Blastocystis hominis is a protozoa (parasite) that is found in the gut. While some who have this parasite will not have symptoms, others may have abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. Blastocystis can be contracted through contaminated food or water. Natural remedies for blastocystis include clove, black walnut, garlic, probiotics and zinc.
Herbs for Blastocystis Hominis
Black Walnut can be bought in a tincture or powdered form. Take black walnut according to package directions.
Clove is an anti-parasitic herb that you may already have in your kitchen! Clove can be taken as a tea several times a day. Add 1/4 teaspoon of clove powder to 4-6 ounces of hot water. Sweeten with honey if desired.
Garlic is a great all around immune booster and is also an anti-parasitic herb. Garlic can be minced and added to salads, spread on toast, or taken off the spoon with a bit of honey. For parasites, try 1 clove of crushed garlic three times a day.
Supplements for Blastocystis Hominis
Whenever you are experiencing problems with your digestive tract, adding some type of probiotic is a good idea. Probiotics can be taken as a supplement or you can make sure to consume yogurt or kefir daily.
Zinc and Vitamin C are important supplements to strengthen the immune system. If you have a parasitic infection, your immune system will need this extra support.
The Blastocystis Hominis Connection to IBS
Blastocystis Hominis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome can have similar symptoms including abdominal cramping, diarrhea, weight loss and nausea. Some studies have linked the blastocystis hominis protozoa to IBS. Others find that the incidence of blastocystis hominis in IBS patients does not significantly differ from the incidence of blastocystis hominis in control groups without IBS.
Unfortunately, many of the tests for parasites miss the presence of this parasite, so one cannot assume they don't have this parasite based on test results. But because IBS sufferers do sometimes have this protozoa, or another parasite in the gut, natural anti-parasite remedies are likely a good idea for IBS sufferers to consider.
Have you used a natural remedy for Blastocystis Hominis? Please send us some feedback!
