Throughout history, people have searched for an effective herbal treatment for parasites, and each culture has developed a list of favorite remedies. Some of the most popular choices include the use of wormwood, garlic, and coconut. Butternut, agrimony, and cloves are often used to prevent or treat intestinal parasites as well. When searching for an herbal treatment for parasites, a bit of trial and error may become necessary in order to find a remedy that works for a specific situation. Some herbs may interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications or may cause unwanted side effects, so a doctor should be consulted before taking an herbal treatment for parasites.
Wormwood has been used as an herbal treatment for parasites for several centuries. This supplement is available in several formulations, including capsules, teas, and extracts, but pure wormwood oil is considered toxic to humans and should be avoided. Possible side effects of wormwood include dizziness, seizures, or kidney failure, especially when taken in large doses.
Garlic is a commonly used herbal treatment for parasites and can be taken in the form of an herbal supplement or added to a variety of recipes. In addition to treating intestinal parasites, garlic may help to guard against external parasites and prevent fungal infections caused by these parasites. Side effects of garlic may include body odor, headaches, or stomach upset.
Coconut has been reported to be an effective herbal treatment for parasites. Raw coconut can be chewed throughout the day, and coconut milk can be consumed two to three times per day to rid the body of unwanted parasites. This treatment option is considered safe for use by most people, although elevated cholesterol levels are possible when coconut is consumed on a regular basis.
Butternut promotes increased bowel movements and may help to expel intestinal parasites. Abdominal cramps and stomach irritation may occur when using products containing butternut. Agrimony is thought to help expel parasites from the intestinal tract, although it may also cause unstable blood sugar levels or increase sensitivity to sunlight. Cloves contain natural antimicrobial properties and are believed to prevent parasitic infestations. Although cloves are considered safe in moderate doses, taking too much may cause seizures or kidney failure.
Most herbal remedies are considered safe for the majority of the population, although there are some specific considerations that should be discussed with a doctor. Without an official regulatory committee in place, there is no way to guarantee the quality of the herbs used in most supplements, and many health experts disagree on the effectiveness of these treatments. In some cases, herbal supplements may interact negatively with certain prescription medications, so a doctor should always be consulted before using an herbal treatment for parasites.
