Old Home Remedies for Pin Worms in Kids

Pin worms--usually spelled "pinworms"--are a very common human intestinal parasite, particularly in young children. Also known as threadworms or seat worms, pinworms are a type of roundworm and are found worldwide.

Pinworm Infection

• The medical term for a pinworm infection is enterobiasis, and symptoms include: intense itching around the anus, loss of appetite, restless sleep and weight loss. In young children, failure to gain weight can also be a symptom of pinworm infection.

Cycle of Infection

• The often painful itching around the anus can lead to a cycle of re-infection, particularly in very young children. Scratching the anal area can cause microscopic eggs to be lodged under the fingernails and then orally reintroduced.

Prevention

• The best means of preventing a pinworm infection or to stop the cycle of infection once begun are proper wiping habits and hand washing after toileting.

Diatomaceous Earth Remedy

• Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a chalky, sedimentary rock consisting of fossilized remains of tiny, hard-shelled algae called diatoms. Also useful for arresting flea infestations, diatomaceous earth works by dehydrating the pinworms.

White Willow Bark

• Known as the original source of salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin, white willow bark has long been used as a home remedy for pinworms.

Garlic

• Significantly increasing the amount of fresh garlic in the diet is another commonly used home remedy.