Parasite Cleanse: Is It Safe? And Side Effects

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Trying to self-treat a suspected parasite with a so-called cleanse can do more harm than good

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Variety and versions of anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger, garlic, turmeric and apple cider vinegar

Has social media tried to convince you that you have an intestinal parasite? If certain swaths of internet influencers are to be believed, tons of people are walking around with worms and other parasites that can only be eliminated through a DIY detox.

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But no scientific evidence shows that these so-called “parasite cleanse diets” actually work. And plenty of people are dealing with gastrointestinal issues that aren’t related to parasitic infections.

“I really hope these cleanses don’t become popular,” says registered dietitian Beth Czerwony, RD, LD. “There’s just no credible evidence to show that they work, and they can bring big health risks.”

So-called parasite cleanses are detox diets that claim to help rid your body of intestinal parasites. People who sing the praises of these diets often assert that the majority of gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, gas and diarrhea are due to parasites — and that only a “cleanse” can rid you of them.

The specifics of such cleanses vary, but they often involve a three-pronged approach:

• Taking herbal supplements like anise, clove, grapeseed, wormwood and goldenseal
• Using herbs and spices that have anti-inflammatory properties, like apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger and turmeric
• Making dietary changes, like avoiding greasy foods, cutting out gluten and adding more fiber to your diet

“Making certain dietary changes can improve your overall health and boost your immune system, which are always good things,” Czerwony notes, “but if you truly have a parasite, dietary changes shouldn’t stand alone as a treatment.”

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No evidence shows that herbal supplements or other ingredients can get rid of a parasitic infection (nor is it true that digestive symptoms are always related to intestinal parasites).

Trying to self-treat a suspected parasite with supplements and spices can do more harm than good. And importantly, they aren’t likely to get rid of a parasite, if you do indeed have one.

“Sometimes, a parasitic infection will clear up on its own,” Czerwony says, “but most people need prescription medication treatment. If you have a legitimate parasitic infection, trying to treat yourself holistically with herbs and spices is just not a good idea.”

In general, cleanses and detoxes are associated with a variety of possible health risks. They can cause:

• Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies
• GI issues, like diarrhea (which can lead to dehydration)
• Low energy levels

“Plus, supplements aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration,” Czerwony warns, “so there’s no precise way to know what you’re getting or even what dosage you’re taking.”

Intestinal parasites aren’t as common in North America as they are in other parts of the world. But you can get them by doing things like eating contaminated foods and drinking or swimming in contaminated water. You may also bring them home with you when you travel abroad.

But you can’t self-diagnose a parasitic infection; only a healthcare provider can do that. And if you don’t have a parasite, you need to figure out what’s causing your gastrointestinal symptoms — which also won’t be treated by a parasite cleanse.

If you’re doing a parasite cleanse because the internet has convinced you that you have a parasite, it’s always best to seek a diagnosis to be sure that’s what you’re dealing with.

If so, the best way to treat it is to actually treat it — and a do-it-yourself cleanse won’t do that.

“Typically, if you have some sort of parasitic infection, you’re going to experience symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea and unexplained weight loss,” Czerwony explains. “So, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and effective medical treatment.”

If you’re found to have a parasite, your provider will recommend treatment like:

• Antiparasitic medication. Most people need prescription medication, which paralyzes intestinal parasites and stops them from growing or reproducing. “In many cases, it’s just one dose, and then you’re done,” Czerwony says. “Though your provider will retest you afterward to be sure you don’t need additional treatment.” (Some types of parasites require slightly longer bouts of treatment.)
• Vitamins. If lab work shows that a parasite has affected your nutrient levels, your provider may recommend certain vitamins to help you get back to baseline.
• Healthy diet. Boosting your immune system helps your body recover from illness, including intestinal invaders like parasites. “Try to avoid ultra-processed foods and sugars to help get your immune function as high as possible,” Czerwony advises. “Incorporating high-fiber foods will lead to more routine bowel movements and help you pass those parasites.”
• Probiotics. Adding probiotic foods to your diet can help improve your gut microbiome, which some studies show could help fight off a parasitic infection.

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So, skip the so-called parasite cleanse diets and see a healthcare provider for help.

“If you have a parasitic infection, the best way to treat it is with medication, not supplements,” Czerwony reiterates. “And if you don’t have a parasite, it’s important to get to the bottom of whatever is actually causing your symptoms.”

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