Is it ok to eat lice treatment shampoo? | EatWeirdThings.com

Is it ok to eat lice treatment shampoo?

Quick Answer

No

Eating lice treatment shampoo is not safe. These products contain chemicals that are toxic if ingested and can cause serious harm.

Illustration of moldy bread

What Is It?

Lice treatment shampoo is a type of product designed to kill lice, a type of parasitic insect that infests the hair. It often contains chemicals such as permethrin or pyrethrin, which are toxic if ingested.

Why It Can Be Risky

Ingesting lice treatment shampoo can lead to a number of health risks.

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Seizures
  • Respiratory problems
  • In severe cases, it can lead to coma or even death

Safe Method?

Lice treatment shampoo should only be used externally, as directed on the product label. It should never be ingested.

Safe Alternatives

If you’re looking for a safe way to treat lice, consider using a fine-toothed nit comb to remove lice and eggs from the hair. There are also natural remedies such as tea tree oil, although their effectiveness may vary.