Pinworms/parasites...cayenne? - Alternative Medicine Message Board

sidnee74 · 12-08-2004, 08:30 AM

Caution: This post deals with a gross topic (IMO).

I had some minor itching in the past couple days and saw something in my stool that looked like a pinworm (thin, white, pointed end, I swear it looked like it moved). My hubby said he heard that cayenne was good for eliminating parasites and went out to get me some. Anyone know anything about this? How much should I take and when should I get results? How long should I wait before calling a dr? What about a bowel cleanse or I have even heard of a parasite cleanse but know nothing about either. Any specific brand names I should look for?

Also, should I treat my kids? They haven't complained of any symptoms. And should I quit preparing food for my family? I really don't even know how you get parasites. I am almost "anal" (pun intended) about hygiene, handwashing, etc. Could it be from the raw milk we drink or free range meats?

This whole thing has me pretty much grossed out and embarrassed

. I would much prefer a natural treatment so I can avoid the dr - but want something that is effective, too.

Appreciate your help,
Sidnee

marcen · 12-08-2004, 07:17 PM

Pinworms are highly contagious. They are transferred from human to human, not from animals as many people think. They are very common in children, and are then transferred to the rest of the family, although you may have picked them up yourself. The eggs go everywhere so you could have picked them up from many things...in most places, the drugstore carries the medicine you need OTC. You usually do not need to see the doctor. You take the medicine once and then again about 2 weeks later, and the whole family should be treated to be on the safe side. I wouldn't do the natural thing...I am all for alternative methods generally but pinworms are very hard to get rid of without the medicine. YOu will want to do a thorough cleaning of the house (wash bedding in hot water etc), to remove any eggs. Pinworms cause intense anal itching in most people, and usually at night when the female comes out to lay her eggs. Some people do not show symptoms and you usually cannot see them in the stool. I hope all this info helps...go talk to your pharmacist!

sidnee74 · 12-08-2004, 10:21 PM

Thank you for the info. I will check into it.

Sid

mudhound · 12-18-2004, 12:59 PM

Worms! YECK! what a problem. I think there is some OTC med that will help.

lu55 · 12-19-2004, 02:19 AM

Sidnee,

Please let me know what you find out as a treatment. Several days ago, I had the exact experience you did. Just the thought of worms/parasites inside me makes me cringe.

I did read (can't remember where) that the drugs MDs give you for this are hard on the body (possibly the liver?). I am still searching (obviously to no avail) for an alternative solution. So far I have read that cayenne pepper is good, as well black walnut tincture, garlic, cloves, and wormwood.

Let's keep each other posted. Oh, I'm leaving in a few days for the holiday and will not return until the end of Jan.

Thanks, Lu