05/01/2026
🌿 Worms & Parasites in Humans – A Naturopathic Overview
Gut parasites are more common than many people realise and can affect both adults and children. They are generally grouped into two main types: protozoa and worms (helminths).
🔬 Protozoa are microscopic parasites, commonly spread through contaminated water.
Examples include:
• Giardia – often picked up from swimming pools, lakes, or recreational water
• Entamoeba histolytica – can spread via contaminated water or food, daycare centres, animals, or livestock
These parasites commonly affect digestion and nutrient absorption.
🪱 Helminths (parasitic worms) are larger parasites and are more common in warm climates with poor sanitation or contaminated soil and water.
They include:
• Roundworms (such as hookworm and threadworm), often soil-transmitted
• Tapeworms, which in severe cases can affect the nervous system
• Flukes, spread through contaminated food or water, some of which can damage the intestines, liver, and spleen over time
⚠️ How parasites affect the body
Gut parasites can:
• Feed on blood and tissues, leading to iron and protein loss
• Interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption
• Trigger inflammation, affecting appetite and energy levels
• Activate the immune system, increasing nutrient and energy demands
• Contribute to fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, and low vitality
🕰 When is the best time to worm?
Many practitioners time parasite support around the full moon, when parasite activity is traditionally thought to increase.
🔁 How often should you worm?
This varies depending on exposure, symptoms, gut health and immune strength. Some people may benefit from periodic support once or twice per year, while others require a more individualised approach.
🌱 Herbal parasite support
Herbs traditionally used in naturopathic practice include:
• Wormwood
• Black walnut
• Cloves
These herbs are often combined carefully to support different parasite life stages and overall gut balance.
⚠️ Important note
Parasite cleansing is not suitable for everyone, particularly during pregnancy, breastfeeding, for young children, or where medical conditions or medications are involved. Professional guidance is important to ensure safety and appropriateness.
🌿 In naturopathy, we focus not just on removing pathogens, but on strengthening digestion, immunity, and the internal environment so balance can be maintained long-term.
