When people hear the word parasites, they often think of extreme cases—tropical diseases, contaminated water, or rare infections from undercooked meat. But the truth is, parasites are far more common than most people realize and can exist in the human body without immediate, obvious symptoms.

These microscopic invaders come in many forms—intestinal worms, protozoa, and other organisms—that feed off nutrients from their host. Some are relatively harmless, while others can cause significant digestive issues, fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, and even neurological symptoms. The problem? Many people don’t recognize the signs, attributing their symptoms to stress, diet, or unrelated health concerns.

The key to maintaining optimal health is understanding the subtle ways parasites can affect your body and making the right choices to support your system. While these organisms can be persistent, there are natural ways to help your body fight back.

10 Warning Signs You May Have Parasites

While parasites can live in the body without causing noticeable symptoms, they often disrupt normal bodily functions over time. Their presence can affect digestion, energy levels, immune response, and even mental health. Here are ten common signs that may indicate a parasitic infection:

1. Unexplained Digestive Issues

If you experience persistent bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)-like symptoms, parasites could be a factor. Some types, like Giardia, disrupt the gut lining and cause chronic inflammation, while others interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to ongoing digestive discomfort.

2. History of Traveler’s Diarrhea or Food Poisoning

If you’ve had severe diarrhea while traveling or a past episode of food poisoning that seemed to linger, a parasite could be the culprit. Some parasites, such as Cryptosporidium or Entamoeba histolytica, enter the body through contaminated food and water, sometimes staying dormant before triggering symptoms.

3. Difficulty Sleeping & Frequent Night Wakings

Parasites can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycles by triggering inflammatory responses or stimulating stress hormones. Some types, like pinworms, even cause nighttime itching, leading to restlessness and poor-quality sleep.

4. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) at Night

Unconscious teeth grinding, or bruxism, has been linked to parasitic infections. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, some experts believe that toxins released by parasites can overstimulate the nervous system, leading to increased tension and involuntary muscle activity during sleep.

5. Unexplained Skin Issues (Rashes, Eczema, Hives, Rosacea)

Skin problems can sometimes be a sign of parasites affecting the gut and immune system. When parasites irritate the digestive tract, it can lead to inflammatory skin reactions, as toxins from these organisms may trigger allergic responses, breakouts, or persistent rashes.

6. Chronic Fatigue and Low Energy Levels

Feeling constantly drained despite getting enough rest? Parasites can contribute to fatigue by stealing essential nutrients like iron, B vitamins, and magnesium. This depletion can leave you feeling sluggish, unmotivated, or even chronically exhausted.

7. Aching Muscles and Joint Pain

Certain parasites do not stay confined to the gut. Some migrate to muscles, joints, or tissues, leading to inflammatory reactions that cause aches, stiffness, or unexplained pain. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as arthritis or fibromyalgia.

8. Constant Hunger or Feeling Full Too Quickly

Parasites compete with the host for nutrients, which can lead to unusual appetite changes. Some people experience constant hunger without weight gain, while others may feel full after eating only a small amount. These shifts could indicate parasites interfering with digestion and nutrient absorption.

9. Unexplained Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Certain parasites, such as hookworms and tapeworms, feed directly on blood and iron stores, leading to anemia. If you struggle with low iron levels despite a healthy diet, a parasitic infection might be worth considering, especially if accompanied by fatigue and dizziness.

10. Depression, Anxiety, or Brain Fog

Parasites don’t just affect the gut—they can disrupt the gut-brain connection. Since the majority of serotonin (a key neurotransmitter for mood balance) is produced in the gut, an infection can lead to mood imbalances, anxiety, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. Some parasites also release neurotoxins that affect cognitive function, making you feel mentally sluggish.

Parasites are often overlooked as a potential cause of these symptoms, but identifying them is the first step to regaining your health. Next, let’s look at some powerful foods and herbs that have been traditionally used to help eliminate parasites naturally.

7 Foods That Can Help Kill Parasites Naturally

Certain foods and herbs have been traditionally used to support the body’s natural defenses against parasites. These natural remedies contain antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help create an environment that makes it harder for parasites to survive.

Here are seven powerful foods and herbs that have been commonly used for parasite cleansing:

1. Garlic

Garlic is well known for its potent antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. It contains allicin and ajoene, sulfur-based compounds that may help fight off harmful microbes, including parasites and their eggs. Studies suggest that garlic can disrupt the life cycle of certain parasites while also supporting immune function.

How to use it:

• Eat 1–2 raw cloves daily for maximum potency.
• Add fresh garlic to soups, stir-fries, and sauces.
• Crush garlic and let it sit for 10 minutes before consuming to activate its beneficial compounds.

2. Black Walnut (Hull & Nuts)

Black walnut hulls contain juglone, a bioactive compound believed to help eliminate parasites by making the digestive tract less hospitable. This traditional herbal remedy has been used for centuries to cleanse the intestines of unwanted organisms.

How to use it:

• Black walnut hull extract is available in tincture form—follow dosage recommendations on the label.
• Can be found in some herbal parasite cleanse formulas.

3. Wormwood

Wormwood contains artemisinin, a compound known for its antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects. It has been traditionally used to help eliminate intestinal parasites and support digestive health.

How to use it:

• Brew wormwood tea (steep ½ to 1 teaspoon of dried wormwood leaves in hot water).
• Available as capsules or liquid extracts in herbal parasite cleanses.
• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

4. Cloves

Cloves contain eugenol, a powerful compound that may help disrupt parasite eggs and prevent reinfestation. They are also rich in antioxidants and have natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.

How to use it:

• Add ground cloves to smoothies, teas, or oatmeal.
• Chew whole cloves for digestive support and fresh breath.
• Use clove essential oil (diluted) as part of a gut health regimen.

5. Thyme

Thyme contains thymol, an active compound that may help inhibit the growth of parasites in the intestines while also supporting the immune system. It has been used traditionally to support gut and respiratory health.

How to use it:

• Add fresh or dried thyme to soups, roasted vegetables, and meat dishes.
• Brew thyme tea by steeping fresh thyme leaves in hot water.

6. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is rich in carvacrol and thymol, both of which have been studied for their antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. It has been used in traditional medicine to help balance gut microbes and fight infections.

How to use it:

• Take a few drops of food-grade oregano oil in water (as per product instructions).
• Use fresh or dried oregano in cooking to enhance both flavor and health benefits.

7. Chinese Goldthread (Coptis chinensis)

Chinese Goldthread contains berberine, a well-researched compound with broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, including against bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It has been widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to support digestive health and fight infections.

How to use it:

• Brew goldthread tea or look for teas containing berberine.
• Available in capsule or tincture form for convenience.

These natural remedies may help create a hostile environment for parasites while supporting your body’s immune and digestive health. However, if you suspect a serious parasitic infection, consult a healthcare professional for proper testing and treatment options.

Supporting Your Body While Eliminating Parasites

Cleansing the body of parasites isn’t just about eliminating them—it’s about strengthening your system to recover and prevent reinfection. When parasites die, they release toxins, which can strain the body if not properly eliminated. Staying hydrated is crucial, as water helps flush out waste and prevent digestive sluggishness. Herbal teas, such as ginger or peppermint, can further support digestion and ease discomfort during the process.

A balanced gut is also essential for long-term recovery. Since parasites disrupt the microbiome, replenishing beneficial bacteria with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables helps restore digestive health. Fiber from leafy greens, seeds, and whole grains keeps the intestines moving, ensuring parasites and toxins don’t linger in the system. Cutting out processed foods and sugar is equally important—parasites thrive on sugar, so reducing intake helps weaken them while supporting immune function.

The liver and kidneys work hard to detoxify the body, and they need extra support during a parasite cleanse. Nutrient-dense foods like cruciferous vegetables, lemon water, and antioxidant-rich herbs like dandelion root aid in processing and eliminating toxins. Managing stress and prioritizing sleep also play a crucial role—chronic stress weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections, while quality rest allows the body to repair itself.

For persistent or severe symptoms, professional guidance is essential. Some parasites require targeted treatment, and proper testing can help determine the best approach. By combining natural remedies with whole-body support, you create an environment where parasites struggle to survive, allowing your body to heal and thrive.

Reclaiming Your Health by Eliminating Parasites

Parasites are more common than many people realize, and their impact on health can range from mild digestive discomfort to more serious nutrient deficiencies and immune disruptions. Recognizing the signs of a parasitic infection is the first step toward addressing the problem and taking action to restore balance in your body.

Fortunately, nature provides powerful tools to help combat these unwanted invaders. Incorporating antiparasitic foods and herbs, such as garlic, black walnut, and oregano oil, can support the body’s natural ability to eliminate parasites while promoting gut health. At the same time, hydration, nutrient-rich foods, and proper detox support ensure that your body effectively clears out waste and toxins.

If you suspect a parasitic infection, making dietary and lifestyle changes can be beneficial, but consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended for accurate testing and targeted treatment. With the right approach, you can create a healthier internal environment where parasites struggle to survive, allowing your body to thrive.