While intestinal worms in humans can be unsettling to say the least, they are 100% treatable and preventable. Intestinal worms are also common, so recognizing signs of intestinal worms in humans is fairly easy. Before we discuss the different types of intestinal worms, symptoms, and treatments, take a look at just a few facts about intestinal worms.

There are more than 3,200 types of parasites in existence today and at any given time the human body may be infected with dozens of them. The most common parasite in humans is the worm. Parasites are divided into the following categories: Cestoda, Nematoda, Protozoa, and Trematoda. Some are microscopic while others are quite visible to the naked eye. Certain types of parasites are found more often in animals, such as the bloodworm, which typically infects horses. Other types of parasites may affect humans more often. Just a few of the different types of parasites that may infect humans include: tapeworms, (Cestodes); hookworms, pinworms, and roundworms (Nematodes); giardia (Protozoa); and flat worms, (Trematoda).

The most common type of human intestinal worm is the roundworm. It is estimated that one in every four humans is infected with roundworms. It is important to keep in mind, however, that parasites rarely cause any serious (or fatal) complications in Europe and North America. No matter what type of worm or how the worm ends up in the human body, whether it’s a bloodworm that somehow made its way into the human digestive system (extremely rare) or a roundworm, the vast majority of human intestinal worms may cause:

• Loss of appetite
  Abdominal discomfort
  Rashes
  Insomnia
  Eye pain
  Protein deficiency
  Gas
  Constipation
  Mental dullness
  Fever
  Coughing
  Nervousness
  Vomiting
  Nausea
  Anemia
  Stomach bloating
  Bloody stools
  Weakness
  Chills
  Diarrhea
  Fatigue

It is important to keep in mind that these symptoms are also common symptoms for many other diseases and conditions, so its best to consult a physician for an accurate diagnosis. A physician will test for parasites by taking a feces sample and examining it for parasites and/or eggs. Fortunately, the vast majority of parasites can be eliminated by using some of the same methods or by ingesting some of the same types of medications or antibiotics.

Parasites can be eliminated from the body through the use of colon cleansers and/or colonics, several rounds of antibiotics or medications as prescribed by a physician, and/or by utilizing a number of different herbal or natural remedies. It’s best to consult an herbalist for the very best herbal remedies to get rid of human intestinal worms. That said, there are several popular (and effective) remedies consisting of the following combinations of herbs and ingredients:

• Black walnut leaves, wormwood, quassia, cloves, male fern
  Capsicum, wormwood, sage
  Cramp bark, pumpkin seed, capsicum, thyme, garlic
  Black walnut, pine needles, sassafras

In general, herbal remedies should be taken orally for a minimum of two weeks. Some individuals may complain of re-infection. It is very important to change your eating habits immediately if you suspect a parasite or worm infection. It’s best not to go back to your regular eating habits in order to prevent re-infection. Certain foods, spices, and beverages might help to ward off parasite infections or they will keep you from becoming infected through food or water sources. These include:

• Cranberry juice
  High-fiber foods
  Pumpkin seeds
  Garlic
  Pomegranates
  Apple cider vinegar
  Figs
  Bottled or distilled water
  Thoroughly cooked meats and seafood
  Organic fruits and vegetables, washed thoroughly

Avoid the following foods and activities if at all possible:

• Undercooked meats
  Chestnuts
  Sugar
  Watercress
  Refined carbohydrates
  Swimming in lakes, rivers, an streams
  Using the microwave to cook meats

And finally, never underestimate the power of clean hands! You should always wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom whether it is in your home or in a public place. In addition, wash kitchen utensils and countertops with hot soapy water after each use and wear gloves when changing your cats litter box or cleaning up after your pets.