Beggars lice is the common name for the sticky seeds or burrs of several different plant species, most commonly Hackelia virginiana, also known as Virginia stickseed, or sometimes Cynoglossum officinale (Houndstongue). These seeds are a nuisance because they are covered in numerous tiny, stiff hairs or hooks that function like a natural version of Velcro. The plant uses this structure as an extremely effective method of seed dispersal, causing the burrs to mechanically interlock with any passing material, such as clothing or animal fur. The difficulty in removal stems directly from the sheer number and tenacity of these minute hooks, which embed deeply into fibrous materials.
Removal from Clothing and Fabric
Removing these burrs from fabric requires patience and the right mechanical tools to minimize damage. A primary rule is to never put affected clothing into a dryer, as the heat will permanently set the burrs into the fabric fibers, making removal nearly impossible. Begin by using adhesive tools, which are highly effective for quick surface removal on most fabrics.
A standard lint roller can pick up a few surface seeds, but a stronger adhesive like duct tape or packing tape wrapped around your hand, sticky side out, provides a more aggressive pull. Press the tape firmly onto the affected area and lift quickly, repeating the process until the majority of the seeds are gone. For more durable materials, like denim or canvas, a stiff-bristled brush or a specialized rubber tool can scrape the seeds away.
Gently rub items like a loofah gourd or a pumice stone across the fabric in a single direction to dislodge clinging seeds. For deeply embedded burrs on thick material, a dull knife blade or corn cob can be used as a scraping tool. If you wash the item before complete removal, check and clean the washing machine’s filter afterward to prevent clogging.
Safe Removal from Hair and Pets
Removing beggars lice from hair and fur must prioritize gentle techniques to avoid pulling the skin. The most effective initial method is to use a fine-toothed comb, such as a flea comb or a nit comb, which can catch the small burrs without grabbing too much hair. Work in small, manageable sections, starting from the tip and slowly working your way toward the root.
To reduce pulling and discomfort, apply a detangling spray, conditioner, or a small amount of mineral or coconut oil directly onto the affected area. This lubrication helps the burrs slide out more easily, loosening the grip of the tiny hooks. For pets, if burrs are heavily matted, it is safest to carefully cut the entire section out using small, blunt-tipped scissors rather than risking pain by aggressive combing.
Avoid using harsh adhesive tapes or stiff scraping brushes directly on skin or near sensitive areas like eyes and ears, as this can cause significant irritation. The goal is to separate the burr gently, ensuring the process is slow and calm to minimize stress for the person or animal being treated.
Preventing Future Encounters
The most reliable way to manage beggars lice is to prevent the seeds from attaching by understanding the plant’s life cycle and habitat. Plants, such as Hackelia virginiana, typically release burrs in late summer and fall, making overgrown paths, field edges, and disturbed woodland areas high-risk zones. When planning outdoor activities, stick to clearly maintained trails and avoid brushing against dense, waist-high vegetation.
Wearing the right type of clothing significantly reduces the attachment rate. Smooth, tightly woven synthetic fabrics, like nylon or polyester, offer fewer places for the hooks to latch onto compared to textured materials such as fleece, wool, or loosely woven cotton. For pet owners, establish a routine post-walk check, immediately inspecting your pet’s fur, especially the legs, belly, and ears, before they enter the house.
For areas on your property, managing the source plants before they produce seeds is the only way to eliminate the problem. Plants are easiest to remove by hand-pulling in early summer before the seed pods form, or by keeping grassy areas mowed short to prevent the weed from reaching maturity. This proactive approach prevents the seeds from developing the barbed structures.