Let’s talk about a rather unpleasant topic: parasites, specifically, intestinal parasites. Thinking about slimy worms living inside your body is enough to send chills down anyone's spine. While intestinal parasites aren’t very common in developed countries like the United States, infections can and do still happen. Let’s go over some facts, what signs to watch for, and what can be done.

What is a Parasite?

Parasites are organisms that live on or inside another organism (called a host) and get their food or nutrients at the host’s expense. Since parasites need the host for survival, a parasite won’t outright kill its host, but can harm it in the process and, in some cases, can lead to serious health issues. There are 3 types of parasites:

Ectoparasites- This type of parasite lives outside of its host (fleas, lice, mites, and ticks).

Helminths- These parasites live in the gastrointestinal tract (flukes, pinworms, tapeworms, roundworms).

Protozoans- Invisible to the naked eye, these parasites can live in the intestines, blood, or tissues (amoeba, ciliates, flagellates, sporozoans).

Today, we’re focusing on helminths.

Intestinal Parasites

The word helminth comes from the Greek word for “worms”. Intestinal parasites are often referred to as stomach worms or, in Hispanic culture, lombriz. In their adult stage, some worms can be seen with the naked eye and can range from 1 millimeter to 10 meters, depending on the type! The two most common types of intestinal parasites are:

Roundworms – The most common intestinal worm infection worldwide, including pinworms, hookworms, ascariasis, and whipworms.

Flatworms – Includes tapeworms and flukes.

How do Humans Get Intestinal Worms?

Humans can become infected with intestinal worms in several ways, depending on the type of parasite. The most common ways humans get infected include:

1.      Consuming Contaminated Food or Water

• Eating raw or undercooked fish or meat containing worm larvae (tapeworms)
• Swallowing parasite eggs in contaminated fruit or vegetables (roundworms & whipworms)

2.      Contact with Contaminated Soil

• Walking barefoot on soil contaminated with worm larvae (hookworm larvae can penetrate the skin)
• Touching contaminated soil and then touching your mouth (especially common in children)

3.      Poor Hygiene and Sanitation

• Not washing hands after using the restroom or before eating
• Living or traveling to areas with poor sanitation, where the environment may be contaminated

Symptoms of Intestinal Worms

Diagnosing intestinal worms can be tricky, since symptoms often mimic other digestive disorders or show no symptoms at all. Some common symptoms reported are:

1. Abdominal discomfort (pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas)
2. Itching around the rectum
3. Extreme fatigue (in some cases leads to anemia)
4. Unexplained weight loss
5. Skin disorders (unexplained itching, hives, rashes)
6. Nutrient Deficiencies
7. Autoimmune Activation (inflammation, joint pain)

Diagnostics

Infections often go undiagnosed, especially in the U.S., where they’re less common. Doctors may misattribute symptoms to IBS or other conditions. Some tests that can be ordered by a health care provider include:

• “Tape Test”- A clear piece of tape is placed around the anus fist thing in the morning. After gently peeling it off, a doctor needs to examine the tape to look for any eggs.
• A fecal (stool) exam – Checks for parasite eggs or worms in stool samples.
• Endoscopy/colonoscopy- Uses a camera to examine the digestive tract.
• Blood test- Some parasites can be detected by using blood.
• X-ray/MRI/CAT – Lesions caused by some parasitic infections can be detected.

Foods that Naturally Help Eliminate Stomach Worms

Certain foods contain natural compounds believed to help fight intestinal parasites:

1. Garlic- contains allicin and ajoene, which have antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiparasitic effects.
2. Pumpkin seeds- Rich in cucurbitin, a compound that is believed to paralyze intestinal worms, making it easier to eliminate them.
3. Papaya & Papaya Seeds – Contain enzymes such as papain and alkaloids like carpaine, which can be an effective way to help treat parasites, according to some studies.
4. Cloves- Cloves contain eugenol, a compound believed to eliminate parasite eggs.
5. Wormwood- A bitter herb, traditionally used to help expel worms.
6. Pomegranate Seeds & Peel- Contain tannins and punicalagins that have anti-parasitic properties.
7. Black walnut- Black walnut hulls contain juglone, a bioactive compound that promotes antiparasitic, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties.
8. Coconut (Raw or Oil)- Contains compounds such as lauric acid, believed to promote antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiparasitic effects.

Supplements to Consider

Parasitil™- A carefully crafted combination of five herbal extracts believed to promote a healthy and parasite-free intestinal system. Ingredients such as quassia wood and black walnut contain compounds that are believed to promote the elimination of parasites from the body.

Organic Black Walnut- Black walnut has traditionally been used to promote gastrointestinal health for thousands of years. The tannins found in black walnuts promote antibacterial effects against common foodborne illnesses that affect the digestive system. Black walnut is also commonly considered a vermifuge, a substance that promotes the excretion of parasites.

Also available in liquid form!

Garlic 3000™- Combines odorless garlic extract with four natural herbs. Garlic has been used for centuries as both food and a natural remedy. It is traditionally used to promote antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial effects.

Do Parasite Cleanses Work?

Natural parasite cleanses using ingredients like black walnut, papaya seeds, and garlic may offer some antiparasitic benefits. If you suspect intestinal worms, these natural remedies can be a gentle first step in supporting your body’s efforts to eliminate them. As nutritious foods, they not only help target parasites but also promote immune and digestive health. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a more thorough evaluation and treatment.

Bottom Line

Intestinal worms can affect anyone, anywhere…even in developed countries. Infections happen more often than we realize. It’s important to stay aware of the signs and listen to your gut, sometimes it really is trying to tell you something. If you’re feeling off, adding natural remedies like papaya seeds to your routine might be a simple first step toward better gut health. While the idea of parasites can be unsettling, the good news is that most of the time, they’re treatable, and with the right approach, your digestive system can get back to feeling its best.

Your Hispanic American Health Store

Health Hispanica® is a Hispanic-American health store specializing in supplements from Hispanic-American-owned brands such as Natura-Genics® and Yerba Farma®. We strive to provide quality and innovative supplements at fair prices and educate our clients and community on healthy living. 

The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.