How to Cure Scabies Naturally — Why Tea Tree & Mānuka Work When Others Don’t

If you’ve tried every prescription cream without relief, you’re not alone. Many families battle scabies for months—even years—before finding a gentle, natural option that finally works.

“Cures scabies like magic!”
We tried permethrin and every other cream suggested by doctors with no respite. My youngest was only six months old. We tried these for almost a year without any effect. Then I came across this website while desperately trying to find a cure for scabies.
This product is god-sent. Right after one use we began to feel better. We are all cured now. Thank you for this amazing product, Bill—without all the nasties and only natural ingredients that actually work. I have become your 100% promoter!
— Flora

What Exactly Is Scabies?

Scabies is a parasitic skin infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites that burrow into the upper layers of the skin. It spreads easily through close personal contact and causes intense itching, rash, and irritation. Conventional treatments (e.g., permethrin or oral ivermectin) can help some people, but others experience recurrence or treatment failure.

Why Tea Tree Oil Is a Smart Natural Option

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) has been investigated by researchers at the Menzies School of Health Research in Darwin, Australia. In laboratory (in-vitro) studies, tea tree oil and its key component terpinen-4-ol showed direct mite-killing (acaricidal) effects against S. scabiei, and experts there have proposed TTO as a useful topical or adjunctive option in scabies management.^{1, 2, 3}

• Fast acaricidal action in vitro: Tea tree oil killed scabies mites in lab testing, and combinations like benzyl benzoate + 5% TTO have been used as adjuncts in difficult cases.^{2, 4}
• Skin-supportive properties: Beyond its antiparasitic action, tea tree oil demonstrates antimicrobial and soothing effects that may help reduce secondary infection and discomfort.³

Mānuka: New Zealand’s Secret Weapon

New research is also emerging for New Zealand mānuka oil (Leptospermum scoparium). Recent peer-reviewed studies report that mānuka oil and its signature β-triketones (e.g., flavesone, leptospermone, isoleptospermone) can kill scabies mites and eggs across life stages in the lab, suggesting a promising topical role.^{5, 6}

Our Gentle, Three-Step Natural Approach

1. Cleanse with warm water and a mild natural soap.
2. Treat all skin from the neck down with a targeted natural product featuring tea tree oil and/or mānuka—paying special attention to wrists, between fingers, waistline, under nails, and skin folds.
3. Repeat daily until symptoms resolve; continue for several days after itching stops.

Hygiene is key: Wash bedding, towels and clothing in hot water and machine-dry on high to reduce reinfestation.

Ready to get started? 👉 Shop the Natural Scabies Treatment Kit

Why Families Choose a Natural System

• Evidence-informed: Draws on Menzies School of Health Research work with tea tree oil and new independent data on mānuka oil.
• Skin-kind: Free from harsh synthetic pesticides, parabens, or artificial fragrance.
• Family-friendly: Gentle options suitable for adults and children (patch test first).

FAQs

How long until I feel relief?

Many users notice improvement in 1–3 days. Itching can persist briefly even after mites are cleared (a normal post-scabetic reaction). Continue the routine as directed.

Is tea tree oil safe for kids?

Topical tea tree oil products can be used carefully in children; always patch test first and avoid contact with eyes and mouth. For babies and sensitive skin, seek medical advice if unsure.

Can I use this with prescription treatments?

Some clinicians have combined topical scabicides with tea tree oil in challenging cases. If you’re under medical care, check with your clinician before combining treatments.⁴

How do I prevent it coming back?

Treat close contacts as recommended by your clinician, and clean fabrics (bedding, towels, clothing) as you treat your skin.

Important Note

This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment, especially for infants, pregnancy, widespread rash, or suspected crusted scabies.

References

1. Walton SF, et al. Acaricidal activity of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil against Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Conducted at Menzies School of Health Research. PubMed | JAMA Derm
2. Walton SF, McCarthy JS, et al. In-vitro sensitivity methods and adjunctive use of tea tree oil with benzyl benzoate in difficult scabies. (Context from Menzies investigations.) PubMed
3. Thomas J, et al. Therapeutic Potential of Tea Tree Oil for Scabies. Review including Menzies research and clinical rationale. Open Access
4. Currie BJ, et al. Expert guidance for difficult/crusted scabies noting adjuncts like benzyl benzoate + tea tree oil. PDF
5. Nammunige NA, et al. β-Triketones from Leptospermum scoparium (mānuka) oil effectively kill scabies mites and eggs (preclinical). PubMed
6. Taylor S, et al. Antimicrobial activity of mānuka oil and β-triketones against scabies-associated bacteria. Open Access

Ready to try a kinder approach? Discover our New Zealand–made, evidence-informed routine today: Scabies Natural Treatment Kit.