There are few phenomena that manage to trouble parents like the phrase "Mom, my bottom is itchy." Every year, especially during periods when children spend many hours together in kindergartens and schools, the number of pinworm infections increases, which is one of the most common childhood worms. Although this is a nuisance that is usually not dangerous, it can quickly turn into a real family problem, because infection occurs very easily and can return again and again.
Pinworms are tiny parasites that live in the human intestine. During the night hours, the female worm exits to the anal area to lay thousands of eggs, and this is precisely the reason for the intense itching that appears mainly in the evening and night hours. When the child scratches, the eggs stick to the hands and fingernails, and from there the path to reinfection or infecting other family members is very short.
<br>How do you get infected?
Infection occurs mainly through contact with the worm eggs. They can be found on hands, toys, bedding, towels, and clothes. Afterwards, they reach the mouth through the hands and are swallowed, and thus a new life cycle of the parasite begins.
Therefore, even if the treatment for worms is successful, a lack of adherence to hygiene can cause reinfection within a short time.
In most cases, the accepted and most effective treatment is medical treatment given upon a doctor's recommendation, such as medications from the mebendazole family. Sometimes it is also recommended to treat the members of the household to prevent reinfection.
However, there are parents who request to also integrate natural means. It is important to emphasize that they should not be seen as a substitute for medical treatment when a significant or ongoing infection exists, but they may serve as an aid that assists in coping.
Garlic: Grandma's remedy that received scientific validation
Garlic contains a compound called allicin, to which antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties are attributed. Some people customarily integrate crushed fresh garlic into spreads, yogurt, or salads as part of the menu during the treatment period.
Although there is no unequivocal proof that it eradicates pinworms in humans, it is considered one of the most researched natural ingredients in the field.
<br>Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain a substance called cucurbitacin, which according to certain studies may affect parasites in the digestive system. Therefore, in folk medicine, it is customary to eat a handful of natural seeds or use pumpkin seed oil for several days.
Here too, this is a complementary measure and not a proven treatment instead of medication.
<br>Reduce sugar?
Some believe that reducing the consumption of sugar and simple carbohydrates may assist during the coping with the worms. Although there is no strong clinical proof for this, a balanced diet based on vegetables, legumes, and whole grains is preferable in any case to a menu rich in sweets and sweetened beverages.
<br>Coconut oil to relieve the itching
The itching is the main cause of suffering and the dispersal of the eggs.
Applying coconut oil around the anus before sleep may create a protective layer and reduce the discomfort. Some also use essential oils such as lavender or tea tree, but only when they are well and carefully diluted, and certainly not with young children without appropriate advice.
A sitz bath in warm water with a little salt or lavender oil can also relieve the sensation.
The most important part: Hygiene
In fact, success in the treatment depends no less on hygiene than on the medication itself.
Nails must be clipped short, hands must be washed carefully with soap and water after the restroom and before food, underwear and pajamas must be changed daily, and bedding and clothes must be washed at a temperature of at least 60 degrees.
In addition, it is recommended to wash the anal area immediately after waking up in the morning to remove eggs that were laid during the night.
If the itching continues for a long time, if significant abdominal pain exists, weight loss, recurring symptoms despite treatment, or if it concerns infants and young children, it is important to contact a doctor for the purpose of diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
The bottom line is simple: Pinworms are a common and troubling phenomenon, but in most cases, it can be dealt with successfully through a combination of medical treatment, strict hygiene, and correct habits that prevent reinfection.