Authors : Princess Shariyah Ainnee A. Pungginaguina; Neshrin M. Mala; Love C. Solon; Mikaela Danielle P. Lumba

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yt4usxmk

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/2jcc2pwp

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr1811

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) infestation is a widespread public health concern, particularly among schoolaged children, causing itching, discomfort, and social distress. Conventional chemical pediculicides, such as permethrin, are commonly used; however, increasing reports of lice resistance, potential side effects, and high treatment costs have driven interest in natural, alternative remedies. This study aimed to evaluate the pediculicidal efficacy of Eucalyptus globulus Labill. leaf essential oil and compare it with permethrin and distilled water using an in vitro experimental design. Freshly harvested eucalyptus leaves were dried and subjected to steam distillation, yielding 4.5 mL of pure essential oil. A total of 35 live adult lice were randomly assigned to treatment groups and exposed to three different volumes of essential oil (1.0 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2.0 mL). Permethrin served as the positive control, and distilled water as the negative control. Lice mortality was monitored and recorded at fixed time intervals. Results demonstrated that all concentrations of Eucalyptus globulus Labill essential oil achieved 100% mortality within 12 minutes, with the highest volume acting most rapidly. Permethrin achieved 100% mortality within 3 minutes, confirming its efficacy, while distilled water showed no pediculicidal effect. The findings indicate that Eucalyptus globulus Labill essential oil is a potent, natural, and accessible alternative for the treatment of head lice, offering a promising option for communities seeking safer and cost-effective remedies. Further research is recommended to explore its practical application in vivo and to investigate potential mechanisms of action.

Keywords : Eucalyptus globulus Labill Essential Oil, Head Lice, Pediculus humanus capitis, Permethrin, Natural Alternative.

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