About the length of a staple, pinworms are thin, white roundworms that inhabit the rectum of an infected person when female pinworms leave the intestine and deposit their eggs on the infected skin. Most commonly affecting school-aged children and institutionalized persons, pinworms are not usually dangerous, but they are an extremely aggravating nuisance. While medical professionals often prescribe over-the-counter treatments for pinworms, many natural remedies exist to eliminate these pesky creatures. Let’s discover eight natural and effective ways to get rid of pinworms.
1. Coconut Oil
This oil’s antibacterial and antiviral properties may help eradicate a pinworm infection. Swallowing a teaspoon of coconut oil per day as well as topically and sterilely applying it to the infected area before bedtime provides a two-way attack on this common infection.
2. Garlic
A paradigm of a health food, garlic contains allicin, an active component with antiviral properties that combat a large number of bacteria. Garlic may kill existing eggs and, moreover, prevent female pinworms from laying more eggs.
The infected person can ingest garlic raw or on toast, in pasta, or in other delicious recipes. You can also create a topical balm by mixing it with petroleum jelly or olive oil. Be sure to apply garlic sparingly and in a sterile environment.
3. Pumpkin Seeds
While not a scientifically proven cure, pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitin which may slow down pinworms and/or prevent them from adhering to the intestinal walls. Long known as a natural de-wormer for livestock, these immunity boosters prove healthy far beyond their possible pinworm-destroying value.
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4. Wormwood
This bitter herb is used in alcoholic drinks, but its antiparasitic properties can damage the membrane of pinworms. Mix it with water or tea to make it more palatable.
Be cautioned that wormwood can be toxic even in small doses, so follow instructions for ingesting it very carefully. It should not be consumed by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
5. Carrots
A longstanding health food, raw carrots target pinworms by assisting one’s digestive tract to push the worms through the intestines more rapidly. Rich in fiber, carrots promote good digestion and bowel movement.
It is best to consume them raw, but for the pickier eaters, add them to casseroles, salads, and soups to make them more appetizing.
6. Bitter Melon
This plant attacks several intestinal disorders by producing a chemical that mimics insulin. Consuming the fresh juice of these melons, which can be found in grocery chains or health markets, may help lessen or eliminate pinworm infection. Mix the juice with water or tea, and drink it daily for two weeks.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Although this healthy elixir will not kill the pinworms, it will create a hostile environment for the parasites. Apple cider vinegar decreases pH levels in humans that prevent pinworms’ growth within the intestines or anus.
A high-sugar diet, which intensifies parasitic infection, is common among school-aged children. Therefore, consuming a small amount of apple cider vinegar each day can be helpful. Pour a small amount and “chase” it with water. This quick method is preferable to attempting to combine it with water or juice.
8. Good Hygiene
It seems cliche, but stringent hygiene practices go far in both preventing and eradicating pinworms. Be sure to wash your hands before eating and after using the restroom. Additionally, launder linens — bedding, bath towels, and kitchen towels — frequently in hot water. If possible, provide the infected person with a separate bathroom to use for the duration of the infection.
As with any natural remedy, proceed with caution and common sense. Be your own health advocate: Research the most recent information, and consult your healthcare provider if you have qualms and concerns. As most increasingly desire to treat ailments as naturally as possible, we must do so with wisdom and discernment.
Summary of 8 Natural and Effective Ways to Get Rid of Pinworms
Natural Remedy | Pinworm-Fighting Property | |
---|---|---|
1. | Coconut Oil | antibacterial and antiviral |
2. | Garlic | allicin antiviral |
3. | Pumpkin Seeds | cucurbitin |
4. | Wormwood | anti parisitic |
5. | Carrots | digestive aid |
6. | Bitter Melon | insulin-mimicking chemical |
7. | Apple Cider Vinegar | lowers pH levels |
8. | anti parasitic | cleanliness |
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