Anyone who has become infected with parasites--such as tapeworms, roundworms or even lice, has experienced the frustration of trying to overcome infection while dealing with the unpleasant effects these little critters can cause. Conventional medical treatment includes prescription or over-the-counter medications. There are also a few natural remedies that may kill both internal and external parasites. Many of these are now undergoing scientific study. However, it is important to remember that most herbs do not yet have FDA approval. Always consult a healthcare practitioner before trying these or other natural supplements.
Black Walnut
The hulls of black walnuts are used in herbal medicine to treat parasites, especially ringworm. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health herb guide, black walnut is antiseptic and anti-parasitic. It contains tannins, or astringent compounds, and ellagic acid, an antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables. Dried walnut hulls can be found in capsule form or as a liquid extract. Although many herbs are considered safe for general use, black walnut can be cathartic and should be used only under the direction of a qualified practitioner.
Wormwood
Wormwood can be used to treat intestinal parasites, according to a University of Maryland Medical Center list of complementary and alternative therapies. It is an ancient herb that has been used to kill intestinal worms. It is also used by herbalists to aid digestion and treat colic. Wormwood is typically taken orally in liquid extract or capsule form. The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Herbalism warns that wormwood can be intoxicating, and habitual use may cause restlessness or convulsions. Always consult a physician before giving wormwood to children.
Garlic
Garlic has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can treat parasitic conditions. It is used by herbalists as a natural antibiotic and to kill parasites without disrupting normal intestinal flora. The Clayton College herb guides notes that a dose of its antibiotic component, allicin, is equal to 15 standard units of penicillin. It can be consumed fresh, or taken in tablet and liquid extract form.
Tea Tree Oil
Melaleuca, or tea tree oil, is commonly used to treat athlete's foot, acne, dandruff, lice, psoriasis, ringworm and scabies. It is naturally antiseptic and may also be used to treat superficial burns and insect bites. Although its uses in herbal medicine range from acne to yeast infections, few scientific studies exist to support the many claims for tea tree oil. It is high in an antimicrobial compound, terpinen-4. According to the National Institutes of Health, tea tree oil should only be used topically, and never taken internally. Do not use with small children who may ingest tea tree oil accidentally.
References
CDC: Division of Parasitic Diseases
Clayton College of Natural Health Herb Guide
University of Maryland Medical Center: Intestinal Parasites
National Institutes of Health: Medline Plus: Tea Tree Oil
The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Herbalism. Edited by Malcolm Stuart. 1989.
Comments