10 Home Remedies for Pinworms

Pinworm infections are one of the most common types of human intestinal worm infection. Pinworms are a kind of parasite that lives within the digestive system of human beings. Adult pinworms are about 0.5 inches in size and look like small pieces of white cotton thread. Their eggs, however, are extremely tiny and cannot be seen without a microscope. They can affect anyone but are most common in children between the ages of 5 and 10. Pinworms are quite viral and can spread very easily from person to person. So if one person at your house or school has it, chances are others might catch it too.

Raw Garlic

The garlic we use to add flavor and taste to our foods is also an effective remedy for pinworms. It does this by killing all the eggs of the pinworms, hence preventing the birth of new pinworms. Not only that but it also prevents the female worms from laying any new eggs. You can either eat garlic by adding it to pasta, sprinkling it on bread, or even on its own. Those who do not want to eat it, can also apply it externally on their rectal areas by grinding it into a paste and mixing it with Vaseline. A word of caution is that although garlic is generally safe for most people, it may cause side effects for some if consumed in large amounts. Common side effects include bad breath, gas, vomiting, and nausea.

Coconut oil

One of the easiest ways to treat pinworms is by using coconut oil. Coconut oil has a lot of nutrients that have antibacterial and antiviral properties that help in eradicating pinworms. There are two steps to curing pinworms using coconut oil. Consuming one tablespoon of coconut oil every morning right after waking up is the first step. The next step is rubbing a small amount of coconut oil into the affected area before going to bed every night. These two steps together will help cure a pinworm infection.

Carrots

Carrots are rich in fiber and hence can improve digestion which helps the body push the pinworms out of the intestines while you sleep. Eating shredded carrots three times a day is enough to help the digestive system get rid of the pinworms. Many people do not like the taste of raw carrots, especially children. They can mix the carrots with honey to improve their taste. It can also be consumed by adding it to salads or soups along with various spices to make it delicious. Moreover, carrots have a lot of other health advantages than just treating pinworms.

Onions

Sulfur is naturally present in onions, and it helps in removing pinworms from the body. Slice the onion and leave it in a pitcher of water overnight. Your onion liquid is ready for you to drink the next morning. The liquid should be taken three times every day to ensure the complete elimination of the worms from your body.

Pumpkin seeds

Raw pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacins which paralyze the pinworms but do not kill them. This prevents the pinworms from grabbing onto the intestinal walls. You should also consume a natural laxative to remove pinworms from the body. Mix a cup of yogurt with one cup of blended pumpkin seeds and drink it. Two hours later take the laxative. Repeat this for 2 to 3 days for the best results.

Wormwood

Wormwood is used medicinally to treat a wide array of diseases. Wormwood is also a powerful natural treatment for pinworms. Wormwood contains is thujone, santoin, and thujone which are highly effective antiparasitic substances. These substances damage the membrane of the parasites. Wormwood can be mixed with a few drops of water to treat pinworms. For a better taste, it can be brewed with tea rather than adding it to water. For best results drink it on an empty stomach.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Not only does apple cider vinegar kill the pinworms but also decreases the ph levels such that pinworms cannot survive or grow within the intestines. An added advantage of apple cider vinegar is that it produces no unwanted side effects and is safe for children and adults.

Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd treats pinworms as well as many other different kinds of parasites. Bitter gourd contains a lot of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, etc. Wash the bitter gourd and then cut it into several small slices. Remove the seeds and juice it. A disadvantage of bitter gourd is that it is extremely tart. For better tasting, bitter gourds choose unripe firm and small-sized bitter gourds. Moreover, you can add honey or apple juice to it for an even better taste.

Dietary changes

A bad diet will weaken your immune system, and that is possibly why you got affected by pinworms. A well-balanced diet is very necessary for a healthy life and to ensure parasites cannot harm you. When affected, it is recommended to eat more fruits and vegetables which provide valuable nutrients to the body. However, sugary foods and foods with a lot of carbohydrates should be avoided as these substances help the parasites grow and multiply easily.

Proper Hygiene

If strict hygiene measures are maintained, pinworms can be treated without any medication. Pinworms normally last for six weeks, so the measures need to be maintained for at least that duration of time. Keeping the house clean by washing all the clothes, the bed covers, vacuuming the carpets, and mopping floors all are part of these measures. Special attention should be given to the kitchen and bathrooms. Everyone living in the house should be made aware of the situation and should help by maintaining all the measures strictly.