Herbal Skin Treatment for Hookworm

Hookworms are parasites that normally prey internally on dogs and cats, but they can sometimes find their way into your skin if you touch ground where infected feces have fallen. Herbal treatments can help get rid of hookworm.

Symptoms

• You will notice itching at the contact site, even if you don't see exactly where the larva entered. This is why the condition is often called ground itch. As the larva attempts to burrow deeper, it can leave trails on your skin.

Herbal Remedies

• Hookworm is conventionally treated with the topical anti-parasitic drugs albendezole and ivermectin. Herbal treatments that are effective against hookworm include tea tree oil, barberry and goldenseal.

Properties

• A compound called berberine, found in goldenseal and barberry, fights infection and parasites and supports the immune system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Studies suggest that tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties, the Mayo Clinic reports.

Application

• Tea tree oil can be applied directly to the affected area. Barberry and goldenseal are available as tinctures or topical ointments.

Warning

• Tea tree oil can be irritating to the skin at full strength and should be diluted according to package directions. Allergic reaction can also occur.