Cleanse & Detox

Understanding Parasite Cleanse Side Effects for a Better Detox

BY PUREHEALTH RESEARCH | December 4, 2023

If you have landed here trying to look for more information about parasite cleanse side effects, chances are you are part of the increasing number of people who have taken an interest in this type of detox. A parasite cleanse is any dietary regimen, supplement, or detox product you can use to support your body’s natural removal of harmful microorganisms. These strategies come in all sizes and colors on the internet; however, very limited scientific evidence exists to support them. 

Recently, various types of detoxes that claim to purge the body of any invaders have surfaced online. Social media has been primarily responsible for the popularity of these treatments extending all over. Whether they are truly effective or not, everyone seems to have their own opinion on the matter. What’s true is that there’s not enough research available yet backing many of these detox methods. As such, it’s important to remember that one could experience parasite detox side effects when following these methods. 

In this article, we will delve into the world of parasite cleanses, explain some of their common side effects, learn how to minimize them, the symptoms one could experience when in the middle of a parasitic infection, and finally, a couple of home remedies you can use. Keep reading to learn more! 

What Is a Parasite Cleanse?

It’s no secret that parasites are inside every one of us in one way or another. These microorganisms infect other living creatures’ bodies and live off their hosts to survive. Now, not all parasites are harmful to their hosts. Many of them cause no symptoms or sickness whatsoever. Nevertheless, there are others that can cause severe illnesses if left unchecked. Here is where parasite cleanse treatments^[1] come into play.

Parasite cleanses are a combination of herbal supplements and dietary changes implemented to kill these unwanted organisms in your body. Through this approach, one can stop these organisms from feeding on the nutrients we need. 

Parasites can make their way into our bodies more easily whenever our immune system or gut health is down. Under this scenario, we become the ideal hosts for them as they take over and start causing inflammation and several other illnesses as a result. Another way for parasites to easily overrun our bodies’ defenses is when we cannot detox toxins and waste inside. 

Why Do People Do Parasite Cleanses?

People can opt for parasite cleanses for various reasons. Chief among them is if they know these nasty microorganisms are present in their bodies and want to get rid of them for improved health. However, detox products have become all the rage with the recent upsurge of health influencers and fitness gurus online promoting them. Many of these parasite cleanses often target harmful organisms located in your gut to expel them and help you experience relief. 

The thing with many of these unproven parasite cleanse strategies promoted over the internet is that none of them have enough scientific research backing them. Therefore, there’s always a risk of following them. Hundreds anecdotes exist online about people’s experiences with these diets, herbal remedies, and supplements and how much better they feel afterward. The problem is that the positive changes people may feel are probably a result of their healthier diet and habits than of the parasite cleansing itself.

A certain pro that stems from these parasite cleanse methods is that avoiding certain foods and increasing the consumption of others rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is great for the body. On the other end, taking untested herbs and supplements could potentially have unfavorable side effects, like drug-induced liver disease. Additionally, for people who suffer from chronic illnesses, careful, controlled medication is a must to avoid any issues. 

Types of Parasite Cleanses

Many different kinds of parasite-cleansing methods exist, but the main thing you should know is that most of them aim to clear harmful parasites from your body. If you are already aware of the presence of these organisms in your body, the next step is to look for a proper strategy to help you. Most health experts generally classify them into the following three groups:

• Herbal Remedies: This strategy involves taking natural herbal remedies. Humans have been dealing with parasites for several thousand years, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that many herbs have been used in the past to get rid of them. These natural herbs are often time-tested solutions known to man. In some cases, research backs them up, such as how Artemisia annua^[2] has proven effective against monogenean parasites or how oregano’s oil^[3] eliminates blastocystis hominis. 
• Over-The-Counter Remedies: These remedies aid in managing and treating infections caused by parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites. Antiparasitic drugs^[4] cover a broad range of classes that span the many diseases caused by these organisms. Over-the-counter medications are those people can easily acquire from pharmacies or other outlets without the need for a medical prescription. For example, pyrantel pamoate is a common drug in this category.
• Prescribed Remedies: Similar to the category above, this refers to antiparasitic remedies^[5] people can only obtain through a physician’s approval. Since parasites come in many shapes, sizes, and forms, there’s a wide range of prescribed medications that you can find. There are antiamoebic agents, antinematodal drugs, and all manner of ectoparasiticides. 

Parasite Cleanse Side Effects

So, what are the side effects of a parasite cleanse? you are probably wondering. Turns out, there can be both good and bad effects from following one of these cleansing regimes. While pursuing a healthier diet and making the right lifestyle decisions go a long way in ensuring your well-being, many of the herbs and supplements that appear in parasite cleanse strategies online often lack testing and validation for safety. Thus, although some may prove beneficial, they can have a range of negative side effects. 

If you are unaware of how to properly cleanse, chances are you might hop into a strategy that will result in lots of parasite cleanse side effects. Consuming harsh antimicrobial herbs or antibiotics without first preparing your body to do so can result in you experiencing what’s known as “Herx” reactions. Also known as “die-off” reactions, they are short-term detoxification responses that occur in the body and can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Initially, these may seem as if the parasite cleanse strategy is making you feel worse instead of better.

As your body detoxifies parasites and other malicious organisms inside, if it is not capable of clearing these pathogens fast enough, then there’s a risk you may experience an assortment of symptoms. If your gut health is poor or you have a compromised immune system, these can also contribute to more common adverse reactions.

Additionally, some ingredients could cause harm to your body when ingested in large amounts or interact unfavorably with other medicines you might be taking. Ideally, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before undertaking any parasite cleanse methods. With that said, let’s now take a look at some of the most common parasite cleanse side effects and what you can do to minimize them. 

Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Many parasites love choosing the intestinal tract as their home. Whenever you apply one of these cleaning methods, expect some herbal parasite cleanse side effects in your gastrointestinal system. An upset stomach one of the most common parasite die-off symptoms, which can cause constipation, bloating, diarrhea, and other digestive issues. 

As your body releases pathogens, bacteria, biofilms, and toxins, expect to visit the WC frequently. Both herbal parasitic cleansing supplements and the more commercially available synthetic medications are prone to causing this effect. Nonetheless, if you are iron deficient for whatever reason, do know that cleanse supplements may be harmful to you. Moreover, if you are already constipated, avoid starting a parasite cleanse. 

Temporary Increase in Fatigue 

Fatigue is another well-known side effect^[6] of following any parasite cleanse strategy. The cause for this is simple: it’s challenging for the body to process and eliminate the toxins parasites release when they die. When pathogens die inside your body, they release a number of substances that start a cascade of reactions. These substances, known as glycoconjugates, appear during a parasite cell membrane breakdown, triggering an inflammatory response. Fatigue is, thus, a result of your body overworking as it tries to process and eliminate these toxins inside. 

Possible Allergic Reactions

The body’s exposure to parasites can trigger immune responses, including increased mucus and phlegm production. These substances help trap and remove microbes but are not specifically aimed at “toxins.” The immune system may produce antibodies to recognize and neutralize parasites, but mucus mainly traps particles rather than targeting bacteria.

Skin rashes and dermatological reactions can be allergic responses or symptoms of parasitic infections. However, conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rashes have various causes and aren’t always linked to parasites. The skin does eliminate substances through processes like sweating, but common skin issues aren’t directly tied to parasite-related detoxification.

Consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment of skin rashes or respiratory symptoms to determine if they’re related to parasitic infections or other conditions.

Neurological Symptoms Like Headaches

Headaches are among the most typical symptoms of any kind of detox. When undergoing a parasite cleanse, they can also arise due to a change in your diet. During these cleanses, it’s common to change one’s diet to better support the detoxification process. Dietary changes on their own can cause the body to react, but it’s not uncommon for parasite die-offs to also produce this. Sometimes, these headaches can occur accompanied by sensitivity to light and nausea. 

It is normal for your gastrointestinal tract to become inflamed during these parasite-cleansing routines. In case you didn’t know, both the brain and the gut are directly linked through the vagus nerve — a cranial nerve that goes from the top of your gut to two distinct parts of your brain. Both the autonomic nervous system and inflammation control depend on this nerve.

So, whenever this part of your body is inflamed, these inflammatory signals can fire to your brain, causing headaches^[7] in the process. Furthermore, your liver and gallbladder are also on overdrive during a cleanse to get those pathogens out, so if they cannot clear those toxins fast enough, they send inflammatory signals to the brain. 

How to Minimize Side Effects During a Parasite Cleanse

The undeniable goal of any parasite cleanse is to feel better. Thus, effectively preparing your body before jumping into one of these detox regimes is crucial. How to do a parasite cleanse that would have a lower probability of side effects? Consider the following tips and precautions to effectively manage the side effects of your parasite cleansing:

For Gastrointestinal Discomfort

• To properly manage an upset stomach, consider including more easily digestible foods in your diet, like oatmeal, kitchari, rice, soup, and steamed vegetables. It is also prudent to have herbs and herbal teas like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile, known for their stomach-soothing properties.
• Avoid starting a parasite cleanse if you’re already constipated. Before taking cleansing supplements, ensure you get plenty of fiber and have regular bowel movements. This approach is especially important in an intestinal parasite cleanse.

For Fatigue

• Here, sleep is vital. It gives the body all the time and space it needs for recovery. Slowing down on exercises could also be a good idea. Instead of more demanding routines, try some gentle yoga or stretching.
• B vitamins work wonderfully to combat fatigue^[8]. These vitamins support fundamental cellular functions for the body to generate energy through metabolism. An adequate supply of them is necessary to ensure the proper functioning of your energy production systems.

For Allergic Reactions

• When dealing with a stuffy nose and phlegm, using a saline solution through a Neti Pot or Navage system is a great way to rinse your sinuses and combat these associated symptoms.
• For skin rashes, dry skin brushing is a sound approach to trigger your lymphatic system and reduce the appearance of dead, toxic-filled skin. Furthermore, you can also apply coconut oil^[9] with some diluted tea tree oil to aid skin rashes heal faster. 
• Sufficient hydration and anti-inflammatory painkillers or fever-reducing herbs like moringa and kudzu root can prove helpful for other flu-like symptoms. 

For Headaches

• To manage headaches during one of these detox regimes, ensure you are well-hydrated and getting enough rest. Dehydration can quickly make headaches feel worse. 
• You can also rub peppermint oil across your temples, as studies have shown this reduces the tension of headaches^[10]. Other oils that can prove helpful in relieving gut-induced headaches include Frankincense oil or WO China healing oil.
• Drinking ginger tea is also an excellent approach to reduce nausea and vomiting, as well as provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidants to fight migraine pain.

PureHealth Research Parabroom

Paraboom by PureHealth Research is a specially designed supplement to support your body’s natural defenses against parasites. Ideal for those dealing with unexplained weight changes, bloating, constipation, headaches, skin irritations, or fatigue possibly linked to parasites, Parabroom is a game-changer.

Developed by seasoned scientists and backed by thorough research, Parabroom enhances your body’s ability to tackle digestive issues and mental fog associated with parasites. Its potent formula includes papain, turmeric, sweet wormwood powder, black walnut, and extracts from olive leaves, garlic, and onion, all synergizing to support your body’s natural processes and ensures your parasite cleansing is working.

Endorsed by Dr. Holly Lucille, ND, a respected naturopathic expert, Parabroom offers a reliable, natural approach to parasite management. With Parabroom, embrace a healthier, more comfortable life free from the challenges posed by parasites.

Ways Parasites Are Transmitted

Parasites can be contracted in a number of ways, often through everyday activities. Here are some common ways this can happen:

• Eating and Drinking: Consuming food or water that’s not clean or properly treated can be a source of parasites.
• Direct Contact with Soil: Activities like walking barefoot on unclean soil can lead to parasitic contact.
• Different Types of Organisms: Parasites come in various forms. Some are tiny, single-celled organisms that thrive once inside the body. Others are worm-like and can live either inside or outside your body. There are also certain insects that can live on the skin and carry parasites.
• Transmission Methods: Apart from contaminated food and water, parasites can be spread through physical contact. Sometimes, insects act as carriers, transmitting these organisms.
• Risk Factors: The likelihood of contracting parasites increases with certain factors. These include having a less robust health, living in or visiting humid regions, limited access to clean water, swimming in unclean natural waters, and working in environments with frequent soil contact or exposure to unsanitary conditions.

Being aware of these transmission methods and risk factors is important. Taking appropriate precautions, especially in high-risk environments, can help minimize the chances of contracting parasites.

Symptoms of Parasitic Infection

Parasites come in many forms, and their impact can vary greatly. In some cases, individuals may not show any noticeable changes despite having a parasite, and they might unintentionally pass it to others. The signs associated with parasitic presence can be quite diverse and sometimes might be confused with other common health concerns.

Commonly observed signs that might suggest the presence of a parasite include:

• Unusual allergic responses
• General discomfort or body aches
• Changes in weight or appetite
• Feeling unusually tired or weak
• Occasional nausea or an upset stomach
• Frequent stomach discomfort or sensitivity
• Visible changes on the skin, like bumps or rashes
• Elevated body temperature
• Digestive irregularities like gas or bloating
• Difficulty sleeping or restlessness at night
• Persistent fatigue
• Itching in sensitive areas
• Observing unusual elements in your digestive waste
• Changes in digestion, sometimes with stomach upset

It’s important to remember that these signs can be associated with many different conditions and not just the presence of a parasite. If you’re experiencing any of these changes consistently, it’s a good idea to discuss them with a health professional for further understanding and guidance.

Home Remedies for Human Parasite Cleanse

Although conventional medical treatments can help eliminate parasites efficiently, natural home-based alternatives are available for those who prefer an alternative approach. That said, it’s always a wise idea to always check first with a healthcare expert before implementing any of the following natural remedies. So, what to eat on a parasite cleanse?

• Garlic: This plant is a powerful natural remedy with potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It contains allicin, a substance that’s proven useful in fighting various parasites. Eating raw garlic regularly or taking garlic supplements can aid your body in getting rid of several types of parasites.
• Pumpkin Seeds: The seeds of this plant have been a mainstay of homeopathic treatment for centuries. They contain cucurbitacin, a chemical that paralyzes parasites and aids the body in eliminating them. You can consume pumpkin seeds either raw or by grounding them into a powder and adding them to your favorite smoothies or dishes.
• Wormwood: This bitter herb is another home remedy people have used for centuries to combat parasites. It contains thujone and artemisinin, which have powerful antiparasitic properties. With the aid of a knowledgeable healthcare provider, you can eat wormwood in tea form or as a supplement. 
• Coconut Oil: The oil from this fruit is an excellent natural treatment for parasitic infections. It contains medium-chain fatty acids that destroy the parasites’ outer membranes, facilitating their removal. 
• Papaya Seeds: This fruit’s seeds contain an enzyme proven to have strong anthelmintic properties, meaning it aids in the removal of parasites. When consuming papaya seeds, you can take them either directly or blend them into a delicious smoothie. 
• Cloves: The final home remedy from our list is cloves, which have strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Cloves contain eugenol, a substance that stops the growth of parasites. If you plan on adding cloves to your diet, you can use them to make tea or consume the powder directly.

Key Takeaways 

Through this article, we looked at how parasite cleanses, although still lacking in scientific backing, have become a way for many to ensure their bodies are free from malicious pathogens. The reasons why people take parasite cleanses can vary. However, improved health and wellness are often at the forefront, as getting rid of parasites from one’s body often comes accompanied by several positive effects. 

We also covered how parasites are transmitted, the common symptoms of parasitic infection, and the types of parasite cleanses you can undertake. Whether you choose a more synthetic or natural approach, you also need to be aware of the side effects that come from parasite cleanses. These side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Temporary increase in fatigue
• Possible allergic reactions
• Neurological symptoms like headaches

When dealing with parasites in your system, taking a holistic approach to managing any die-off symptoms is essential. This approach means providing your body with the detoxification and nutritional support it needs to process toxins. Parasites are a common health issue, but with the right strategy, you can tell them who’s boss in your body. 

References

[1] Gotter, A. (2023, February 10). What you should know about doing a parasite cleanse. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/human-parasite-cleanse 

[2] Ekanem, A. P., & Brisibe, E. A. (2010). Effects of ethanol extract of Artemisia annua L. against monogenean parasites of Heterobranchus longifilis. Parasitology Research, 106(5), 1135–1139. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00436-010-1787-0 

[3] Inhibition of enteric parasites by emulsified oil of oregano in vivo. (2000). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1002/(sici)1099-1573(200005)14:3 

[4] Campbell, S. (2023, May 29). Antiparasitic drugs. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544251/ 

[5] Professional, C. C. M. (n.d.). Antiparasitic drugs. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22945-antiparasitic-drugs 

[6] Mørch, K., et al. (2013). Chronic fatigue syndrome 5 years after giardiasis: differential diagnoses, characteristics and natural course. BMC Gastroenterology, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-230x-13-28 

[7] Arzani, M., et al. (2020). Gut-brain Axis and migraine headache: a comprehensive review. Journal of Headache and Pain, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-020-1078-9 

[8] Tardy, A. L., et al. (2020). Vitamins and Minerals for energy, fatigue and Cognition: A Narrative review of the biochemical and Clinical evidence. Nutrients, 12(1), 228. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12010228 

[9] Deen, A., et al. (2020). Chemical composition and health benefits of coconut oil: an overview. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 101(6), 2182–2193. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.10870 

[10] Göbel, H., et al. (2016). Oleum menthae piperitae (Pfefferminzöl) in der Akuttherapie des Kopfschmerzes vom Spannungstyp. Der Schmerz, 30(3), 295–310. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00482-016-0109-6

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