These are all suggestions to treat it. You can try 1/2 tsp each of eucalyptus, pennyroyal and rosemary oils to 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil. If it burns skin, add more olive oil. First you wash their hair, comb the oil thru with a regular comb and then using fine toothed comb, comb out the lice and nits. Then cover the head and leave on overnight and wash in the morning. Tea tree oil is also supposed to be effective. 25 drops of oil to one pint of water. Rub into scalp and comb thru. Can be used several times a day. There are also ready to use kits at health food stores that may be easier to recommend. I can't think of any brand names in particular. As far as the weed or root, are you thinking of Balsam of Peru? That can be applied straight or diluted with oil and then the hair combed thru. If its any consolation we are fighting them at our school too. I don't think there is much we can do to prevent it other than teach them not to share combs, hats etc. and check them regularly.

[This message has been edited by dessie (edited 25 October 1999).]