Oxyures (intestinal worms) - Symptoms and treatment in 2026

Updated on 2026-03-25

Pinworm: definition and treatment

Here in Canada, there is a false belief in health that “it is impossible to have intestinal parasites», also called pinworms.  In fact, we all have parasites! Bedding, or other objects, could potentially infect you since the eggs can survive 2 to 3 weeks! In the anus area, the worms lay their eggs during the night.

Intestinal worms are often associated with poor hygiene or a weakened immune system, but they can affect anyone.

Parasites are prone to be found in abundance in our body. They coexist in balance with us as long as we are healthy. Parasites are organisms that settle in our body and then feed on our cells and what we eat.  They even have beneficial effects for our body! On the other hand, problems arise when there is an imbalance that affects our pH levels, of enzymes or intestinal flora sometimes coming from pinworm eggs. Subsequently, we may feel certain ailments without knowing the cause: anxiety, nervousness, fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, rapid weight gain or loss.

Ingesting eggs left on objects, bedding, or clothing is one of the most common ways to get these parasites.

What are the symptoms of pinworms? (diagnosis)

There are many types of parasites dangerous to health, the best known is Candida, but there are others such as giardia lamblia, roundworm or tapeworm which are also very common. The symptoms of too many parasites causing an imbalance will be much the same, whether of one type or another. These symptoms can obviously be attributed to something else, but if you suffer from these ailments regularly, you may be an unwilling host!

Parasitic infection is often difficult to diagnose initially because it can mimic other common illnesses, including digestive disorders or stress.

11 common symptoms (of enterobius vermicularis):

1. Itching in the anus
2. Anxiety, nervousness, mood swings can help pinworm eggs
3. Swollen eyes, dilated pupils
4. Grinding teeth
5. Itching on the tip of the nose, eyes or anal itching
6. Fatigue, insomnia
7. Constipation, diarrhea (stools) are symptoms ofpinworm
8. Gas, bloating
9. Headaches
10. Excess or loss of appetite
11. Excess or weight loss

Abdominal pain is also one of the possible signs of an intestinal worm infestation, although it is sometimes attributed to other digestive disorders.

The children are just as sensitive in their health as we are to contracting pinworms (enterobius vermicularis or enterobius pinworms). On the other hand, their symptoms are easier to detect and will be intensified during a full moon.

On the anus and perianal itching is the main symptom reported by people affected by pinworm infestation, these threadlike worms which find refuge in the perianal area. This region becomes a favored site for the laying of pinworm eggs, causing intense itching, especially at night. Diagnosis of this parasitosis is made by visual inspection for worms in that area, or by using a tape test specially designed to capture pinworm eggs on the skin around the anus, confirming the presence of the pinworm and its eggs.

Make sure your domestic animal be dewormed every month, because the parasites from which they most often suffer are transmitted simply by direct contact.

Intestinal worms can also promote the appearance of skin diseases when they disrupt the body's internal balance.

3 foods to avoid when we have worms:

1. Sugar and sugary and/or refined foods help pinworms
2. Alcohol in all its forms
3. Milk and other dairy products 

What causes intestinal worms? (how can we catch this?)

Pinworms (pinworm infection) are intestinal parasites, which take advantage of the human body to feed and reproduce. These are pinworms and roundworms and are harmful to health. One potential cause of infestation is pinworm eggs ingested in soiled and poorly washed vegetables that enter the intestine. They cause all kinds of unpleasant symptoms, like stomach aches, itching, diarrhea (liquid stools), etc.

Intestinal parasitosis is a largely underestimated condition that deserves to be recognized as a public health issue.

The anus, subject to intense itching, especially during the night, causes irritability and disrupts sleep. However, the infection can often proceed without any apparent symptoms.

Clothes should be washed regularly. Bedding and hands too. This is the first step in stopping the spread.

Can they leave alone?

No. Only after treatmentpinworm. If they reappear, like at the anus, there is new contamination. It is in the evening, after going to bed, that the pinworms exit through the anus and the females lay their eggs in the anal folds. When you scratch under the effect of itching, the eggs attach themselves under the nails and, at a given moment, they return to the digestive tract through the mouth. It is in sheets and dust that these microscopic eggs can be carried and continue to spread.

“Clean” therefore becomes the watchword for your health.

How to get rid of it?

You certainly prefer not to have to take any remedies, but in a case of parasitosis, it will be unavoidable. Chemical drugs kill one or two strains at a time and cause quite distressing side effects (extreme nausea and  vomiting).

Adult intestinal worms are more difficult to eliminate once they have colonized the digestive system, hence the importance of comprehensive treatment.

The advantage of the three natural herbs that I offer below is that they can get rid of more than 100 kinds of parasites without too much discomfort or interference with medication!

Some herbs help get rid of it naturally: 

• Black walnut shell (kills development stage parasites and pinworms adults)
• Absinthe (“Worm herb” kills pinworms!)
• Cloves (kills the eggs)

I emphasize that all three must be used simultaneously in treatment for 21 days to 1 month. I recommend starting the day before the full moon because the parasites are more vulnerable. It is during the full moon that they detach themselves, reproduce and lay their eggs! This is also the reason why we notice more intense symptoms on this day of the lunar cycle.

Foods that kill intestinal worms and parasites

Nutrition is all the more important in a treatment to combat parasites. All parasites feed on our ingested food. They like dairy products and alcohol, sugar and carbohydrates. These increase sugar levels, mucus production and body acidity. It is an ideal environment for their survival and reproduction. In short, maybe it’s not you who has a sweet tooth!!! I strongly recommend during this treatment to follow the instructions of my treatment “ solid detox » which appears in my previous article: “ Easy and effective home detox! ".  Below I summarize the important dietary advice to follow!

6 foods to kill intestinal worms

• Garlic
• Ginger, turmeric, cardamom
• Raw pumpkin seeds
• Papaya
• Coconut oil
• Herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano, especially oregano oil)

How to use these foods for treatment:

The foods above will greatly help during your treatment against pinworms, they have a natural antibiotic, antifungal and/or antiparasitic action. I also recommend, on an empty stomach in the morning, to drink a mixture of bentonite with good acacia fiber. This combination, in a glass of pure lukewarm water, will reduce acidity by remineralizing your body. It will also help to absorb waste (dead parasites) and evacuate it well. Please note that it is very important not to be constipated during this treatment, the dying parasites will release ammonia, you must get rid of them as quickly as possible!  In addition, I advise taking a good probiotic at bedtime, these good bacteria will colonize and inhabit deserted places in order to rebalance theintestinal ecosystem then strengthen your immune system, essential for your health (and your treatment). 

Dietary treatment table for pinworms:

**Don't forget the bentonite combined with acacia fiber in a glass of lukewarm water, to drink quickly, on an empty stomach every morning and a good probiotic at bedtime, every night!!!

Intestinal pinworms: detox treatments to get rid of parasites

According to the Ministry of Health and Social Services, here are two less natural options of curing pinworms, oral mebendazole or pamoate are two good options. 

grapefruit seed extract

Thegrapefruit seed extract is a real germicide (treatment) for pinworms, effective against unwanted bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses and therefore good for your health. The disinfectant and antiseptic properties of this extract come from the synergy of natural ascorbic acid, the bioflavonoids present and a whole range of organic acids. The beauty of this extract is that it is as reliable on humans as it is on animals and plants.

It should be part of your first aid kit at home, traveling, camping, etc. Its applications are diverse, for example, it can be used when infection disorders are felt such as diarrhea (tourista) or gastroenteritis. It helps prevent or fight viruses and bacteria causing sore throats. And it can also be used externally as a disinfectant on a cut or abrasion and even applied to a fungal infection such as athlete's foot.

Grapefruit seed extract can, above all, purify drinking water. Add 5 drops of grapefruit seed extract to a liter of water.

Anus symptoms is a good sign for daily use, it is excellent for rinsing fruits and vegetables following the same dosage as for drinking water.⁴

Spirulina

The spirulina is a small blue algae that helps in treatment, recognized as a remarkable food that corrects the excesses and deficiencies of our modern diet. Blue-green algae have pigments: phycocyanin (blue), chlorophyll (green) and carotenoids (orange). The great nutritional quality of this food lies above all in its exceptional content of protein, beta-carotene, iron, vitamins of the B and E complex, as well as several trace elements and gamma-linolenic acid (a polyunsaturated fatty acid).

Even more, spirulina regulates the appetite and helps control weight thanks to a set of nutrients and an essential amino acid (phenylalanine) which acts favorably on the satiety reflex.

The benefits of spirulina

• Improves detoxification, vision, digestion, healing, etc.
• Lowers cholesterol levels through its polyunsaturated fatty acids and fiber
• Helps the body to reject heavy metals present
• Acts favorably on disorders such as diabetes, premenstrual syndrome, etc.

The spirulina provides our body with these precious substances which represent an essential ally for our immune system, for our digestive system, among others. It can be consumed by pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is beneficial for children, people convalescing and those with poor appetite. Start slowly at 1/2 teaspoon per day and gradually increase the dosage up to 1 tablespoon of spirulina powder. Spirulina taken between meals can calm a craving or help with low energy due to pinworms and health.³

Ideas for using spirulina powder:

• a smoothie
• raw apple juice
• a mixture of coconut water and pineapple juice
• organic carrot or vegetable juice
• kefir, blueberries and a dash of honey
• a dip or vinaigrette
• soup when serving

Spirulina is a precious food to the rescue of our health!

The cranberry detox

Frequent use of antibiotics (of medicines) increases antibiotic resistance  of pinworms. When a urinary infection is felt, the cranberry (used as treatment) is by far the most sought after small fruit. Its protective action prevents the E.coli bacteria (responsible for urinary infections) from sticking to the walls of the urinary canal and proliferating. Proanthocyanidins are the antioxidants in cranberries that give it these protective effects.

Anecdote about cranberries

It was by seeing Native Americans use cranberries for the treatment of bladder disorders that the colonists discovered its therapeutic effects and this was confirmed by science long after.

For a therapeutic dosage, the capsules are the best form to use for your health.^{2, 6, 7}

Use the Pau d'Arco Taheebo

The Pau d’Arco Taheebo is a tree belonging to the Bignoniaceae family which has 30 species. They are made up of trees and shrubs, mostly lianas, which are found in temperate to tropical regions, from Mexico to northern Argentina. It is the national tree of Paraguay. Brazilians call it “divine tree”. It is the inner part of the bark that is used for its medicinal properties. Both for internal and external uses. It treats various conditions such as arthritis, pain, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, prostate, boils, fever, respiratory infections, colds, flu, etc.

The properties of Pau d’Arco Taheebo

The Pau d’Arco Taheebo exerts antibacterial effects (perfect for pinworms and its treatment), antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics, particularly anti-Candida, anticancer and antitumor drugs.

Parasitosis and Pau d’Arco Taheebo

Now scientists have identified the two main active components in pau d'arco, namely naphthoquinones: more precisely lapacho and beta lapachone, which have demonstrated the power to kill various bacteria, eggs, fungi, viruses and parasites. In addition to finding a significant amount of quercetin, it provides considerable antioxidant protection to maintain good health.

This medicinal plant is an excellent source for the treatment of fungal diseases such as yeast infections known as Candida. Candida which can spread from the throat to the digestive system (intestine), to the male or female genital system.

The Pau d'Arco Taheebo has a great power of detoxification, that is, it helps the body to eliminate toxic substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides, preservatives, etc.

The New Roots Herbal company presents Pau d’arco in different forms, powder, in bags for herbal tea or in capsules.^{8, 9}

Before using Pau d’Arco, it is important to read the warnings.

Do a Parasitis Purge

Purge Pests from New Roots Herbal is a natural way to eliminate parasites. It contains 12 powerful parasite killers that can eliminate up to 72 different species of parasites without the side effects of common medications.

In certain situations, I prefer a formula rather than a single ingredient, especially during parasite infestations for health reasons. We want to get rid of these intruders as quickly as possible for our health. It sometimes requires an army to eliminate all of these parasites. 

It is important to follow exactly the recommended dosage, number of days and the break in between. This allows you to eliminate eggs that have not yet hatched.

Taking fiber during this treatment expels dead parasites and adding probiotics puts good health bacteria into circulation.¹⁰

Prevention and advice against the presence of intestinal worms

Prevention remains the best treatment for the presence of pinworms and it is everyday hygiene that makes a big difference in health.

• Wash your hands: after using the toilet, before eating and before preparing a healthy meal

• Wash your bedding regularly

• Wash your fruits and vegetables before eating them raw

• Cook meats sufficiently

• Clean children's toys regularly

• Wash children's hands after playing in the sandbox

• Wash hands after petting pets

• Clean your clothes regularly

Conclusion on enterobius vermicularis  

Finally, as I usually do, I emphasize the importance of moving and going to bed early to prevent pinworms. Go walking, yoga or swimming, dancing or cycling. 

In short, oxygenate and strengthen your body. Take a good chamomile and ginger tea or even peppermint and thyme every evening to sleep well. The body regenerates more easily while you sleep. I therefore wish you liberation from this role of host that you play against your will, you will finally appreciate the comfort of being in control of your body and your health!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs when you have worms?

The most common signs of an intestinal worm infestation include anal itching, especially at night, trouble sleeping, unexplained fatigue, abdominal pain, digestive problems (such as constipation or diarrhea), and sometimes sudden weight loss or gain. In children, symptoms may be more pronounced, including irritability and teeth grinding.

Where do you get intestinal worms?

Intestinal worms are mainly contracted by egg ingestion present on contaminated surfaces (bedding, toys, clothing, unwashed hands), or in soiled foods such as poorly washed raw vegetables. Shared environments (daycares, schools, hospitals) are frequent places of contamination, especially among children.

How do you know if you have tapeworms?

Tapeworm, also called tapeworm, can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss despite a normal appetite, nausea, or the presence of white segments (like rice) in the stool. Diagnosis is made by a stool test or medical examination. As with other types of intestinal worms, a consultation is necessary if in doubt.

How to get intestinal worms out?

There are two main approaches: classic medical treatments (such as mebendazole or pamoate) and natural herbal methods (black walnut, wormwood, cloves). These solutions aim to eliminate both adult worms and eggs. Diet also plays a key role: avoid sugar, consume garlic, papaya, coconut oil and include fiber to facilitate the natural expulsion of dead parasites.

About the author

Kimberly-Ann Waters N.D. and Marie Couture N.D, approved graduate

Naturopath N.D.
Naturotherapist
Certified Colon Hygienist

References 

1. Vogel, The little doctor, Éditions Ariston, 1978, 634 pages

2. Béliveau Richard Ph. D. Gingras Denis Ph. D. Foods against cancer, Trécarré, 2005, 213 pages

3. Frappier Renée, Spirulina, Les Éditions Asclépiade Inc., 1992, 71 pages

4. In the heart of the grapefruit, Fleurir, Gordon Raza, BSc

5. Field medicine. Complementary difference, Vitalité Québec, Jean-Claude Magny, Ph. D, ND. A.

6. Expressing evils, Vitalité Québec, Daniel-J. Crisafi Ph.D, M.H., n.d.

7. What are “antibiotic” foods?, The natural world, Guylaine Campion, ND

8. https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Solutions/PlantesSupplements/Fiche.aspx?doc=pau_d_arco_ps

9. https://newrootsherbal.com/product/id/0023
10. https://newrootsherbal.com/product/id/0935
11. https://www.sante-sur-le-net.com/maladies/hepato-gastro/vers-intestinaux/
12. https://www.mariejnaturo.fr/post/troubles-digestifs-5-causes-fr%C3%A9quentes