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Parasite Cleanse: A Functional Medicine Approach to Eliminating Parasites and Restoring Gut Health

Parasite Cleanse: A Functional Medicine Approach to Eliminating Parasites and Restoring Gut Health

26 March 2025

Parasites are more common than most people realize, silently wreaking havoc on the gut, immune system, and overall health. Many individuals suffer from chronic fatigue, digestive issues, brain fog, and skin conditions without realizing that parasites could be the underlying cause.

In functional medicine, we approach parasite cleansing holistically, addressing not only the removal of parasites but also restoring gut health, strengthening immunity, and optimizing detoxification pathways to prevent reinfection.

If you’re struggling with unexplained symptoms and suspect parasites may be affecting your health, a comprehensive parasite cleanse may be the key to recovery.

What Is a Parasite Cleanse?

A parasite cleanse is a natural protocol designed to eliminate harmful parasites from the digestive system and other organs while supporting gut function, detoxification, and immune strength. Unlike pharmaceutical treatments, which can be harsh and may not fully eradicate the infection, a functional medicine approach focuses on:

  • Identifying the specific parasites present through advanced lab testing
  • Using natural anti-parasitic herbs and supplements to eliminate them
  • Supporting gut and liver detox pathways to flush out toxins
  • Repairing the gut lining to prevent further infections
  • Rebuilding beneficial gut bacteria to restore balance

Signs and Symptoms of a Parasite Infection

Parasitic infections often go undetected because their symptoms mimic other health conditions. If you’ve been experiencing any of the following, parasites could be the hidden culprit:

Digestive Symptoms

  • Chronic bloating, gas, and cramping
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating bowel habits
  • Persistent nausea or unexplained weight loss

Skin and Immune Issues

  • Rashes, eczema, or unexplained itching
  • Weakened immunity and frequent infections
  • Unexplained food sensitivities or allergies

Energy and Mental Health Symptoms

  • Chronic fatigue or sluggishness
  • Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or memory problems
  • Anxiety, depression, or mood imbalances

Other Signs of Parasites

  • Persistent sugar cravings
  • Joint pain or muscle aches
  • Teeth grinding at night (bruxism)
  • Nutrient deficiencies despite a healthy diet

If you recognize several of these symptoms, it may be time to consider functional lab testing and a targeted parasite cleanse.

Functional Medicine Approach to Parasite Cleansing

Step 1: Testing for Parasites

Many people attempt parasite cleanses without first confirming the presence of parasites. At JarrodCooperND.com, I use advanced functional lab testing, such as comprehensive stool analysis, to detect:

  • Parasites (protozoa, helminths, and intestinal worms)
  • Bacterial imbalances (dysbiosis)
  • Candida and fungal overgrowth
  • Inflammatory markers and digestive enzyme function

A proper diagnosis allows us to develop a personalized cleanse protocol rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Step 2: The 3-Phase Parasite Cleanse Protocol

Once we identify a parasitic infection, we use a science-backed three-phase approach to safely and effectively eliminate parasites.

Phase 1: Prepare the Gut

Before directly attacking parasites, we need to create an environment where they struggle to survive. This involves:

  • Removing inflammatory foods (gluten, dairy, refined sugar, processed foods)
  • Supporting liver detox pathways with herbs like milk thistle and dandelion root
  • Strengthening digestion with digestive enzymes and stomach acid support

This phase is crucial because a weakened digestive system allows parasites to thrive.

Phase 2: Eliminate Parasites

In this phase, we introduce targeted anti-parasitic herbs and supplements such as:

  • Wormwood – Traditionally used to kill intestinal worms
  • Black Walnut Hull – Effective against parasites and candida
  • Berberine – Supports gut bacteria balance while eliminating harmful organisms
  • Clove – Helps kill parasite eggs to prevent reinfection
  • Oil of Oregano – Broad-spectrum antimicrobial that fights bacteria, fungi, and parasites

These natural compounds work together to break down and expel parasites from the body.

Phase 3: Gut & Immune Restoration

After eliminating parasites, we focus on rebuilding gut integrity and immune strength to prevent recurrence. This phase includes:

  • Probiotics and prebiotics to replenish beneficial bacteria
  • Glutamine and zinc to repair the intestinal lining
  • Anti-inflammatory nutrients like omega-3s and turmeric

Many people skip this critical step, which is why they experience recurring parasite infections.

The Importance of Diet During a Parasite Cleanse

Diet plays a crucial role in starving parasites and supporting detoxification. The best foods to eat during a parasite cleanse include:

Fiber-rich vegetables (broccoli, kale, spinach) to help sweep out parasites
Garlic and onions – Natural anti-parasitic properties
Pumpkin seeds – Known to help expel intestinal worms
Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi) to rebalance gut flora
Bone broth and collagen to heal the gut lining

At the same time, avoid:
Sugar and refined carbs, which feed parasites
Processed foods that contribute to gut inflammation
Alcohol and caffeine that burden detox pathways

Want to Take the Next Step Toward Better Gut Health?

If you’re ready to explore parasite cleansing but aren’t sure where to start, I offer two options to guide you through the process:

1. Learn More with My Online Program: The Functional Medicine Solution

For a structured, step-by-step approach, my self-paced online program provides:

A complete parasite cleanse protocol with practical guidance
Education on functional lab testing for parasites
Diet and lifestyle strategies to support detoxification
Tools to assess and optimize your gut health

🔗 Explore The Functional Medicine Solution and see if it’s the right fit for you.

2. Get Personalised Support with 1:1 Consultations

If you prefer a more tailored approach, I offer private consultation packages, where we:

Analyze your lab results and determine your unique gut health needs
Create a personalised and comprehensive protocol just for you
Offer ongoing support and guidance to keep you on track

📞 Book a Consultation package if you’d like to discuss the best next steps for your health.

Let’s Work Together to Restore Your Health

Taking charge of your gut health is one of the most important steps toward feeling your best. Whether you choose to explore my online program or work with me 1:1, I’d love to support you on this journey.

🌿 Get Started Today and take the first step toward a healthier you!