Newest weapon against lice: lavender, cloves and thyme - Land-Grant Impacts

lavender field

Newest weapon against lice: lavender, cloves and thyme

Agricultural Systems, Story 2026, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Food Systems, Northeast, Organic Agriculture, Pest Management, Soil Health, University of Vermont, Vermont

A team of Extension professionals in Vermont have developed and tested a nonchemical alternative to treating winter lice infestations in cattle and sheep to bypass increasing resistance to insecticide and environmental impacts from chemicals.

The solution is essential oils. Mineral oils steeped with lavender, clove and thyme are known to have insecticidal properties. Lab and farm trials both showed the treatment was 97% effective at killing lice. Farmers set up a cattle groomer-scratcher with a tank filled with essential oils. The oil is fed into scratching brushes, which the cows rub. “Definitely the most popular corner of the barn,” a farmer said.

This saves farmers time in having to corral and treat animals and helps keep lice numbers down. It is another tool for organic farmers and may help reduce the use of chemical insecticides and lessen their environmental hazards.

View the full statement on the NIDB.

University of Vermont Extension | Project supported by USDA competitive funds; Smith-Lever (3b&c) capacity funds.

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