A parasite is an organism that lives on or in another organism and provides no benefit to the host, usually causing harm. However, in common medical usage, the term 'parasite' is used to refer to protozoa, helminths, or insects rather than bacteria or viruses. [1]
We know from observation that pinworms cause problems in children such as weight gain, insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or waking up or waking up. Observational findings that raise suspicion include itching around the anus, discharge from the mouth, especially brown water, itching at the base of the nose and eyes, a constant urge to rub, and a tendency to bite.
Symptoms and Effects of Pinworms in Children
Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis) are intestinal parasites, particularly common in children. The most common symptoms include increased anal itching at night, restless sleep, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and the appearance of small white worms in the stool. The infection can spread easily through autoinfection and poor hygiene, which can negatively impact academic performance and social life. During the treatment process, all family members should take medication and maintain good hygiene practices. [2]
Parasites and Psychological Effects: The Relationship During the Full Moon Period
Intestinal parasites can have not only physical but also psychological effects on the body, causing symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, and attention deficit disorder. Some research suggests that parasite activity increases during full moon periods, and that symptoms in infected individuals may be exacerbated during this period. Changes in melatonin levels and sleep disturbances can lead to mood swings and strain on relationships. Intestinal health and regular parasite cleansing can positively impact both psychological balance and social relationships.
Effective Antiparasitic Folk Remedies That Can Be Applied at Home
The use of garlic for vaginal infections and parasitic problems is a common practice in folk medicine, especially in Europe. In this method, garlic is not applied directly, but rather is applied anally, wrapped in gauze. This gauze wrap prevents the garlic from coming into direct contact with the mucosa, minimizing potential irritation and burning.
This practice is thought to be particularly beneficial in cases where persistent vaginal infections are linked to parasites. However, it's crucial to always wrap the garlic in gauze before use. For more controlled use, the garlic wrapped in gauze should be shaped like a tampon, leaving a portion of the string exposed. This will make it easier to remove after use and help prevent potential discomfort.
Although this method is widely used among the public, it is not a medically proven treatment method that is safe in all cases. Therefore, if such a procedure is considered, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional beforehand. [3]
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In our eastern regions, red pepper and garlic form the basis of a culinary culture where a meat-based diet is common. This is because both foods provide natural protection against parasites. Red pepper, thanks to its capsaicin content, kills intestinal parasites and speeds digestion. Garlic, with its allicin compound, acts as a powerful natural antibiotic, preventing parasite proliferation. This traditional dietary habit not only provides flavor but also protects digestive health. [4]
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It is also a habit to chew cloves after kebab meals, and here too we see that the antiparasitic effect of cloves, whether consumed as tea or chewed, is effective in killing parasites and destroying their eggs due to the volatile oils it contains. [5]
Wormwood, when consumed as a tea, may be effective against some parasites, but it can be toxic in high doses and can have negative effects on the liver and kidneys. If treatment with parasites like roundworms isn't effective, wormwood may be an alternative, but a healthcare professional should always be consulted before use.
Garlic Applications and Its Role in Parasite Treatment
Garlic has antibacterial and antiparasitic properties and may be effective against infections such as intestinal parasites and roundworms. The compound allicin can inhibit parasite proliferation and strengthen the immune system. Garlic can be consumed raw, in oil, or in capsule form, but high doses can cause stomach upset and other side effects. It's important to consult a doctor before using garlic. [6]
Lemon Seed-Honey Mixture: A Suitable Parasite Medicine for Children
Lemon seeds and honey are two ingredients known for their natural antiparasitic properties and are considered a gentler and safer alternative treatment, especially for children. Thanks to the natural compounds in lemon seeds, they can help eliminate parasites from the digestive system by preventing them from attaching to the intestines. Honey, on the other hand, can protect the digestive system with its antibacterial and immune-supporting properties, alleviating parasite-related discomfort. Since everything starts anew once the parasite larvae hatch, it is recommended to peel the peeled lemon seeds (5 lemon seeds) and mix them with 1 teaspoon of honey regularly for two months. This is a very effective antiparasitic and easy-to-drink remedy for children.
Plants with Antiparasitic Effects and Their Proper Use
Herbs such as garlic, wormwood, pumpkin seeds, cloves, ginger, turmeric, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar can be effective in naturally combating intestinal parasites. Garlic and wormwood help kill parasites, while pumpkin seeds paralyze them, allowing them to be expelled. Cloves destroy parasite eggs, preventing reinfection. Ginger and turmeric support digestion, while coconut oil protects intestinal flora and prevents parasite proliferation. Apple cider vinegar regulates intestinal pH, making it difficult for parasites to survive. These herbal remedies should be used consciously and in moderation, and children and those with chronic illnesses should consume them under the supervision of a doctor. Pumpkin seeds, the most well-known phytotherapeutic agents, are used to combat intestinal parasites, especially tapeworms. They can be eaten raw or consumed as tea. How they work: pumpkin seeds contain a compound called cucurbitin, which helps paralyze parasites and expel them from the intestines. [7,8]
Pumpkin Seeds and Cloves: Powerful Antiparasitic Agents
Pumpkin seeds and cloves are plants with strong natural antiparasitic properties. Pumpkin seeds, thanks to the compound cucurbitin, inhibit the movement of parasites, helping them be expelled from the intestines. They also have anti-inflammatory effects. Cloves, with their eugenol compound, kill parasites, prevent their proliferation, and exhibit antimicrobial properties. Both support digestion and strengthen the immune system. However, they should be used with caution and consult a healthcare professional, as high doses can cause side effects. [9,10]
Walnut Shell Extracts and Their Antiparasitic Properties
Consuming black walnut shells as a liquid extract is also a widely used method in Russia and the Eastern Bloc. This is because the juglone compound it contains can eliminate parasites and other intestinal pathogens. Green walnut shells, however, offer a more potent effect. Using an oral care product containing ingredients such as papaya extract (due to the papain enzyme it contains) and grape seed, which offers a multi-faceted , multi-cosmetic effect, can be quite beneficial in this regard.
Fighting Parasites with Alternative Treatment Methods
Alternative treatments include herbal solutions, a balanced diet, natural supplements, and detox methods, which can be effective in combating parasites. Plants such as garlic, wormwood, pumpkin seeds, and cloves are known for their parasite-killing effects. Fermented foods and fiber-rich foods support intestinal health, while avoiding sugar and processed foods can prevent parasite proliferation. Natural supplements such as coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and turmeric support bowel cleansing. Detoxes and intermittent fasting can help flush parasites from the body by resting the digestive system. [12]
IMPORTANT NOTE: The information shared above is not health advice. It is for informational purposes only. It is recommended that you consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any of these products.
Source
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2. Ozcel MA, Ozbel Y, Ak M. Ozcel's Medical Parasitic Diseases. Meta Publishing, Izmir; 2007.
3. Cortés A, García-Ferrús M, Sotillo J, Guillermo Esteban J, Toledo R, Muñoz-Antolí C. Effects of dietary intake of garlic on intestinal trematodes. Parasitol Res. 2017 Aug;116(8):2119-2129. doi: 10.1007/s00436-017-5511-1. Epub 2017 May 23. PMID: 28536879.
4. Satheesh, N., & Mujeeburahiman, M. (2020). Antiparasitic properties of capsaicin in the human gut microbiome. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 249, 112-350. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2020.112350
5. Islamuddin M, Sahal D, Afrin F. Apoptosis-like death in Leishmania donovani promastigotes induced by eugenol-rich oil of Syzygium aromaticum. J Med Microbiol. 2014 Jan;63(Pt 1):74-85. doi: 10.1099/jmm.0.064709-0. Epub 2013 Oct 25. PMID: 24161990.
6. Liu, Q., & Chen, J. (2012). The effects of garlic on intestinal parasites: A review. Journal of Medicinal Food, 15(7), 602-607. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2011.0229
7. Dotto, J. M., & Chacha, J. S. (2020). The potential of pumpkin seeds as a functional food ingredient: A review. Scientific African, 10, e00575. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2020.e00575
8. Li T, Ito A, Chen X, Long C, Okamoto M, Raoul F, Giraudoux P, Yanagida T, Nakao M, Sako Y, Xiao N, Craig PS. Usefulness of pumpkin seeds combined with areca nut extract in community-based treatment of human taeniasis in northwestern Sichuan Province, China. Acta Trop. 2012 Nov;124(2):152-7. doi:10.1016/j.actatropica.2012.08.002. Epub 2012 Aug 11. PMID: 22910218.
9. Khan, A., Iqbal, Z., & Muhammad, G. (2006). Anthelmintic activity of pumpkin seeds against gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep. Journal of Medicinal Food, 9(2), 125-129.
10. Khan, MA, et al. (2016). Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and its potential applications in medicine and antimicrobial therapy: A review. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 10(20), 62-71.
11. Okeniyi JA, Ogunlesi TA, Oyelami OA, Adeyemi LA. Effectiveness of dried Carica papaya seeds against human intestinal parasitosis: a pilot study. J MedFood. 2007 Mar;10(1):194-6. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2005.065. PMID: 17472487.
12. Irum, S., Khan, M.A., & Perveen, T. (2020). Anthelmintic potential of medicinal plants against gastrointestinal parasites – A review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 249, 112399. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2020.112399]


