According to the World Health Organization, 24% of the world’s population is infected with a parasite at any given time, making parasites one of the most common infections. While parasites are more common in countries without access to clean water, many in the United States still contract them.
Parasites cause a huge range of symptoms, including diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, muscle aches, fever, chills, rashes, and fatigue. Most individuals contract parasites when traveling, by eating raw or undercooked meat, or through exposure to contaminated water, soil, blood, feces, or food. Contaminated bug bites can also lead to parasites, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Many people don’t realize they have a parasite, as some pass on their own. Unfortunately, other parasites cause immediate and lasting symptoms. Parasite cleansing and preventives can help reduce your risk and support your gut so it can fight off parasites. In this guide, we’ll discuss the research behind traditionally used herbs for parasite cleansing.
What Herbs Help Treat Parasites?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking plenty of water can help cleanse the body and prevent parasite growth. Other foods that may help include beets, probiotics, pumpkin seeds, pure honey, raw garlic, carrots, and zinc or fiber-rich foods.
Generally speaking, herbs that encourage healthy digestion and gut health support your overall health and ability to fight parasites. In addition to fiber and herbal supplements, a diet low in ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates is recommended.
Oregano
A comprehensive review of many herbs found that oregano, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and cumin were the most studied plants for their therapeutic use against parasites. Researchers showed that all these plants have antiparasitic effects.
A study on adults found that oregano (administered orally) improved gastrointestinal symptoms in 7 of 11 patients with parasites after 6 weeks of supplementation. Several patients had a complete disappearance of certain types of parasites as well!
A 2019 study found that oregano was one of the most effective essential oils against bacteria, which may help against certain types of parasites.
Black Walnut
Herbalists traditionally use black walnut for parasite cleansing, and a 2018 study found it contains antibacterial compounds. A 2008 study also concluded that black walnut exhibited antibacterial activities, particularly against foodborne illnesses.
Learn more about black walnut’s many health benefits in our previous article.
Wormwood
Wormwood’s name actually stems from its traditional use—treating parasites, such as pinworms, tapeworms, and roundworms.
Some studies have shown that wormwood has the potential to cleanse and treat parasites, including roundworms, tapeworms, and pinworms. A 2020 scientific paper found that wormwood has demonstrated antiprotozoal, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, which can support a healthier gut and help prevent parasites.
Lastly, we found a study on tapeworms that suggests wormwood had promising effects against tapeworms and was comparable to a common prescription drug used in parasite treatment. Scientists found that the medication and wormwood even reduced the number of parasite eggs.
As with all conditions, speak with a doctor if you want to be tested for parasites or are experiencing worrying symptoms.
Herbs for Parasite Cleansing
Interested in supporting your gut health and cleansing your body?
Here are some of our favorite herbs for preventing and cleansing parasites:
- Parasite Cleanse Extract: We curated this extract with herbs traditionally used to help the body rid itself of parasites. The primary herbs are black walnut, wormwood, and clove, along with a vibrational essence to provide the ultimate support.
- Black Walnut Capsules: Black walnut supports parasite cleansing by promoting healthy gut function. It may also support those with bone disorders, exhaustion, or anemia.
- Wormwood Capsules: Wormwood supports better digestion, absorption, and elimination, helping fight parasites and maintain a healthier gut microbiome. It’s an incredibly bitter herb, so we recommend trying it in capsule form to avoid the unpleasant taste.
- Charcoal (Activated) Capsules: Activated charcoal is well known for its adsorptive properties, which may cleanse the body. Charcoal has been traditionally used for parasite cleansing, acid dyspepsia, gas, heartburn, and food poisoning, and is something we recommend keeping on hand.
- Diatomaceous Earth: This powder is food-grade and safe for mammals, but incredibly dangerous to parasites or tiny insects. Never consume diatomaceous Earth dry and speak with your medical provider before use, as it’s not ideal for those who are pregnant or experiencing certain medical conditions.
- Oregano Capsules and Oregano Oil Capsules: Oregano is one of the most well-studied herbs when it comes to parasite cleansing, and for good reason! These pure oregano capsules may support a healthier immune response and are known for their antibacterial properties, which can help with certain respiratory conditions and help fight parasites.
- Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder: This protein powder is made from organic pumpkin seeds and is fantastic for promoting overall wellness. Fiber supports parasite prevention and weight management, and this powder is packed with it! We recommend adding this to water, shakes, or other beverages, as well as to your baked goods, for extra protein and fiber.
- Super Power Defender Extract: For encouraging a healthy immune response, we suggest trying our Super Power Defender Extract. It’s packed with oregano, goldenseal root, and other herbs known for their powerful antibacterial properties. Some take it for recurring infections as well, such as tonsillitis or ear infections.
We hope this article encourages you to consider your gut health this week and how you can support your overall wellness!
Thanks for reading!
Herbalist Natalie
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Natalie Hajdu-Voakes is a consulting herbalist and the owner of The Herb Stop, with over 28 years of hands-on experience in crafting herbal remedies and promoting natural wellness. |
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products and statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Consult your healthcare provider before use.