Naturopathy to treat intestinal worms

Naturopathy plays a key role in our quest for a healthy, balanced life. But what about treating specific problems such as intestinal worms? Explore this natural world with us!

What are intestinal worms?

Intestinal worms are small parasites that can infest the human digestive system. They are frequently linked to symptoms such as stomach upsets and intestinal problems. But how can they be treated naturally?

How do you get intestinal worms?

Intestinal worms, a common parasitic disease, are spread mainly by consuming contaminated fresh water or poorly washed fruit and vegetables. These parasites, such as Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) and liver fluke, settle in the digestive tract and can cause significant digestive problems, including abdominal pain.

The life cycle of these parasites often begins when the females lay eggs in the anus, particularly in the case of Enterobius vermicularis. These eggs can then be spread by contact with contaminated surfaces or by self-infection. Contamination can also occur through contact with domestic animals carrying these parasites.

The immune system plays an important role in defending against these infections. However, in some cases, treatment may require the administration of specific antiparasitics. For example, allium sativum (garlic) is often cited for its anti-parasitic properties and could be consumed in the form of a tablespoon of essential oil to help fight the infection.

Symptoms of intestinal worm infestation may persist for around 15 days. In the event of persistent or severe symptoms, it is advisable to consult a health professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

The naturopathic approach to treating intestinal worms

In a nutshell, naturopathy is a holistic approach to health that focuses on treating the underlying causes of disease. It uses natural methods to promote healing. These principles are based on the body’s self-healing ability and the balance of mind, body and spirit. Naturopathy is based on nature, prevention and individualised treatment.

Naturopathy approaches the treatment of intestinal worms in a natural way, focusing on diet, medicinal plants and other natural therapies.

Medicinal plants

It’s true that medicinal plants play an essential role in the naturopathic approach to treating intestinal worms. These plants are chosen for their anti-parasitic and curative properties:

Garlic (Allium sativum): Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. When ingested raw or in supplement form, garlic can disrupt the growth of intestinal parasites.
Mugwort (Artemisia absinthium): This plant is renowned for its vermifuge properties. It contains absinthin, a substance that can paralyse intestinal worms and facilitate their elimination.
Pomegranate (Punica granatum): The rich tannin in pomegranate can disrupt the digestive system of worms, weakening them and making it easier for the immune system to eliminate them.

A balanced diet

A balanced diet is the cornerstone of naturopathic treatment of intestinal worms. Here are a few key principles:

Rich in fibre: Dietary fibre helps intestinal motility, promoting the elimination of worms and parasitic eggs.
Avoid processed and sugary foods: These foods can encourage the growth of parasites. Whole, unprocessed foods are preferable.
Include probiotics: Fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir and sauerkraut can strengthen the intestinal flora, creating a hostile environment for parasites.
Adequate hydration: Water helps eliminate waste and toxins, including parasites.

What shouldn’t you eat if you have worms?

In the event of an intestinal worm infestation, certain dietary adjustments are recommended to help control the infection and boost the immune system. It is suggested that you avoid foods that may encourage the parasites to proliferate or complicate digestion.

Foods to avoid include those rich in fast sugars, such as cakes, desserts and very sweet fruit, as they can facilitate the proliferation of worms by providing them with energy. It is also advisable to reduce consumption of slow sugars such as rice, potatoes and bread to avoid hyperglycaemia ( always remember to balance your macros, and add protein and healthy fats to all your meals ). It is also advisable toexclude semi-skimmed and skimmed milk and cheeses, as they can make digestion more difficult. Only fresh whole milk can be consumed in moderation.

On the other hand, to boost immune defences and fight parasites, certain foods are suggested. Raw garlic, for example, is considered an effective dewormer. It is advisable to eat it whole, without chewing, to reap its full benefits. Foods such as turmeric and ginger are also beneficial, as they help boost the immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties for the intestinal mucosa.

Water therapy

Water therapy is another key method in the naturopathic treatment of intestinal worms:

Colon hydrotherapy: This technique involves the controlled administration of water into the colon to cleanse out waste products, including parasites. It must be carried out by a qualified professional.
Drink enough water: Adequate hydration is essential to maintain intestinal function and facilitate the elimination of toxins.
Detoxifying baths: Baths with Epsom salts or essential oils can help eliminate toxins through the skin.

Food supplements to combat intestinal worms

From a naturopathic perspective, nutritional supplements are an essential part of the treatment against intestinal worms. The use of specific supplements can strengthen the immune system, create an inhospitable environment for parasites, and support the body in its worm elimination process. Here’s a detailed overview of these supplements:

Probiotics: These supplements contain beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of the intestinal flora. Probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can create an unfavourable environment for parasites, making them easier to eliminate.
Digestive enzymes: Enzymes such as papain and bromelain can break down the proteins that make up the cell wall of parasites, making them easier to eliminate.
Oregano oil: Rich in carvacrol, oregano oil has powerful anti-parasitic properties. It can be used as a supplement to inhibit the growth of parasites.
Grapefruit seed extract: This extract, renowned for its antimicrobial properties, can target a variety of pathogens, including intestinal worms.
Zinc: Zinc is essential for optimal immune system function. Adequate zinc intake can boost the body’s ability to fight parasitic infections.
Iron: Parasitic infections can often lead to anaemia due to iron loss. An iron supplement can help restore normal levels of this trace element and support healing.

Finally, it is essential to stress that guidance in the use of nutritional supplements should always come from a qualified naturopathic or health professional. Personalise the selection, dosage and duration of treatment according to the individual, the type of parasites and the severity of the infection.

Supplements may interact with other medications or health conditions, so careful evaluation is necessary to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

How can I avoid getting intestinal worms?

Naturopathy, which is committed to a holistic approach to health, is not limited to the treatment of intestinal worms, but also extends to their prevention. Naturopathy helps prevent intestinal worms by combining a healthy diet, proper hygiene and environmental awareness. To prevent infection, rigorous hygiene measures are essential. Regular hand washing, especially before eating or after using the toilet, is crucial. It is also advisable to wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.

Healthy eating

Foods with anti-parasitic properties. Incorporating foods such as garlic, coconut and pumpkin seeds, which have natural anti-parasite properties, can help prevent infections.
Avoid high-risk foods. Eating undercooked meats, unfiltered water and unpasteurised dairy products can minimise the risk of exposure to parasites.
Stay well hydrated. Drinking enough pure, filtered water helps to keep the digestive system in good condition, making it a less favourable habitat for parasites.

Good hygiene

Hand washing: Rigorous hand hygiene, particularly before eating and after using the toilet, is essential to reduce the risk of contamination.
Proper cooking of food: Ensuring that meat is properly cooked and fruit and vegetables are well washed helps to eliminate potential parasites.
Pet hygiene: If you have pets, their hygiene and health must be maintained, as they can carry parasites.

Awareness of your environment

Know the areas at risk: In areas known to be infested with parasites, reduce the risk of exposure by taking precautions.
Protection against insects: Use protective measures against mosquitoes and other insects that can transmit parasites.
Safe gardening practices: Using gloves when gardening and washing your hands thoroughly afterwards can prevent contamination.

Can intestinal worms leave on their own?

In some cases, mild intestinal worm infections can resolve on their own, without medical intervention. This is particularly true when the individual’s immune system is robust and able to control or eliminate the infection. However, it is important to note that although symptoms may disappear, this does not always mean that the parasites have been completely eliminated from the body.

For more serious or persistent infections, medical treatment is usually required to eradicate the worms completely. Untreated infections can persist for months or even years, and in some cases can lead to serious complications, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

It is also important to note that some species of intestinal worm have complex life cycles that can make it difficult to eliminate them naturally without medical treatment. For example, the eggs of Enterobius vermicularis (pinworms) can cause self-infectious reinfection, prolonging the infestation.

In clinical practice, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment of suspected intestinal worm infection. The healthcare professional can prescribe specific antiparasitic drugs that are effective in eliminating the worms. In addition, it is crucial to follow rigorous hygiene measures to prevent reinfection and the spread of parasites to other people.

Is there a link between excess sugar and intestinal worms?

The question of the link between excessive sugar consumption and the proliferation of intestinal worms has been the subject of debate in the health field. However, it is important to clarify that sugar consumption in itself does not directly lead to infection by intestinal worms. Infections by these parasites occur, as previously mentioned, through the ingestion of eggs or larvae present in contaminated food or water, and not through the consumption of sugar.

Nevertheless, some experts suggest that excessive sugar consumption could potentially affect the balance of the intestinal microbiota and the immune system, creating a more favourable environment for the survival and multiplication of various parasites, including intestinal worms. A diet high in sugar can weaken the body’s defence mechanisms, making a person more susceptible to infections in general.

In addition, it is well established that excessive sugar consumption can have a number of negative effects on overall health, including increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These conditions can in turn compromise the immune system, making the body less effective at fighting infections, including those caused by intestinal worms.

In conclusion, although there is no direct link between sugar consumption and intestinal worm infection, an unbalanced diet rich in sugar can indirectly affect susceptibility and resistance to parasitic infections by weakening the immune system and the balance of the intestinal microbiota. It is therefore advisable to maintain a balanced diet and follow appropriate hygiene measures to reduce the risk of parasitic infections.