Eradequine: Atis (Annona squamosa) leaves and coconut milk against human head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis)

Head lice, or pediculosis, is a global health problem that affects people of all age groups. It poses a significant concern for individual health—particularly among children—as well as their social interactions with peers. Furthermore, commercial pediculicides, namely permethrin and pyrethroids, have been found to be decreasing in effectiveness, as human head lice in various countries and regions are developing resistance through mutation. This study investigated the pediculicidal properties of coconut milk and macerated Atis leaves in three concentrations: 50:50, 75:25, and 25:75. A true experimental design was used, and the study was conducted in triplicate via in vitro experimentation. Three head lice per treatment ratio, along with a control group, were placed in plastic containers lined with filter paper treated with the respective solutions. Based on the average time to reach mortality, the 25:75 ratio of coconut milk to Atis leaves demonstrated the fastest pediculicidal effect. An independent t-test showed a non-significant p-value when comparing Eradequine and Kwell (a commercial pediculicide). Pearson r results revealed a positive correlation between Eradequine and the mortality rate of the lice.