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Parasites
Food and water: sources of life—but also possible sources of parasites. Rid yourself of these intestinal pests and the infections they cause. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Stay hydrated
When diarrhea strikes, replace lost fluids and replenish electrolytes by drinking sports drinks or other rehydration solutions
- Make prevention a priority
When traveling to areas where parasitic infections are common, don’t drink the tap water and avoid uncooked foods, foods prepared by street vendors, ice, and fruits that cannot be peeled
- Try a natural treatment
Talk to a professional about treating parasitic infections with natural antimicrobials, such as propolis, and berberine-containing herbs, including barberry, Oregon grape, goldenseal, and goldthread (Coptis chinensis)
Also indexed as:
- parasitic illnesses
About this treatment
About This Condition
Parasites are organisms larger than yeast or bacteria that can cause infection, usually in the intestines. The most common parasites to infect humans in the United States and Canada are giardia (Giardia lamblia), Entamoeba histolytica, cryptosporidium (Cryptosporidium spp.), roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus), pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis), and tapeworm (Taenia spp.).
Infection with parasites can be life-threatening in people with severe impairment of immune function. People should consult a physician if they suspect a parasitic infection.
Caution: Any herb potent enough to kill parasites could potentially harm the person taking it. Although some herbs have antiparasitic actions in test tubes, none has been adequately tested for efficacy or safety in humans. Safe and proper use requires the skills of an experienced practitioner.
Symptoms
Parasite infections can lead to a variety of symptoms, including gas, bloating, diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal cramping and pain, constipation, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, rash, cough, itching anus, and bloody or foul-smelling stools.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
Learn more about Aisle7, the company.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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