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Treatment options for parasitic infections

According to the CDC, about one in ten Americans has ever had a parasitic infection. Parasites are organisms that can affect any living being; in the case of humans, there are hundreds of types that cause acute and chronic diseases requiring treatment.

From digestive discomfort to severe systemic conditions, parasites require a specific medical approach for the person to regain health and quality of life.

Currently, the vast majority of patients with parasitic infections can be treated. When the type of parasite has been identified, specific drugs are conventionally used, although there are also natural alternatives that can help with treatment and prevention.

In this article, we will discuss different methods and their effectiveness in managing parasitic infections.

What are parasitic infections?

A parasitic infection is a disease caused by a parasite. These organisms infect a body and live at the expense of the host, taking the nutrients that the host ingests and requires for its functioning. They usually divide quickly and reproduce, making the host sick and a source of infection.

Different types of parasites need different treatments, but if people follow some tips, like keeping their immune system strong, eating well, and working out regularly, they can avoid getting these infections and lessen the damage they do, which can help them avoid getting chronic diseases.

Conventional medical treatments

Parasitic infections have different types of treatment. At the medical-pharmacological level, the medications depend on the parasite that causes the infection. Antiparasitics are also formulated to attack the parasite at its different stages: egg, larva, and adult; the symptoms it has caused; and which organs it affects.

1. Antiparasitic drugs

There is a large number of antiparasitics that have the function of killing, paralyzing, or stopping the growth of parasites. This helps the immune system fight them and allows them to exit the body.

The choice of antiparasitic medication mainly depends on the type of parasite that has infected you. Internal antiparasitics are administered orally to act within the digestive system, while external ones are formulated as creams, ointments, or oils that are applied to the skin to repel or kill the parasites.

We recommend taking preventive antiparasitic medications once or twice a year. These medications eliminate any trace of parasites before they pose a risk and help strengthen the immune system.

Adequate and timely treatment reduces serious health complications, such as anemia, chronic intestinal diseases, and nutritional problems.

Benefits of medical treatments and side effects

Being designed by specialists based on studies and regulated protocols, this type of treatment has high effectiveness in parasitic infections. They reduce the parasite load quickly and with high efficiency. They are available in almost all pharmacies and hospitals.

Like all medications, they are relatively safe, but they can cause some side effects that, if they become severe, will require medical attention.

  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Abdominal pain and diarrhea.
  • Dizziness or headaches.
  • Allergic reactions in rare cases.

2. Natural treatments for parasitic infections

Humans and parasites have coexisted since forever. Before the development of medicine, there were already some natural remedies to treat parasitic infections, and in recent years, interest in these herbs and supplements has been renewed. Traditional knowledge says that these natural products can help fight parasites, but it is always best to follow the advice of medical professionals and use these products along with medical treatments and infection prevention methods to ease symptoms and keep infections at bay.

Herbs and natural supplements

There are several herbs and supplements that have shown antiparasitic properties and can be added to the daily diet in safe doses, in addition to helping the body due to their high levels of nutrients and other beneficial compounds.

The most common ones are:

  • Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). Preliminary studies have identified compounds with antiparasitic properties. It can help eliminate some types of intestinal worms.
  • Black walnut (Juglans nigra). Traditional medicine has used black walnut (Juglans nigra) for centuries to treat parasites, primarily helminth infections.
  • Clove (Syzygium aromaticum). Among the many compounds in this plant, eugenol stands out, which can affect the eggs of certain intestinal parasites and reduce the likelihood of developing infections.
  • Papaya and pumpkin seeds. Researchers have been studying the compounds of these seeds in recent years. Preliminary results suggest that they may help expel intestinal worms.
  • Garlic (Allium sativum). Doctors have proven its multiple properties. In the case of parasites, it can be useful in controlling mild infections.
  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa). Its anti-inflammatory property helps with intestinal balance and improves the effectiveness of antiparasitic treatment.

Benefits of natural approaches

Including these foods in your diet helps complement prescribed medical treatments, reduces the side effects caused by medications, and many of these products are easy to obtain and accessible to anyone without a prescription.

These foods also contain antibacterial, anti-inflammatory compounds and those that strengthen the immune system, in addition to key nutrients for energy, health, and strength.

Limitations and risks of natural treatments

Is not to consume them without first consulting a specialist doctor to determine the amount and how they should be included in the diet.

Overconsumption of these herbs could lead to toxicity, which would be counterproductive. Similarly, if you take medications or have any pre-existing conditions, there may be severe contraindications.

What is the best treatment approach?

Parasitic infections always require appropriate treatment prescribed by a doctor; otherwise, they can worsen and lead to chronic diseases. The best approach will depend on the type of infection and its severity.

Mild or preventive cases

In this situation, including some herbs and supplements in the diet can have many benefits, especially if combined with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hygiene habits.

Diagnosed infections

The ideal is to follow the treatment prescribed by the doctor. This will ensure the effective eradication of the parasites. If the doctor approves, medication can be supplemented with natural remedies, but there must be no contraindications.

A combination of approaches

Natural remedies always have benefits if consumed in the right way; they help improve recovery and strengthen the immune system. Combining both approaches under appropriate supervision will enhance your health and prevent serious parasitic infections.

Prevention methods

In addition to the three previous options, it is necessary to follow habits that help prevent recurrent parasitic infections, especially if you travel frequently or are near an environment with a high risk of contagion.

  • To prevent recurrent infections, it is key:
  • Regular handwashing with water and soap.
  • Consumption of drinking water and avoiding contaminated sources.
  • Cook food thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables before consuming them.
  • Use of repellents in areas where parasites are transmitted by insects.
  • Periodic deworming in high-risk environments.

Contact our Mitogenesis medical expert in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Parasitic infections can be effectively treated with antiparasitic drugs, although some natural remedies can play a complementary role. While medical treatments offer a quick and effective solution, natural approaches can help strengthen the immune system and prevent reinfections.

Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential to choose the appropriate treatment and avoid unnecessary complications.

At Mitogenesis Regenerative Medicine, we can find a comprehensive strategy that can transform your life, alleviate inflammatory processes, and detoxify the body to improve overall well-being and quality of life.

If you wish to contact Dr. Mel Schottenstein at Mitogenesis or learn more about the treatments we offer, please call us or fill out a contact form with your information!

Sources:

Parasites. The functional medicine treatment for parasites (https://mfm.au/digestive-health/parasites)

Parasitic Infection (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24885-parasitic-infection)

Parasitic Diseases, Diagnostic Approaches, and Therapies (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2814373/)

Antiparasitic Drugs (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544251/)

“Antiparasitic natural products”, in Annual Reports in Medicinal Chemistry (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0065774320300105)

Reviewed by:

Dr. Mel Schottenstein

NMD, MBE, MScN, FICT, FSCT

Naturopathic Doctor

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of your physician or other health care professional. Do not use the information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem.

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