The What and Why Behind a Parasite Cleanse

Could a pesky parasite be the reason for your stomach issues? How can you tell? And, more importantly, how do you get rid of it? Gut health is no joke, and a parasite cleanse could be exactly what you need.

Parasites are sneaky little troublemakers that often go undetected, but they can turn your digestive system into a total mess. We're talking cramping, bloating, constipation—the whole nine yards.

If your stomach has been less than stellar, a parasite cleanse might get your gut back on track and put wellness within reach.

What Is a Parasite Cleanse?

A parasite cleanse is a combination of herbal supplements and dietary changes designed to rid the body of parasites for better gut health. It's a natural, effective way to banish unwanted bugs.

Why Do a Parasite Cleanse?

Parasite Infections Are More Common Than You Think

You might have parasites without even knowing it! In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that about 24% of people around the world are dealing with intestinal parasites.

And before you think, "Well, that's not my problem," think again! Parasites can be found everywhere—yes, everywhere. They creep in places you wouldn't expect; Americans need to worry about parasites just as much as anyone else.

Symptoms of a Parasite Infection

Because they are often invisible to the naked eye, it can be hard to know if you've contracted a parasite.

Symptoms of a parasitic infection can vary widely:

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Gas
  • Bloating
  • Stomach cramps or pain
  • Rashes or itching
  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Chills
  • Increased appetite
  • Insomnia
  • Joint pain

What Types of Parasites Are There?

Parasites are living organisms that survive by latching onto a host and feeding off it. The CDC breaks it down into three types of parasites: ectoparasites, protozoa, and helminths. Yep, parasites come in all shapes and sizes.

Ectoparasites

Ectoparasites, like fleas, head lice, or ticks, live on the outside of their host. Since they are external parasites, they are much easier to spot. Parasite cleanses do not target this type of parasite.

Protozoan

A protozoan is a single-celled organism that lives in your cells and tissue. There are multiple species and they can reproduce within the human body.

An amoeba, a type of parasite that impacts your gut health.
Amoeba

Amoeba are the simplest living organisms on earth, but some of them are actually pretty dangerous.

Entamoeba histolytica is a type of amoeba that can infect your stomach and wreak havoc. Extreme infections lead to amebic dysentery which causes bloody diarrhea and fever. They may also cause amebiasis, one of the deadliest parasitic diseases there is.

Not to freak you out too much, but there's also a brain-eating amoeba that causes a fatal infection to the central nervous system. (Ready to try that cleanse?)

Ciliates

Another single-celled organism, there are plenty of free-living ciliates (meaning they don't need a host), but there are also some parasitic ones that can threaten your health in some big ways.

Balantioides coli is a parasite that infects humans. Commonly living in pigs, it's the largest parasitic protozoa that we're susceptible to. We mostly catch it through eating contaminated food, but it can also be in water.

People infected with parasitic ciliates can show no symptoms or experience intestinal disorders. In extreme cases, you can develop life-threatening colitis.

Unfortunately, there is no standardized system for detecting these parasites in your system. But, a parasite cleanse doesn't need a test to kick them to the curb.

Sporozoans

Sporozoans are spore-forming, single-celled parasites with complex life cycles. Unlike amoeba and ciliates, they are not free-living and need a host to survive.

Sporozoans can sneak right into cells, and when those cells burst, the infection spreads to new ones. Once enough cells are infected, they form what's called a gamont, which then develops into a gamete. When gametes fuse together, they create a cyst, the "adult" form that initially invades your body. (Yeah, we know, it's a bit of a biological maze!)

Sporozoans can cause malaria and toxoplasmosis when they're not detoxed.

Giardia

Giardia are microscopic, highly contagious parasites that can spread quickly from person to person—and even between you and your sweet fur baby! They're tough little creatures that can even survive outside a host for quite a long time.

You can pick them up from contaminated food or water. While heat can kill them off pretty easily, eating raw food puts you at risk. These parasites take up residence in the intestines of both humans and animals.

Not-so-fun fact: Some people become lactose intolerant after a giardia infection, and this sensitivity can stick around even after the parasitic infection clears up.

A giardia, one of the most common gut parasites.
Helminths

Helminths are parasitic worms that infect humans and other animals, often setting up camp in the intestines.

Most helminths can't reproduce directly inside the human body. They lay their eggs internally, but these eggs leave your body before they have a chance to hatch. Despite this, the worms themselves can live inside a host for years.

Some of the most common helminths are:

Tapeworms

Tapeworms start out as larval cysts and grow into long, flat, segmented worms.

When they're adults, they settle in your intestines, happily feeding away. But, those larval cysts can also make their way into other organs like your lungs, heart, eyes, or even your brain, causing some serious issues.

Tapeworms need two different hosts to survive. They start in an intermediate host where they hatch from egg to larval cysts and then move into a final host. Often this means they start in an animal like a cow, and then a human eats undercooked beef and becomes infected.

Sometimes, humans can become the intermediate host by eating or drinking something contaminated with tapeworm eggs.

A cluster of tapeworms.
Roundworms

Roundworms thrive in your intestines, and they can stick around for quite a while. (They can survive in the human body for up to two years.)

As their name implies, roundworms have long, round bodies. You can accidentally swallow their eggs by touching contaminated soil or eating food that's been grown in it. And sometimes, larvae can even pass directly through your skin.

A group of roundworms.
Pinworms

Pinworms are one of the most common parasite infections, particularly in children and those in long-term care facilities. These tiny worms are highly contagious, spreading easily through contact with contaminated surfaces, clothing, or even through the air. It's estimated that about 40 million Americans are affected by pinworms.

A cluster of pinworms.
Flukes

There are a couple of different kinds of flukes out there, and these parasitic flatworms can make themselves at home in different parts of your body (like your digestive or urinary system, intestines, liver, and lungs). Some species of flukes can even stick around for up to 20 years.

Flukes usually start their life cycle in snails, but they can also infect people who come into contact with contaminated water. Eating raw fish or aquatic plants can also make you susceptible.

A serious fluke infection can lead to problems like intestinal obstruction, so it's best to avoid these unwelcome guests and try a parasite cleanse when you suspect they're hanging around in your body.

Flukes, a common parasite that can cause health issues.
Whipworms

Whipworms get their name from their shape: thin bodies that look like, you guessed it, a whip.

These parasites live in your large intestines. If the infection is mild, you may not notice any symptoms at all. But if you have a serious infection, whipworms can cause major intestinal distress and even lead to severe anemia.

Whipworms, a type of parasite that lives in your intestinal lining.
Hookworms

Hookworm eggs can pass directly through your skin and make their way into your intestines where they hatch.

With their tiny hook-like heads, they latch onto your intestinal wall, feed on your blood, and grow into adults that eventually lay more eggs.

Just like roundworms, hookworms can live in your body for two years or longer. All that blood loss can lead to anemia and protein deficiency, making these little bugs a big problem.

A hookworm.

What Causes a Parasite Infection?

Many helminths are soil-transmitted, which means their eggs end up in the soil through contaminated feces. For example, you can pick up hookworms just by simply walking barefoot on contaminated ground.

People can contact parasites in several ways:

  • Eating contaminated food or food washed in unsafe water
  • Swimming in or drinking contaminated water
  • Eating raw or undercooked meat
  • Touching contaminated surfaces
  • Getting bitten by insects like mosquitoes, ticks, or flies

Those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to parasitic diseases, making it even more important to take precautions.

The Harm Parasite Infections Cause

Parasites constantly trigger your immune system and cause inflammation, making any chronic conditions you already have much worse. Not only that, but they steal the nutrients you need and replace them with their own waste and toxins.

This obviously leads to issues when it comes to digesting food but can mean long-term health conditions, too.

Parasites can contribute to serious conditions:

  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Weakened immune systems
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Life-threatening sepsis
  • Organ damage
  • Gastrointestinal cancers

Return Your Gut to a Natural State

Don't let parasites throw your gut biome out of whack—especially when a gentle home remedy like a parasite cleanse can help restore balance.

It reduces inflammation, detoxes all the parasitic waste and toxins, and allows the gut lining to heal. That's when the good stuff happens:

  • Improved nutrition absorption
  • Immune system recovery
  • Better digestion

We've been saying for DECADES that good health begins in the gut. When you take care of it, it takes care of you. Therapies that help you restore your gut fauna to a natural state lead to better overall wellness.

Counteract Harmful Side Effects

Even after taking traditional anti-parasitic medications, some people still experience symptoms until they try a parasite cleanse. This could be because the medication didn't completely eliminate the parasites, or the lingering symptoms could be side effects from the treatment itself.

Common side effects of anti-parasitic medications include the following:

  • Nausea and diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Dry mouth
  • Yeast infections
  • Weakness
  • Headaches
  • Drowsiness
  • Joint pain
  • Itching
  • Rashes
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Numbness
  • Seizures
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nervous system toxicity

How Herbal Supplements Work In a Parasite Cleanse

Natural herbs provide the support your body needs to eliminate the parasites while balancing your gut and immune system.

Certain herbs have antimicrobial properties that disrupt the life cycle of parasites and keep them from reproducing. Others provide detox directly, ridding the body of the toxins that parasites produce. Some even have antioxidants that support the immune system and reduce inflammation (and pain!) caused by the parasitic disease.

How to Find an Effective Herbal Parasite Cleanse

Not all parasite cleanses are created equal. In fact, some of the "heavy-duty" colon cleanses wipe out everything...even the helpful gut fauna.

When you're looking for an effective cleanse, you need to dig in and do a little research.

Look for Evidence-Based Cleanses

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn't cleared any parasite cleanses, but they don't typically endorse any dietary supplements or home remedies. That doesn't mean that supplements can't be informed by research.

There are plenty of scientifically supported alternative options. You just have to find knowledgeable providers who work with doctors and not against their medical advice.

Look at the Dietary Supplement's Ingredients

When buying supplements or cleanses, look for pure, trusted ingredients. Supplements should be free of any artificial additives and only include effective ingredients.

Effective Herbal Supplement Ingredients

There are a few natural herbs that target parasites. A good supplement should have a mix to properly attack different types of parasites and restore your gut health.

Wormwood Extract

Wormwood does all sorts of good for your gut (and your liver and gallbladder, too).

It's particularly effective at getting rid of intestinal worms and treating malaria, dyspepsia, fever, and upset stomach.

A wormwood bush.
Barberry Root/Berberine

Berberine, a compound found in barberry root, was first used to treat parasites in ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It has antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, so it can kill bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites like amoebae. It can even be used to treat giardia infections. Berberine can also help fight inflammation related to acne and dental infections.

Black Walnut

Black walnuts are rich in tannins, which help reduce pain and swelling. They're sometimes used to treat wounds and even leukemia. Black walnuts are packed with antioxidants that bolster the immune system and fight off harmful pathogens.

They have strong antiparasitic properties, too (thanks to juglone, a compound that disrupts parasite growth and helps expel them from the body).

Black walnut hulls.
Clove Extract

Clove doesn't just taste good—it's good for you.

It contains the antioxidant Eugenol, which helps kill parasites and their eggs to prevent them from multiplying.

A spoonful of cloves.
Oil of Oregano

Studies show that a few drops of oregano oil three times a day can help eliminate parasites after six weeks.

Papaya Seeds

Papaya seeds can also be effective against parasites. A study showed that 71% of children who were infested were cured after they received papaya seeds as treatment.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds and other vine crops contain cucurbitacin which helps expel tapeworms and roundworms.

Parasite Cleanse Protocol

In addition to taking the proper supplements--like our microdose Parasite Fluid Detox--it's important to support your body with good food during your cleanse.

  • 4 drops of microdose Parasite Fluid Detox
  • Restrict sugar intake
  • Incorporate more vegetables
  • Minimal meat consumption during cleanse for best results
  • Ensure plenty of rest during 3-week cleanse period

Eating foods packed full of probiotics helps eliminate parasites from the body and alleviate other stomach issues. They restore gut health by replacing bacteria lost to illness or antibiotics.

Good sources of probiotics include the following:

  • Sauerkraut
  • Kimchi
  • Plain yogurt
  • Pickles (not sweet)
  • Miso
  • Kefir cream
  • Buttermilk

You can also turn to organic fruits, veggies, meats, and natural whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugars, and industrial oils as much as possible. Instead, use coconut oil or olive oil.

How Long Does a Parasite Cleanse Take to Work?

The timeline can vary from person to person, but most people start to feel better after about a week, but that DOESN'T mean you should stop the cleanse. Parasites can have a complicated life cycle, and you want to make sure you're rid of them—eggs and all.

When it comes to our all-natural parasite cleanse, we recommend sticking with it for 21 days.

A woman adding parasite cleanse drops to her favorite drink.

Reclaim Your Body and Gut Health Naturally

No one wants to live with parasites or deal with the intestinal distress (and serious health conditions) these unwelcome guests can cause.

The right parasite cleanse can flush them all out of your system AND leave you feeling more energized and healthier than ever.

Our parasite cleanse is carefully crafted to eliminate unwanted pests in your digestive system while boosting your immune system and energy levels.

It contains all-natural wormwood extract, barberry root, and black walnut hulls. As always, our product is free from harmful additives, 100% bio-based, water-soluble, and fast-absorbing. Just add it to your drink to let it work its magic.

Our unique blend delivers low-dose effectiveness, so it won't upset the rest of your gut biome. In fact, our proprietary blend encourages overall wellness. And it's easy to use: just take four drops a day.

Each bottle of our parasite cleanse comes with 25 servings, leaving you with 16 extra drops in case you use a little extra day-to-day (totally safe, by the way). If you're tired of being host to all sorts of creepy-crawlies and GI issues, give it a try and take back control of your gut health!

Try Our Parasite Cleanse Now