Intestinal Parasites in Humans: Symptoms & Herbal Remedies

Intestinal Parasites in Humans: Symptoms & Herbal Remedies
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Causes

The two major groups of intestinal parasites in humans are protozoans (single-celled organisms) and helminths (parasitic worms, most commonly tapeworms and roundworms).

Parasites can get into the intestines through the mouth from contaminated water and foods, especially unwashed produce and uncooked meats. Transmission can also occur when playing or working in dirt. Children are particularly at risk and should be taught to not eat dirt or put their hands in their mouth. Always wash up thoroughly after handling dirt.

Symptoms

Symptoms of intestinal parasites in humans may include:

  • stomach pain or tenderness
  • gas or bloating
  • diarrhea
  • anal itching
  • nausea and vomiting
  • weight loss
  • passing worms in the stool.

Fever, chills, headaches, joint pain, sweating, muscle spasms, fatigue, and weakness are some other parasite symptoms in humans.

Herbal Remedies

The type of parasite should be identified before treating. Some treatments may require a combination of herbs to be effective. It is best to consult with a professional herbalist.

Goldenseal

Goldenseal contains berberine and is particularly active against Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica. Research has shown berberine to be as effective as metronidazole (flagyl), a drug most commonly used to treat intestinal parasites in humans, but without the harmful side effects.

Wormseed

Wormseed has the ability to expel parasites from the intestines, mostly hookworms and roundworms, by paralyzing them. A strong laxative is given afterwards to drive the parasites out of the body. Wormseed oil is too potent to ingest, so many herbalists recommend wormseed tea.

Wormwood

Wormwood has been used for hundreds of years to treat parasites and is believed to be effective by weakening their membranes. Wormwood may be active against roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. Pure wormwood oil should not be ingested because it is considered toxic. Tea, capsule form, and liquid extract are recommended.

Other

Other herbs to treat intestinal parasites include:

  • garlic
  • black walnut
  • cloves
  • barberry
  • oregon grape
  • anise.

When treating the symptoms of intestinal parasites in humans, eat more fiber, drink a lot of water, and avoid coffee, alcohol, refined foods, and simple carbohydrates such as dairy products, juices, fruits, and all sugars (except honey).

Photo Credit

Image courtesy of the National Library of Medicine (NLM).

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