study was small and more extensive human research is needed to confirm aloe vera’s standalone efficacy against scabies mites.
What is clear, however, is that aloe vera:
- Reduces skin irritation and redness
- Promotes skin repair and healing
- Helps prevent secondary infections from scratching
Application
For best results, apply pure aloe vera gel (ideally organic and free from added fragrances or preservatives) directly to the affected skin. It can be used multiple times per day to help reduce itching and inflammation and to support the skin’s natural healing process.
Aloe vera is generally very gentle, making it a suitable option for children, the elderly, and individuals with sensitive skin. That said, if you’re using a commercial aloe product, check the ingredients list to avoid potentially irritating additives.
Limitations
While aloe vera can greatly relieve discomfort and promote recovery, it does not kill scabies mites or their eggs. It should be viewed as a supportive treatment that works best in combination with medical or other natural therapies aimed at eradicating the mites.
Natural Treatment Option – Clove Oil
Benefits
Clove oil, extracted from the flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum plant, is a powerful essential oil known for its antimicrobial, anaesthetic, and insecticidal properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and fight infections.
When it comes to scabies, clove oil has drawn interest due to its active component eugenol, which has shown miticidal (mite-killing) effects in laboratory settings. Several animal studies have demonstrated that clove oil may effectively kill mites, offering a potential natural aid for managing scabies infestations.
Additional benefits include:
- Numbing effect that can temporarily relieve itching
- Antiseptic action to help prevent secondary infections from scratching
Application
Clove oil is very potent and should always be diluted before applying to the skin. Combine a few drops with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil and apply directly to the affected areas once or twice daily.
Some people also use clove oil blends in homemade scabies creams or ointments, or add a diluted solution to bathwater for wider coverage.
Limitations
Despite promising results in laboratory and animal studies, more research is needed on clove oil’s safety and effectiveness in humans as a scabies treatment. Its strength also means it may cause skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin or when used in high concentrations.
As with any essential oil, it’s important to perform a patch test before broader use. Avoid use on broken skin, near the eyes, or in children under two years old unless under professional guidance.
Natural Treatment Option – Oatmeal Baths & Baking Soda Baths
Benefits
While they do not kill scabies mites, oatmeal and baking soda baths can offer significant relief from one of the most frustrating symptoms of scabies: intense itching. These baths are particularly useful for easing skin inflammation, soothing irritation, and supporting the skin’s natural healing process.
- Colloidal oatmeal contains compounds like avenanthramides that help calm inflamed skin and reduce itchiness.
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) has mild anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can gently cleanse and comfort irritated skin.
These remedies are ideal for temporary relief, especially during or after medical treatment when itching may persist.
Application
For best results:
- Use lukewarm water, hot water can further dry and irritate the skin.
- Add about 1 cup of finely ground oatmeal (colloidal oatmeal is ideal) or 1/2 cup of baking soda to a standard-sized bath.
- Soak for 15 to 20 minutes, gently pat the skin dry, and apply a moisturiser or topical treatment if needed.
These baths can be taken once or twice daily during flare-ups to help relieve discomfort.
For families treating scabies, these baths may also be useful for children, who may struggle with itching during treatment.
For more holistic scabies care ideas, see this overview of natural relief methods.
Limitations
It's important to note that oatmeal and baking soda baths do not kill the mites or stop the spread of scabies. They serve purely as supportive treatments to improve comfort while primary treatment, typically prescription medication is ongoing.
Natural Treatment Option – Cold Compresses
Benefits
Cold compresses offer a simple, fast, and drug-free way to relieve the intense itching and inflammation caused by scabies. While they do not treat the underlying mite infestation, cold therapy can help:
- Soothe irritated skin
- Reduce redness and swelling
- Minimise the urge to scratch, lowering the risk of skin damage and secondary infections
This remedy is especially helpful during flare-ups, at night when itching often worsens, or after bathing.
Application
To use a cold compress effectively:
- Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth or towel, or use a ready-made gel ice pack.
- Alternatively, soak a clean cloth in cool water, wring it out, and place it over the affected area.
- Apply to itchy skin for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, as needed throughout the day.
For sensitive skin or young children, use a soft fabric barrier between the ice and the skin to avoid irritation or frostbite.
Limitations
Cold compresses provide only temporary symptom relief. They do not eliminate scabies mites or eggs, and therefore should be used in combination with prescribed or complementary treatments aimed at addressing the root cause of the condition.
Natural Treatment Option – Other Essential Oils
Potential Options
In addition to tea tree and clove oil, several other essential oils have been suggested as potential natural remedies for scabies due to their antimicrobial or insecticidal properties. These include:
- Lemongrass oil
- Geranium oil
- Cinnamon oil
- Camphorwood oil
- Palmarosa oil
- Lemon myrtle oil
- Lemon oil
- Eucalyptus oil
These oils are believed to help by repelling or disrupting mites, soothing irritated skin, or reducing the risk of secondary infection. Some of them also have a pleasant scent and natural anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial for comfort during recovery.
Caution and Considerations
While early in vitro or animal studies have suggested potential for these oils, there is insufficient clinical evidence to confirm their safety and effectiveness for treating scabies in humans. Essential oils can also vary in potency and purity, and some may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation, especially when used undiluted.
If experimenting with these oils:
- Always dilute with a carrier oil (such as coconut, almond, or olive oil) before applying to the skin
- Perform a patch test before widespread use
- Avoid use in young children, during pregnancy, or on broken skin unless under professional guidance
As with all natural remedies, these essential oils should be viewed as supportive measures, not substitutes for prescribed treatments.
Natural Treatment Option – Zinc
Benefits
While zinc is not a direct treatment for scabies or capable of killing mites, it plays a valuable supportive role in recovery. One of the most common complications of scabies is secondary bacterial infection, often caused by persistent scratching that breaks the skin. Zinc is well known for its ability to:
- Support immune function
- Promote skin healing
- Protect against bacterial infections
- Reduce inflammation and irritation
By helping to keep the skin intact and resilient, zinc may lower the risk of infections such as impetigo or cellulitis, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Application
Zinc can be used in two primary ways:
- Oral supplements: Often taken daily to strengthen the immune system and assist with wound healing. Zinc is commonly found in multivitamins or standalone tablets.
- Topical zinc preparations: Zinc oxide creams or ointments may be applied to irritated skin or open sores to act as a protective barrier and reduce inflammation.
Zinc is particularly useful when applied to broken or inflamed skin during active scabies infestations or the healing phase following treatment.
Limitations
Zinc does not treat or eliminate the scabies mites or their eggs. It should be viewed as a complementary therapy used alongside medical or natural mite-targeting treatments. Additionally, excessive oral zinc supplementation may cause side effects such as nausea or interfere with the absorption of other minerals, so proper dosing is important.
Natural Treatment Option – Cayenne Pepper
Benefits
Cayenne pepper, made from ground red chilli peppers, contains an active compound called capsaicin. Capsaicin is known for its analgesic properties, meaning it can help reduce pain and discomfort by desensitising nerve endings. When applied topically, it may offer relief from the intense itching caused by scabies infestations.
Some individuals report that cayenne pepper-based creams or balms help:
- Reduce the sensation of itching
- Numb irritated areas of the skin
- Distract from the discomfort associated with scabies through a warming or tingling effect
Considerations
While cayenne pepper may provide temporary symptom relief, it does not kill scabies mites or affect their eggs. Moreover, capsaicin-containing products can cause a burning or stinging sensation, particularly on broken, sensitive, or inflamed skin, which is often the case in scabies.
Key precautions include:
- Always perform a patch test before wider use
- Avoid use near the eyes, mucous membranes, or on open sores
- Discontinue use immediately if excessive burning, redness, or irritation occurs
At present, there is limited scientific evidence to support cayenne pepper as an effective treatment for scabies mites themselves, so it should be considered a supportive remedy rather than a core part of a treatment plan.
Natural Treatment Option – Turmeric & Apple Cider Vinegar
Benefits
Turmeric and apple cider vinegar (ACV) are popular in natural health circles for their claimed ability to relieve skin irritation and promote healing. Some people use them in the context of scabies to:
- Soothe inflamed or itchy skin
- Support healing of rashes and minor wounds
- Prevent secondary infections due to their natural antibacterial properties
Turmeric is known for its active compound curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Apple cider vinegar, thanks to its acidity and cleansing action, is believed to help purify the skin and restore a healthy pH balance.
Although not directly acaricidal (mite-killing), many users report these ingredients help alleviate discomfort during recovery.
Application
- Turmeric can be applied as a paste by mixing the powder with water or coconut oil and leaving it on affected skin for 20–30 minutes before rinsing off.
- Apple cider vinegar should always be diluted with water before being applied to the skin using a soft cloth or cotton pad.
Evidence
While turmeric and ACV are well known for their general skin benefits, there is very limited scientific evidence to support their direct effectiveness in treating scabies or killing mites. At this time, they should be viewed as complementary remedies for symptom relief only.
Always patch test before use, and avoid applying vinegar to broken skin due to the potential for stinging.
Natural Treatment Options Compared
| Remedy | Main Benefits | Application | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allicin | Antiparasitic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal | Topical gel (up to 4x/day), also in capsules/liquid | Promising evidence; more human studies needed. Suitable as supportive remedy. |
| Tea Tree Oil | Acaricidal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory | Diluted with carrier oil, applied topically | May not kill eggs; patch test advised. |
| Neem | Antiparasitic, antibacterial, may disrupt mite reproduction | Oil, cream, or soap | Some studies support effectiveness; more research needed. |
| Aloe Vera | Soothes, heals skin, anti-inflammatory | Apply pure gel directly to skin | One study showed comparable results to medication; safe for most users. |
| Clove Oil | Mite-killing in lab studies, numbs itching | Diluted and applied topically | Very strong, may irritate skin. Patch test essential. |
| Oatmeal & Baking Soda Baths | Relieves itching and inflammation | Added to lukewarm bath | Soothing only; no effect on mites. |
| Cold Compresses | Reduces itch and swelling | Ice pack or cool damp cloth on skin | Safe and simple for temporary relief. |
| Other Essential Oils | Antimicrobial, may repel mites | Diluted in carrier oils | Little clinical proof; some may irritate skin. |
| Zinc | Aids healing, prevents secondary infections | Oral supplements or topical creams | Does not kill mites; supports skin recovery. |
| Cayenne Pepper | Desensitises nerves, reduces itching | Creams or pastes (diluted) | Can cause burning; little evidence for mite-killing action. |
| Turmeric & Apple Cider Vinegar | Claimed to soothe and cleanse skin | Turmeric paste; diluted vinegar wash | Popular natural remedy; scientific evidence is limited. |
Essential Hygiene and Environmental Measures
Regardless of whether you choose conventional medication, natural remedies, or a combination of both, scabies treatment will fail without proper hygiene and environmental control. The mites that cause scabies can survive temporarily off the human body, which means reinfestation is a real risk unless you take thorough steps to eliminate them from your surroundings.
Here are the key measures you must take to prevent the scabies cycle from continuing:
Hot Washing
All clothing, bedding, and towels used by the infested person within the past seven days should be:
- Washed at 60°C or higher
- Dried on the hottest setting for at least 20–30 minutes
This high heat is essential to kill both mites and their eggs effectively. Pay special attention to pyjamas, pillowcases, fitted sheets, and shared bath linens.
→ CDC guidelines on washing for scabies
Sealing Unwashable Items
Items that cannot be laundered, such as:
- Stuffed animals
- Decorative pillows
- Delicate fabrics or dry-clean-only garments
...should be sealed in a plastic bag or airtight container for at least 3 to 7 days. Without access to a human host, scabies mites will die off naturally within this timeframe.
This is a simple yet effective step, especially useful for children’s toys and soft furnishings.
Thorough Cleaning
On the day treatment begins, vacuum thoroughly:
- All carpets and rugs
- Mattresses and upholstered furniture
- Crevices, seams, and corners where mites may linger
Immediately dispose of the vacuum bag in an outdoor bin. If using a bagless vacuum, empty and clean the canister with hot water and disinfectant.
This reduces the chance of residual mites reattaching to humans after treatment.
→ American Academy of Dermatology scabies self-care advice
Treating Close Contacts
Scabies is highly contagious, often spreading through:
- Skin-to-skin contact
- Shared bedding or clothing
- Prolonged exposure in shared living environments
It is essential that all close contacts and household members are treated at the same time, even if they are not showing any symptoms. This includes:
- Partners
- Children
- Caregivers
- Roommates or housemates
Treating only the visibly affected person may provide temporary relief but will likely lead to reinfection and ongoing outbreaks.
→ Scabies Control Guidelines – Victoria State Government
Important Considerations and When to Seek Medical Help
While natural remedies and self-care can play a valuable role in easing the symptoms of scabies, it’s crucial to understand the limitations of home treatments and recognise when medical support is necessary. Below are key points to bear in mind during the treatment and recovery process.
Persistence of Itch
Even after the mites have been killed, whether through prescription medication or natural remedies, itching can persist for up to four weeks. This is a common and expected reaction caused by the body’s immune response to dead mites, their eggs, and waste left in the skin.
Persistent itch does not always indicate treatment failure, but if new symptoms appear or burrows continue to develop, re-evaluation is necessary.
Skin Irritation
Both natural and conventional topical treatments can cause dryness, redness, or irritation. To manage this, consider:
- Emollients (moisturisers) to hydrate and repair skin
- Antihistamines (oral, if recommended) to reduce itching and inflammation
- Topical corticosteroids, if prescribed by a doctor, to soothe severe irritation
Using gentle skincare products during and after treatment helps promote healing and comfort.
→ See guidance from Healthline
Re-treatment
A second round of treatment is often required about 7 days after the first. This is crucial for killing any newly hatched mites, as most treatments do not destroy eggs. This applies to both:
- Prescription medications (like permethrin or ivermectin)
- Natural remedies being used in a consistent routine
Skipping re-treatment can allow the infestation to return.
Professional Medical Care
You should seek medical help if:
- Symptoms worsen or do not improve after 2–4 weeks
- New burrows or rash appear after treatment
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or treating an infant
- You have a compromised immune system or experience widespread skin infection
In such cases, a doctor may prescribe licensed anti-scabies medications such as:
- Permethrin 5% cream
- Oral ivermectin
- Malathion 0.5% lotion (used in the UK)
These treatments are the most effective and reliable options for clearing infestations, especially in moderate to severe cases or when natural methods are insufficient.
Combining Natural Support with Proven Treatment
Scabies can be an exhausting and uncomfortable condition, but with the right combination of effective treatment, consistent hygiene, and supportive natural remedies, it is absolutely manageable. While prescription medications are usually required to fully eliminate the mites, natural options like allicin, tea tree oil, neem, and aloe vera can offer valuable relief and help support the healing process.
Among the natural remedies discussed, stabilised allicin as found in the AlliTech range stands out for its antiparasitic, antibacterial, and skin-friendly properties. Whether used as a topical gel to soothe irritated skin or as a supportive supplement to bolster the immune system, AlliTech offers a powerful, plant-based way to enhance your scabies recovery plan.
If you're looking for a natural yet potent companion to your scabies treatment, explore the AlliTech range today at Dulwich Health.
Backed by over 15 years of use and trusted by thousands, AlliTech could be the natural edge your recovery needs.
