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Importance of Deworming in Children and Simple Home Remedies

Team AckoDec 5, 2025

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Stomach bugs or worms are quite common in children and keep occurring frequently throughout the year. These worms usually are found in the intestines and feed on the nutrients that are meant for the child. This leads to lack of nutrition for the children suffering from stomach worms. In this article we will help you with the details related to stomach worms and which options are a good choice for deworming. We have also listed some home remedies to possibly avoid these worms from thriving.

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Contents

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What is Deworming?

Deworming means removing or killing the worms present in the child's digestive system. This helps in better absorption of nutrients and thus better growth for the child. Deworming should be done at regular intervals throughout the year. Here are some types of worms that are commonly found in children.

What Causes Worm Infections in Children?

Worm infection in children is commonly caused by touching unclean surfaces, playing with pets, playing in the soil often. The germs can enter their body when children eat their food without washing their hands.  Worms usually spread through contaminated food, water, soil, or unclean hands. Poor hygiene makes it easier for these infections to grow. Thus, basic hygiene is very important to avoid worm infection in children.

Common Symptoms of Worms in Children

Symptoms of intestinal worms may differ among children. The specific type of worm can also cause a particular symptom. Here is a list of common symptoms of stomach bugs.

  • Frequent stomach pain

  • Itching around the anal area

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Loss of appetite or sudden increase in appetite

  • Irritability or disturbed sleep

  • Diarrhoea or constipation

  • Feeling weak or tired

  • White thread-like worms in stool in some cases

If you notice several of these signs together, it may be worth checking with a paediatrician.

How to Prevent Worm Infections in Children

It is quite normal for children to get worm infections at some point, but a few simple habits can reduce the chances significantly.

1. Keep hygiene simple and consistent

Make it a habit for your child to wash their hands before eating anything. As a basic practice, you can include the hand-wash-ritual after playtime, using the washroom, and before bed too. Additionally, make sure that the towels, napkins, handkerchiefs, bedsheets, undergarments, etc. that kids use are clean and fresh. When outside, you can help them use the hand sanitiser if water and soap are not readily available.

2. Focus on clean and safe food

Cook food properly. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Ensure your child drinks clean, filtered water. Avoid raw or undercooked meat.

3. Take care of pets at home

If you have pets, keep their living space clean and groom them regularly. Children and pets share a lot of hugs, so hygiene matters for everyone.

4. Make shoes a habit

Walking barefoot on soil or sand increases the chances of worms entering through the skin. A simple pair of slippers can prevent this.

5. Do not share personal items

Teach children that towels, napkins, and undergarments are personal. Sharing these can easily spread infections.

Medicines are effective and safe for deworming, but many parents also prefer trying natural remedies for comfort. Here are some commonly used options.

  1. Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its antimicrobial benefits. It may help the body fight intestinal worms. Add it to food or offer warm turmeric milk.

  2. Raw Papaya: Unripe papaya has papain, an enzyme believed to have worm-fighting properties. Mix one tablespoon of fresh papaya juice with one tablespoon of honey in warm water. Only give honey to children above one year. Papaya seeds can also be dried, powdered, and mixed with water.

  3. Carrots: Raw carrots are rich in fibre and help regulate bowel movements. Some believe they can help push worms out of the intestines. If your child does not enjoy chewing carrots, fresh carrot juice with a little lemon or salt can work well.

  4. Coconut Oil: Many families apply coconut oil around the anal area to reduce irritation and discourage worm infestation. It is a traditional home remedy used regularly

  5. Garlic: Garlic has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. Adding crushed garlic to soups, dals, or curries is an easy way to include it in your child’s diet.

  6. Pumpkin Seeds: Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, a compound believed to paralyse certain worms. This makes it easier for the body to flush them out. They also support digestion due to their fibre content.

  7. Cloves: Cloves are known for their antiparasitic benefits. Steeping them in hot water for 15 to 20 minutes makes a mild clove water that children can drink once or twice a week.

  8. Pomegranate: Pomegranate kernels or juice can support digestion and are often used as a gentle, natural remedy for worms.

Conclusion

A healthy digestive system is important for the proper growth of a child. It also helps in keeping their energy up and mood happy. Stomach worms are bad for these things in children. They may suffer from constant pain in extreme cases. Always consult a doctor before changing your child's diet or using the mentioned home remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a list of FAQs about 10 Effective Home Remedies For Worm Infections In Toddlers

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How often should I deworm my child?

Deworming must be done every six months or as per the doctor's advice. Children who play outdoors regularly or families with pets may need more regular checks.

What is the best age to start deworming?

Most children can start deworming after the age of one. However, it is best to confirm with your paediatrician before giving any medicine.

Are worms dangerous for children?

Worms are common, but they can cause issues like poor appetite, weight loss, stomach pain, disturbed sleep, and nutritional deficiencies. Treating them helps your child stay healthy and active.

How do children usually get worms?

Worms spread through unclean hands, contaminated food or water, soil, and sometimes through close contact with infected surfaces or pets. Kids pick up germs easily because they touch everything.

Can I rely only on home remedies for deworming?

Home remedies can support digestion and offer relief, but they may not replace medical treatment. If the infection is strong or symptoms persist, medicines prescribed by a doctor work faster and more effectively.

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

 

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