The thought of having parasites in your body can be quite disturbing and may seem like a distant problem from home, but it is much more common than you think. Parasitic infections do not only happen in underdeveloped countries or during travel. You can contract an infection from undercooked meat, contaminated fruits and vegetables, public swimming holes, and even your household pets.

Signs and Symptoms of Parasites

If you have any of the following symptoms, it may be a signal of infection:

  • • Unexplained symptoms of IBS (constipation, bloating, diarrhea, cramping)
  • • Vomiting
  • • Chronic fatigue
  • • Trouble sleeping through the night
  • • Skin irritation or unexplained rash
  • • Tooth grinding
  • • Never feeling satiated after a meal
  • • Cravings for sugar or carbs
  • • Iron deficiency anemia
  • • History of food poisoning

Even the toxins released from parasites into your bloodstream can cause anxiety or mood swings!

If you have been battling any kind of chronic illness for a period of time and tried many treatments to no avail, it may be prudent to check for parasites. You cannot repair the gut lining or cure any autoimmune disease without first removing the root cause or confounding factors. One root cause of many gut and autoimmune diseases is any type of infection. That infection could be viral, bacterial, and/or parasitic (which is often overlooked).

How to Remove Parasites Naturally

To heal yourself of a parasitic infection, it is best to start with diet and a good combination of anti-parasite herbal supplements. Temporarily avoid refined sugar and grains, alcohol, and coffee. Include garlic in your meals or as a supplement. Papaya and pumpkin seeds are anti-parasitic and can be easily hidden in smoothies or salads. Add probiotic-rich fermented foods to your daily regiment. Herbals that help remove parasites include wormwood, black walnut, clove, oregano oil, berberine, diatomaceous earth, grapefruit seed extract, neem, olive leaf, or propolis.

One of my favorite herbal formulas for parasite infection is the Wormwood Combination by Kroeger Herbs. This formula contains black walnut, cloves, and wormwood. It is really quite potent and effective when used properly and in combination with diet.

If you do decide to do a parasite cleanse, make sure you discuss it with your practitioner or wellness consultant at one of our Martin’s Wellness Pharmacy locations. The whole process can be stressful on the body if there is a substantial amount of parasites or if you take too high of a dose. Start off light and then dose your way up slowly to avoid die-off reactions from the toxins released by the parasites. If you have a history of liver disease or heavy alcohol use, do not attempt a parasite cleanse without supervision.

How To Know If Parasite Cleanse Is Working?

Once your body is clean and clear of critters, you may notice a reduction or complete reversal of symptoms. Many people experience increased energy, the removal of brain fog, reduced cravings, weight loss, clearing of skin conditions, the disappearance of fungal nail infections, and improved digestion. Some patients even mention the reduction or disappearance of achy joints and back pain. The gut is a key player in the health and function of the entire body. Almost all of us could use a seasonal house cleaning. Keep your insides as beautiful as your outsides and have a great holiday season!