How to Use Coconut Oil for Getting Rid of Demodex Mites

Coconut oil can alleviate the symptoms of Demodex infestation. Find out how to use coconut oil for getting rid of Demodex mites below!

Coconut oil is an edible oil extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts. Rich in essential fatty acids, coconut oil is famous for its different uses and numerous health benefits. But does coconut oil help in getting rid of Demodex mites? Let’s find out!

What Are Demodex Mites?

Demodex is a category of microscopic mites that thrive close to the hair follicles of vertebrates. From 65 varieties, only Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis are generally seen on the human’s body. D. folliculorum breathes on the face, nearby the eyelids and lashes. In contrast, the second one resides in the lash’s sebaceous glands. They are naturally present in human beings; however, they can even spread by contact with an infected person.

Where Do Demodex Mites Come From?

Their life cycle starts when the adult male and female Demodex mites mate. The female one deposits eggs inside the hair follicle, near the oil-secreting glands. Within 3-4 days, larvae get hatched and develop into an eight-legged adult in about a week. After that, the adult male leaves his living place in search of a mate.

Are Demodex Mites Harmful?

Demodex mites are harmful to health only when they exist in large groups. This condition is called ‘Demodicosis.’ It happens when the immune system of human beings is unable to control the overpopulation of Demodex mites, especially D. folliculorum. Demodex mites are also responsible for another health condition named ‘Blepharitis.’ In small numbers, mites are benign and unlikely to cause any issues.

Symptoms of Demodex Mites Infestation

Both Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis mites infestation shows identical symptoms on humans. The only dissimilarity is, each of them affects different parts of the human body. D. folliculorum tends to hang on the face. At the same time, D. brevis infestation can be seen anywhere on the body, commonly on the chest and neck area. The symptoms can include:

• Rough or tough skin
• Redness
• Itchy skin
• Patchy or Scaly skin
• Burning sensation
• Hair loss
• Eyestrain

Coconut Oil For Getting Rid of Demodex Mites

According to this well-reputed research, coconut oil is an excellent home remedy to eliminate Demodex mites. Regular application of coconut oil not only reduces mites count but also alleviates the symptoms of blepharitis and any issues caused by these tiny Demodex mites.

Supplies

• Cotton Balls
• Virgin Coconut Oil
• Small Bowl

Directions

1. Pour a sufficient amount of cold-pressed virgin coconut oil into a bowl.
2. Now, soak a cotton ball into the oil for a few seconds.
3. Rub the cotton ball all over your face and even eyelashes before going to bed. You can also apply coconut oil all over your body.
4. Wash your face with tap water the following morning.
5. Redo this process up to three weeks to notice a positive outcome.

Precautions

By taking proper precautions, the above remedies can give you the desired results without any complications.

• Allergy to coconut oil is very rare. However, you should perform a patch test near your elbow to make sure whether you’re allergic to coconut oil or not.
• Always use cold-pressed coconut oil for optimum results.
• If the above remedy is not fruitful to you, then consult your dermatologist immediately.

Why Coconut Oil is Effective Against Demodex Mites?

Coconut oil has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-parasitic properties due to its richness in lauric acid. These qualities make the coconut oil effective against the Demodex mites infestation. As a bonus, it makes your skin soft, smooth, and supple as well.

Conclusion

To get relief from the symptoms of Demodex mites infestation, coconut oil is the best natural option. Besides, if you’re searching the best substitutes for castor oil, then this article is for you.