Deworming Alternatives: Safe Ways to Clear Parasites

If you’re worried about worms but want to avoid prescription meds, you’re not alone. Many people look for natural tricks that work without harsh chemicals. Below you’ll find real‑world options you can try at home, plus a few habits that stop parasites from coming back.

Herbal and Food‑Based Dewormers

Several herbs have been used for centuries to kick out intestinal worms. Garlic is a top pick – raw cloves contain allicin, which messes with worm metabolism. Chew a clove or add a few minced pieces to your meals daily for a few weeks.

Pumpkin seeds are another easy fix. They’re rich in cucurbitacin, a compound that paralyzes tapeworms and roundworms, making it easier for your body to expel them. Blend a tablespoon of raw seeds into a smoothie or sprinkle them on yogurt.

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) and black walnut hull extracts are popular in herbal tinctures. A few drops diluted in water, taken twice a day, can clear mild infections. Always follow the label dosage and talk to a pharmacist if you’re pregnant or on medication.

For pets, diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) works as a physical micro‑sharp abrasive. Sprinkling a pinch on your dog’s food can help break down worm eggs in the gut. Start with a small amount and increase gradually to avoid stomach upset.

Practical Steps to Prevent Re‑Infection

Even the best natural dewormer won’t help if you keep exposing yourself to contaminated sources. Wash hands thoroughly after using the bathroom, handling soil, or petting animals. Use a separate cutting board for raw meat and wash veggies well.

Keep your living area clean. Vacuum carpets, mop floors, and wash pet bedding weekly. If you have a yard, remove animal feces promptly – worm eggs can survive for months in the soil.

When traveling, be cautious about drinking water and eating uncooked foods. Stick to bottled water, peel fruits yourself, and avoid street‑food salads that might have been washed with contaminated water.

Finally, schedule regular stool checks with your doctor or vet. A simple lab test can tell if worms are still present, letting you adjust the treatment plan before the problem worsens.

Natural deworming isn’t a magic bullet, but combined with good hygiene it can be an effective, low‑risk way to keep parasites at bay. Try one or two of the options above, watch how your body reacts, and stay consistent. Your gut – and your pet’s gut – will thank you.

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Written by

Katie Law, Sep, 25 2025