Most parents often complain about worm infections in children. These infections, often caused by intestinal parasites, such as pinworms or roundworms, can lead to discomfort and health issues if left untreated. They are usually caused by poor hygiene and can cause symptoms, such as itching, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. In this article, we list effective home remedies that can help alleviate symptoms and support the body's natural defences.
According to a 2014 study, overcrowding, water contamination, inadequate sanitation, and urban migration significantly facilitate the spread of parasitic infections, leading to high levels of endemicity. Additionally, the current research indicates seasonal fluctuations in intestinal parasite prevalence, with the highest rates (80.5%) occurring during autumn (mid-September to mid-November) and the lowest rates (43.9%) observed in spring (February to March).
Home Remedies To Treat Worm Infections In Children
Garlic
Garlic is one of the effective remedies to treat worm infections due to its antiparasitic properties. Also, allicin, a compound found in garlic, exhibits potent antimicrobial effects. You can add crushed garlic into your child's meals or mix it with honey to help combat intestinal worms. Raw garlic is the most effective, but if your child finds it too strong, you can also try garlic supplements.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain compounds like cucurbitacin, which have been shown to have antiparasitic effects. To use it for treatment, grind fresh pumpkin seeds into a fine powder and mix it with yoghurt or smoothies for your child to consume daily.
Also Read: Nature's Defence: Expert Lists Natural Antibiotics For Battling Bacterial Infections
Turmeric
Turmeric possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a valuable remedy for worm infections. According to MDPI, curcumin, a key bioactive compound found in turmeric, is known for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. All you need to do is mix turmeric powder with warm milk or add it to soups and stews can help alleviate symptoms and support the body's immune response.
Carrots
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, which support immune function and help the body fight off infections. You can include grated carrots in salads or cooked dishes to boost your child's immunity against worm infections.
Coconut
Coconut has antimicrobial properties that can help fight worm infections. It can be added to your child's diet or applied topically to alleviate itching around the anus caused by pinworm infections.
Papaya Seeds
Papaya seeds contain an enzyme called papain, which has been found to have antiparasitic properties. Crushed papaya seeds can be mixed with honey and consumed daily to help expel intestinal worms.
Cloves
Cloves contain compounds like eugenol, which have been shown to have antiparasitic effects. Grinding cloves into a powder and mixing them with honey or water can help expel intestinal worms and alleviate symptoms, such as abdominal pain and bloating.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut environment and support immune function. According to the Journal of Parasitology Research, probiotics possess strain-specific mechanisms to either kill or hinder pathogens, which involve competition, secretion of molecules, and/or induction of immune responses.
You can add probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables into your child's diet to help maintain a balanced gut microbiota and reduce the risk of worm infections.
Hygiene Practices
It is important to practise good hygiene for preventing and managing worm infections in children. Hence, encourage frequent handwashing, especially before meals and after using the bathroom. Also, trim your child's fingernails short to minimise the risk of transferring worm eggs from the anus to the mouth.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you have any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]