Treating Parasites
Below are some commonly used treatments for parasites.
Angelica (A. archangelica and A. sinensis)
Along with Echinacea purpurea, are widely used herbs for the treatment
of the protozoa, Trichomonas. Angelica contains coumarin compounds that
have been effective against this organism, as well as other worms and
parasites. The American and European species are two commonly used
species of Angelica. A. archangelica, along with the Chinese variety,
A. sinensis or dong quai, is also reported to be superior as a
treatment for all ailments of the female reproductive system. It also
relieves pain by reducing cramping in muscles, but may not be as
effective in the treatment of Trichomonas. Pregnant women should not
use this herb, nor should diabetics, as it tends to raise blood sugar
levels.
Artemisia Annua Extract
Exhibits strong antimalarial properties, as well as being effective against worms and various other parasites.
Berberine-containing plants
Have been used as an antibiotic and antiparasitic for thousands of
years around the world. Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), barberry
(Berberis vulgaris), Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium), and goldthread
(Coptis chinensis) share similar effects on parasites because of their
high concentrations of berberine. It has been used in cases of
infection caused by fungi, protozoa, and even viruses and bacteria. It
also inhibits the overgrowth of yeast, a common side effect of
antibiotic use, nor does it appear to be harmful against the normal
flora bacteria. These plants also have a remarkable antidiarrheal
property, even in the most severe cases of infection, and are
particularly useful in infections that cause profuse diarrhea. It is
also known to increase the blood supply to the spleen, thereby
improving the body's immune system, plus activating the white blood
cells called macrophages. Under supervision, the herb is safely used in
treating children. Berberine can be used prophylactically if
travelling. Suggested use begins one week before and and ends one week
after the trip to areas of anticipated poor sanitation. Berberine is
generally considered non-toxic at recommended dosages, but high doses
can cause a lowering of blood pressure, difficulty breathing, flu-like
symptoms, GI discomforts, and heart damage. Therefore, it is best used
under the direction of a knowledgeable herbalist.
Black Walnut hulls (Juglans nigra)
Have been used for a long time to kill many kinds of intestinal worms,
especially tapeworms. The active ingredient, however, is only in the
green hull surrounding the nut, and must be harvested before the nut
falls from the tree. This active ingredient is called juglone and
exerts antifungal, antiworm, antiviral, and antibacterial effects. An
extract can be used safely in recommended doses for adults, but should
not be used for infants or children.
Butternut (Juglans cinerea)
Is a good all-purpose herb to relieve constipation and expel worms,
especially threadworms and pinworms. Butternut can be safely combined
with any other mixture for decreased bowel tone and as a soothing
laxative in cases of chronic constipation, but should not be taken over
a long time.
Calendula (C. officinalis)
Is commonly used as a topical remedy for the healing of wounds, pain,
or irritations. A tea made from 1 tbsp. Flowers to ¼ quart of water is
said to expel worms, as well as to repair tissue damage done by them.
Cascara (C. sagrada and Rhamnus purshiana)
Helps eliminate waste as a mild, but effective, laxative, and is
especially good in cases of chronic constipation. Using this one hour
after eating raw pumpkin seeds will eliminate from the body the
parasites that the seeds have paralyzed. Cascara is milder than Senna,
with the main site of action being in the lower bowel.
Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)
Is a giant woody vine that grows in the Peruvian tropical forests. It
has properties that help in resistant cases of imbalanced intestinal
flora, infection, sluggish digestion, poor assimilation, and bile
stimulation. It is very effective as an intestinal cleanser and immune
system rejuvenator, possessing antimicrobial and antiinflammatory
properties. It has the ability similar to white blood cells to engulf
and digest harmful microorganisms. It is a good companion herb for
treating most parasites except Giardia, which actually thrives when
there is bile stimulation. It is virtually nontoxic, but should not be
used by pregnant women.
Cayenne
Can be added to a treament plan to kill parasites. The volatile oil,
capsaicin, is also recommended for digestive disorders and
strengthening internal organs, particularly the heart muscle. It has an
analgesic effect similar to ginger, but does present a danger if there
is an existing ulcer or chronic irritation of the bowel. Bleeding and
serious damage can be exacerbated.
Chaparral (Larrea divaricata)
Is an excellent herbal antibiotic that can be used both internally and
externally against viruses, bacteria, and parasites. It is often used
for intestinal tract infections, diarrhea, or urinary tract infections,
and it is frequently combined with such other antibiotic herbs as
goldenseal and echinacea. Externally, chaparral can be applied to
wounds as an antiseptic and to the skin for itching, eczema, or scabies.
Cloves (Eugenia caryophyllata)
Is an ancient herbal medicine used for killing internal parasites and
their eggs. The spice exhibits a broad range of antimicrobial activity
against other organisms as well, including fungi and bacteria. Cloves
also helps to increase the circulation of the blood, promote digestion,
and eliminate gas and intestinal spasms.
Cranberry concentrate
Is rich in acids (citric, malic, quinic, and benzoic), that aid in the digestion of protozoa.
Echinacea (E. purpurea)
Or purple coneflower, is used to treat all manner of chronic and acute
infections. It is one of the most widely used herbs for the treatment
of Trichomonas vaginalis and as an effective douche for the treatment
of other vaginal infections. Echinacea is also used as an effective
blood and lymphatic cleanser and for strengthening the immune system.
Elecampane (Inula helenium)
Is specific for the roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), having a
paralyzing effect on the worm's central nervous system. It is
recommeded as the safest herb for children and has been known to be a
benefit for lung ailments and digestive disorders.
Essential oils
Have a diverse antimicrobial action that can kill many types of worms
and protozoa. The essential oils of peppermint (Mentha piperita) and
lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) have the fastest killing effects,
acting within twenty minutes and fifteen minutes, respectively. The
essential oil thymol is specific for hookworms. Caution should always
be taken when using essential oils to treat parasitic infections. Many
of them are toxic, especially to children. Those with heart, liver,
kidney, stomach, or intestinal disease should also use caution, as well
as in pregnancy.
Fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare)
Helps to remove waste material, as well as parasites, from the body.
Fennel is most often used as a digestive aid and flavoring agent. It is
not a dangerous plant, but the oil extracted can cause skin irritation,
nausea, vomiting, seizures, and edema of the lungs. This type of fennel
should not be confused with other types, including dog fennel.
Ficin (Ficus glabrata)
Is a well-known anti-worm remedy used in the tropics by the natives of
South America and the Panama region. The latex gathered from these
trees has been commercially exploited for decades because of its enzyme
properties of papain and bromelain. Even though the enzymes in the
plant digest living worms, it is well tolerated and nontoxic to humans
when taken internally. Despite this, it still should not be used by
pregnant women.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Is used worldwide as a food, spice, and medicine. The active
ingredient, allicin, is released after the clove is crushed. It is
responsible for the characteristic odor. Deoderized concentrates
contain only 30-100 parts per million of allicin and are of a
questionable value if using for medicinal purposes, especially for
parasites. Garlic prevents and fights infections from various sources,
including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, as well as parasites.
As far as parasites are concerned, garlic is effective against
roundworms, tapeworms, pinworms, and hookworms, but it can cause
dermatitis in some people, as well as irritating the digestive tract.
Some may also not be able to detoxify allicin and other
sulfur-containing componenets effectively, but generally, garlic is the
best and cheapest means of ridding any infection.
Ginger (Zingiber officianalis)
Works against roundworms, as well as blood flukes, and is effective in
treating dog heartworm and Trichomonas vaginali. It is believed to have
some analgesic and antispasmodic effects, as well as having properties
similar to cayenne that helps relieve inflammation. It also has a long
history of treating all manner of digestive upsets.
Grapefruit seed extract
Has been proven to be effective against over 800 strains of viruses and
bacteria, 100 strains of fungi, plus a great number of single-celled
parasites. No other antimicrobial can make such claims. Despite
destroying harmful intestinal parasites, it does not significantly harm
the normal bowel flora. For some time in foreign countries, grapefruit
seed extract has been used as a broad spectrum antibiotic, antifungal,
antiprotozoan, antiviral, antiseptic, disinfectant, and as a
preservative in cosmetics. In South America, it has long been used
instead of chlorine in swimming pools and sewage treatment plants as
well, as in treating drinking water, since chlorine does not kill a
variety of pathogens, including Giardia. In Peru, it is used to
disinfect agricultural products. The FDA is finally acknowledging that
it is as effective as any other amebicide now available and perhaps
more effective, without causing the side effects that chlorine is known
to cause. When travelling abroad, including Mexico, it is proving to be
an exceptional and simple alternative to the more harsh methods of
killing parasites and other harmful organisms. Animals also respond
well to grapefruit seed extract since it does not cause the side
effects common in chemical dewormers. The extract should never be used
full strength when applied to the skin. The standard dilution is 33%
extract and 67% glycerin. For some applications, it is best used with
almond, olive, sesame, or avocado oils instead of water. Keep it away
from the eyes. A few drops can be added to household cleaners and soaps
for a germ-free cleanser. By using eight drops to a gallon of water, it
makes a safe and effective food wash that increases the shelf life of
fruits and vegetables by as much as 400%. The extract should not be
used full strength when taken internally. Start with drop drop
dissolved in glycerin, and then mixed with a glass of water or fruit
juice. Slowly increase according to your reactions. Work up to about
eight drops (or a corresponding number of pills) in a full glass of
water two or three times a day until symptoms disappear. When the
organisms you are trying to kill begin to die, the toxins are released,
leading you to feel some discomfort or tiredness. If the symptoms
become too uncomfortable, reduce the extract a little and begin to
increase it again when you are feeling better. Since grapefruit seed
extract can be very bitter, the debittered powder used in capsules may
be a preferable choice. For children, a capsule can be opened and the
powder mixed into juice. In pill form, it can take 100-300 mg. per day
to be effective for adults. One or two drops in a glass of water once
or twice a day can act as a preventative against traveler's diarrhea.
The extract is nontoxic and environmentally friendly. Caution should be
used if there is a sensitivity to citrus. The extract is not absorbed
into the intestinal tissue, so can be safely taken for long periods of
time, as in the cases of Giardia and yeast infections where it may take
months to eliminate.
Horsemint (Monarda punctata)
Can be used both internally and externally against worms, bacteria, and
fungus. Horsemint contains a large amount of thymol, making it a
powerful disinfecting agent. Almost 50% of this oil is excreted in the
urine when taken internally, making it useful as a urinary antiseptic.
There have been no reports of toxicity, but it can be irritating when
applied topically. A significant amount of this plant would be needed
to be toxic when taken internally.
Olive leaf extract (Olea europea)
Is a bitter substance produced by the olive tree, but eliminated from
olives once they are cured. A new processing technique applied to an
old herbal remedy has produced a nontoxic herbal parasite remedy. Olive
leaf is also effective against fungi, molds, worms, and bacteria, and
can be used for yeast infections. For about 4,000 years, countries of
the Mediterranean, as well as those bordering, have chopped up olive
leaves in liquid or salad form to prevent and treat parasitic
infections. It also proved to be superior to quinine for treating
malaria, but not as easy to administer, so quinine became the preferred
treatment. Studies in the 1960s confirmed that olive leaf extract has
the ability to counteract the malaria protozoa. The manufacturing
method of this product is very important, otherwise, the ingredients
bind rapidly to serum proteins in the blood, rendering them virtually
useless in living organisms. Those treating parasites that are causing
chronic fatigue syndrome or are harboring a large infestation of
parasites may experience extreme fatigue when starting this form of
therapy. Headaches, muscle or joint pain, or flu-like symptoms may also
appear. It is important to reduce the therapeutic dosage to a more
comfortable level, and then increasing it slowly, allowing the body
time to detoxify at a slower pace. Normally, olive leaf extract does
not produce any adverse side effects.
Picrasma excelsa (Quassia amara)
Is a common Jamaican tree that produces a bitter tonic useful for
killing amoebas, giardia, malaria, pinworms, and some roundworms. The
herb does not have an odor, but does have an intensely bitter taste,
which distinguishes the pure form from adulterations. This herb
contains a group of alkaloids known to inhibit protozoa from
reproducing by affecting their basic metabolic processes. Considerable
evidence suggests that quassia is also effective against mosquito
larva. Toxic symptoms are rare, but if they occur, it is usually in the
form of diarrhea or vomiting. It is also a nontoxic, inexpensive, and
effective means of treating head lice.
Pinkroot (Spigelia marilandicus)
Is a highly effective vermicide originally used by Native Americans,
who introduced it to settlers and early physicians. The plant has the
ability to cure infections from intestinal worms and is even effective
for treating the fevers caused by parasites. It can produce some
unpleasant side effects if large doses are taken; therefore, only the
recommended lower doses should be given to children.
Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
Roots had widespread use against tapeworms until less toxic substances
were discovered. The fruit rinds and bark are very astringent and
effectively used to remove tapeworms and roundworms. The plant does
contain an alkaloid that can be toxic if consumed in large quantities,
producing such symptoms as muscle weakness, dizziness, vomiting, and
diarrhea.
Propolis
Has proven to be 100% effective against some lethal protozoa and will
also decrease inflammation associated with parasite infection. It is a
natural antibiotic found in leaf buds or the bark of some trees. Bees
collect it and add their own enzymes to line their hives, making the
environment a sterile place. Propolis can create an antibiotic
disease-fighting reaction to almost any illness, stimulating the thymus
gland, and enhancing the body's immune system.
Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo)
Is a traditional remedy for worms, used for both animals and humans.
Seeds of several varieties of the species Cucurbita have long held the
reputation for paralyzing, but not killing, worms. However, the viable
substance that affects the worms varies even in seeds of the same
species, causing reliability to vary too much to be accurate.
Therefore, it is important to take a natural laxative to move the worms
out of the digestive system before they regain function. It is
important to leave the fine inner skin beneath the shell intact.
Children are given ten to fifteen seeds a day, and adults, twenty to
thirty seeds a day for about two weeks, increasing the number of seeds
if tapeworms are a problem. Follow this with a laxative about one hour
after each dose of seeds. The treatment can be repeated as often as
necessary without any harmful side effects -- as long as the laxatives
are not taken over a lengthy period of time. When dealing with
tapeworms, it is important that the entire worm be expelled, or else it
will grow back. Daily consumption of pumpkin seeds may help to prevent
parasites from taking up residence in the first place. Another
suggestion is for pumpkin seeds and watermelon seeds to be ground to a
powder and mixed with a little aloe vera juice and taken on an empty
stomach every morning.
Red clover (Trifolium pratense)
Will kill flukes in all stages when used with cloves, black walnut hulls (green), and wormwood.
Sage
The garden variety (Salvia officinalis) and thyme were both used by the
Romans as digestive aids, as well as for the treatment of intestinal
worms and bacteria. Sage was often mixed with wormseed or white wine to
relieve diarrhea or dysentery. Garden sage is not toxic, but excessive
amounts can cause a dry mouth or local irritation.
Sarsaparilla (Smilax ornata)
Is a useful blood purifier that can also be used externally to treat
skin parasites. When toxins absorbed by the intestines are excessive
because the liver is not filtering properly, toxins begin to circulate
in the bloodstream. Therefore, this herb can play a vital role in
assisting the liver to filter and bind toxic compounds more
effectively, especially those released from parasites or bacteria.
Senna (Cassia angustifolia and Cassia senna)
Is an ancient herb known for its laxative action. Today it is one of
the most popular stimulant laxatives and is generally regarded as being
safe for short term use, but long term dependence can develop. Senna's
chief action is on the lower bowel, causing mucus secretions with rapid
contractions. It is best to use it in combination with such other
aromatic herbs as cardamom, ginger, fennel, etc., to reduce the
cramping. As in the case of Cascara, Senna can be used one hour after
eating pumpkin seeds.
Slippery elm (Ulmus fulra)
Is a soothing herb that quickly heals irritations of the intestinal
tract, including ulcers and Crohn's-like symptoms often caused by
parasites. It also normalizes bowel function, relieving constipation or
diarrhea. In addition, it is an excellent binder and cleanser.
Externally, slippery elm can be moistened and applied to sores, wounds,
and infected areas.
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgaris)
Is largely used for expelling worms in children, but only under the
supervision of a qualified herbalist since there are some side effects
if used improperly.
Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Is a powerful all-purpose antiinfective, especially against Trichomonas
vaginalis, when used as a daily douche (0.4% solution of oil in 1 quart
of water twice a day).
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Is an ancient remedy used as a digestive aid, antiseptic, and for
treatment of intestinal worms. It should not be used in large amounts,
however. Externally, it can be used as a mouthwash and for cleansing
the skin. It will destroy such fungal infections as athlete's foot and
such skin parasites as scabies, crabs, and lice. For these purposes, a
tincture or an essential oil is used. When used internally, essential
oils leave very little margin for error, so use it only with
supervision from a knowledgeable herbalist.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Is a common root used in Indian dishes. It has long been used to treat
dysentary and to expel worms from the body. It is also known as a body
purifier, and can be use both internally and externally to heal wounds.
Turmeric contains a substance that limits the inflammation caused by
extensive tissue damage from parasites. Because turmeric may also
stimulate the production of bile, it should be avoided when treating
the amoeba, Giardia, since bile stimulates the growth and proliferation
of this organism. Regular use poses no threat, but high doses can cause
ulcers.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Is an ancient remedy used to kill various parasites -- as indicated by
the name. It is effective against a variety of worms, including the
giant intestinal roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides). Wormwood is
intensely bitter, and parasites are generally repelled because of this.
The dried and powdered flowers are excellent for expelling worms, and
the leaves are sufficient to eliminate all live worms and many other
parasites. WORMWOOD IS MORE TOXIC WHEN USED ALONE, so it is best to
combine it with other herbs. The oil of wormwood is especially toxic.
Avoid giving it to children. The Chinese wormwood (Artemisia annua) is
known as the sweet variety used to treat the parasite that causes
malaria, Plasmodium falciparum. It contains the chemical artemesin, not
found in any other species of Artemesia, and is now being viewed as a
possible prototype for a new antimalarial medicine. This herb shows a
broad spectrum of activity against protozoa and yeast. It is also
effective against the liver fluke (Clonorchis sinensis), the blood
fluke (Schistosoma japonicum), and the amoeba Giardia and other
protozoa. This herb has a low toxicity level, and no side effects have
been reported. It appears safe to use, even with heart, liver, or
kidney diseases, as well as during pregnancy. The herb is not only
effective, but quick-acting. It is able to cross the blood-brain
barrier, making it effective against amoebic infections of the brain.
High doses of antioxidant supplementation should be withheld during
treatment of protozoan infection, especially when using A. annua. When
taking for a Cryptosporidium infection, use 1000 mg. three times a day
for twenty days. This herb may be given along with grapefruit seed
extract or other antiparasitic herb. When treating malaria with A.
annua, use for ten days. A. cina is very effective against worms. Since
this herb is very bitter, it is advised that children take it in pill
form. A. cina combines well with Cassia marilandica (American senna).
HOWEVER, this herb can be fatal, so it must be dosed out accurately and
only under the care of a knowledgeable herbalist.
Yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea)
Is an ancient herb used for treating malaria. This gastric stimulant is
used to improve digestion, and has antiseptic properties. It also
possesses a strong activity against the protozoa, Entamoeba
histolytica, as well as expelling other intestinal worms. Yellow
gentian strengthens the body system, and is an excellent tonic when
combined with an herbal laxative. This prevents gentian from becoming
toxic. In addition, because it is a bitter herb, combining it with an
aromatic herb, makes it more palatable. It is not well tolerated,
however, by those with high blood pressure or pregnant women.