Understanding Parasites and Natural Remedies
- Camille
- Sep 22, 2025
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 3
The Reality of Parasites
Parasites and intestinal worms are surprisingly easy to pick up. This can happen even if you maintain a healthy and clean lifestyle. Transmission from person to person is common. For instance, if someone does not wash their hands after using the restroom, they might leave behind microscopic eggs on surfaces. The next person who touches that surface and then puts their fingers in their mouth can accidentally ingest those eggs. Not washing hands after using the restroom is one of the most frequent ways people spread parasitic infections.
Parasites can also be present in undercooked, raw, or processed meats, including sushi. For example, eating undercooked pork can lead to trichinosis, a parasitic infection. They can be found in contaminated drinking water and on unwashed fruits and vegetables. Even insect bites from mosquitoes, ticks, or flies can transfer parasites. Walking barefoot on contaminated surfaces can allow larvae to enter the skin.
Children are especially at risk of infestation due to their behaviors. However, anyone with a weakened immune system—including the elderly and those who are immunocompromised—are also vulnerable.
Common Symptoms of Parasitic Infections in Humans
Many parasitic infections can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms often arise because parasites inhabit the gastrointestinal tract, disrupting normal digestive processes.
Parasites can drain nutrients from the host, leading to persistent fatigue, weakness, and exhaustion. This can also result in mood changes and cognitive issues, such as memory problems.
Skin problems such as like rashes, hives, eczema, or unexplained itching can occur due to the immune response triggered by parasites.
Individuals with parasitic infections may experience unexplained weight loss despite normal eating habits. This occurs because parasites consume nutrients that the body needs, leading to malnutrition.
Some parasites can cause inflammation in the body, leading to muscle aches and joint pain. This is often due to toxins released by the parasites.
Additional symptoms may include fever, chills, insomnia, and increased appetite. Some individuals may not exhibit any symptoms at all, or symptoms may take time to appear after infection.
Now What?
Herbal parasite cleanses often feature ingredients like cloves,
wormwood, and black walnut hull. These have been traditionally used for their potential antiparasitic properties. Laboratory and animal studies suggest that compounds found in these botanicals—such as eugenol in cloves, thujone in wormwood, and juglone in black walnut hull—may have activity against certain parasites and their eggs. For example, a study published in Parasitology Research (2013) indicated that eugenol could inhibit the development of some protozoan parasites. Wormwood extracts have been investigated for their effects on helminths in animal models (NIH). However, most evidence is preliminary, and more rigorous human clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety.
It's important to note that, unlike prescription antiparasitic medications, herbal remedies are not standardized. Their potency and purity can vary significantly. While some people prefer herbal cleanses due to their natural origin and historical use, these remedies are not without risks. Certain compounds—such as thujone in wormwood—may be toxic at high doses or with prolonged use. Black walnut hull can interact with medications or cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (NCCIH; NIH).
For these reasons, consulting a healthcare professional before beginning any herbal parasite cleanse is essential. This is especially true for individuals with existing health conditions, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or anyone taking prescription medications. A healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate and safe approach for addressing parasitic infections.
While prescription drugs are supported by robust clinical research and regulatory oversight, herbal preparations may offer adjunctive support for some individuals. However, herbs should not be viewed as universally safer or more effective than pharmaceuticals. Their use should be considered as part of an informed and individualized health plan.
When addressing parasitic infections, it is crucial to target all life stages of the parasite—eggs, larvae, and adults—to help prevent reinfection and recurrence. Some studies suggest that combining botanicals with complementary mechanisms of action may be beneficial. However, further research is needed to establish optimal protocols and dosing. Persistent and appropriately timed treatment, under professional supervision, is important for thorough eradication and overall safety.
Benefits of Wormwood, Green Black Walnut Hull, and Cloves
I produce and distribute Organic Herbal Parasite Cleanse Tinctures. I am committed to sharing information regarding their composition and potential applications. My recipe is based on a traditional herbal formula that has been utilized for centuries. Below are the key ingredients and their reported benefits:
Black Walnut Hull: Tinctures and supplements made from black walnuts are frequently used to address internal parasites in both humans and animals. Black walnuts are recognized for their antiviral and anti-parasitic properties. The hull may create an environment inhospitable to certain microbes without adversely affecting the host.
Clove Buds: These have served medicinal purposes for hundreds of years due to
their antioxidant and antimicrobial attributes. The active constituent, eugenol, is believed to dissolve the hard casing surrounding parasite eggs. Research indicates that eugenol, particularly in clove essential oil form, has demonstrated efficacy against intestinal protozoans such as Giardia and the blood fluke Schistosome.
Wormwood: This herb contains sesquiterpene lactones, compounds thought to compromise the membranes of parasites. This may also extend to certain bacterial species associated with stomach ulcers. Some sources suggest wormwood anesthetizes intestinal parasites, promoting their elimination through natural processes.
This information is provided for educational purposes and should not substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you are interested in making your own Parasite Cleanse Tincture, feel free to contact me on my website at www.hootnnannyholler.com, and I will send you the detailed instructions.
Not Just for Parasites – Other Benefits of This Tincture
Candida Control: Candida fungus in your body can cause yeast infections. Black walnuts contain juglone and tannins that create an antifungal environment, preventing fungus from surviving in your digestive system.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels. They can also enhance blood flow, increase libido, and improve erectile function.
Digestive Health: The natural anti-inflammatory properties of black walnut hull and cloves can soothe an upset stomach. Black walnuts can relieve both constipation and diarrhea by balancing the gastrointestinal system.
Heart Health: Black walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids and beneficial compounds, making them perfect for heart health. They can help regulate cholesterol levels, eliminating dangerous LDL cholesterol and lowering blood pressure.
Antioxidant Protection: Cloves are full of antioxidants, which can help fight free radicals that damage cells. This may lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
Inflammation Reduction: Both black walnuts and cloves can reduce inflammation. Cloves are used to treat coughs, toothaches, arthritis, and gum disease. Black walnuts can soothe sore throats and irritated gums by gargling with a tincture diluted in warm water.
Pain Relief: Black walnut contains high concentrations of tannins, which can reduce pain and swelling and dry up body fluids such as mucus.
Before You Start a Cleanse
If you plan on doing a parasite cleanse or your practitioner has recommended it, please read the following information for instructions and what you should be aware of:
Testing First is Always Recommended
Taking a parasite test should be done with an easy at-home test or by your practitioner. Some symptoms include:
Digestive issues such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, constipation, and dysentery (loose stools with blood and mucus).
Skin issues such as rashes, eczema, hives, itching, or a pimple-like rash around the rectum or vulva.
Muscle and joint pain.
Other symptoms may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, malnutrition, swollen lymph nodes, depression, feeling apathetic, constant hunger, iron deficiency, or anemia.
Your test may reveal that you have parasites and let you know what kinds. Some of the parasites that show up on the tests are:
Giardia lamblia
Entamoeba histolytica
Cryptosporidium species
Cyclospora cayetanensis
Pinworms
Hookworms
Threadworms
Whipworms
Dwarf tapeworms
Tapeworms
New world hookworms
If your gut health test reveals you have Giardia, you need to tell your doctor right away. You’ll get a pharmaceutical antimicrobial designed to kill the parasite quickly.
Once you’ve taken the test and determined you have parasites, you can start the cleanse using the following protocol or follow your practitioner’s instructions.
Parasitic Infestation Treatment Protocol
The following is the protocol we recommend based on research and personal experience for our Hoot'n Nanny Holler Organic Herbal Parasite Cleanse:
Typical dosage is 30 drops, three times per day for 14 days. The 2oz bottle is the minimum size necessary for a full cleanse. Repeat after taking a 14-day break.
As a preventative measure, after a meal of sushi, take 30 drops, three times a day for 2 days. Place the drops directly under the tongue and chase with a small glass of water, juice, or any other fluid that may taste more pleasant.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
What to Expect
During a parasite cleanse, eat a nutrient-dense whole food diet that includes lots of fiber and plant chemicals. Processed foods and sugars fuel dysbiosis. Dysbiosis occurs when the balance of microorganisms in the body is disrupted, leading to potential health issues that may accompany parasite infections.
Everyone reacts differently to parasite cleansing. Some people feel better quickly, with few side effects, while others may experience a temporary worsening of their symptoms. Most people see definite improvements in their symptoms after a week or so. However, don’t stop the protocol just because you’re feeling better. You need to stay on the protocol to kill the parasites at different stages, or they will return.
It’s normal to feel bloated or tired or have mild flu-like symptoms while doing a parasite cleanse. You may also experience constipation or diarrhea. These effects should only last around a week. If they last longer, let your practitioner know.
A good parasite cleanse is one that works for you! There are numerous herbal parasite cleansers on the market, each with antimicrobial herbs to help eliminate parasites in your gut. Some of the herbs used are Black Walnut Hull, Wormwood, Cloves, Goldenseal, Oregano, Barberry, and Berberine. These herbs can be used alone or in combinations. I like using the Black Walnut Hulls, Wormwood, and Cloves in my tincture, but I can create other combinations if requested.
Taking other herbs to support your gut health is recommended while doing a cleanse. In general, a parasite cleanse should include an antimicrobial herb or combination of herbs and other supplements to support your gut throughout the cleanse. While doing the cleanse, I recommend taking another tincture that supports your gut health, such as Fennel, Slippery Elm, Marshmallow Root, Dandelion Root, Ginger, Turmeric, Mint, Gentian, Cayenne Pepper, Licorice, Coriander, and Garlic. All of these can be taken alone or in combination to support gut health.
Cleansing with chemicals or herbs is not intended for long-term use. I don’t recommend following any antimicrobial protocol for an extended period. The herbs that kill parasites and harmful microbes can also destroy the beneficial microbes that support your gut, allowing parasites to return. This is why it is important to work with an experienced practitioner. They will recommend specific prebiotics and probiotics as part of your protocol. Prebiotics help nourish beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics introduce healthy microbes that can restore balance after antimicrobial treatments.
About Us
Our Black Walnut trees grow here on the Hoot'n Nanny Holler Farm, thriving for years. We grow wormwood in the garden and never use chemicals on any of our plants or trees. We harvest all our plants at their peak for the best potency. I do outsource organic cloves. I dehydrate the black walnut hulls and wormwood and infuse them in vodka along with the cloves.
I have a plethora of herbs in my ever-growing apothecary. I use the finest ingredients for my health and body care products. Most of my herbs are grown or wildcrafted from my own organic sustainable gardens. If I don't have it, I outsource it from local and organic sources whenever possible. I do not use fragrance oils in my consumable products, just herbs or supplemental oils. All apothecary products are created by me in small batches.
Descriptions and information are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease or illness. All pregnant women should consult a doctor before using anything new. Consult a doctor before starting any new supplements, medicines, or herbs.
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