How to Use Natural Remedies for Pinworms

Pinworms (threadworms) are a tiny parasitic worm that lives in the intestines of infected people. They are most often seen in school-aged children and in institutionalized persons. They are not often dangerous and you can get medicines that will eliminate them. However, there are also some natural remedies that will help. Click through our slideshow to learn all about them.

Pinworms are very tiny white worms that live in the intestines of humans. They are typically ¼ to ½ inch long and very thin with a pointed end (like a pin). Since the females lay thousands of eggs, they are likely found in large groups.

Pinworms are an intestinal infection. They are dangerous because they cause some symptoms, but they are not dangerous because the symptoms are very mild and treatable. There are no long-term side effects and no severe symptoms.

You can get pinworms by swallowing the eggs. The lifecycle of the pinworm works like this; the pinworms live in human intestines (they are parasites). At night, the female pinworms make their way to the anus, where they lay their eggs, thousands of them, in the skin folds around the anus.

This can be itchy, so humans can scratch that area, and the eggs end up under their fingernails. If the human doesn’t wash their hands and then tries to get a popcorn hull out of their teeth or bite their nails, the eggs are swallowed, and the cycle repeats itself.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It seems cliche, but stringent hygiene practices go far in both preventing and eradicating pinworms. Be sure to wash your hands prior to 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.