How to Get Rid of Intestinal Parasites

Parasitic infection in humans may occur in any part of the body. But, the site of infection is mostly restricted to the intestinal lining, where the parasites get easy access to food. Intestinal parasites in humans belong to two types - helminths or worms (e.g., tapeworm, pinworm) and protozoans (e.g., Giardia, trichomonads).

Though both are harmful, the protozoans cause serious infections, compared to helminths. The parasites enter the host's body through skin, contaminated foods, water or soil.

The risks for intestinal infections are high amongst those who reside in crowded areas with poor sanitation. Symptoms of intestinal parasites may remain vague for many years after infection.

As infection worsens, the manifested symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, gassiness, diarrhea, dysentery, weakness, itchiness in rectum, weight loss and most importantly, presence of worms in feces. If such symptoms are confirmed, do not delay in taking up prompt steps to get rid of intestinal parasites.

The long-term consequences of intestinal infection are increased fatigue, anemia, malnutrition and retarded growth in children. These are obvious, as parasites feed on the nutrients of the host, and the body no longer receives adequate nutrition.

For diagnosis, the doctor may perform stool analysis (3 times consecutively), scotch tape test and X-ray imaging with barium enema (if severe infection is suspected). Here's how to eliminate intestinal parasites through medication treatment and natural ways.

The conventional option for treating intestinal infection is administration of medications. Type of medicine for getting rid of worms and/or parasites is specific to the infection case, so is the dose. Thus, the prescribed medicine and concentration will vary from one patient to another.

Stick to the recommended antiparasitic drugs and their doses to get prompt results. Any negligence, in terms of not completing the treatment course, increases the risk for recurrent parasitic infestations.

For alleviating any health problem, following natural treatment alternatives, free of adverse reactions is preferred over conventional medications. A healthy immune system is the key to fight against intestinal parasites. To achieve this, consume a well-balanced diet and lead an active lifestyle.

These strategies along with herbal remedies are effective to deal with parasitic infections without any complications. Natural ways for getting rid of intestinal parasites are given below.

Diet and Supplements: In the routine diet plan, incorporate lots of whole grains and foods in their natural form. But, ensure that proper hygiene is maintained during cleaning and preparation of foods. Reduce the consumption amounts of simple carbohydrates, processed and packaged foods.

They give a nutrition boost to the parasites and promote their multiplication. Taking probiotics, zinc and vitamin C supplements are considered to support the body in expelling parasites.

Crushed Pumpkin Seeds: The use of pumpkin seeds works in flushing off parasites from the host's body. Take about 400 g of pumpkin seeds and crush them properly. Stir in some honey and milk to make a runny paste.

Have this before breakfast and then take a mild laxative to stimulate bowel movement and flush off the parasites. Similarly, pumpkin seed oil and its supplements are used in herbal therapy for intestinal infections.

Garlic Cloves: Another easily available and inexpensive herb used for getting rid of intestinal parasites is garlic. Be it worm or protozoa, garlic acts on both, and treats intestinal infection without side effects.

Fresh garlic cloves (after mashing) can be taken with horseradish or milk 2-3 times daily for expelling intestinal parasites. Or, add juice of garlic (10 drops) in ½ glass milk and drink twice daily.

Savory: Savory (genus Satureja) is a medicinal herb with carminative and antimicrobial properties. The herb is directly added in tea and is consumed to get rid of intestinal worms. Savory essential oil does the same job, but in lower doses. Both the herb and oil aid in improving digestive health and purging of the parasites. So, use them in correct amounts, as directed by the herbalist.

Carrots and Beets: How to get rid of intestinal parasites in children? Nothing could be better than feeding grated carrots mixed with honey. Other choices include pomegranate and beets. They are rich sources of healthy vitamins, and are found to be helpful in eradicating worms. What's more, the taste is pleasant and one doesn't have to struggle for feeding them to children.

Wormwood Tea: Wormwood tea is touted as an effectual remedy for getting rid of tapeworms and other intestinal worms. Besides its antiseptic action, it strengthens the digestive system, boosts digestion and relieves stomach discomfort.

Nevertheless, prolonged use of this herb is linked with side effects. So, consulting a herbalist is advisable to get a brief idea about the intake dose and period of wormwood for treating intestinal infections effectually.

To conclude with, go for follow-up visits to ensure complete removal of intestinal parasites from the body. Children, elderly people and those who have underlying diseases often contract intestinal parasites.

To prevent common intestinal worms, deworming is directed twice in a year, i.e., once in every six months. Personal hygiene, drinking clean water, consuming well cooked foods while avoiding contaminated ones are some of the tips for preventing parasitic infections.