Natural Solutions for Parasites, Worms, and Pinworms in Children and Families

Parasitic infections are a common yet often overlooked issue in children, affecting their health and wellbeing in significant ways. At Nurture Children’s Health, we specialise in identifying and addressing parasitic infections through a holistic approach, with the aim of breaking the cycle of infection for children (and their families!) and supporting gut health for the long term.

Parasitic Infections in Children: Symptoms, Causes, and Natural Solutions

subtle symptoms but can cause discomfort and health challenges, including:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Itching around the bottom and genital area
  • Teeth grinding
  • Bedwetting and toilet training difficulties
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Irritability and weight loss
  • Frequent urinary tract infections

Pinworms, a common intestinal parasite, are small white worms that live in the colon and rectum. Their eggs can survive on surfaces for up to two weeks, making reinfections frequent in childcare, early education and household settings.

The Importance of Early Treatment for Parasitic Infections in Children

Left untreated, parasites and worms can lead to complications such as:

  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Impaired growth and development
  • Cognitive and behavioural issues
  • Ongoing digestion and gastrointestinal issues
  • Weakened immune system
  • Increased susceptibility to secondary infections
  • Chronic fatigue due to nutrient malabsorption

Early intervention is key to reducing symptoms, avoiding longterm health complications, and enhancing your child’s overall quality of life. At Nurture Children’s Health, we specialise in identifying the root causes of recurrent worm infections, breaking the cycle of pinworm transmission within families, and restoring gut health to prevent future reinfections. 

Get your FREE Diet and Symptom Diary

Download a symptom and diet diary to investigate whether certain foods are causing any issues. You can discuss the results with a healthcare professional to identify potential triggers

    Track the Symptoms

    Get your FREE Diet and Symptom Diary

    Download a symptom and diet diary to investigate whether certain foods are causing any issues. You can discuss the results with a healthcare professional to identify potential triggers

      Track the Symptoms

      Common Causes of Parasites and Worm Infections in Children

      Parasites are typically transmitted through:

      • Contaminated Hands: Poor handwashing hygiene can transfer parasite eggs from contaminated surfaces to the mouth. Teaching proper handwashing techniques is critical in reducing transmission.
      • Contaminated Food or Water: Consuming undercooked food, unwashed produce, or drinking untreated water can introduce parasites into the body. Washing fresh produce thoroughly and avoiding untreated water sources can help prevent infections.
      • Close Contact: Parasite eggs can spread through shared bedding, clothing, or personal items, particularly in communal settings like schools, childcare centres, or playgroups.

      Children are particularly susceptible due to frequent hand-to-mouth activity and close interactions in schools, childcare centres, and communal settings.

      Natural Solutions for Worms, Parasites, and Pinworms: How a Naturopath Can Help

      LefOur naturopathic approach addresses parasitic infections by:

      Gut Health Restoration: Restoring balance in the microbiome to boost immunity and reduce inflammation caused by parasites. Specific probiotic strains and gut-healing nutrients play a critical role in preventing parasites from colonising in the gut. 

      Herbal and Nutritional Antiparasitic Treatments: Using medicinal herbs and nutritional supplements with antiparasitic properties. These natural agents are often more effective at actively killing parasites than over-the-counter worming medications available at the chemist.

      Dietary Support: Incorporating foods that enhance the body’s natural defences against parasites, creating an environment in the gut that is less hospitable to pinworms and other parasites. 

      Booked an appointment? Here’s what you can do in the meantime

      Support Your Child’s Health at Home

      While we work to identify and address the underlying causes of your child’s parasitic infection, here are some steps you can take:

      • Encourage Good Hygiene: Teach your child proper hand washing techniques, especially after using the bathroom and before meals.
      • Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly wash bedding, clothing, and toys to minimise the risk of reinfection.
      • Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your child’s symptoms, noting patterns or changes that can provide valuable insights for your appointment.
      • Focus on Gut Health: Incorporate probiotics and nutrient-rich foods into your child’s diet to support their immune system and restore balance in their gut. 
      FREE CONSULtation

      Book Your Free Discovery Call

      If you’re unsure if a naturopath is a good fit for your family, book in a 15min chat.

      Free Consultation

      Book Your Free Discovery Call

      If you’re unsure if a naturopath is a good fit for your family, book in a 15min chat.