Effectiveness of Cocos nucifera (Coconut) and Malus pumila mill (Apple Cider Vinegar) in

Eradicating Lice Infestation

CHARESH S. BORNEA

JAPH JYLL BRYNN FARASE

RAM HOWARD TUBA

RONNA SARIGUMBA

HAZEL ANNE MAYANG

WINDELL JAY FAJARDO

FAITH ADELENE T. SUAREZ

NEIL ANGELO D. CAMANDAGAN

A Research Proposal

Submitted to Senior High School Office

As Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements in

Research / Capstone Project

June 2023
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Gratitude is forever a treasure to be cherished. It is the least favor one can return to

everybody to whom his/her success is owed to.

The researchers would like to extend their sincerest gratefulness to the following

people who have helped in this study:

Ma’am Jeaneth Joyce Ladra, who exerts time and effort in keeping this study on its

path despite her hectic schedule. Aside from being the researchers’ adviser, she also serves as

the bearing of this study without her this study cannot be carried out effectively. Nothing can

ever repay her diligent support, patience, motivation, guidance, time, effort, and valuable

pieces of advice.

Sir Endricito Cahutay and Sir Israel Jake Ryan Itol, for guiding and assisting the

researchers.

To the researchers’ parents, who unhesitatingly supported the researchers morally and

financially, and motivated the researchers to do their best in all.

To Sir Zaldy L. Bornea, accepting the researchers’ study, as well as the pieces of

advice he gave.

To Ma’am Joene O. Dela Cruz who welcomed the researchers warmly to San Vicente

Elementary School to conduct researchers’ study.

To the 3 respondents, for their patience and trusting the researchers’ actions in the

application methods. Also, to their parents who willingly gave their consent to the

researchers.

Most especially, to our Lord God for His guidance and blessings throughout this

research endeavor. The researchers are grateful for His presence and guidance, which have

provided strength and clarity during this process.

Indeed, gratitude is forever a treasure to be cherished.

 ABSTRACT

Effectiveness of Cocos nucifera (Coconut) and Malus pumila mill (Apple Cider Vinegar)

in Eradicating Lice Infestation

Head lice infestation is a pressing concern, particularly among children. Head lice are

small insects that infest the scalp and hair, they can spread mainly through direct head-to-

head contact with an infected person. This study aims to explore and compare the

effectiveness of Cocos nucifera and Malus pumila mill as a natural remedy for treating lice

infestation. The remedies were applied directly to the lice samples, and the total mean scores

of lice eradicated were recorded for each treatment to determine the significance of the

observed differences.

The mean scores for each remedy were calculated based on the number of lice

eradicated in three trials, with 10 samples per trial. The apple cider vinegar eradicated a total

mean score of 7.67, which is significantly higher than the total mean score of 2.67 using

coconut oil, indicating a stronger impact on lice eradication.

Overall, this study indicates that apple cider vinegar exhibited greater efficacy when

compared to coconut oil in eradicating lice infestation. These findings contribute to our

understanding of alternative treatments for lice and can inform future research and treatment

recommendations in this area.

Keywords: (lice infestation, Cocos nucifera, Malus pumila mill, eradication)

 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Human lice are type of parasitic insects that live on human hair and feed on blood

from the scalp, and undergo three stages: the egg stage, the nymph stage, and adult stage.

This has caused significant problem for a considerable number of individuals particularly in

students but even if it is common in children, it also affects adults worldwide, including high,

middle, and low-income countries (Wouden et al., 2018). Head lice infestation can be a

significant source of distress for both children and their families, potentially resulting in

bullying, social stigma (Tebruegge et al., 2011) and can cause stress for parents of school-

aged children (Frankowski et al., 2010).

Research on natural and alternative treatments for lice infestation is not uncommon,

but studies focusing on specific plant species are limited. The study of Martinez et al. (2014)

shows that the Philippines has a high burden of disease among primary school children, with

a prevalence rate of 54.7%. The disease burden is more prevalent in females, with a rate of

66.5% compared to 42.3% in males. Developing countries have a high prevalence rate of this

condition, due to the misconception that it is a naturally occurring disease among school

children and lack of public health program aimed at eradicating it (Bugayong et al., 2011).

Yamaguchi et al. (2021) specify Dimethicone, a chemical that can coat the surface of

lice, as an effective lice infestation treatment. The study of Villegas and Breitzka (2012)

proves that Permethrin, a pyrethrin-based product obtained from the chrysanthemum plant

extract, can interfere with the functioning of sodium channels in neurons which leads to
paralysis and death of the lice. Benzyl alcohol 5%, the first non-neurotoxic treatment for

children aged over 6 months, kills head lice by suffocating (Verma & Namdeo, 2015).

There are natural compounds that can be used as effective remedies in eliminating lice

infestation including coconut oil and apple cider vinegar. Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil

contains a high-fat content and lubricating nature that makes it difficult for lice to grasp in the

hair follicles, which makes it an essential remedy for lice infestation (Staughton, 2020). The

other remedy is Malus pumila mill (apple cider vinegar) with a combination of argan oil,

causes suffocation in lice through its strong and scented aroma, which makes it more

effective solution in killing lice (Hassan et al., 2017).

The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of Cocos nucifera and

Malus pumila mill in treating lice infestation. Moreover, studying natural remedies for lice

infestation can help promote sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, especially for individuals

who have allergies or sensitivity to chemical treatments. Ultimately, this research aims to

provide effective, safe, and affordable alternative option for lice infestation, which can

improve the quality of life of a person infested by lice.

Statement of the Problem

The purpose of this experimental research is to generate reliable results on exploring

the effectiveness of Cocos nucifera and Malus pumila mill in eradicating lice infestation to

contribute to the development of a more effective and sustainable approaches to managing

life infestation which can have a significant impact on the health, well-being and quality of

life of affected individuals and communities.

This study seeks to answer the question:

1. How does the efficacy of Cocos nucifera compare to Malus pumila mill as

pediculicide?

Hypothesis
Null Hypothesis. There are no significant differences in the effectiveness of Cocos nucifera

and Malus pumila mill as pediculicide, in eradicating lice infestation. Any observed

differences are due to chances or other factors unrelated to the use of these plant extract.

Alternative Hypothesis. Cocos nucifera and Malus pumila mill are effective pediculicides in

eradicating lice infestation. However, there may be differences in their effectiveness based on

various factors such as concentration, method of application, and the size of the lice.

Additionally, one of the two may prove to be more effective than the other based on these

factors.

Significance of the Study

Lice infestation is a common issue among children worldwide, the study aims to

provide practical and effective solutions in helping the eradication of lice infestation. The

study also suggests, non-synthetic pediculicide to reduce the chances of having negative/

harmful effects to the individuals who want simple yet convenient solutions to their lice

problems.

The study can benefit various groups of people including:

The children, lice infestation can be a cause of embarrassment and social isolation

children. Effectiveness treatment can help improve the affected child’s quality of life and

prevent further health complication.

The parents, the study provides parents with the knowledge to make informed

decisions about the treatment of lice infestation in their children. By understanding the

effectiveness of different treatments options, parents can make choices that best suit their

child’s need and preferences.

The pharmacologists, with the increasing concern over the harmful effects of

synthetic chemicals used in pediculicide, the use of natural products as an alternative is

gaining momentum. This study could potentially lead to the development of natural-based

pediculicides.

The Future researchers, the study may inspire further research on the use of material

products as alternative treatment for lice infestations. This can lead to the development of

new products that are not only effective but also affordable and accessible to a wider range of

people.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

The general objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of the two home

remedies as pediculicide for lice infestation. The study should be conducted to provide more

information about effectively eradicating lice infestation, the safety and ease of the use of

these natural substances, and to help improve to the management and treatment of lice

infestation in the country. The study will be conducted on the 3 rd week of April at Barangay

San Vicente, Makilala North Cotabato.

In this study, a limitation arises from the small sample size and the specific quantity

of remedies used. The experiment involved administering only 0.20ml of coconut oil and

vinegar to each of the ten lice samples in three separate trials. As a result, the generalizability

of the findings may be limited. The small sample size may not adequately represent the

overall population of lice, and the specific quantity of remedies may not be a representative

of real-world scenarios. By not testing other quantities, the findings of the study may only be

applicable to the specific conditions and variables that were examined. Extrapolating the

results to different scenarios or contexts may be uncertain or inaccurate. Therefore, caution

should be exercised when extrapolating the results to larger lice populations or situations

involving different dosages of remedies.

Conceptual Framework

Effectiveness in Eradicating Lice Infestation

Natural-based pediculicide

Cocos Malus pumila

nucifera mill

House to house
implementation

Apply the remedies

directly to the Lice.
Definition of Terms

Cocos nucifera- the scientific name of Coconut and is used as pediculicide for lice

infestation.

Descriptive Statistics- the branch of statistics that involves organizing, summarizing, and

presenting data in a meaningful and informative way.

Eradicating- destroy completely, put an end to.

Human lice- are tiny insects that feed on blood from the human scalp.

Infestation- the presence of an unusually large number of insects or animal in a place,

typically so as to cause damage or disease.

Malus pumila mill- the scientific name for apple cider vinegar and is used as pediculicide for

lice infestation.

Pediculicide- a chemical used to kill lice.

Prevalence- the fact or condition of being prevalent, commonness.

Pharmacologists- someone trained in the science of drugs (their composition and uses and

effects) synonyms: pharmaceutical chemist.

CHAPTER II

METHODOLOGY

Research Design and Locale

This study utilized a quantitative- experimental research. Experimental research

focuses on establishing cause-and-effect relationships between variables using statistical

analysis to interpret the results. The study was conducted particularly in Purok 8 San Vicente,

Makilala, Cotabato.

(a)
Figure 1. Map of (a) Purok 8, San Vicente, Makilala, North Cotabato (Google Map, 2023)

Population and Sampling Method

This study used Purposive random sampling in identifying the respondents. The

sample consists of 3 respondents from San Vicente, Makilala, Cotabato. The researchers

asked permission to the School Head, advisers (shown in Appendix A) and parents (shown in

Appendix B) to ensure the safety of the respondents as well as to use it as proof to give

reliability to our research. The researchers ensured that the personal information of the

respondents will be kept confidentially.

Data Gathering Procedure

The process was implemented through a house-to-house approach on weekends, as

this is the time when children are typically not busy and can be accompanied by their parents

during the process. The researchers used Cocos nucifera oil, a fatty oil or semisolid fat

extracted from fresh coconuts and Malus pumila mill or apple cider vinegar are produced as

follows: Cleaned apples were cut into pieces and placed into a container along with 2 glasses

of water. The mixture was stirred until bubbles formed. The jar was then covered with a clean

white cloth and left to ferment for 14 days. After the 2-week period, 20 mL of coconut wine

vinegar was added, and the apple cider vinegar was considered ready for use (see Appendix

E).

Lice were collected and was placed in a container. Since microscope was unavailable,

the lice were measured (in length) using manually drawn lines. A sample of 10 lice were used

for each remedy. Here is the step-by-step process of the experiment for both coconut oil and

apple cider vinegar:

1. Ten lice were placed in a clear container, to which 0.20 ml of the remedy was poured.

The lice were left undisturbed for 20 minutes.

2. After 20 minutes, the lice were separated from the remedy and placed on a clean

paper. They were left undisturbed for another 20 minutes.

3. After the second 20-minute interval, the researchers counted the number of lice that

had died.

Data Analysis Procedure

Data was analyzed using descriptive statistical method to compare the mean of the

two pediculicides. Factors such a concentration, method of application, and the type of lice

species was considered as potential confounding variables.

 CHAPTER III

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This part of this paper presents the results of this study including the Means of each

remedy (Coconut oil and Apple cider vinegar).

Table 1. Mean of Coconut oil

Trial No. of lice eradicated

(out of 10 samples)
1 3
2 2
3 3
Mean: 2.67
As shown in Table 1, three trials were conducted with the use of coconut oil for lice

eradication have a total mean of 2.67. The total mean of 2.67 suggests that, on average, a

significant number of lice were eradicated using coconut oil.

Table 2. Mean of Apple cider vinegar

Trial No. of lice eradicated

(out of 10 samples)
1 7
2 8
3 8
Mean: 7.67
As shown in Table 2, three trials were conducted with the use of apple cider vinegar

for lice eradication have a total mean of 7.67. The total mean of 7.67 suggests that, on

average, a significant number of lice were eradicated using apple cider vinegar.

Conclusion
 Based on the result of this study, several key findings can be concluded. Firstly, the

total mean score of lice eradicated using apple cider vinegar (0.8) was significantly higher

than the total mean score for coconut oil (0.3) out of the 10 samples. This indicates that apple

cider vinegar is more effective in eradicating lice compared to coconut oil.

REFERENCES

Bugayong, A., Araneta, K., Cabanilla, J., Gayatgay, C., Nufuar, E., Rufino, K., Caro, M. &
Padilla, P. (2011). Effect of dry-on, suffocation-based treatment on the prevalence of
pediculosis among school children in CAlagtangan Village, MIag-ao, Iloilo.
Philippine
ScienceLetters. https://science.org.

Frankowski, B. & Bocchini, J. (2010). The Council On School Health and Committee On
Infectious Diseases. Head lice. Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/126/2/392.full.html.

Google Map, 2023. https://www.google.com/maps/place/San+Vicente,+Makilala,+Cotabato/

Hassan, A., Fayyadh, F. F., & Jaleel, Y.S. (2017). Employment of combined-extraction from
Argan Oil and Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (Acv-Ao) for refuting Pediculosis Cats.
Kufa Journal for Veterinary Medicine Sciences. https://uokufa.edu.iq.

Martinez, R.E. & Samson, J. (2014). A Double Blind Randomized Clinical Trial On The
Efficacy of Citronella Shampoo Versus 5% Permethrin In The Treatment Of Head
Lice
Infestation. Pediatric Infectious Disease Society at the Philippine Journal.
https://pidsphil.org.

Staughton, J. (2020). Is Coconut Oil Good for Lice Treatment. Organic Information Services
Pvt. Ltd. https://www.organicfacts.net/coconut-oil-lice-treatment.html.

Tebruegge, M., Pantazidou, A., Curtis, N. (2011). What’s Bugging You? An update on the
treatment of head lice infestation. National Library of
Medicine.DOI: 10.1136/adc.2009.178038.

Verma, P. & Namdeo, C. (2015). Treatment of Pediculosis Capitis. Indian Journal of

Dermatology. doi: 10.4103/0019-5154.156339.

Villegas, S. & Breitzka, R. (2011).Head lice and the Use of Spinosad.Elsevier HS Journals,
Inc. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinthera.2011.11.026.

Whitworth, G. (2019). Apple Cider Vinegar for Lice. Healthline. https://healthline.com

Wilson, D. & Watson, K. (2018). Coconut Oil for Lice. Healthline. https://healthline.com

Wouden, J., Klootwiik, T., Cleach, L.L., Do, G., Stichele, R. V., Neven, A.K. & Eckhof, J.
(2018). Intervention for Treating Head Lice. National Library of Medicine. DOI:
10.1002/14651858.CD009321.pub2.

Yamaguchi, S., Yasumura, R., Okamoto, Y., Okubo, Y., Kawada, H. & Takashi, K. (2021).
Efficacy and safety of a Dimethicone lotion in Patients’ with pyrethroid-resistant head
lice in an epidemic area, Okinawa, Japan. The Journal of Dermatology. DOI:
10.1111/13468138.1596.

APPENDIX A

Consent for the Principal

 APPENDIX B

Consent for the Parents

 APPENDIX C

Raw Data of Application method for Coconut Oil

Respondent 1st 2nd Final NO. of

s (20-minutes interval) (20-minutes interval) Lice Eradicated

1 5 2 3

2 6 2 2

3 4 1 3

MEAN: 2.6667

APPENDIX D

Raw Data of Application method for Apple Cider Vinegar

Respondent 1st 2nd Final NO. of

s (20-minutes interval) (20-minutes interval) Lice Eradicated

1 3 6 7

2 6 2 8

3 7 1 8

MEAN: 7.6667

APPENDIX E

Process in making Apple Cider Vinegar (Fermentation)