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2025-08-24T19:47:59Z

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Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis

2024-09-04T03:19:03Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb|[[Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories|Personal stories]]|[[Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories#Detailed stories|Detailed stories]]}}
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|title=Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis
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__NOTOC__===Many failed medical treatments over two decades lead to surgery===

Having Crohn’s disease since the age of 12, and IBD-related arthritis since my mid 30s, I have tried all the medical routes and nothing worked to maintain remission. I had to have surgery to remove two thirds of my large intestine in my early 30s.

I kept searching for a solution, and, finally, in 2004, I discovered the helminth research of Summers, Elliott and Weinstock. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14499784] The theory of the hygiene hypothesis and the need for biome reconstitution [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24481190] made sense to me, as did the mechanisms that helminths use to temper and moderate the immune system. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/The_effects_of_helminths_on_the_immune_system]

With a history of antibiotic use, prescribed to me as a child for sore throats, ear aches and colds, it made sense that my gut biome could be vulnerable to autoimmunity. It also made sense that the years of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), from the new and renovated homes that I lived in as child, could have overstimulated my immune system causing the perfect autoimmune storm.

===A flare threatens more surgery, and helminths join the therapy team===

In 2005 and 2006, I was ill again, and needed to take 60 mg of prednisone and 250 mg of azathioprine daily, but these were not working, and the GI doctor was pushing for more surgery to remove what remained of my colon. Fortunately, just in time, I found a company (now named Tanawisa [http://www.tanawisa.com]) that had recently begun selling pig whipworm eggs (Trichuris suis ova, or TSO).

I took the research to a different GI doctor who, fortuitously, was already following helminthic therapy research, and he agreed to monitor me while I tried helminths. His exact words were, “it’s worth a shot.”

I started taking 500 TSO every fortnight in October 2006 and, at the 6 week mark, things started to change. The first noticeable improvement was my mood. Although, physically, I was feeling awful, mentally I felt a sense of calm and happiness, for no apparent reason. This uplifted mood change is known to those who use helminths as “The Bounce”. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/The_helminthic_therapy_bounce]

===The worms begin to work their magic===

I was afraid to hope, but symptoms began to lessen, and I knew something positive was happening. My daily bowel movements reduced, stools began to firm up, less gas, less gut cramps and less pain. I kept a chart to measure symptom changes.

By December 2006, I was feeling amazing, and I continued to improve steadily as I weaned off the prednisone, and then the azathioprine. I began going to the gym and lost all the prednisone weight and started to develop muscle. At the time, I was in university and my colleagues were amazed at my transformation.

At different times, I have used the hookworm, Necator americanus [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Self-treating_with_NA] and the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Self-treating_with_TTO] but have found the most gentle helminth for me has been the eggs of the porcine whipworm, Trichuris suis. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Self-treating_with_TSO]

Helminths saved my life and they continue to do their work maintaining my remission after more than 13 years.

By Tracy Cu, 2019.

=== Year 17 update ===

I had my yearly GI appointment today where my doctor was impressed with my Calprotectin stool test, which measures gut inflammation. My score was a wonderful 29! The lower the score the better. My gut inflammation level is better than a normal healthy person's gut, according to my doctor.

I have now been maintaining remission for 17 years using only helminths - NO other standard medical treatments needed, although I do watch my diet and avoid chemicals in my environment. (Sept 2023)

=== Calprotectin levels, 2018-2024 ===

[[File:Tracy Cu's calprotectin levels.png]]

=== Video interview ===

In this 1 hour video, Tracy talks to Ben Adams about her helminthic therapy experience.

* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm_UmQAgd0U How worms changed my life. Helminthic Therapy for Crohn's Disease]
{{Columns}}

Helminthic therapy personal stories

2024-09-04T03:19:03Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb| [[Effects_of_helminthic_therapy|Effects of helminthic therapy]]|this=Personal stories}}
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|title=Helminthic therapy personal stories.
|description=Reports of both success and failure in treating more than 120 medical conditions using helminthic therapy.
|keywords=success stories, helminthic therapy successes, helminthic therapy success stories
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This page contains 900 anecdotal reports of both success and failure with helminthic therapy using mainly the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), but also the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura (TT/TTO), the ova of the pig whipworm, Trichuris suis (TSO), and the cysticercoids of the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta (HDC). Most of these reports have been collected from social media, in particular from the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group].

{{Quote|indent}}The Helminthic therapy personal stories is my fave bit of the wiki! Reading THOUSANDS of testimonials. This in itself will raise your vibe 🌟🙌🥳. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3507548385967758/?comment_id=3507659949289935&reply_comment_id=3507689805953616]{{Quote|/indent}}

There are many thousands of people already self-treating with helminths, and approximately 75% of these are estimated to experience an improvement in their health. [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf] This overall response rate is particularly impressive given that most people who use this therapy have already tried every other treatment that is available for their condition.

The fact that many of these individuals have taken the time to report their experience is also amazing, for two reasons. Firstly, because many people are keen to hide the fact that they are hosting “worms” and some are not even prepared to divulge this fact to close family members so never report their experience. Secondly, the majority of those who get well as a result of using helminthic therapy can’t wait to resume the life that their illness had put on hold, so they very quickly lose interest in relating their stories online.

{{Quote|indent}}I am doing fantastic so my level of activity on forums has waned. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/631572663565359/?comment_id=1201135169942436&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

While there are a few failures listed among the reports below (identified by a frown emoji: ☹️), the individuals who reported these did not always follow best practice and, in some cases, had terminated the treatment before any improvements could have been expected. Since it is known that, for a few people, remission may not be achieved for up to 2 years following the first inoculation with helminths, the treatment cannot be assumed to have failed until that point.

Where people have described their success with several conditions in a single report, this has been duplicated so that it appears in each of the appropriate sections on this page.

See the [[Terminology | '''Terminology''']] page for a list of abbreviations.

<div style="background-color:#FFF5FA;border: 1px solid #F2CEDD; padding:8px; padding-left:8px; margin-bottom:12px;">
'''The best way to approach this page is to use the search function on your device to search the entire page for each of the conditions you are interested in.'''</div>

<div style="background-color:#FFF5FA;border: 1px solid #F2CEDD;margin-bottom:12px;">
<div style="border:1px solid #BFA3AF;background-color:#F2CEDD;padding-left:8px;">'''Disclaimer'''</div>
<div style="padding:8px;">The testimonials presented below are from individuals stating what results THEY have experienced personally. They and the editors of this page are not making any medical claims and are not saying that helminthic therapy will cure or even help the problems that you have. What worked for others may not work for you. '''Please see our [[Wiki:General_disclaimer|Disclaimer]].'''</div>
</div>

__TOC__

== Detailed stories ==

* [[Hookworms remediate ankylosing spondylitis in an adult and will hopefully protect their children | '''Hookworms remediate ankylosing spondylitis in an adult and will hopefully protect their children''']]
* [[An entire family benefitting from self-treatment with hookworms | '''An entire family benefitting from self-treatment with hookworms''']]
* [[Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails | '''Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails''']]
* [[Hookworms literally saved my life | '''Hookworms literally saved my life''']] (Crohn's disease and Sweet syndrome)
* [[Clear benefits and improved mood help cope with remaining issues | '''Clear benefits and improved mood help cope with remaining issues''']]
* [[Migraine, depression and autoimmunity relieved by TSO and NA | '''Migraine, depression and autoimmunity relieved by TSO and NA''']]
* [[TSO successfully treats ulcerative colitis after drugs cause adverse reactions | '''TSO successfully treats ulcerative colitis after drugs cause adverse reactions''']]
* [[Busy veterinarian has no time for pain | '''Busy veterinarian has no time for pain''']] (Autoimmune disease presenting as Sjogren’s / lupus)
* [[Reversing helminth deficiency disease: a case study | '''Reversing helminth deficiency disease: a case study''']]
* [[From hopelessness to new meaning and purpose: a celiacs 3 year update | '''From hopelessness to new meaning and purpose: a celiac's 3 year update''']]
* [[Lupus patient abandons wheelchair to run nine miles a week after getting hookworms | '''Lupus patient abandons wheelchair to run nine miles a week after getting hookworms''']]
* [[Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms | '''Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms''']]
* [[A life saved at the eleventh hour by worms | '''A life saved at the eleventh hour by worms''']] (Total food intolerance)
* [[TSO tames colitis in a 70 year old | '''TSO tames colitis in a 70 year old''']]
* [[My scleroderma helminth journey | '''My scleroderma helminth journey''']]
* [[TSO relieves fibromyalgia, IBS and rheumatoid arthritis | '''TSO relieves fibromyalgia, IBS and rheumatoid arthritis''']]
* [[Nasal allergies nuked by worms | '''Nasal allergies nuked by worms''']]
* [[Lifelong asthma, eczema and allergies alleviated by hookworms | '''Lifelong asthma, eczema and allergies alleviated by hookworms''']]
* [[Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho | '''Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho''']]
* [[Crohns and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants | '''Crohns and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants''']]
* [[Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms | '''Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms''']]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20201023055607/http://colonyofme.com/escaping-autoimmune-hell-helminthic-microbiome-immune-support/ Escaping Autoimmune Hell with Helminthic & Microbiome Immune Support] (Migraine, CFS/M.E.)
* [[Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO | '''Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO''']]
* [[Hookworms transform a food intolerant and food allergic patient into a foodie | '''Hookworms transform a food intolerant and food allergic patient into a foodie''']]
* [[Rhinitis can ruin your sex life, but a few worms might restore it | '''Rhinitis can ruin your sex life, but a few worms might restore it''']]
* [[Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease | '''Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease''']]
* [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']]
* [https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12061538&ref=NZH_fb Why doctor working in New Zealand infected himself with hookworms] (Knee arthritis, exertional asthma, overweight, high cholesterol)
* [[Hookworms help a one-year-old overcome severe eczema and food allergies | '''Hookworms help a one-year-old overcome severe eczema and food allergies''']]
* [[Hookworms treat anaphylaxis and salicylate intolerance in a 5-year-old | '''Hookworms treat anaphylaxis and salicylate intolerance in a 5-year-old''']]
* [[Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS | '''Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS''']]
* [[Hookworms relieve chronic autoimmune pain | '''Hookworms relieve chronic autoimmune pain''']]
* [[Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis | '''Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis''']]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20221227042743/https://centerforhealthjournalism.org/fellowships/projects/hooked-hookworms-and-other-parasites Hooked on hookworms (and other parasites)] (Ankylosing spondylitis)
* [[Hook me up! Treating autoimmune disease with hookworms | '''Hook me up! Treating autoimmune disease with hookworms''']] (Guttate psoriasis)
* [[Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy | '''Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy''']]
* [[Treating SIBO and sinusitis with NA and TTO | '''Treating SIBO and sinusitis with NA and TTO''']]
* [[Treating lupus and Sjogren's disease with hookworms | '''Treating lupus and Sjogren's disease with hookworms''']]
* [[The Amazing Dr Wriggly | '''The Amazing Dr Wriggly''']] (Food intolerance, Crohn's disease, allergies, migraine, sinusitis, Restless Legs Syndrome, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and M.E./CFS)

== Illustrated stories ==

* [[The effects of NA on chronic idiopathic urticaria and eczema | '''The effects of NA on chronic idiopathic urticaria and eczema''']]

* [[The effects of NA on psoriasis | '''The effects of NA on psoriasis''']]

* [[The effects of TTO on ulcerative colitis | '''The effects of TTO on ulcerative colitis''']]

* [[The effects of NA and TTO on ulcerative colitis | '''The effects of NA and TTO on ulcerative colitis''']]

* [[The effects of NA and TTO on Crohns colitis | '''The effects of NA and TTO on Crohn's colitis''']]

== Blogs ==

See this separate page.

* [[Helminthic therapy blogs | '''Helminthic therapy blogs''']]

== Family successes ==

The first three reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[An entire family benefitting from self-treatment with hookworms | '''An entire family benefitting from self-treatment with hookworms''']]

:* [[Hookworms remediate ankylosing spondylitis in an adult and will hopefully protect their children | '''Hookworms remediate ankylosing spondylitis in an adult and will hopefully protect their children ''']]

:* [[Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms | '''Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms''']]

* “I can't believe it's been almost a year since we got inoculated with hookworm. My only regret is that personally I didn't start hosting hookworm twenty years ago (or more!) Our entire family is so much better off. It's amazing to see my son run up to school from the end of the block on his own when at the beginning of the school year, he was almost paralyzed by panic attacks from PANDAS, a disease for which there is basically no treatment or cure aside from antibiotic administration until adulthood. My daughter had her best and most challenging school year ever and has made a best friend. My husband, too, only wishes he had gotten hookworm over a decade ago because of how much more productive and happier he is.” (Reported in a private discussion, Jun 2012)

* “I put my whole family on helminths. When my son was 2 he was diagnosed with a rare type of autoimmune Nephrotic Syndrome. He is also IgE allergic to 8 foods and IgG allergic to about 12 more. He suffers from terrible eczema and he is on lots of medication including Cyclosporine for his kidneys. When he was around 9, he was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, and they wanted to put him on Remicade infusion. I couldn’t take it anymore and went looking for alternatives. When I heard about helminths I had no doubt that I wanted this. My other son has food sensitivities and gets cyclical headaches every month with vomiting, and my husband has suffered with Crohn’s since his teens. Me, I’ve always felt healthy enough.

:"My children both got 5 hookworms and my husband and I got 20 each. Let me tell you that the Bounce my husband and I felt was AMAZING!

:"Long story short, my husband is “cured” of Crohns. His symptoms and inflammation are gone and he feels and looks younger. My autoimmune kid is also cured of his Crohns!!! No Remicade!!! His severe allergies turned to sensitivities. We still struggle with his kidneys but I believe he’s doing better overall due to hookworms. I lost weight that I’d struggled with for years, and it turns out it was just inflammation.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3544168688972394/]

* “We all used to take Allegra and Claritin. We are completely free of allergy meds now, 3 of us.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3585927828129813?comment_id=3587651214624141]

== Share your own story ==

If you are willing to help others by recording a detailed account of your own experience with helminthic therapy - whether good or bad - we offer a list of questions as a guide to some of the details that readers are likely to find helpful. You can find this list on the following page.
* [[Share your personal story | '''Share your personal story''']]

== Expressions of regret for having delayed treatment ==

Many people have commented that they wish they had tried helminthic therapy sooner than they did. A few of these comments are presented below.

* “I only regret not doing it two years ago when I first heard of helminthic therapy and I thought it was just crazy.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1068326963223258/?comment_id=1068347489887872&reply_comment_id=1068355509887070&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]

* "I regret all the years of quality living I lost because I wasn’t hosting hookworms." [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworms_successful_against_colitis_and_celiac_disease_after_medicine_fails]

* “I was 19 years old when diagnosed with pancolitis. I have tried everything with minimal if any relief from my symptoms. I'm 6 weeks in hosting human hookworm (NA) and I can't tell you how much i wish I had done this sooner.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1852446168144663/?comment_id=1853108804745066&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I wish I hadn't waited so long. I've tried diet, I've seen several functional medicine doctors (and followed their protocols), and I've seen some of the best rheumatologists (and ophthalmologists) in Virginia, at Duke in North Carolina, and at Johns Hopkins in Maryland. None of them could offer me anything, really. I never thought I would purposefully inoculate myself with a helminth, but for the first time, I am actually excited at the prospect of getting better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1852446168144663/?comment_id=1853270628062217&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I can't believe it's been almost a year since we got inoculated with hookworm. My only regret is that I didn't start hosting hookworm twenty years ago (or more!) Our entire family is so much better off.”

* “I spent ungodly amounts of money over the past several years working with elite functional medicine docs. And I eventually came to the conclusion it wasn’t going to work for me… Now I’m 7 months in with NA and I’ve had no blood or symptoms of Colitis for 3 months… After all the time and money, I wish I just started Helminthic therapy 6 years ago and only changed my diet. The functional medicine tests and supplements didn’t help me one bit.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1634529973269618/?comment_id=1634673803255235&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “My son also has pancolitis and we are 7 months into helminth therapy. We have had a very smooth journey on TTO with really no side effects or worsening of symptoms, we are getting blood results back today and heading for a colonoscopy soon so will be able to see how things are going. My only regret is that we didn’t start sooner.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1852446168144663/?comment_id=1854858797903400&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Even tho I'm just in the beginning phase of HT... I really wish that I had started a while ago... or found out about it sooner.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1928880480501231/?comment_id=1929417810447498&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “A classmate of mine mentioned this therapy to me (four years ago). Because he wasn’t a really credible source of information otherwise (and I didn’t know my mental symptoms were likely autoimmune), I dismissed the idea. I wish I had looked into it sooner.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1928880480501231/?comment_id=1933648010024478&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I’m so glad I'm on this journey, and wish I hadn't waited so long.” (Link expired.)

* “I delayed a long time, in fact someone I told about HT tried it long before I did and then talked me into trying it myself. I'm very grateful to him for doing that, sharing his experience and enthusiasm was very helpful for me… If we're talking hypothetical time machines I'd go back not just to when I first heard about HT, I'd go back to when I was an infant or toddler and give myself worms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/728615583861066/?comment_id=728654000523891&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I really wish I had done this way back when I first heard about it. I waited for the western medicine folks to fix me, and it just didn't happen. In the meantime, I got sicker and sicker. If I could go back and get hookworms five years ago, I would.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/728615583861066/?comment_id=728619870527304&offset=0&total_comments=2&hc_location=ufi]

* “I think I joined this group a couple years ago but ignored it, didn't follow, didn't read. I regret that. 2 years was not a huge percentage of my life, but it could have saved my body some trauma. Probably right now I would be feeling the full effects of worm therapy!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2255349147854361/?comment_id=3393377944051470&reply_comment_id=3394431997279398]

* “My only regret is I didn't start sooner.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3695008493888412/?comment_id=3724888027567125]

* “I wish I hadn’t waited so long, and would urge anyone considering it to go ahead and try.” [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Lifelong_asthma,_eczema_and_allergies_alleviated_by_hookworms]

* “I’ve been using NA and TTO (for 2½ years) for Crohns Colitis. My only regret is not trying it sooner. Easily the most effective therapy I’ve tried.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1003222553067033?comment_id=3865755023480424]

* "I read about helminth therapy years ago, and I'm really sorry I categorized it as a "last resort" back then. Every time I think of what it's done for our health, I am amazed, and humbled. Such a little thing can have such huge relief in the long term." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4847022252020358?comment_id=4850971704958746&reply_comment_id=4853636264692290]

* "I wish I had given NA to him 5 years ago. He's doing so great on them. Helminths have literally saved his life." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3419265288129402/]

* "Like many, I do wish I found this therapy earlier and tried it earlier. The results are astounding for me and by far the most impactful thing I’ve done." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4395750987147489/]

* "I had actually been in pain since my 20s but it was only in my 50s that it became unbearable and I was finally diagnosed. I had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis as a child but that cleared up... or so I thought.. I just wish I had known earlier and started in my 20s to avoid all those years of discomfort." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/904803269575629/?comment_id=904885336234089&reply_comment_id=5808202235902350]

* "I wish I had found helminth therapy 20 years earlier. If I had, my life would have been less focused on my illness and hospital appointments and more on enjoyment, but I’m making up for it now. NA literally saved my life." [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworms_literally_saved_my_life]

== Expression of regret for terminating treatment ==

When people who are hosting helminths develop new symptoms, or an old or existing condition flares, their worms are often the first factor to fall under suspicion. In most cases where this leads to termination of a colony of human helminths, this step is later regretted when the actual cause of the symptoms is discovered and the self-treater experiences a return of the disease symptoms that their worms had been controlling. The individual will then also face a prolonged wait for a new colony to mature and reestablish immune balance.

Also see the following page.

* [[Hookworm side effects#Symptoms experienced after inoculation are not always worm side-effects | '''Symptoms experienced after inoculation are not always worm side-effects''']]

In some cases, a misguided doctor may insist that a therapeutic helminth colony is terminated before they prescribe immunosuppressive treatment. Doctors are aware of drug manufacturers’ advice that, before patients are given immunosuppressant drugs - for example [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dupilumab dupilumab] (Dupixent) - any helminth infection should be terminated. This advice is to prevent immunosuppression by the drug from supporting the proliferation of ''pathogenic'' helminths, so does not apply to NA, TTO or TSO because these species cannot proliferate within a host. It is, however, advisable for anyone using HDCs to stop taking this species while on immunosuppressants. [http://biomerestoration.com/faqs/]

Whichever of the above reasons prompts termination of a colony of therapeutic helminths, the result is invariably regret for this action.

{{Quote|indent}}When I first got sick they (hookworms) helped me... but then my rheumatologist wanted them gone while I started azathioprine and steroids... I should have never done it because the day after they disappeared I have horrible widespread pain, a massive tooth infection, started vomiting from the azathioprine (worms were protecting) and now I have pancreatitis from that death med, a horrible goo coming out of my vagina, a chest infection, a yellow tongue and liver enzymes through the roof... I regret listening to my idiot rheumatologist... and since my mast cells are so bad I have not been able to tolerate getting them back. Which I am furious about as I have gotten so much sicker. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4601449843244268/?comment_id=4601474566575129&reply_comment_id=4605257082863544] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6530182517037648/?comment_id=6531438513578715]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}When the antiparasitic wiped them out I was plunged into hell.... I wish I had never taken it and just continued on with Helminthic Therapy instead. (Edited from two comments: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5918318108224095/?comment_id=5918321418223764&reply_comment_id=5920328744689698] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5918318108224095/?comment_id=5919788698077036&reply_comment_id=5920535241335715].){{Quote|/indent}}

== '''Thumbnail stories''' ==
<div style="background-color:#FFF5FA;border: 1px solid #F2CEDD; margin-bottom:12px;padding:8px;">
<div style="border:1px solid #BFA3AF;background-color:#F2CEDD;padding-left:8px;">'''Notes'''</div>
* Comments marked with a frown emoji ☹️ indicate a failure.
* The number in square brackets following a quote provides a link to the original post from which the thumbnail was taken.
* Not all health problems have their own sub-section. For example, there is no section for hay fever, which appears under “Allergy”, so it's best to use the search function on your device to search the entire page for the condition(s) you are interested in.
</div>

=== Absence seizures ===

* “My daughter... has inflammation related autism... (TSO) reduced absent seizures.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4461359747253279/?comment_id=4465078650214722&reply_comment_id=4466404240082163]

=== Acne ===

* “One more positive change I have noticed is I no longer get acne on my back, something I thought I would grow out of after my teens. But no they persisted, but since I've been hosting my new friends (hookworms) my skin has been very healthy and clear. NO MORE ZITS!” (Link expired)

* "My acne has cleared up." (Link expired)

* And it was still much less frequent over 2 years later. (Link expired)

* “I've had no negative side effects and strangely my long-term moderate acne (over 20 years) has cleared up almost entirely in the past two weeks.” (Link expired)

* “I can report that prior to my using hookworm I experienced, into my forties, red zit-like bumps on my back, without heads, that would persist for weeks, and made removing my shirt in public something I dreaded. These disappeared along with my allergies and asthma post hookworm.” (Link expired)

* “Since starting 3 NA three months ago the only benefit so far (for our 14 year-old son) is his acne. Which is a big deal. His face was starting to scar from the acne. His skin has greatly improved.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2507957052593568/?comment_id=2508016072587666]

* "I’ve been doing HT (TTO for 6 months and NA for 3 months) and I definitely notice a reduction in my acne. Not completely gone yet but my skin definitely looks better." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4871890079533575/?comment_id=4871970556192194]

=== Actinic keratosis ===

* “A friend of mine has precancerous skin conditions on his head. They have been very crusty and large and have been there for years. After 120 days with six Na, these lesions on his head have stopped crusting up, have a smooth appearance and are shrinking.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2448496698539604/] (There are photos at this link.)

=== Addison’s disease / Primary adrenal insufficiency / Hypocortisolism ===

* “For myself and a friend with Addison’s, HDC has been very helpful.” (Link expired)

* “Before hw, I had pain in my kidney area after any stress - sometimes quite debilitating levels… My adrenal autoantibodies were somewhat high - just within the range of official (Addison’s) diagnosis. And my cortisol levels were crazy - super high in the middle of the night and low during the day (which I'm told is typical as the adrenals start to fail.) I started an Autoimmmune Protocol diet a few months before starting HT, and I believe that helped. But I still had symptoms - in particular the pain over my kidneys anytime I was startled or stressed - until about 1.5 years into hw treatment. Had my adrenal autoantibodies tested about 20 months after starting HT, and they were at zero. And my cortisol levels are normal now. So I think diet helped… but I give most of the credit to my little hw buddies.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1376977685691516/?comment_id=1377606702295281&reply_comment_id=1378727892183162&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1376977685691516/?comment_id=1377606702295281&reply_comment_id=1378751412180810&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

=== Adhesions ===

* "... since hosting my helminths... the pain from my adhesions has been considerably less." (Link expired)

* “Because of adhesions, I used to have a lot of cramping and often loose stools. That has, astonishingly, completely normalised. There are many adhesions (as a result of a Cesarean section). The most severe ones appear to be on my right colon, a little higher than my appendix. In some MRIs it looked like there might be an invagination caused by the adhesions, which comes and goes. That is also the area where it hurts all the time, so it makes sense to me.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2555376637851609/?comment_id=2732330813489523] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2555376637851609/?comment_id=2732330813489523&reply_comment_id=2733415233381081]

=== Adrenal fatigue ===

* “According to my doctor my adrenal fatigue was related to fibromyalgia. After 9 months and 45 HWs later I have stopped taking hydrocort, stopped with all sleeping medications, and am getting ready to stop the cortisol supplement. I am waking up with more energy, going to sleep naturally, and not crashing during the day. I credit the HWs with this improvement after suffering for more than 6 years and trying many different treatments with no improvement. I also suffer from many other issues and my energy levels are still low but this improvement for me is huge.” (Reported to the Helminthic Therapy Support group. Post now deleted.)

=== Aging / ageing ===

* “I’m a year into NA treatment. And I truly appear to be physically aging backwards. I barely recognize myself in pictures from a year ago… my skin, hair, and nails have changed. I’m more well nourished & my outside reflects that.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2255349147854361/?comment_id=3020082311381037] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2255349147854361/?comment_id=3020082311381037&reply_comment_id=3022785917777343]

=== Alcohol intolerance ===

* “... after hosting HWs for 9 months I too can also drink alcohol which I could not do previously. Beer is good again.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/848418981880725/?comment_id=848726048516685&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]

* “I can now drink alcohol without becoming intoxicated after 3 sips of wine. It was lovely to be able to drink a full glass of wine.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2255349147854361?comment_id=3497089627013634]

* “I find that I am MUCH less likely to be hungover after drinking the night before while hosting worms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1276571042398848/?comment_id=1604202039635745&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I can tolerate beer better with HW” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/848418981880725/?comment_id=848501681872455]

* “I shared a bottle of wine with my husband (after 4 doses of 2500 TSO) for the first time in 8 years. I did not feel like death the next day. Amazing!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3695008493888412?comment_id=3809529635769630]

=== Allergy ===

Also see [[#Food_allergy|Food allergy]], [[#Food_intolerance|Food intolerance]] and [[#Rhinitis|Rhinitis]].

The first three reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.
:* [[Lifelong asthma, eczema and allergies alleviated by hookworms | '''Lifelong asthma, eczema and allergies alleviated by hookworms''']]
:* [[Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy | '''Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy''']]
:* [[Nasal allergies nuked by worms | '''Nasal allergies nuked by worms''']]

* "... probably 1/4 of my coworkers are experiencing some degree of seasonal allergy troubles. And I have experienced almost nothing. I've sneezed a few times and that is it. What really did it for me was that I would normally be wiped out this time of year, but all weekend I was out and about doing all kinds of stuff with plenty of energy. This is such a radical difference over what had been a declining condition that I really can't be skeptical anymore. I never thought I would use language this absolute to describe the results of this therapy. I have no choice but to say "I have been cured." (Link expired)

* "... a dramatic improvement..." (Link expired)

* "... my hay fever and allergies are 100 percent gone!" (Link expired)

* "He is playing baseball this summer. An impossibility before since he is allergic to grasses, trees and flowers." (Link expired)

* "... its been just over three years since receiving hookworm therapy and... my MS and allergies are still in complete remission!" (Link expired)

* “Before helminths, I had a latex allergy and allergies to all the immunochemically similar foods (bananas, avocados, melons, etc.)... However, now I don't really worry about latex or bananas at all.” (Link expired)

* "Now, at nearly two years since I began helminthic therapy I am nasally more normal than at any time in my life." [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Nasal_allergies_nuked_by_worms]

* * "... I increased my infestation level until my asthma and hay fever were cured." [http://www.kuro5hin.org/story/2006/4/30/91945/8971]

* "... free of asthma and allergies for the first time in twelve years." (Link expired)

* "But the big thing I’ve noticed is … I haven’t had hay fever so far this year. By this time last year I’d visited a doctor about my puffy eyes and fatigue. For the last couple of years I’ve had episodes in which my eyes swell up at the same time I’m hit with a hay fever attack. I lost a few days work as I essentially lay down and slept through the episodes… Anyway, this year, nothing. No hay fever… no puffy eyes..." [http://www.liveforeverordietrying.com/topping-up-today/]

* "(My son) started HT for asthma/allergies. (He) has been at a camp this week and has spent the large majority of the time outdoors, playing games etc. in a grassy field. He was covered with grass last night and said, "Mom, I don't itch!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/391253377597290/]

* ☹️ "... over a 2 year period I have had two doses a total of 85. Unfortunately I did not benefit at all from the doses. I did have a significant response at the site of infestation. Huge raised red lump and blisters on both of the 35 & 50 doses." (Link expired)

* "Since my teenage years I have suffered with hay fever, dog allergy and a constantly blocked and running nose and sneezing fits. Now I can BREATH! My allergic issues have not completely disappeared but improved massively. Hookworm and kefir have made a huge difference. It has worked for me and I would recommend that anyone looking to alleviate allergic conditions give it a go and give it time." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/bacteriotherapy/permalink/458557630846596/?comment_id=458866144149078&offset=0&total_comments=10]

* "I'm a gal who has been allergic to the world since I was born (I was born with a head-to-toe body rash) and today I'm allergic to animals, pollens, dust, corn, wheat, fish, chocolate, bee stings, and maybe lactose. I had my first dose of worms on 4 November 2012 and my second dose at the beginning of this month. I have been eating things lately that would have made my skin explode, even just a month ago. It is very early but my asthma is vastly improved and so is my skin. I even ate a bit of corn yesterday and woke up with regular eyes, not swollen. Oh I ate gluten this weekend. Bread. Unimaginable! I've been so afraid of everything because of my violent reactions. It's like the world is becoming a more friendly place for me. I could get used to this fast. Think of all of the things I have yet to explore, and to eat." (Reported in a private message, Feb 2013)

* "I've also seen marked improvements in my allergies. While I still have symptoms they are 100% better than they were. Before the worms, I always had a stuffed or runny nose. People were always asking if I had a cold. Since my first dose, I've seldom had a stuffy nose. It's so great to be able to breathe! I seem to be less reactive to other allergy and asthma triggers as well." [http://moderndaym.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/still-hooked.html]

* "This spring, i had a good top off of hookworm… so they were fired up and ready to go when the allergens filled the air. i marveled at how well i was breathing. in years past my asthma and sinus allergies have been so bad i had to stay indoors huddled next to an air filter. not anymore. worms are great medicine." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/507604599295500/?comment_id=513860582003235&offset=0&total_comments=12]

* "Almost a full year since inoculation (I've had 4 total), I can say with certainty now that helminthic therapy has been a life-changing success for me… I used to have allergies year round and couldn't breathe properly (which meant poor sleep). Nowadays I don't even remember the last time my nose was too stuffy to sleep well (I haven't taken any antihistamines in a while), and my family has mentioned that they don't hear me snoring anymore… I have never experienced a single side effect (other than the skin rash) from any of my inoculations, so I was always worried that it wasn't working out. The improvements have been so gradual and slow that I didn't notice them, so it's good that I didn't give up despite the road bumps along the way." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/505252492864044/]

* "Also as a nice plus of this treatment I saw my spring allergies that I have been dealing with for 7 years since I moved into my new home completely gone…" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/523433171045976/]

* "My pollen and cat allergies improved 90% with HW" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/549133428475950/?comment_id=550109935044966&offset=0&total_comments=6]

* “Another fantastic thing that these little guys did for me was my allergies are basically gone.. Before the parasites I could not be around cats for more then 10 min and my breathing would get so bad I would need my inhaler and sometimes I have had to go to the hospital for my breathing.. I have been doing experiments with my neighbors cats and I have been able to be their for 5 hours! So I'm hoping with more Hookworms things will only get better. Now I do not need inhalers or anything.. They are truly a miracle for me..” (Link expired)

* “So I've gotten a total of... 5 inoculations. Every 6 months or so I do it. I didnt feel any relief until 8-10 months into the therapy. I almost lost hope. The improvement was very gradual. I still have very minor congestion, and sometimes my eyes do itch, but it doesnt come close to the misery I felt before this therapy. I would say that my allergies are about 75% in remission. Foods I couldnt eat before now don't bother me. Including: almonds, all fruits, and a few other things I forgot I was allergic to. I still do feel a SLIGHT reaction from fruits. But I can eat a whole apple and only get some tingling now. Strawberries dont make my insides feel like exploding. All in all it has been a major blessing for me. I highly recommend it.” [http://helminthheroes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/update-to-my-progress-its-crazy-they.html]

* ☹️ "My husband infected with 20 hookworms, then 20 a year later. Depression for him, which he's never had, began in year 2. The worms didn't help his walnut allergy. He became increasingly depressed and started on an antidepressant which helped a little. In April, he killed them and immediately felt better and quit the antidepressant." (Reported in a private discussion, Aug 2012)

* “I've always been one of those snufflers that have a constantly runny nose which turned into proper allergic eye scratching wheezy misery when exposed to all the usual triggers - dust, pollen, pets etc… (After inoculating with hookworms) my nose has totally dried up - I'm no longer a mouth breather! This years pollen season has been a breeze. I haven't once reached for the usual steroid nasal spray or antihistamines. All in all it's been a huge success for me…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/675352275854064/?comment_id=675947469127878&offset=0&total_comments=11]

* “I inoculated with my first dose of HW in September 2013. My third dose was in around April 2014. Sometime in July 2014 , 98% of my allergic reactions (hives on body –urtacaria- as well as swelling in my face - angioedema) went away. So I stopped taking the daily antihistimines I had been taking. Since then I have had only infrequent and mild break-outs… This is a big relief for me, as my face was swelling up and I was getting hives daily and weekly for two years… and now they seem to be in remission.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/723320357723922/]

* “In the last few months, HDC have apparently stopped my 'seasonal' allergies, which were getting bad enough that I'd wake up daily with a sore tonsil on the side I slept, and developed a chronic case of bronchitis.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/263818550462551/permalink/434113390099732/]

* “I've been taking it (HDC) for 3-4 months and I've barely sneezed so far this allergy season (usually peaks late May to mid June for me).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/263818550462551/permalink/435565636621174/?comment_id=445987772245627&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

* “I’ve had severe hay fever ever since I can remember (I'm now mid-40s) and a few years ago I heard about a hookworm therapy trial taking place at Nottingham University, in the UK, for people with hay fever or asthma. I managed to get myself on the trial and ended up being 'infected' with 10 hookworms… and when the next summer came I was amazed to see the results: I felt myself starting to get hay fever and then it just stopped before the craziness kicked in. I kept feeling myself starting to react and then, before the reaction could go into overdrive, the symptoms just stopped. I was utterly amazed and managed to actually enjoy the whole summer for the first time I could ever remember.” (Link expired)

* “I'm getting very excited about my dust mite allergy daughter. In the last 6 weeks+ she has been showing tiny progressive signs of improvement. She started forgetting to take one of her daily allergy medications - there seemed to be no increase in allergy activity... two weeks later she began forgetting to take her nasal spray... no negative impact!! This is coming from a kid who would beg me to let her have extra doses of everything because nothing was working. She was miserable a couple of months ago, now it looks like the miraculous is happening right under our noses. I'm sure this last dose (of hookworms) will finish the job that is well started.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/832799306776026/?comment_id=893079564081333&offset=0&total_comments=28&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “I had a lifelong allergy to cat dander (among other substances), and after 145 HW, that's gone.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/922126054510017/?comment_id=923262434396379&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “For the last 2 weeks my son has been able to stroke and even hug the dogs without getting a severe allergic reaction… I’m finding it hard to comprehend actually that my son is able to hug and stroke the dogs - without washing his hands and still not get - swelling eyes, wheezing and rashes - by just hosting 5 hookworms!! Plus he hasn’t needed to use anti-histamines for weeks now. Wow! If he does over-do it with the dogs - like sitting stroking the dogs watching TV + hugging and kissing them (which was unheard of pre HW's) then he does sneeze and rub his eyes - but not the severe reaction he used to get... he is very happy! We were actually in a situation where I was considering having to get rid of the dogs, it was that bad - which was an unbearable thought for all of us especially my son - he said NO WAY!!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/922126054510017/?comment_id=962841063771849&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R5%22%7D]

* “The first time i took just 30 hdc, my pollen and dust mite allergies--which manifested daily at all times of year as histamine reactions--disappeared pretty much for good. This is technically scientifically impossible, but its true.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/964705230252099/?comment_id=966119430110679&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “The big improvement has been in my allergies. I hardly noticed them this summer. I had an occasional sneeze but not the constant sneezing, with itchy, watery eyes. Also, I got stung by a wasp which would have required administration of epinephrine and an ER visit in the past. I barely got a mark. I needed no medication.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1081410198581601/]

* ☹️ “I have tried hookworm. They didn't work for me and I have just started HDC.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1108814099174544/]

* “Two years ago, one of our 12 y/o twins suffered a sudden onset of extreme and debilitating allergies to dust mite and cat dander. Associated asthmatic episodes, severe vocal chord dysfunction, chronic and debilitating hay fever, that was barely touched by prednisone, various antihistamines, nasonex etc... Her condition initially hospitalised her - at times for up to a week, where they would struggle to stabilise her with pred, nebs and antihistamines - once back at home and on a host of drugs she still couldn't go to school full time… Then came 2 doses of Necator americanus (NA), first 10 and then 20… Today, she regularly rides her bike 14 kms to school, even in cold weather. Rarely looks hay feverish - though sometimes has a few days of struggle. She plays saxophone (something she would never have contemplated starting 2 years ago!) and is hardly recognisable in comparison to the person who had to fight so hard for air 2 years ago. Her recovery has been nothing short of miraculous and the only thing that it can be attributed to is the NA…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1274543505934935/]

* “… after 3 inoculations totaling 85 NA (25/25/35 at 6 month intervals) I am allergy and asthma free for the first time in about 20 years! … No horrible allergies and asthma that usually end up with bronchitis and once even pneumonia. I am so happy! The third inoculation was the tipping point. I did not see any signs of relief before that.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1312972562092029/]

* "I've been on 30 HDC per month (for the last 9 months) and it has made an astounding difference for my allergies, and chronic sinusitis & rhinitis!! This is the first year in MANY that I haven't had to get a steroid (Kenelog) shot for my springtime allergies, and I haven't been absolutely miserable - at all!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1337615056294446/?comment_id=1337681602954458&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

* “My hay fever used to be so bad I would wake up gasping for breath in the middle of the night for months every spring - while I was taking a daily OTC allergy med. It was frightening. After inoculation (with NA), I breathe freely every spring with no allergy medication whatsoever. This result has lasted 3 years.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/345282728861022/?comment_id=1344877392234879&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I have my eyes back! it has been 17 months since my dose (25 NA) and my eyes look normal again. I am not suffering from seasonal allergies anymore and my intensely swollen eyes (for years) look like they used to. I am also able to eat more food without issues now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1390365557686062/]

* “I am almost exactly 6 months post first time inoculation with NA (treating asthma, eczema, dust mite and multiple other allergies, IBS and the auto-immune skin blistering condition, pemphigus). I am nearly completely symptom free for the first time in years. No more sandpaper dry eyes, dry mouth, incessant post nasal drip, constant cough, joint pain and bone tiredness. My energy is up, better than it has been in 10 years. I can breathe again. I'm off the inhalers, off the drops, off the pills. I went into this with guarded expectations. This is better than I could have dreamed of.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1570547399667876/]

* “Today, seven months after innoculating with 7 NA, my severe allergies and eczema are finally in a manageable state. It's full on Spring where I am and I realized I forgot to take my allergy meds today! I Even went outside and enjoyed the maple blooms and I'm allergic to them!! I can finally say I think the worm treatment has changed my life. I'm amazed and grateful.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1617223188333630/]

* “I've had mine (NA) for over 7 years w/ periodic boosters along the way. My allergies (to pets) are gone.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1357306717658613/?comment_id=1659897757399506&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I purchased 25 NA for my asthma, hay fever, and eczema. NOTHING doctors have given me has helped my itching eyes, save steroid drops which I only get when eyes infected. It's year-round, relentless, crazy-making. I dreaded spring. I would cry thinking about what more my eyes would go through with the pollen counts. But the change in my symptoms is remarkable. I have not taken one allergy pill this season yet, and I barely have to use eye drops. Not saying my eyes don't have a slight itch every once in a while, but I can stop myself instantly. Before I would rub and scratch them raw. I am simply over the moon. My mom and sister have never seen me so unconcerned about my health.... 62 years of terrible suffering, and this is the first time I feel what normal might feel like.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1671400439582571/]

* “Before: Allergies to virtually everything that blows, asthma that required two different handheld inhalers several times a day, prednisone daily, ibuprofen max dose daily just to feel relatively fair. Now, 2-1/2 years later: No inhalers needed at all except very rarely (once or twice a year for the past two years), no prednisone, no Allegra, ibuprofen only rarely. I would say my allergy and asthma symptoms are 90% relieved since starting HWT.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1691817464207535/?comment_id=1693373180718630&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “My daughter (age 16) suffers from terrible allergies. She is allergic to all grasses, most trees, dogs , cats and dust mites. She gets asthmatic symptoms and needs an inhaler. We live in an area that has mild climate year round. So constant blooming of something. We tried allergy shots for 2+ years with no symptomatic relief. Also the pharma meds we’re starting not to work too. Eight weeks ago she inoculated with 5NA. She is at this time much relieved. I would estimate by about 70% or more. She has a clear nose and has not needed her inhaler for over a month. Last night she spent the night at a friends house who had a cat. She was fine. In my opinion this can be a real option for people with allergies.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1710428945679720/]

* “I use HT for arthritis but my terrible allergies magically disappeared. Bonus!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1745375742185040/?comment_id=1745564895499458&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I have severe pollen allergies and associated oral allergy syndrome. I've been doing helminth therapy with Necator americanus (human hookworm) for 2 years and it's completely resolved all my allergies, so long as I maintain a population of them in my gut.” [https://www.metafilter.com/177197/Allergic-to-Modernity]

* “I didn't get any benefit for my Oral Allergy Syndrome but hay fever was eliminated.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1932275130161766/?comment_id=1933799236676022&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I’m 17 and when Mum suggesting inoculating to me I was very VERY hesitant because the whole idea sounded super gross, but really it’s absolutely no dramas and it’s helped my allergies beyond belief. I cannot recommend helminths highly enough.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2137113563011254/?comment_id=2137890126266931&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I had doses of NA in July and October last year, and one in May this year, trying to resolve my extreme hay fever (2 months each year indoors). This year, my hay-fever was the mildest ever; just an occasional sneeze but no need to hide indoors. Cutting grass no longer bothers me at all. I love this new state of health and did not actually expect results so soon.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3021008524621749/]

* “I am using NA for very bad pollen and sawdust allergies, as well as multiple chemical sensitivity. I can say that, being a very heavy year for allergies, I am able to live my daily life whereas previous years I would be so fatigued I spent over 14+ hours in bed a day. My sinuses seem to be clearer, and my allergy symptoms are way less.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3054501617939106/?comment_id=3054887607900507&reply_comment_id=3055410337848234]

* “About a year ago I started off with 5 NA, then went to 15 and now have about 30. I used to be highly allergic to cats. I could tell someone had cats simply by my itchy eyes as soon as I entered their house. That has disappeared. My sister has 2 cats and my last visit was uneventful.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3629630493759546/]

* ☹️ "When I used NA a few years ago for my allergies I was hoping that they'd cure me and I could be free of this crap once and for all… After two years, there was no improvement, so I was pretty disappointed." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4715803565142228/?comment_id=4715873338468584]

* "I have been taking 30 HDC every 3 weeks since February (i.e., 5 months) and have had NO HAY FEVER for the entire season. I have also barely reacted to a single insect bite, just a single one on my arm, in all that time. Bite hives have been ruining summers for me until now." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5198796470176266/]

* "I had no allergies (except black hair dye) until soon after the birth of my second child. Weird! I developed what seemed like chronic severe hayfever which I tolerated for 3 years for lack of a better option. Then suddenly one morning I woke to a swollen painful red face which after a week had me in A&E with a full body rash. Every time I had one of these flares Dr's prescribed prednisone and corticosteroids neither of which worked and they actually admitted it seemed to be making it worse. After seeing a naturopath and cutting out Dairy/gluten/sugar/walnuts/almonds I finally got some relief. I started the worms around this time too, after seeing the documentary on 'Sunday'. I have had 3 doses of NA - 3, 5 and 10. I'm sure it's working because around 3 months (after each dose) my sinuses stuff up again. I keep to the strict diet and haven't had a proper flare up all year!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5248484528540793?comment_id=5258713994184513]

* "I started my first dose of 5 NA 5 weeks ago (and) I've had great improvement in severe allergy symptoms (rhinitis, plugged ears, itchy throat, asthma and eczema) while landscaping outdoors." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5277962722259640/]

* "I'm taking 40 HDC/week, and while it hasnt removed my nasal allergies completely, it has greatly reduced the medicine I need. I'm off flonase, nasacort and zyrtec. Now I only take 2 sprays of azelastine daily + one allegra." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6530182517037648/?comment_id=6548551445200755]

=== Allodynia ===

* “I’ve even been able to wear my glasses for several hours today, which is a huge improvement, as I normally have dreadful allodynia with them and can only stand to wear them a few minutes at a time.” (Reported 18 weeks after inoculating with 5 NA and then adding 10-12 more at 12 weeks.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1079127865476501/]

=== Alopecia ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and hair growth#Alopecia | '''Helminthic therapy and hair growth: Alopecia''']].

=== Alzheimer's ===

See [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Dementia | '''Dementia''']].

=== Anaphylaxis ===

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Hookworms treat anaphylaxis and salicylate intolerance in a 5-year-old | '''Hookworms treat anaphylaxis and salicylate intolerance in a 5-year-old''']]

* "Several months into the TSO therapy, my son, for the first time in his life, accidently ate a pecan cookie. Pecans are the nuts that he is most allergic to, both by blood test score and by our experience with him. He had absolutely no reaction of any kind." [https://web.archive.org/web/20190731180935/http://autismtso.com/about/the_story/P4/]

* "Our 5yo daughter has anaphylaxis to peanut, egg and milk and also salicylate intolerance. Since starting low dose helminths in August 2012 we are now seeing a good reduction in her salicylate intolerance, she is eating a lot more foods that are high in salicylates, also her stomach aches have gone and so has her eczema. We tried many different alternative therapies and nothing has worked until now. We are very pleased." (Reported to a closed group, Mar 2013)

* "I was stung by a wasp last fall and had no reaction. In the past, I would have needed at least an epi pen. So this therapy may have saved my life!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1260591407330145/?comment_id=1269056583150294&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “(Our son) hasn’t had an anaphylactic episode in over two years. He is 8yo and he has had about seven anaphylactic episodes, so two years without one is stunning. We are over here living a basically normal life. His progress compared to other children who have his disease (EoE, IgE-mediated allergies and all the symptoms of MCAS) is unheard of, and I credit it to the helminths. He missed more than half of kindergarten and first grade, but only missed five days of school in second grade.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1040729659316322/?comment_id=2195628287159781&reply_comment_id=2383921628330445]

=== Angioedema ===

* "I did not have any angioedema during HT. My coughing seems slightly better in the 9 weeks following treatment, but it is not gone." (Reported by a subject with hereditary angioedema.) (Link expired)

* “I'm hosting about 100 HW ... My (facial) angioedema is mostly gone. I'm off all meds but it took 6-7 months.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/902287509827205/?comment_id=902906493098640&offset=0&total_comments=3&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

=== Ankylosing spondylitis ===

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [https://web.archive.org/web/20221227042743/https://centerforhealthjournalism.org/fellowships/projects/hooked-hookworms-and-other-parasites '''Hooked on hookworms (and other parasites)''']

:* [[Hookworms remediate ankylosing spondylitis in an adult and will hopefully protect their children | '''Hookworms remediate ankylosing spondylitis in an adult and will hopefully protect their children''']]

* The following two quotes are about the same individual.
:* “A local rheumatologist diagnosed a rare autoimmune disease called ankylosing spondylitis, sometimes called bamboo spine. Wittlake’s vertebrae were fusing together. His immune system was malfunctioning and attacking his spine. He was told that once the whole spine was fused, walking would turn into shuffling, and there was no cure… In February of last year, Wittlake infected himself with parasites (hookworms)… By fall, he was walking erect. By December, he was snowboarding pain-free on Mount Bachelor.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20221227042743/https://centerforhealthjournalism.org/fellowships/projects/hooked-hookworms-and-other-parasites]

:* “My husband was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis 2.5 years ago after more than a decade of misdiagnoses. 1.5 years ago he took 20 hookworm and has since taken 2 more doses (each about 6 months apart). After the initial dose, he began noticing improvement in his symptoms after 6-8 months. After a year, his symptoms were completely gone with the disease seemingly in remission. It has been truly life changing for us as he was a long time professional snowboarder and the disease was completely robbing him of this important part of his life... not to mention the toll chronic pain can take on your mental health. A year ago, he could hardly walk from the bed to the bathroom some days, and now he is active, mobile, and snowboarding pain free for the first time in many years.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/967701723285783/]

* “43 y/o female with ankylosing spondylitis, raynauds syndrome, low thyroid function, mild sjogrens… AS symptoms have become negligible for the most part (after 2 doses of 25 NA) and I am AS medication free. Fatigue greatly diminished, mostly absent. Sleep quality improved beyond recognition. Plantar fasciitis 80% resolved, schrogrens symptoms at least 50% reduced, thyroid medication no longer required, depression completely resolved. Interminable, incessant, constant grinding pain gone for most of the day, only bothers me for a few hours here and there, a couple of days a week. Raynauds symptoms rarely show themselves… I am better than I have been since I was diagnosed with AS 25 years ago. A truly remarkable increase in quality of life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1273694002686552/]

* “I have had Ankylosing Spondylitis for thirty-eight years. Twenty-four years ago I also developed A.S. related inflammatory bowel disease. My main battle at this stage of the disease appears to be centered in my gastrointestinal system… I've tried everything from the sulfa drugs to enbrel and humira and everything in between. I have been on anti-TNF drugs on and off for the past 17 years but they do not cure you, they simply keep you dependent on the drug which has a myriad of side effects… Three years ago I read about Helminthic therapy and decided to give it a go. It's been a long journey of ups and downs, disappointments and successes. What I have learned is that 1) you have to be patient and 2) what works for one person, may not work for another… I’ve come to realize that I have a very strong immune system and it works in earnest to kick the helminths out of my body… I need to inoculate every other month with 10-15 HW… For me personally, I seem to have greater success with NA than TTO… the NA help reduce bowel urgency, food intolerances, insomnia, depression, and gut pain. They just seem to calm things down.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1150956801626940/?comment_id=1152010544854899&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

:* This individual posted a further report 18 months later, after establishing an improved dosing regimen. “I’m inoculating with 6 hookworm every two weeks. I get a great bounce for a few days!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2033965626659382/?comment_id=2034247119964566&reply_comment_id=2034346819954596]

* “I am 40 and have been dealing with the classic symptoms of AS for 5 years: puffy hinges at left base of spine, transient stiffness in either Achilles, sausage digits, golf ball sized Baker cyst behind left knee which has bursted 2x. When flares hit knee explodes like a balloon and I'm on elbow crutches or worse unable to even move in bed, but after 5 NA 12 weeks ago I have essentially seen nearly all pain and stiffness subside. My knee actually has some definition to it and it seems the cyst is slowly deflating- this is my barometer. I am in disbelief that I have been going for runs for the first time in 2 years and sprints for the first time in 5!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2356753551047253/?comment_id=2357329577656317&reply_comment_id=2364944286894846]

:* The same individual posted a year after first hosting NA: “My experience after a year of HW is that my NA has been absolutely critical to my functionality and pain mitigation - the big bumps are taken out of the road! Went mountaineering for the first time in 6 years last weekend - impossible in my prior condition!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3100315756691025/?comment_id=3100927426629858&reply_comment_id=3101635183225749]

* “The biggest improvement I have found (5 months into using NA for ankylosing spondylitis) is in my sleep habits. I take one celecoxib 200mg tablet to sleep at nights where even with the medication I still struggled to get a full nights sleep, often waking up at 4.30am. Now I can last the night without discomfort. Also, notably, I’ve had less down periods with my AS, in that I’ve had less bouts of sciatica, and flare ups are rare. It’s still a work in progress as I still have a constant level of soreness in my neck and lower back but it’s manageable. Not only that I don’t have to take medication during the day. Activities such as golf I’m still able to play but do have a degree of stiffness the next day.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2391605270895414/?comment_id=2397347986987809]

* “Thank you helminth therapy! I am a 41 time marathon finisher including one ultra marathon, completed dozens of triathlons including a Half Ironman and completed several other shorter running races... then ankylosing spondylitis hit in 2017. I was unable to walk without crutches for extended periods of time. I started with NA in January of 2020 and added TSO in July of 2020, and it took me about a year to start noticing a difference. I wouldn't say I'm completely symptom-free but I'm so much better. This latest race would not have been possible even just 1 year ago. Today, I completed a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and a short run. If there's hope for me, there's at least hope for everybody else too!” (Edited from three posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4086711544718103/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4086711544718103/?comment_id=4088352787887312&reply_comment_id=4088511387871452] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4945096305546285?comment_id=4945736832148899])
:* Two year update (November 2022)… "I’m happy to report I've been virtually symptom-free from ankylosing spondylitis for over 2 years, during which I've completed many runs of double digit distances (10+ miles!), several triathlons and I've even been been able to play ice hockey again." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5485124771543433/]

* “I took NA for widespread pain/soreness/stiffness from AS. After inoculation both times I experienced increased chronic fatigue and low energy that lasted for weeks. Now it’s passed and I have great energy. Normal bowel movements. Asthma disappeared. Pollen allergies disappeared. Strange headaches that were chronic are gone! Sleep is great. Sexual function is even boosted. (A year later) in April 2022, I inoculated with 7 NA after a big break from inoculating, and the transition that happened in my gut was kind of severe. 4 or 5 weeks in I got crazy loud gurgling belly for over a week among other bad reactions. I think my gut biome was transformed. Then I just started feeling better. Then better, and more better. Inoculated some more NA early October (and) after 8 long years, I’m gaining muscle. Not fatigued. I feel that the NA brought my body back into balance. I don’t eat carbs or sugar but that wasn’t curing me. I needed the helminth therapy to do the job that nothing else could do. It just took 2.5 years to make the difference with chronic widespread inflammation." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4126676507388273?comment_id=4128779390511318] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3507548385967758?comment_id=5579888635400379]

=== Anxiety ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function | '''Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function''']].

* "My symptoms of anxiety continue to get gradually better." (Link expired)

* "... the hookworms... kicked in about 24 weeks after inoculation, which ended my 15 month nightmare with the anxiety." (Link expired)

* "I thought i am getting crazy... visited a psychologist ... they even made a CT scan. But with the right diet and helminthic therapy... i am much more balanced now. (Link expired)

* “One of the best benefits now is relief from anxiety and muscular tension. I’m waking up feeling rested, with a very relaxed back and legs, and am drowsy enough to take naps, which creates a virtuous cycle.” [http://gettinghealthiernow.wordpress.com/2012/01/02/hookworm-only-starting-over/]

* "My worms have seemingly completely zapped my anxiety. It takes a lot for me to feel anxious and it's a huge relief after having anxiety and panic attacks starting in early childhood… They have also dramatically reduced my daughter's anxiety. It was always bad, from infancy, but … she's had the best school year ever, socially. She's ten thousand times better, a completely unanticipated improvement. Our school psychologist said it was like she was a different kid." (Reported in a private discussion, Mar 2012)

* "My younger son also had severe anxiety issues which evaporated after HW. He was on medication in fact for 2 years for it but hasn't been on it in years now." (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/], Mar 2012)

* "He felt much less anxiety and much more social than he would normally. (I have noticed this effect as well and wonder now how much anxiety and a desire not to be social is related to inflammation…)" [http://turnotheworm.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/update-part-iv-from-worlds-worst.html]

* "My anxiety is still significantly reduced from pre-inoculation. Things just do not bother me the way that they did. I really feel as though my anxiety just completely vanished with the first inoculation. It is a great feeling after dealing with a lot of anxiety my entire life." [http://turnotheworm.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/march-25-2012-saved-myself-for-last.html]

* “This therapy can be fantastic for anxiety reduction and we've seen it in every member of our family. My poor little girl had rampaging anxiety and nothing made it better. She had so much pain all the time that she was constantly anticipating more pain and very defensive. She couldn't stand to listen to a story with anything scary (she didn't want to listen to Mr. Rogers telling the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, that's how bad it was). Then she got hookworm. Her anxiety vaporized completely, possibly for the first time in her entire life. She completely changed. Last year, she read all of the Harry Potter books and watched all the movies -- that's how much lower her anxiety and pain are now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/396703530385608/?qa_ref=qd&comment_id=397436063645688&offset=0&total_comments=17&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R2%22%7D]

* “I noticed the relaxed feeling with HW as well. They gave me an overall good feeling and relieved debilitating anxiety that kept me from doing things that I love doing and from seeing friends.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/474883185900975/?comment_id=475139555875338&offset=0&total_comments=17]

* “The HW also had a fairly dramatic effect on my anxiety levels." (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2013)

* “I inoculated with hookworm hoping that it would help my chronic sinus issues. I still can't believe how much better my sinuses are. But I wasn't expecting any changes in personality, so they came as a shock. My lifelong battle with depression and anxiety seems to be over. And I'm also smarter again (like when I was a kid).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/263818550462551/permalink/476388752538862/?comment_id=476417832535954&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “After hosting hookworm I no longer have bouts of depression and anxiety.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1088294924559795&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* “My depression and anxiety and brain fog have disappeared on NA.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1089572444432043&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “I can attest to a huge improvement in my anxiety and depression within just a few weeks of my first NA dose (off all meds now) but I'd say I still have some mild residual symptoms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1089572444432043&reply_comment_id=1089756711080283&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R8%22%7D]

* “His anxiety is almost completely gone and the OCD is still there but not as profound. He is back at school after missing most of last year due to anxiety/school refusal. I highly recommend trying HDC's. It really has been the treatment that has brought our (12 year old) son back.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1067321983323756/?comment_id=1263018683754084&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

* ☹️ “I have anxiety and depression and have not really noticed any differences.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1515697631819520/?comment_id=1516504428405507&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Within 24 hours of taking HDC I feel much calmer. That feeling lasts a few days, before it lets up a bit, but I still continue feeling calmer than usual up to 30 days after dosing, when their effects completely wear off… If I could regularly dose, say, weekly, I probably would see my anxiety completely resolved.” (Link expired)

* “Now 5 months in, I have seen the most dramatic change in anxiety symptoms. Also brain fog has just slipped away… So I do feel hookworm has been instrumental in bringing down the symptoms of anxiety to where it is now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2239015116154431/?comment_id=2239742029415073&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Wormy update after 3 months: I am now on 50 HDC. I see just mild improvement in food allergies, but I feel calm, no anxiety! Anxiety was always a big issue for me and the antidepressants were not helping enough. Now I feel much better so that I can exercise every day.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2408900369165904/]

* “In 2013 I was diagnosed with anxiety resulting in extended time off work and medication. I first tried HDC in 2016 after exhausting every other avenue outside of medication that I could think of. I found instant relief from my anxiety symptoms and I still take them every 2 or 3 weeks to help keep my anxiety at bay.” (Received via email, Feb 2020.)

* “I’ve had autoimmune disease, allergies, anxiety and digestion issues for 4 years. After having a severe panic attack at work, I saw a doctor and a naturopath, and have tried allopathic and natural medicines as well as dietary changes. I was skeptical, but after reading the extensive research and about the therapeutic effects of helminths, I tried it for myself and it worked. After being on HDC for 1 month (10 fresh HDCs every 2 weeks), my allergies disappeared and I had no side effects. Other symptoms improved 70%. It was a huge relief for me, dramatically reducing my anxiety and making a significant difference to my gut health and digestion in the first 3 months. This is faster and more effective than anything else I have ever tried. My family were skeptical and assumed it would be unsafe, but even they could notice the difference!” (Received via email, Feb 2020.)

* “I’m micro-dosing with (TSO). I notice that my anxiety peeks up for several days when it’s time to take them again. And an hour after taking them, I feel this calmness that’s difficult to describe. For someone with chronic anxiety it’s lovely.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2255349147854361?comment_id=3547191695336760]

* “My daughter's anxiety was much reduced (by TSO). She has inflammation related autism. When she was anxious she would go into obsessions for hours, so the effect was pretty obvious.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4461359747253279/?comment_id=4465078650214722&reply_comment_id=4466404240082163]

* "The two things that really helped with my anxiety and depression were magnesium and hookworms. The mg got me out of the black depths where I was hardly functional, and the hookworms improved my symptoms several notches beyond just functional." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4746858228703428/?comment_id=4746936282028956]

* "It was quite fast. For example the first day of TSO, it was regulating my anxiety & insomnia." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4887558924633357/?comment_id=4889396131116303]

* "I haven’t experienced any anxiety symptoms since starting in 2018 (six years ago). I usually dose 3 x 25 NA each year. Coeliac with UC in remission. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7008571109198784/?comment_id=7029129507142944]

=== Appetite, loss of ===

* "I began to experience real hunger for the first time at 43 days, and my friend reported feeling the first pangs of hunger at 60 days." (Link expired)

* "Day 19: I'm having a lot of cravings suddenly and am more hungry than usual." (Reported in a private discussion by someone with severe food intolerance, May 2012)

* “I am still in a state of shock because I haven't gone this long in 23 years with having a long period where I actually crave and enjoy my food. I pray this miracle continues!” (Reported in a private communication, Nov 2014)

* “I have noticed an increase in appetite when I use them (HDC) and have noticed the same increase in appetite in my son since he started using them.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/263818550462551/permalink/521400668037670/]

=== Arrhythmia ===

(Also known as cardiac arrhythmia, heart arrhythmia and dysrhythmia.)

* "... among plenty of other symptoms, I had arrhythmia, pretty worrying at the time, but never got a diagnosis / they didn’t find what caused the issue. This is one of the first symptoms that NA helped clear for me. Later on I realised the arrhythmia was caused by mould toxicity." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6542392999149933/?comment_id=6542599355795964]

=== Arteritis ===
(Not to be confused with arthritis.)

* "My mom, who is 81, came down with giant cell arteritis and they had her on prednisone and biologic infusions. I’ve been providing her with doses of about 5 NA every 12 weeks for about a year now, and it appears that helminthic therapy is having a positive effect on her health and autoimmune condition because she has had no more flare ups of the arteritis. She is completely off the prednisone (she was on a high dose of 60mg a day), and her doctor is getting close to stopping the biologic infusions." (Edited from posts in [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/5769668399755734 this thread].)

=== Arthritis ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) | Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)]] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) | Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)]].

This first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12061538&ref=NZH_fb '''Why doctor working in New Zealand infected himself with hookworms'''] (Knee arthritis)

* Two reports from someone with Crohn's-related arthritis.
** “Amazing! Symptom free and drug free after 33 years of illness! WOW!” (Link expired)
** “I attribute the remission of arthritis to hookworm. It took two years for the arthritis to pretty much disappear. I get achy joints now and again but nothing severe anymore.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/787558557966768/?comment_id=787577821298175&offset=0&total_comments=5]

* “I had knee pain for 20 years after quitting running, accompanied by a 24/7 warm feeling on the surface around both knees. After my third inoculation of helminths, the warmth went away. I believe it was some form of immune response to the damage in my knees, or perhaps a type of arthritis. Anyway, it's gone...” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/917026511686638/?comment_id=918989328157023&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* "I was diagnosed last summer with seronegative arthritis (just raging constant pain in my hands and feet) with big family history of ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis. Was miserable taking prednisone 10-20mg daily, methotrexate, and enbrel for the last 7 months. Started hookworms Feb 8 and now down to 6mg prednisone and off methotrexate. Feeling amazing and still tapering the steroids with no issues. This is miraculous stuff." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1245653062157313/]

* “I received my first dose of NA in June 2016 for widespread food and inhalant allergies and arthritis (osteoarthritis since childhood). 10 months later noticed that I was less stiff when getting out of the car. High sensitive C (a measure of inflammation) went down from 11 (very high) to 8 (still very high but progress). Just received new results at the 22 month mark, and my levels are down to 3.99. Although this is still high (it should be 2 or lower), it is the lowest I have seen in my adult life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1624934380895844/]

* “I am about four months along treating UC with Human Whipworm TTO. I experienced an unexpected, but welcome benefit within two weeks of my first dose (50 ova). I had suffered a broken shoulder 12 years ago that was never set properly, so I had a lot of soreness and stiffness in that joint since that time. The second week after starting TT all my joints starting popping profusely for a couple days then settled down, it was then I noticed the pain in my shoulder was easing. Today my shoulder no longer hurts before bed, the pain, stiffness, inflammation is almost nonexistant. I could not fully extend that arm with the broken shoulder over my head before, now I can actually extend it over my shoulder and place my arm behind my head. I never expected this range of motion would ever be possible again after the shoulder injury. I can say TT worked a miracle on my joint pain. (I have dosed a total of 300 TTO to date).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1697990233590258/?comment_id=1698186860237262&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* "I have found an enormous benefit of adding TSO (1250 ova every 2 weeks) to NA for arthritis." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4823743244348259/?comment_id=4825055487550368]

=== Aspirin-induced asthma / Samter's triad / Samter's syndrome ===

(Also known as aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) and Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD))

* The following two reports are by the same person, two years apart.
** "My father… has something called Samter's syndrome which includes nasal polyps, chronic rhinitis, and aspirin sensitivity. For 20-25 years, he had little senses of taste or smell, from polyps on his sinus nerve, and had multiple surgeries to remove them. Starting about 6 months after getting HW (by then, he had about 50, I think), the polyps went away, never to return. He's had his taste and smell all the time, acutely, for now a good 3½ years." (Reported in a private discussion, Mar 2012)
** “Now he is getting the same efficacy from HDC.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/263818550462551/permalink/265373996973673/]

* "Wow this is amazing! I was diagnosed with Samters Triad / Aspirin Exaccerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD) in Oct 2014. Samters Triad is salicylate intolerance, nasal polyps and asthma… I decided to give HW a go in Jul 2015. My initial dose was 25. After 3 months I noticed I could get away with the odd glass of wine without an anti-histamine. In Oct I took a further 40 HW. Then suddenly about 10 days ago (mid January 2016) my nose cleared, and my energy levels escalated. I started cutting back my asthma medication and have taken nothing at all for 4 days now with no symptoms!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/946052288784060/]

* “I have AERD (Samter's Triad). Asthma, nasal polyps, and aspirin sensitivity. I've taken incredible amounts of prednisone to control the polyps and have had two surgeries to remove them over the last ten years… Started worms a few years ago. Initially HDC, which worked well and would provide relief for weeks. Made the move to NA and have had similar success there, it just lasts longer. I see improvement with as little as 30 NA, but get better control with 60-70. I currently take: Singular 10mg, Advair (250/50) as needed, and Pulmicort off label usage. With worms, I'm able to not take prednisone or aspirin… The worms make a night and day difference. Without them I would be in a bad place.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1401894353199849/]

=== Asthma ===

* "To be able to just breath without thinking about it is fantastic. No more asthma!" (Link expired)

* "By all measures my asthma and upper respiratory complaints are gone." [http://gettinghealthiernow.wordpress.com/2011/06/17/day-53-stability/]

* "... I increased my infestation level until my asthma and hay fever were cured." (Link expired)

* "...my breathing does seem to be somewhat easier. Mildly impaired breathing never was something I even thought about as a symptom until after I noticed the before and after treatment difference." (Link expired)

* "... no short breath, no attacks, nothing that makes me aware of my breathing. Stoked!" (Link expired)

* "My five year slide into asthma hell is over… the difference in my life is night and day." (Link expired)

* "By week 13... there was significant improvement compared to my pre-hookworm condition." (Link expired)

* "... the difference in my life is night and day. I am walking regularly, and cutting firewood, and playing ball with my son, and feeling like I can make it through the day without medical inhalation." (Link expired)

* The following two reports are by the same blogger, almost two years apart.
** “It’s now been a bit more than 6 months since my initial inoculation, and I'm now the proud mom of (a family of) hookworms and the results I have seen have been amazing! … I stopped taking one of my asthma medicines completely, and I only have had to use my rescue inhaler about once every 2 weeks or so. BW (before worms) I was taking my rescue inhaler at least once a day. I would have to refill it every month. I have the same one now that I refilled in June (3 months ago).” [http://moderndaym.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/hooked-up.html]
** "For the larger part of my 30 years here on earth I’ve struggled to breathe every single day. I didn’t know any different. I puffed on my “rescue” inhaler a few times and went on with my day… I was guaranteed at least one ER visit a year for my asthma. To have two years go by without one was awesome… I realized just how much things have changed since I brought my little worm babies home two years ago… It's so great to be able to breathe!" [http://moderndaym.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/still-hooked.html]

* "Over the course of the year (with hookworms), almost unnoticed while I was getting the side effects, my problems diminished immensely. The fatigue is much reduced, I've lost that 'tired but wired' feeling that stopped me relaxing properly, and I've started to sleep better. I get less stressed by ordinary events, and almost never use my inhalers any more. The condition of my skin, nails & hair has improved greatly." (Reported in a private discussion, Feb 2013) (See [[Helminthic therapy FAQ#How big should a hookworm colony be? | '''this note''']] about colony size.)

* "(Helminthic therapy) has really reduced my allergy and asthma "flare-ups". Over the past few months, I haven't had an asthma attack without my inhaler and I can actually do more cardio workouts than I used to do. IT IS GREAT!" (Reported, after only one dose of hookworms, in a private message, Mar 2013)

* The following two reports are by the same individual, written at 6 and 18 months.
** “I'm at month 6 with 75 HW. Today I went for a hike, uphill, at 8,500-9,000 ft., at a peak tree pollen and allergy time in our area, and I didn't wheeze at all. In fact, I "forgot" my inhaler in the car and didn't even need it. This is significant for me and I hope it gives encouragement to others.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/841098549279435/]
** “18-month update… Last week, just about 40 days past my most recent inoculation… I noticed that I had NO ASTHMA SYMPTOMS at all, for the first time. I was not needing my inhaler, nor wheezing at night. I could breathe through the seasonally heaviest pollen index… I'm truly able now to see how much better I feel than I did 18 months ago. Not only with the asthma, but overall.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1035931853129436/]

* “I dose 20 NA at about 3 month intervals and currently enjoy 100% remission of asthma symptoms. No asthma meds at all. I can jog, I can swim 1000 yds without stopping or feeling any distress” (Link expired)

* "I started HDC about 9 months ago for multiple problems and just realized the other day that I can’t remember when I last used my inhaler. I can’t remember!! There was a time when asthma ruled my life, and I went to the emergency room once a week until I found out what triggered it (ragweed). But (since hosting helminths) I don't have to stop a hike and immediately head home if I accidentally let it touch my ankle. I cannot tell you what a difference this has made in my life…" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1497287563660527/?comment_id=1497838866938730&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1497287563660527/?comment_id=1498133563575927&reply_comment_id=1498181476904469&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]

* “Prior to beginning to host NA about two and a half years ago, my lifelong asthma had slowly but steadily worsened throughout my life. Prior to HW therapy, my daily medication routine for allergies and asthma consisted of a long-acting beta agonist/steroid inhaler twice daily, rescue inhaler several times a day, albuterol breathing treatments on especially bad days, Allegra daily, nasal steroid spray several times a day, and prednisone for very bad days. Even on that regimen, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue and anxiety were pretty much normal for me. I typically came down with bronchitis and sinus infections several times a year, even while on all those regular meds. Most every day of the year, I felt quite literally as if I could just collapse and die. Somehow I just kept going. If it weren't for my beautiful wife and kids, I think I would have probably just given up on life, the allergies and asthma made me feel so pitiful. My whole body, but especially my head and sinuses, ached most days. I generally took 800 mg of ibuprofen two or three times a day just to feel a little bit less miserable physically. Since about three months after I began hosting NA, I now will rarely ever need any of my inhalers or breathing treatments, I very rarely ever need any ibuprofen or Tylenol for headaches or body aches. I would estimate my allergy and asthma symptoms to be 95% gone as a result of hookworm therapy. I no longer need asthma or allergy meds on a regular basis. Only rarely do I have any wheezing or shortness of breath now. Allergy symptoms are minor, when they (rarely) occur now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1771282502927697/?comment_id=1773650822690865&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “My mother developed severe adult-onset asthma 3 years ago. She also has heart disease and most of the asthma meds were toxic to the heart. The regular coughing also put her at risk of Afib and subsequent heart attack. Rock and a hard place! Out of desperation, she inoculated with 35 NA and within 3 weeks her symptoms were gone. Like, completely. All meds discontinued. Did not have to re-inoculate until this fall.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2511716132217660/?comment_id=2513799525342654]

* “I love my helminths! No more asthma. I can run and climb mountains. So close to dying so many times, but no more! Best thing I have ever done for myself! Gave me my life, hope and vitality back.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3691704464218815/?comment_id=3691978194191442] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3691704464218815/?comment_id=3691978194191442&reply_comment_id=3694349480620980]

:* And a 5 year update: "For more than 5 years now I have been asthma free - love my little wormy friends." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5614466985275877?comment_id=5614881121901130]

* "My allergy and asthma symptoms continued to improve and I stopped all asthma medication which was my primary goal. My life was very different for a year or so with improved gut health and fewer arthritis pains. I would tell people “I used to have asthma”. I then neglected to dose anymore (due to) two traumatic years in which many things were neglected. I then had a return of symptoms (so) began to host again with doses of 3,3 four months apart and, after a few delivery problems, dosed with another 3 , 5, 10 approximately 4 months apart, and I am now feeling the previous positive effects." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/1650792824976666?comment_id=5171609132895000]

* "I have asthma and have been on antihistamines, all with horrid side effects. And I've been on so many different steroids. The last one made me suicidally depressed and that was the final straw for me. I learned to deal with my asthma without meds, but used food, vitamins, minerals, and caffeine to keep it tolerable. Then I found out about helminths. I read and read before I tried them. I've been taking them for 1.5 years every 12-15 weeks and am so happy with my results. I started with a very small dose of 3 and this took only about 6 weeks to help with my asthma. Now I'm up to 4 each dose. My food allergies and asthma are worlds better. I can go to new places without my asthma kicking in and making me sick afterwards. I'm also not on any medications." (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7171824952873398/?comment_id=7173235242732369] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7338405346215357/?comment_id=7394244990631392&notif_id=1714726417295940&notif_t=group_comment_follow])

* "I came down with asthma at age 64 after a life of triathlons, marathons and 12 yr as a soccer ref. WTF? I used NA and the asthma went into remission." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7218219668233926/?comment_id=7218705704851989&reply_comment_id=7222440187811874]

=== Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, ADD) ===

* “My adult son with ADD tried them (NA) and was able to cut his stimulants in half.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3003258209730114/?comment_id=3003295283059740&reply_comment_id=3005744796148122]

=== Autism ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and autism |'''Helminthic therapy and autism''']] and Table 2 in [[media:Practices_and_outcomes_of_self-treatment_with_helminths_based_on_physicians_observations.pdf | this paper]].
* The following five reports, written over a period of 6 years, all relate to the same child.
** "Since then Alex has made nothing short of stunning progress. I mean WOW." (Link expired)
** "... there's no question that he and the other children who received hookworm all improved cognitively and in motor skills... Most of the younger children, the less impaired, also improved, sometimes dramatically, in expressive language" (Link expired)
** "My older son is 16 and autistic. I started with TSO 3 years ago and within 12 weeks or so, began to see positive results in terms of digestive symptoms, mood, and eventually cognition." (Link expired)
** “… I officially declare hookworms to be rockin’... this experiment has been a success ... But, if you’ll forgive the phrase, I have a gut feeling that we’re only seeing the tip of the iceberg so far.” (Posted on a since deleted website.)
** “We started the HDC in August (and) I have gotten similar results with the HDC as the TSO: he has no GI symptoms now and, except for a migraine condition that I am still working on, is almost continually very happy and social. I am going to be experimenting with much higher doses of HDC to see if we can improve the migraines more.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/263818550462551/permalink/265373996973673/]

* The following two reports are about the same teenager.
** “There’re no words to describe it. It’s like giving me my son back... Or in many ways, like giving me a son that I didn’t ever have.” [http://www.the-scientist.com/?articles.view/articleNo/30802/title/Opening-a-Can-of-Worms/]
** “...we began treating my son with TSO. After 10 weeks he completely lost all symptoms of agitation, agression, self abusive behavior (including head smashing and hand biting), perseveration, behavioral inflexibility, compulsivity, impulsivity, repeated questioning, “stimming” and hypersensitivity to external stimuli. He continues to take TSO every two weeks and the symptoms have been gone now for 15 months. [https://web.archive.org/web/20190314011730/http://autismtso.com/about/the_punchline/] and [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_R_sHV8H9o watch video]

* "The teachers were telling us it was a definite possibility that he would never actually be able to write and that he would need assistive technology for life… We've been struggling to teach him to read for two years now… Well, in the last month (following inoculation), he's had major developmental leaps... and is now actually reading, has progressed about 12 months in the last month as far as his fine motor skills go. He's reading and writing now, actually reading at or above grade level." (Reported in a private discussion, 2011)

* "(Our son) has started playing imaginatively with toys for the first time in his life. He has started pretend playing appropriately with all kinds of different toys - cars, superhero action figures, dinosaurs, .... It's something we tried working on with him for years in his behavioral therapy and eventually gave up. I can't say for sure it's because of the helminths, but I can't think of any other reason for the sudden change. It's such a great feeling to see him doing this finally." (Reported in a private message, Nov 2012)

* The following three reports are by the same very happy parent.
** “... had to share this as its independent confirmation of what we've been seeing at home. Today I had a meeting at school to discuss my 6yo's special needs educational plan and was overjoyed when I was told without any prompting he had "a complete turnaround a few months ago after parents evening" and that he has been paying attention, sitting still and being kind to the other children. Guess what therapy we started in the week following that parents evening.” (Link expired)
** “For us, the benefits of giving my autistic 6yo HDC include vastly reduced risk to everyday dangers. I used to have to physically restrain him near roads as he had little control over impulses. We had more than one near miss when he bolted away into the path of unsuspecting cars! He now has sufficient control over impulses that he would not do that.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/910009412388348/?comment_id=910508832338406&offset=0&total_comments=13&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]
** “He's 7 now and continues to do really well, much calmer than he used to be. I'm so very proud of him today because he willingly went to an all-day holiday science camp in an unfamiliar location and where he knew nobody and he bounced out like any neurotypical kid and asked to go again.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1072743802781574/?comment_id=1073090946080193&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1072743802781574/?comment_id=1073090946080193&reply_comment_id=1073131432742811&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R2%22%7D] and [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1115174918538462/?comment_id=1115551708500783&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D].

* “I am now pretty confident that TSO are a big success for my autistic boy (5 yo). The change has been amazing. He has a very long way to go, but the effect of TSO is very noticeable - for us, his therapists, his preschool. After years of really hard work and nothing helping, this is almost like magic... He is finally developing socially… We are so glad we plucked up the courage to try helminths.” (Link expired)

* ☹️ “First I tried TSO with my autism children and then I tried HDC. Was 8 months in total but I didn't see any results.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1954792641243348/]

* “I wanted to report my experience so far giving my 15 year old son with significant autism TSO. I just gave him the second dose. From what I read it is supposed to be too soon to see results, but all I can say is WOW! We live in Austin and this is high allergy season. In addition to being on a year round allergy protocol (pills, sprays, naturals, etc), we had to give him headache medicine round the clock for allergy-induced migraines. He has had nothing for two weeks and is the happiest I have seen him in a long time. He has more energy, is more willing to try new foods and experiences, and just plain feels good. I am amazed because we have tried so many things to get his inflammation down and this is the one thing that has made a huge difference. I’m really excited to see what other changes we might see, but if this is it, it will have been worth it.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2099612303428047/]

* "We use it with our 12yr old pandas, ASD, adhd & itch, and it has been a game changer for us! We are at 9 months & we started low & slow then worked our way up. We still have a long journey ahead of us, however this was one of the best interventions we have done so far." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7172884732767420/?comment_id=7172910089431551&reply_comment_id=7174285412627352]

=== Autoimmune hepatitis ===

* "I began to notice the crippling symptoms of my autoimmune diseases (MCTD/lupus, Fibromyalgia, Raynauds, and Autoimmune hepatitis) fading about 1 month after my second dose … I Feel Normal … I see possibilities and hope where I once saw nothing but blackness and despair." [http://potomacfallsmama.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/helminithic-therapy-8-month-update.html]

=== Autoimmune kidney disease ===
Also see [[#IgA_nephropathy|IgA nephropathy]] and [[#Kidney_pathology|Kidney pathology]]

* Three reports by the same person.
** "I am currently on immunosuppressant drugs for an autoimmune kidney disease (which I have been on for 6 years), and the first time I ever saw actual improvement in my condition was when I got my worms (the drugs only slowed the progress of the disease - they never made my kidney function actually improve)” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/564444180278208/?comment_id=564480206941272&offset=0&total_comments=3]
** “5 weeks post my first inoculation with hw, my kidney function has increased another 5%, for a total of a TEN PERCENT increase so far (now at 27%)! Prior to hw infection, my function was at 17% and dropping fast. I did not anticipate to have such wonderful results so soon." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/520268124695814/] A further update at 8 months reported a setback after minor surgery and a course of antibiotics had put this individual’s worms out of action temporarily. Nevertheless...
** “The incredible part of the story is that within a few days of my worms waking up, my kidney function dramatically improved… and… is still improving. In the month since my worms woke up - my kidney function (egfr) went from working at 10% capacity (kidney failure) to now being at 35%. I love my worms. And I am never going on antibiotics again.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/602235609832398/]

=== Balanitis ===

* "I have been balanitis free for 2 months. I have been on NA for 1.5 years. I still put some coconut oil to help, but my glans looks normal and I can have sexual activities without worrying to much." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6295678840488018/?comment_id=6302771613112074]

=== Barrett's Oesophagus ===

* "Two years ago I was diagnosed with Barrett's Esophagus. I had a endoscopy 2 weeks ago which showed no Barrett's." (Link expired)

=== Bipolar disorder ===

* “(Before treatment), in my 30’s, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. In my 50’s, I was diagnosed as bipolar. Since the beginning of self-treatment (with HDC), my symptoms have subsided. My wellbeing has improved 100%.” [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf]

* “(After treatment, I have) less anxiety and am able to think clearer. The helminths (HDC) seemed to help in areas that were positive but unexpected.” [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf]

* “When I get angry I used to (before helminth therapy) have thoughts of killing the person that made me angry or maybe just hurting them severely, but now (after therapy with HDC) I am not angry often, or depressed.” [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf]

=== Bloating ===

* “I’m finding at week 11 (after a dose of NA) I'm suddenly able to pass gas, rather than holding it trapped in my gut for days on end, and this has resulted in a much happier vagus nerve!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1140954622627158/?comment_id=1146354245420529&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

=== Body temperature, poor control of ===
* "This is awesome! I am so excited that I feel warm. I normally have unusually low body temp and am always freezing my ass off. I'm thinking this is progress." (Reported in a private discussion, Sept 2012)

=== "Brain fog" ===

* "When my wife was under the grip of allergies and food intolerances ... we called her potato head, something that, when you are playing duplicate bridge, is most unhelpful. Fortunately, all this temporary foggy mind has lifted now as is clear by our bridge results..." (Link expired)

* "... i was suffering brain fog... this has all definitely improved. (Link expired)

* "I've been doing helminths for a couple of years now, and have finally got the dose right. They have cleared up my head fog considerably, and in fact I just had a three week stretch in which I was completely symptom free. Which was amazing, and I'm very grateful." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/bacteriotherapy/permalink/483999924969033/?comment_id=484048354964190&offset=0&total_comments=5]

* “I have ... not had the terrible sleepiness and brain fog I normally get.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544570138932279/?comment_id=546531245402835&offset=0&total_comments=44]

* “... brain fog is greatly improved, and i have more energy.” (Link expired)

* “I self-infected 25 hookworm (and) began to experience symptom relief (after) about 2.75-3.0 months… Brain fog/etc has completely cleared up in a very non-druggy way. It's hard to describe but supplements which 'clear up brain fog' were obviously just getting me 'high'. In contrast, hookworms have cleared up brain fog just by removing the brain fog and making me normal again.” [http://pastebin.com/raw/1fHvWHTc]

* “My depression and anxiety and brain fog have disappeared on NA.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1089572444432043&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “HDC has had a positive effect on my energy, brain fog, and sleep… It's hard to quantify one’s energy but for months prior to hdc I had a regular mid-afternoon crash and I don’t have those anymore. Also I’ve been prescribed adderall to cope with work and since starting hdc I’ve reduced my dose by ½ and for 2 days immediately after dosing with hdc even that’s too much… I am thrilled with the benefits I’ve had so far. I was seriously looking into applying for long term disability at work and now I can handle it ok again.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1355145527874732/]

* “I’d previously required max doses of two antidepressants plus stimulants to improve my lupus brain fog and stay functional. Exactly three months after each NA inoculation, I needed to cut down my stimulants because I'd suddenly be overstimulated and jittery, to the point where I've now stopped them. By the fourth dose, I was able to wean completely off both the antidepressants, when previously I couldn't tolerate a dose reduction for a week. I've been symptom-free except after I had to take helminth-unfriendly antibiotics for Lyme disease. Then my symptoms came back a month later, only to improve again three months after I reinoculated with NA. My psychiatrist has been impressed enough to share my results with other clients. There's a lot of evidence now that depression and other mental illnesses are caused at least in part by inflammation, and I chalk it up to that, but it was a completely unexpected benefit.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3003258209730114/?comment_id=3003295283059740&reply_comment_id=3005744796148122]

=== Bronchiectasis ===

* "I have bronchiectasis - primarily a complication of whooping cough as a child. Started (HT 3 months ago) and my coughing has improved out of this world. Had 2nd dose this week and, whether its psychosomatic or not, the improvement in my lungs is amazing!! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4849935435062373/]

=== Bronchitis ===
* “So far I have taken 35 HW and 300 human WW. My chronic bronchitis seems to be gone, and my asthma as well, and I was able to drop my prednisone from 20mg to 12mg for my ulcerative colitis.” (Link expired)

=== Bruising ===
* “I bruise very easily, but now (after hosting NA for 6 months and TSO for 3 months) I don't bruise even when I've taken a bump. This has been very noticeable for me.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3741291362593458?comment_id=4081939218528669] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3741291362593458?comment_id=4081939218528669&reply_comment_id=4083763361679588]

* “I was extremely itchy from 2-3 days (following surgery), and went back to have that checked out. The doc said itchiness is healing and was shocked that I had that so early. He was also shocked that I had no pain, no bruising and clearly quick healing.” [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Rheumatoid_arthritis_and_ulcerative_colitis_relieved_by_TSO?fbclid=IwAR0X2tGe44tE122XmT7AcnbIMBAPUvkLwTqhVlD7tNj1HG7dtLTiaLyEXG4]

=== Cancer ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and cancer |'''Helminthic therapy and cancer''']].

* "Originally my doctor wanted to try these guys (NA) as an experiment to see if they help with reducing my cancer. We also found out these guys help the genetic condition that caused my cancer (FAP) which mimics an autoimmune disease. There are few studies that prove that elevated eosinophils actually help kill colorectal cancer cells. Six months into it, I'm cancer free." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3202460769809856/?comment_id=3202523616470238&reply_comment_id=3204424989613434]

=== Candida ===
* "Yes. I do think hookworm has helped dealing with candida. Just from the perspective that I haven't had to go on antibiotics, which was an all the time occurrence before, with my bad sinuses." (Reported in a private discussion, 2011.)

* “… i've noticed reduced candida symptoms since doing HT, such as improved skin, no more colitis, but you're probably correct that rather than killing off the candida, it's dampening how my immune system overreacts to the yeast.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/bacteriotherapy/permalink/586750261360665/?comment_id=586918098010548&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D]

* “I suffer from candida and am not sure that hookworms have changed that but they seem to have dampened my body's reactions to the candida. I have less burning and itching down below and in my eyes, feel stronger and more vital, my mouth is less raw, my stomach more stable and I can tolerate more foods, etc.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/775829232473034/?comment_id=777340918988532&offset=0&total_comments=18]

=== Car sickness ===
* "... my car sickness seems to be cured." (Link expired) And this was still in remission 2-3 years later. (Link expired)

=== Coeliac / celiac disease ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Non-coeliac / celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)|'''Non-coeliac / celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Gluten ataxia|'''Gluten ataxia''']].

These first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails | '''Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails''']]

:* [[From hopelessness to new meaning and purpose: a celiacs 3 year update | '''From hopelessness to new meaning and purpose: a celiac's 3 year update''']]

* “(My husband) had celiac disease (confirmed via endoscopy/biopsy) and was on a starch free diet for ankylosing spondylitis... but now he has a completely unrestricted diet for the first time and has not noticed any ill effects from the gluten or starch... its awesome!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/967701723285783/], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/967701723285783/?comment_id=967717909950831&reply_comment_id=968647449857877&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I am a 30yo female diagnosed with celiac disease 15 years ago. I have experienced chronic diarrhea and iron deficiency anemia although I eat a gluten free diet (as confirmed by continued lab work). I inoculated with two doses of 15NA 1.5yrs ago. My ferritin before inoculation was 22 (highest I'd ever had is 32). Six months later my ferritin elevated to 56! Additionally stools became much more firm and increased in diameter (previously pencil thin). I did not attempt to eat gluten, but I did start eating at restaurants where cross contamination was more likely (pizza restaurants, and restaurants with shared cooking spaces) and did not get sick. Whether this was due to psychological or physiological effects I'm not sure, but I'm very pleased.” (Via private communication.)

* “I have Celiac Disease. My first dose was 30hw when I was 18 in 2009. I re-upped in January 2016 of this year with 30hw and then again 30 more 3 months later… I have an extremely sensitive system and my Celiac Disease is very active. I have sensitivity below 20ppm and symptoms after ingesting gluten include brain fog, short-lived but intense depression (4-8 hours), memory loss, clumsiness, headache, bloating, facial rash, abdominal pain, severe diarrhea. I suffered greatly before hook worms and found that post-inoculation, my response time to gluten changed from 6 hours to 12-18 hours with greatly reduced symptoms. It's the difference between missing a couple days of work vs. being able to manage. I still don't eat out at restaurants unless I Nima test the food or it is a 100% gluten free facility. I don't eat at friends house or have any gluten in my household. The two years where the hook worms probably died and I didn't re-up were horrific - my sickness felt twice as bad as it used to be because I knew my baseline wellness could be so much higher.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1176889345700352/]

* “I first inoculated (6 months ago) with 25 NA. I started HT not to eat gluten again but to know I was not doing as much damage to my body if I should accidentally get a small amount while out. I also didn’t think that being gluten free was helping as much as it should. Since being diagnosed I have eaten super healthy… But despite this, I was sick at least every few weeks, which has been happening my whole life… Well it’s now been 5 months since I’ve been ill. Not so much as a sniffle. My glands aren’t swollen. I saw a functional medicine doctor recently… He ran a lot of tests and when they came back he said that I am the healthiest coeliac he has ever seen… My blood results were all in the normal range besides the Absolute Eosinophils which were 1078 (no surprise).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1176889345700352/?comment_id=1177063102349643&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R6%22%7D] 
:The following update was posted 2 years later.
:: “I have had NA for 3 years. Until recently I didn’t bother trying to reintroduce gluten as I was happy with a GF diet. But 3 weeks ago I started eating a piece of pasta a day. I’m up to 12 pieces daily and I’m not reacting at all. Usually that would have me incredibly ill, vomiting, diarrhea and tons of inflammation…” (Link expired)

* “I took 20 worms (NA) about three months to help treat my celiacs disease. A week ago, I started to eat one piece of candy each day that contained a bit of barley. Usually that would have triggered a horrible reaction, but nothing but a little light cramping and swelling for an hour or two after ensued. Each day, the amount and time spent cramping and swelling went down. A week later, I decided to do the real test - eat a full slice of pizza. Normally, this would have caused me to be absolutely and completely sick for at least a week. No reaction. I tried a couple crackers the next day - no reaction. Then a chocolate bar with wheat wafers - no reaction. So there you have it! While I will still be sticking to a gluten free diet, the worms are a reassuring safety net for if I ever do consume gluten by accident, or if I would like to treat myself once in a blue moon. And strangely enough, ever since I have been slowly introducing the gluten, my bowels and stomach have been great! Better than before to be honest.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1411678475554770/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1411678475554770/?comment_id=1411706388885312&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]

* “I was diagnosed (celiac) almost exactly 5 years ago and sadly saw little improvement over that time. I progressively became sensitive to more and more foods, first dairy, then soy, and just recently I lost eggs. My symptoms are mostly neurological; brain fog, personality changes, memory loss, unbelievable depression and anxiety, peripheral nerve damage, and my eyesight has taken a hit as well… Week 8 now (after inoculating with 5 NA) and all I can say is "wow". The last few days have seen a huge improvement in my energy levels and mood. I find myself smiling constantly! The brain fog has started to lift, I can have much better conversations and my memory is improving too. I don't feel like a zombie anymore!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1412378752151409/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1412378752151409/?comment_id=1461913100531307&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Test results are back! 6 months in and I have been consuming a small amount of gluten. Coeliac markers came back virtually exactly the same as my strict gluten era. 😁 My GP was very impressed with my results!!!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1666262580096357/]

* “My experience so far with 10NA 7 months old and 25NA now 3 months, great results with possible cross contamination. I no longer ask questions when eating out about food preparation, I'm still eating gluten-free but no longer worry about if there is cross contamination. Some of my favourite Chinese sauces I used to cook with before Celiac disease have now appeared back into my cupboard and I have no hesitation using them.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1780573478665266/?comment_id=1789642307758383&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “My gluten reaction was extreme even to tiny amounts of gluten. The second last time I was glutened it was from an antihistamine capsule. The branded version was GF but the generic wasn't. I was on the toilet for 2-3 hours with my system's obvious goal of emptying my entire GI tract ASAP... I inoculated myself with NA hookworm larvae on July 30th, 2018. I finally got the courage to try a tiny amount of gluten 4 days ago (Dec 20th, 2018). I didn't have a reaction so the next day I tripled the dose, and then tripled it again. Still nothing. I was so encouraged I had an entire whole wheat English muffin. No reaction to that either. That day I ended up eating 4! And I was totally fine. So far as I'm concerned I'm now on an unrestricted diet.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1953718741350738/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1953718741350738/?comment_id=1955422321180380&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I inoculated with 10 NA a year and a half ago and had about 14 months of amazing relief. I have celiac and am incredibly sensitive to cross contamination. I used to have severe gastrointestinal issues after getting glutened and would be knocked out physically for a couple days. I then would have body pain and lethargy for at least a week. With 10 NA, I had zero gastro symptoms when glutened. I just got really tired (and) I could push through if needed, particularly for work. But if I was able to sleep, I would sleep for 4 hours or so, then have a few hours of grogginess. A bit of a queasy stomach, but barely. This felt miraculous to me compared to before. I never intentionally tried gluten, but I know of a few instances where I took chances and was cross-contaminated. I ate out several times, which I could never do previously. Huge quality of life improvement.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2057412794314665/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2627535403969065/?comment_id=2628226533899952&reply_comment_id=2628933857162553]

* ☹️ “I have had loose bowels, diarrhoea and chronic fatigue all my adult life. I was diagnosed with coeliac disease in July 2016 but experienced no improvement with a gluten free diet. I dosed with 25 hookworm larvae in October 2016, then 40 in Jun 2017 and 12 in Jan 2018. I had reactions each time, all in line with what you'd expect from the wiki. I definitely (still had hookworms at) 24 months, as I continued testing for a fair while after dosing. I didn't experience any improvement in my symptoms in the short or long term. I have found that the only way to improve my health is by targeting the symptoms (loperamide, amitriptyline, cholestyramine, clay, calcium carbonate) and reducing my fibre intake to almost zero.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2593683854020887/?comment_id=2593742607348345&reply_comment_id=2593805427342063]

* “I had an accidental brush with gluten on the weekend just passed. For the first time in almost 10 years I had no immediate reaction; moreover no dread of being ill for the next few weeks and then some. Now that’s a hugely triumphant moment for me. So very happy with my life, feeling blessed. I am diagnosed Coeliac. I’ve also had lymphocytic colitis and gastritis over the past 5 years, all confirmed through biopsy by my gastroenterologist. Helminthic therapy was recommended to me after my last bout of gastritis after all other avenues had been thoroughly exhausted. I started with just 2 HDC, and now (at 7 months) I take 10 HDCs fortnightly.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2745763175479620/]

* “I have celiac. If I get even a tiny amount, I’m in severe pain, knock out within minutes and stay asleep for hours. The pain in my joints lasts for months. I’ve been terrified to try even after several years of NA. I accidentally got some in a chocolate bar that had been safe before, but I didn’t reread the ingredients before eating. I only had slight stiffness and it only lasted a few days. Definite difference!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4069645469758044?comment_id=4069677643088160] 

* “I have had 2 or 3 previous endoscopies with confirmed celiac, plus positive lab tests. The last endoscopy, (carried out after starting helminthic therapy [with TSO]) the pathologist suggested my previous dx's were in error. I don't believe it. Anyway, now I can eat gluten without issues.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4069645469758044?comment_id=4069751679747423] 

* “I have (had) celiac and after ~18 months (with NA) I could eat gluten again. I don’t even really pay attention to my diet anymore.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4509395792449674/?comment_id=4509472525775334]

* “I went gluten free in the early 80's and most of my gut symptoms resolved soon after. My doctor believed I had celiac disease based upon history but I was not interested in eating enough wheat to get a true diagnosis. Gluten free can be difficult when eating out and I periodically got ambushed. If these cross contamination exposures happened very often, symptoms came back. However, I have had helminths (NA) for about a decade, and a couple big exposures in the last few years did not cause symptoms. A guest staying with us had regular bread in a package that looked a lot like my gluten free bread. I ate several pieces this bread and had no problems. I also discovered that my favorite mexican restaurant's green chile sauce was not thickened with cornstarch but actually thickened with flour. I probably ate this sauce every month and maybe more often. And, where I used to have problems from cross contamination, I don't have them now when I actually eat wheat. That said, I'm not interested in experimenting.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4509395792449674/?comment_id=4509499629105957]

* "I had my celiac disease go into full remission from hosting 25 Necator americanus. Gluten reactivity was sky-high, but now I’m free to eat anything I like, and I rarely even burp. Both my fridge and freezer are stuffed with gluten and my favorite bed-time snack is mini shredded wheat. It's all a dream come true for this former highly reactive celiac. It's rare now that I have a meal without some gluten in it. No reactions at all, and bowel movement frequency has decreased. Only 1-2 perfectly formed bowel movements per day now. Things couldn't be going better. My meat-triggered ulcerative colitis is also entirely absent." (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5070971286292119?comment_id=5273521792703733], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/2511716132217660?comment_id=5449544621768115])

* "I have a celiac diagnosis. I now can eat gluten. I still mainly eat gluten-free, but I no longer worry about eating gluten. No reaction. Been doing NA for a couple of years." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7489879411067949/?comment_id=7497270410328849]

* "I have been treating coeliac disease with NA for over 4 years now for cross contamination purposes. When I eat out I just order GF and don’t worry what it’s cooked with or in." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7495596677162889?comment_id=7531047003617856]

=== Chemical sensitivity ===

See [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) | '''Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS)''']].

=== Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)===
See [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis / Chronic fatigue syndrome)| ME/CFS]]. Also see [[#Fatigue|Fatigue]].

=== Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIPD) ===

* “… the infection of 50-80 necator americanus helminths did not help appreciably with the cidp. I have since increased my infection of hw's to about one per pound of weight which is approximately 190 - 200 helminths. I weigh approximately 203 pounds… having the higher infection has seemed to help my cidp.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1282521325137153/?comment_id=1283368985052387&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] (See [[Helminthic therapy FAQ#How big should a hookworm colony be? | '''this note''']] about colony size.)

=== Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ===

* "I have had lifelong asthma, eczema and allergies. You name it, I’m allergic to it - trees and grass pollens, dust, molds, and fish. For the most part, medicines kept me under check. Yet over the years, the medications became progressively stronger and, at one point, a doctor told me that I had deteriorated to COPD. While helminth therapy has not been the complete cure I was hoping it might be, it has markedly improved all my conditions. Percentage wise, the improvement is probably around 75%." (Edited from [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Lifelong_asthma,_eczema_and_allergies_alleviated_by_hookworms this article].)

* "A friend with stage 4 COPD has been doing NA for 9 months, 4 doses: 5, 8, 10, 10. No issues with lungs at all, no exacerbation or symptoms. The last pulmonary function test shows stable. This is supposed to be impossible as it is a progressive condition." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5308286782560567/]

=== Cognition, poor ===

* “Like my son, who had gigantic cognitive leaps within weeks of inoculation, after I bumped up to about sixty hookworms, I am finding myself capable of doing things I have never been able to do in my entire life. The whole way that I see the world has literally changed it seems overnight. I can see people in a way I never did before (or it's been so many years that I just do not remember.) Every day has been fantastic for about eight weeks now.” (Reported in a private discussion, Dec 2012)

* “After hosting hookworm... I find that my ability to reason has improved, more like when I was young. This was surprising, to say the least.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1088294924559795&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

=== Colitis ===
See [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Microscopic colitis | '''Microscopic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Lymphocytic colitis | '''Lymphocytic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Pancolitis | '''Pancolitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative colitis | '''Ulcerative colitis''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative proctitis | '''Ulcerative proctitis''']].

=== Constipation ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and bowel function#Constipation | '''Helminthic therapy and bowel function: Constipation''']].

=== Cracked heels ===

* "Within weeks of starting TSO, my cracked heels just disappeared and turned all soft and normal! I always thought it was because I go barefoot so much, but apparently not." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3226282547427678/?comment_id=4017082665014325&reply_comment_id=4170885552967368]

* "My cracked heals have healed 80%, which is remarkable! I don't wear shoes most of the time, but the transformation is huge. One heel looks almost perfect again, and the other one is obviously a ton better…" (Link expired)

* "This week I realized mine (cracked heels) are much reduced. They were so, so bad and coming off in pieces." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3226282547427678/?comment_id=3280404782015454]

=== Cramps (abdominal) ===

* “Used to have cramps every 3-4 weeks (needed Vicodin for pain), now it happens much less frequently (2-3 months) and not as severe (much less Vicodin needed)” (Link expired)

=== Crohn's disease ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) | '''Helminthic therapy and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)''']].

The first seven reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Hookworms literally saved my life | '''Hookworms literally saved my life''']]
:* [[Crohns and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants | '''Crohn's and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants''']]
:* [[Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis | '''Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis''']]
:* [[Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease | '''Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease''']]
:* [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']]
:* [[Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms | '''Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms''']]
:* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm_UmQAgd0U How worms changed my life. Helminthic Therapy for Crohn's Disease] (YouTube video)

* "... it seems to have worked...my doctor is pretty optimistic about it actually." (Link expired)

* The following three reports are by, or about, the same person, written over nine months.
** "... what can i say? life's a party!" (Link expired)
** "... she feels good, good energy, good color, very little pain or discomfort. She sleeps well and has a very good quality of life." (Link expired)
** “One year ago I was ill and hospitalized. I could have died if I kept going the way I was going. My dad and I researched hookworm for 6 months and decided to go for it. I am living a normal life now. Living each day happy and healthy... I honestly believe the worms saved my life..." (Link expired)

* "I feel like I have my life back... I continue to experience a gradual improvement in all of my crohns symptoms, but am relieved to see the lab work backs us my observations." (Link expired)

* The following three reports are by the same person, over twenty months.
** "Pain and discomfort are almost nil. No urgency at all. Best of all today had a solid bm... it is a real joy to see this definite improvement." (Link expired)
** "Gut wise i feel better than i have in many years, including when i was strictly on SCD for 2 years." (Link expired)
** "My health is the best it has been for many years... Feeling really good and thankful..." (Link expired)

* "... my blood work shows that I am ‘healthy’. As my family dr. said, ‘You are like a normal person.’ That's something I have never heard!” (Link expired)
* "... symptoms stopped when I took the TSO and subsequently the Whipworm... Plus now I am tapering off my Imuran without any worsening of my condition." (Link expired)
* "... my allergies to the following foods have disappeared: avocado, cherries, plums, peaches, almonds... and am now in remission from severe Crohn's disease." (Link expired)
* "... the change is nothing short of spectacular and has really transformed my life." (Link expired)

* "I saw my Rhuematologist today and got my latest ANA, sed rate, CRP results. He had to re read them THREE times! Said he just couldn't beleive it... the ANA shows me going into remission and the sed rate has gone from 350 to 40! and my CRP was near normal. (Link expired)

* The following four reports are from the same individual, spanning 4 years.
** "HT is working for me! ... It has stopped the crohn's disease I have suffered from since the age of 12... I am now healthier than I have ever been.” (Link expired)
** "Within 6 months I was off prednisone and achieved remission from CD… Symptom free and drug free after 33 years of illness! WOW!” (Link expired)
** "Since using helminths I have been healthy enough to finish 2 Degrees and live and work abroad for the last 4 years without worry of being debilitated by CD… I would not be healthy and a productive human if it was not for helminths." (Link expired)
** “When I began taking helminths my gut was in awful shape and my GI doc wanted to preform another surgery. I chose to begin helminth therapy hoping that it would save me and my gut. Helminths did what no stop gap surgery or drug could do, it put my CD in remission (after 30 years of coping) and has controlled it since then. It will be 10 years in Jan. 2016. Best choice I have ever made.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/885228848199738/?comment_id=885293641526592&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* "My mom… was basically waiting for emergency surgery when she started hookworm therapy for Crohn's disease. She only has five feet of small bowel left, and the surgery would have made it necessary for a permanent feeding tube. That was almost a year ago and now she's far from needing surgery. She was living off Ensure and now eats food again… She started with 10 hookworms then six months later took 15 more. She's not cured but has a quality of life she was never able to achieve with pharmaceuticals." (Reported in a private discussion, 2011.)

* “I have had 3 resections with 6-8 inches of small intestine taken out each time. The last one was in 2004 and since going on helminthic therapy and gluten-free diet, I haven't needed surgery.” (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012)

* “I have had five resections, and have had the helminths for 14 months and feel great. At the time I got my hw, I was heading for my sixth bowel resection, and permanent feeding tube. I escaped that scenerio by a hair. I do not get strictures anymore.” (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012)

* "…almost 2 years into therapy… and officially had my last infliximab infusion as they are no longer required as the worms are controlling my crohns, happy days. 12 months ago I wasn't even lasting 4 weeks between infusions and was facing colon removal and permanent bag, so I had a 2nd hw infection and it just got better and better. Now my crp is low and I reach the 12 week between infusions and still have no symptoms so it is no longer required." (Reported in a private discussion, Mar 2012)

* "I have now had 4 doses of hookworm ... I'm drug-free, have had a long period of being symptom-free. Well worth the trip so far." [http://hookworm4crohns.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/day.html]

* “His disease affects his entire digestive tract from mouth to anus.... He has been hospitalized at least yearly more often multiple times per year since he was ten. We started combination therapy (hookworm and whipworm) in September of 2011. He has not been in the hospital since... No cramping, no bleeding, no loose stools.” (Link expired)

* "I have had Crohn's since 2000. I have tried every drug out there with little success and a couple of near death experiences. I have basically been living in a recliner for almost a year. From August 2011 until May 2012 I was moving between the bathroom and the recliner. This is my 3rd dose of hookworms. I had little hope that this would work but the results are unbelievable (and) the last month has been crazy great!! I hit my 100 days and painted my entire house, inside and out! I used my painkillers not for lower left quadrant pain but for being so sore from activity that I couldn't get out of bed!!! I love hookworms!!!" (Reported in a private discussion, Jun 2012)

* "It has been over two years now since we began treating Crohn's disease in our daughter… (who was) diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 14 months... Treating our little girl with helminthic therapy was the single best decision we could have made… The treatment has enabled her to live a normal life… rather then one riddled with pain and fatigue, pills, injections, and steroids… She is now over three and a half, and is as happy, healthy, and beautiful as any parent could want…" [http://www.jasper-lawrence.com/the-story-of-a-all-in-one-place/]

* "Today marks exactly 600 days (20 months) since I have taken immunosuppressive medication of any kind. I suffer moderate to severe Crohn's, since 2006. I dosed with hookworm late 2010 (22 months ago), and twice in 2011. After three doses, I estimate that the hookworm alone achieves 85% symptom relief for me. I rejoice at the phenomenal benefit to my life. It would be no exaggeration to call my case a small miracle. I hope to continue to experience this degree of relief." (Reported in a private message, Aug 2012)

* "I'm going to Tanzania to climb Kilimanjaro for charity on sunday. It's a pretty big thing for me, this time two years ago I couldn't walk much more than ten meters without discomfort, and walking anywhere for more than five minutes was out of the question. I don't half love my hookworms!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/402522233137071/?comment_id=402639323125362&offset=0&total_comments=14&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]

* “I have crohns disease. I have had six bowel resections in the past, last one was seven yrs ago, and I have less than five ft left. I was heading for a feeding tube and surgery two yrs ago, when I got the worms. They work great for me, I am a super responder. All is under control now. I will make sure I always get topped up with hookworms, don't want to live without them.” (Reported in a private message, Dec 2012)

* “My 11 year old daughter is nearing the 15 month mark with her hook worms... and I wanted to give an update. My daughter has not been on ANY medication (including over-the-counter immodium) since my last posting. She has solid stools most of the time, and I can count the intestinal cramping episodes on one hand. (And frankly we wonder if those few episodes aren't related to school/stress and not Crohn's?). We are not so naive to believe there won't be hiccups down the road, but the helminthic therapy is thus far miraculous... the improvement from a year ago is stunning! Our beautiful little girl is yet again thriving…” (Link expired)

* "I just thought I'd share that yesterday was the first time I went to the grocery store in 6 months! I haven't felt this well in so long that it feels completely new to me. I felt quite proud of myself when I got home. In the past 6 months, the only two places I've been are my parent's house a few blocks away, and my son's school to pick him up. I'm starting to feel like a normal person again. I'm extremely pleased that my worms are working and that they are working so well! My "old friends" are my new (best) "old friends!" (Reported, after only 1 dose of hookworms, plus whipworms, in a private message, Mar 2013)

* "Once the worm flu went away, I was in such a wonderful place. I was still taking my Remicade infusions, but I was practically off my Imuran… My colonoscopy showed major improvement, and I knew it was due to the worms." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/507604599295500/?comment_id=513762892013004&offset=0&total_comments=12]

* "I was diagnosed with Crohns in 2007. After the meds were ramped up to Remicade in January 2010 I explored alternatives and found helminthic therapy. I started on helminthic therapy in June 2010, had my last Remicade infusion on July 23, 2010 and never looked back. I've had my ups and downs, and earlier this year when the symptoms came back in full force and I realized my worms had probably all died, I got back on the "worm wagon" in early April of this year and am doing great again." (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2013)

* “HT (hookworms) have completely changed my life. I can eat a normal range of foods now, my energy levels have been restored and I no longer take any pharmaceutical medication. I can't believe this treatment has not been adopted more widely, given how safe and effective it is.” (Link expired)

* The following 2 posts are by the same person, 15 months apart.
** "… the incredible pain I normally experience in my upper abdomen from the crohn's (mostly located in my jejunum) has slowly but surely vanished! I mean, how do you not notice something like that after suffering for so long?! I guess the improvements were slow and subtle. Anyhow, I feel very certain I can thank my HW for that! Nothing, and I do mean NOTHING has ever helped my crohn's so completely. In over 10 years, even the years I considered myself in remission, I was never so completely free from upper abdominal pain after a meal!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/555510421171584/]
** “When I started with HW I was having as many as 20-30 trips to the bathroom per day and through the night. I had a ton of intestinal bleeding. I was almost entirely home bound because I simply couldn't be far enough from a bathroom long enough to get anywhere… I was surviving solely on Absorb Plus at that time - no solid foods and was very under weight… It was around 4, maybe 5 months in that I noticed my abdominal pain had disappeared. Slowly my stools were becoming less frequent (10-15 times per day/night). Then they started firming up slightly. Then I was noticing less and less blood. I would have 1 good day out of 7, and I'd have energy and feel GOOD... I was able to go outside and do fun things with my kids again without being exhausted 5 minutes into an activity and desperately wanting to lie down. I wasn't constantly running to the bathroom. Now, I have really good days probably 65% of the time. I haven't had ANY blood in my stools in months now and my stools are mostly always formed… The urgency is MUCH better… For a while I was using LDN as well as helminths but now I'm using helminths solely… and I'm still seeing gradual improvement. This has been the single most helpful thing I've ever done for the Crohn's I've dealt with forever… I'm just so incredibly happy... I'm so glad I decided to try this. It's almost unbelievable… It quite possibly saved my life!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/765969386792352/]

* "I raced triathlon for several years... I struggled with the inflammatory results of all the training, and had relatively frequent flare ups of my chrons/colitis. Pre race anxiety also made things worse... So, I took a year off of training and decided to try HT without any exercise. Over the first year, I noticed a good deal of improvement in my symptoms and ability to tolerate allergens. Once I felt like I was stable, I started to ride my bike again. Over the next year, I was able to increase the frequency of my rides to 5-6x per week. I'm now racing cyclocross and enjoy it a great deal. While I have adjusted my expectations and anticipated outcomes, I still am able to get out, enjoy myself, and maintain a healthy lifestyle." (Link expired)

* "At 6 months in I realized that my HW had made a profound impact on my crohn's symptoms. It happened very very slowly and gradually for me. I wish I had tried HW earlier in my disease process. I really feel that had I inoculated right away, I could have avoided a lot of pain and misery." (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group)[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/]

* “My son has crohns and HT has been very effective. It did take a while (well over 12 months) but he is in very good shape now and has been for nearly a year.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/614921948563764/?qa_ref=pp&comment_id=614959908559968&offset=0&total_comments=43&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]

* “In 2003 my Doc, Dr. W was involved in clinical study having to do with Helminths. He said I was a perfect candidate since I was not responding to the typical meds. I was to ingest whipworm eggs from pigs in a cup of Gateraid. I began the study and 8 weeks later began to have less symptoms of the disease. 8 weeks later and my symptoms were gone. A colonoscopy confirmed it. I couldn't' believe my eyes! It was healthy and pink! Not like the photos before that resembled hamburger. I have been in remission ever since!” (Posted in July 2014 to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation.) [https://www.ccfacommunity.org/story?storyid=170] (Login required)

* “A year after starting helminith therapy, I am 10 kgs heavier, eating really well, including all sorts of stuff I haven't eaten for years (although I am not eating EVERYTHING yet..), keeping fit, far more physically active and far less time in the bathroom. I am not "healed" but I am a hell of a lot better. Even my gastro said on my last visit to him, that he did not believe I'd be able to 'bounce back' without surgery and that he was pleasantly surprised.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/673902419332383/?comment_id=674242302631728&offset=0&total_comments=7]

* “I am in 3rd year of therapy now. I had a colonoscopy done in May 2014 and it did not show any sign of crohn's. As a result I have been put off from medication (mesalamine). It is two months after stopping medication and things are normal. In my case the improvements are still adding on in terms or overall benefits.” (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2014)

* “My daughter has Crohns and no matter which treatment she has had, over the last 7 yrs, her inflammatory markers never fell below 100. 3 months ago she started whipworm and hookworm therapy. I know its early days but yesterday her inflammatory markers where 27!!! Her treatment has been the same, with no other changes, so our little friends must be making the improvement! So pleased. Long may it continue!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/702288106493814/]

* “My son has done the combo of human ww/hw. (He started off with the HDC.) January 2015 was a total of 24 months. It was hard to know if it was working because the doctor put him on medicine. He was not doing well during the Holidays until we decided to see how he would do without any of the medicines. Well he's been doing great and living life free of crohns symptoms. When they did the endoscopy and colonscopy wherever the worms were located the doctor even said these areas appeared normal.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/811167795605844/?comment_id=811415938914363&offset=0&total_comments=8&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “The worms really have been a dream come true. I know my western docs say it's a disease of flare/remission yah da yah da but my experience has been straight flare from moderate to severe for 2½ years until the worms and then a straight decent to 98% remission a few months after starting the worms. I ditched the azathioprine (4 months ago) and so far everything has been grand.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/811167795605844/?comment_id=811513532237937&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* “I can confidently say that my stomach problems have become at least 70% better… I have done 3 doses so far… I have had this disease (Crohn’s/colitis) since i was 12 and had IBS since i was around 6. This has made a ginormous difference in my life. I dont really get sick from food stuffs any longer. Its amazing.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1179253398797280/?comment_id=1179733028749317&reply_comment_id=1260611577328128&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “At my worst flares, I could not leave the house for fear of messing my pants. Any trip over 30 minutes was a risk and had to be after noon. Mornings were spent on the toilet most of the time. The burn was so bad that I had to sit in the tub after every trip to the bathroom. Now, I go about 3 times per day. Each time is usually a type 3 on the Bristol chart. It has been 4 months since I began the TSO. My Crohn's symptoms are gone. No night sweats or cramps. I am not taking any medicines whatsoever. When I really started to see results, I stopped everything but the worms. I can honestly say that the worms were the biggest reason for my recovery.” (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1097855963603691/?comment_id=1317327664989852&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1347925658596719/?comment_id=1347962081926410&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D] Also see [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1397453266977291/?comment_id=1397517553637529&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D])

* “LDN got me better but not 100%. Worms helped me more.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1371046069618011/?comment_id=1371064702949481&reply_comment_id=1371695616219723&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D]

* "I have Crohns that has been focused in the upper colon and what used to be my ileum. I have been taking 2500 TSO for nearly 2 years. After one year I was significantly improved - down to a single small ulcer." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1386059201450031/?comment_id=1386135821442369&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "I have Crohn's and helminthic therapy has completely changed my life. I'm on NA and TTO although I think the NA does most of the work. I do still take Entocort but I have energy, I have hobbies, I have friends, I can eat food, and I'm not in constant pain... It is slow going though. I felt some improvement after 3 months but it took about a full year before I felt good." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1407045216018096/?comment_id=1407331732656111&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Moderate to severe Crohn’s for 23 years. Been dosing (NA) for around 7 or 8 years. Totally drug free for the first time in two decades. While I did decide eventually to supplement my treatment with additional medication, I have never felt better than I currently do. Not a stretch to say that it's changed my life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2544371922285414/?comment_id=2544453165610623]

* “I started with HDC last year for my Crohn’s and went into remission within a week. I’m treating with NA now and haven’t had a single relapse ever since I started helminth treatment, except for the little window when I switched between helminths and had none alive in my gut. Also my overall food sensitivities and allergies decreased. I went from throwing up from a sip of water to being able to eat almost everything.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3112657048790229/?comment_id=3113589072030360]

* “My son is 19 yrs old and was diagnosed with severe Crohn’s at 16. He has been on NA for 2 years and currently takes 20 every 4-5 months. He’s in remission and has never had any side effects. Every time he does labs, the numbers get better and better. He also takes humira once a month.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3112657048790229/?comment_id=3114619215260679]

* “I have Crohn’s disease, and started with UC at age 12. I’m now 60. I tried all the drugs, last attempt was entyvio and budesonide which stirred things up for me. I’ve been on NA for 15 months, and I’m now drug free. My calprotectin is in normal range and I’m feeling great. Low dosing for me keeps the symptoms under control. I seem best with 3 NA every 10 weeks and 250 TSO every 13 days, or so. I love the combination, especially because TSO gives me such a beautiful bounce and I can regulate dosing.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3145854602137140/?comment_id=3146771518712115] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3145854602137140/?comment_id=3146771518712115&reply_comment_id=3147551935300740]

* “I was diagnosed with IBD, first UC, then indeterminate colitis, and finally mild Crohns. On colonoscopy, the inflammation spread from the ascending colon to the rectum, and was quite severe. I have not stopped searching to regain my health for the last 8 years. Immunosuppressants didn’t help, FMT didn’t seem to work, and strict diets were hard core, mentally, physically and socially, But it’s now 6 months since I inoculated with 5 NA, and it’s been a textbook journey. A life changing treatment. I experienced all the side effects, as described in the [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworm_timeline hookworm timeline]. It was tough going at about week 4, with strong nausea, etc., but that started to reduce by about week 7. This is when the improvements began - a reduction in gut gurgling, indigestion, chronic dry eyes, joint pain, chronic headaches, severe brain fog, depression (worry), and the rest. Before NA, I followed the [https://www.thefoodintolerancedietitian.com.au/testing-for-salicylates RPAH Elimination Diet] which allowed me to pinpoint food chemical intolerances, but without much success. Following this diet with NA on board, I’m doing the best I have since becoming chronically ill. By week 10, I started eating grains, something I hadn’t been able to digest for many years. From there, it’s been improvements all the way and I now have normal digestion. I would encourage anyone with ill health to try this fearless treatment. NA have changed my life.” (Edited from posts in [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3691008387621756/ this support group thread] and [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3686021688120426/?comment_id=3690939754295286 this post].)

* "I started NA on Jan 4th this year (2022) for Crohn’s Disease and Sweet Syndrome. I was not in a good way. In 2020 I was told I was going to die due to inflammation in my bowel, and it perforated while hopping into bed. I was in hospital 4 times, each for 2-3 weeks and tried every medicine available. I refused surgery due to the fact it almost always fails in my situation, so I was discharged. I managed to do nothing, and hardly moving for a year, I got a little better. Then I found NA. I've taken doses of 3, 3 and 5 worms so far, at around 10 weeks between each dose. I had a specialist appointment on Friday and, for the first time in 20 years, my blood work is fabulous. My CRP is 7, my cal protectin is 50 and my eosinophil level is raised, which is also good. My CRP has never been below 280 and my cal protectin was normally around 6000. So I have no signs of disease in my blood and I'm no longer an extreme surgical case. I'm not even sick as far as doctors are concerned. I still get a little arthritis in my hands but that could be because it's winter. And my tongue still has geographical patterns, but otherwise I'm pretty great. Thank you my worm friends." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5137991819590065] "I am in complete remission on 6NA every 10 weeks." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6255030627886173/?comment_id=6255050097884226]

* "My brother used the TSO 2500 eggs twice a month for 18 months to cure his Crohn’s disease, and it worked wonders for him." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5560751367314106/?comment_id=5565769576812285&reply_comment_id=5565779116811331]

* "This is my 1 year update of using helminthic therapy for severe Crohn’s disease and total food intolerance. Right now I am ecstatic! As of this week my doctor has told me my labs show that I am in clinical remission!! My calprotectin is at a 15, and my CRP is within the normal range. In the past my Calprotectin has been so high that it was beyond the range they test for… I am still in disbelief. This is the first time I have been in remission in over 3 years. I am still currently experiencing 50% loose stools and nocturnal bowel movements… but that’s it! Symptoms that have been healed are: weekly vomiting, weekly blood in stools, constant nausea, pain, discomfort and unease, urgency, fatigue, and all issues with eating (like having to run to the toilet immediately after putting something in my mouth) and total complete food intolerance. For 3 years I got most of my calories from meal replacement shakes but, in the past year, my total food intolerance has been reduced by about 80%. So overall amazing progress!!… I feel positive and am looking forward to my future for the first time in a long time. For the first time in over 12 months I am fully off of the steroid prednisolone!!! After trying and failing so many times to get off the drug because IBD symptoms would come back so full on, I’ve now successfully gotten off of it! I have found the natural medicine I have been searching for all these years. 13 years of suffering and all I had to do was take some bloody worms…" (Edited from [https://letshealibd.com/2024/07/24/one-year-update-of-using-helminthic-therapy/ this blog post].)

=== Dandruff ===

* “My dandruff went away completely. I had moderate dandruff. Enough that wearing dark colored shirts and sweaters was really challenging, and my scalp was always itching/crawling. I didn’t even think of it as a part of my disease picture - I just figured I had dandruff. But at some point, my daughter (a cosmetologist) noticed that I didn’t have it anymore. It was probably about a year after I started helminths (NA) that she commented on it. The dandruff hasn’t returned.” (Edited from two posts. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1903076339748312/?comment_id=1904316219624324&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1903076339748312/?comment_id=1904316219624324&reply_comment_id=1929430043779608&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D])

=== Dementia ===

* “I am currently helping someone with dementia. She has been taking NA for one year and whilst we have nothing remotely scientific, her doctors and her husband are pleased that she has not declined and may have some improvements. Early days.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3614015021987760/?comment_id=3616198935102702]

=== Depression / low mood ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function | '''Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function''']].

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Migraine, depression and autoimmunity relieved by TSO and NA | '''Migraine, depression and autoimmunity relieved by TSO and NA''']]

* "The worms have removed my crippling depression and fuzzy head so I'm very happy." (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012)

* "I second getting some mood benefits from HT, which many others have noted as well." (Link expired)

* "The thing that surprised me most about the therapy is an increase in general well being. I sleep less, am more alert, am able to think more clearly, and have a brighter mood. I jokingly say that I wasn't depressed prior to worms, and I'm even more not depressed now." (Link expired)

* “I inoculated with hookworm hoping that it would help my chronic sinus issues... But I wasn't expecting any changes in personality, so they came as a shock. My lifelong battle with depression and anxiety seems to be over. And I'm also smarter again (like when I was a kid).”

* “I'd say hookworm has improved my mood… I wasn't actively depressed when I started hookworm but I definitely noticed a reduction in how much I had to use CBT-style challenging of my thinking.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/924060764316546/?comment_id=924235834299039&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* “I have been depressed most of my life. That eased a bit with IV magnesium. But it changed dramatically about 20 weeks after starting hookworms. My mood improved dramatically and I just felt happy - my psychological issues just disappeared.”

* “The crippling morning depression I would experience has all but completely vanished. When I now wake up in the morning, I feel positive about getting up and optimistic without feeling drained or as if I had just gone to sleep an hour ago.” (Written after 5 months with hookworms and two months of taking TSO for systemic lupus.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/940503262672296/]

* “I have good days now (after hosting NA for five years) when I never had good days for years, and sometimes I actually feel incredibly happy, something else that never really happened.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1088327351223219&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “My depression and anxiety and brain fog have disappeared on NA.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1089572444432043&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “I can attest to a huge improvement in my anxiety and depression within just a few weeks of my first NA dose (off all meds now) but I'd say I still have some mild residual symptoms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1087706324618655/?comment_id=1089572444432043&reply_comment_id=1089756711080283&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R8%22%7D]

* "Hookworms took about 24 weeks to begin to make a dent in depression - now about 2.5 years into helminths, I have some days where I'm downright optimistic. Not many, but after decades of depression it's a huge change." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1515697631819520/?comment_id=1515980121791271&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

* ☹️ “I have anxiety and depression and have not really noticed any differences.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1515697631819520/?comment_id=1516504428405507&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "My diagnosed anxiety/depression went down to zero. I can't get unhappy if I try. If this was the only good effect (of using HDC) it would be enough." (Link expired)

* “NA has definitely helped with depression, although I do not feel that my depression is severe, compared to that of others. It is definitely seasonal… After about 6 months, I began to notice improvement in mood.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1803006713088609/?comment_id=1803101086412505&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “As pretty much a lifelong depression sufferer (since onset of puberty anyway), I generally never liked the flat emotional effect I got from antidepressants, and always felt my depression was very much related (coincidentally at least) to my severe seasonal allergy symptoms. By the time I started hosting HW, I had given up on antidepressants for several years, and had just resigned myself to pushing through life without psych meds. About a year into hosting NA for severe allergies and asthma, I unexpectedly noticed nearly total resolution of my depressive symptoms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2190363854352891/?comment_id=2194958800560063&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “NA resolved my chronic depression - it was one of those weird, gradual, unexpected benefits.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2206914002697876/?comment_id=2333833590005916&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “HDC (I take 10 every three weeks) have a positive impact on my mood. My case may be different from others, but... PANS is what leads to my low mood. In PANS, autoantibodies attach to dopamine and glutamate receptors in the basal ganglia, which blocks their transmission in normal amounts. I think my good mood when I take HDC is likely because it helps whatever is leading to those autoantibodies being in the wrong place (my basal ganglia receptors), so more dopamine and glutamate can reach their proper destination. Not sure if these mechanics apply to many other disorders, though.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2296657347056874/?comment_id=2334347929954482&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I thought the NA didn't do much for my mental health. But it's clear to me now that they were helping me. I got rid of my NA as part of an experiment to see if they were contributing to a sudden and consistent drop in energy I've been experiencing since May. I find that I am more depressed without them. Small problems can now push me over into the realm of crying spells and panic attacks. The HDC was helping with social anxiety and OCD, but it seems the NA was supporting a higher baseline of mental health and stability. More NA on the way to restock.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1715076141881667/?comment_id=3042523755803559]

* “I’ve had so much success from the two types of friends... it’s the miracle I’ve been searching for (for 18 years) since 2001. I can’t even tell you how much happier I am now that my depression, fatigue, and extreme food sensitivities are pretty much resolved. I think the NA have been the most helpful for me, with TSO as a great backup.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2490868600969080/?comment_id=2491288504260423]

* "I’ve been previously diagnosed with depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic disorder, and a mood disorder, and for 10 or more years, life had seemed like a foggy dream. But after almost two years with NA, I realized that HT has significantly helped me with my mental health. It’s given me a sense of clarity that I haven’t had in years. I continue to require therapy as needed, and I’ve been treated with a wide range of medications over the years, but I’m currently only on one anxiety medication. I continue to be so thankful for HT. It’s life altering." (Edited from this post: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3610564992332763/].)

* “I am pretty sure that my NA have dealt with my insomnia, probably part of what remains the biggest, and unexpected, benefit of taking on these wonderful companion animals: an end to depression and anxiety of a level such that I had to take tricyclic antidepressants to function.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4465083816880872/?comment_id=4467760283279892]

* "TSO was the magic mood machine for me." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5219928144729765?comment_id=5220568117999101&reply_comment_id=5221503187905594]

* "I've been doing HDC for five months now. Started with five every three weeks. I expected no results for at least a week, but noticed an improvement in energy and mood in two days. While mood and energy are up, joint pain is down." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4470230976366156?comment_id=5507026999353210]

* "My mental health has been way better since starting helminth as I was pretty low on and off for a long time before that and especially bad when I was low in energy or sick, like when I had covid. After dosing with 3 NA, then 5, and now 3 NA every 3 months, I haven’t experienced that depression except for 1 day following another covid infection. I’m feeling like seeing people which I couldn’t face last year until well down the track." (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6271627282893174/ this post].)

=== Dermatitis herpetiformis ===

* “(Dermatitis herpetiformis) is a symptom of celiac. Mine has gone away since I started NA.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2738300869559184/?comment_id=2739362596119678&reply_comment_id=2739768316079106]

* “I used to get DH prior to being diagnosed coeliac. Going gluten-free helped it a lot but I’d still get it occasionally. I haven’t had it again since getting NA.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2273637472692195/?comment_id=2273959845993291&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] “I’ve recently started eating gluten and the DH hasn’t come back.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2273637472692195/?comment_id=2273959845993291&reply_comment_id=2273990369323572&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

===Dermatographia===

* “My baby started to get dermatographia hives from touch at 6 months when I introduced solids. At 8 months he got 3 hookworm and the hives have stayed away.” (Reported to a closed group, Oct 2014)

* “About a year ago I started off with 5 NA, then went to 15 and now have about 30. I used to have dermatographia, acquired 4 years ago, which causes the skin to welt up at the slightest scratch or irritation. The welts would itch, causing me to scratch more, causing more welts. I was able to write messages on my arm, and, in order to get relief, I had to take a daily dose of Allegra for several years. I finally quit taking Allegra about 4 months into my NA inoculation since I didn’t need it anymore.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3629630493759546/]

=== Dermatomyositis ===

* “I am 7 months in to treatment for dermatomyositis and other autoimmune problems. I have 35 hookworms and have recovered almost completely. I had sun sensitivity, food allergies and skin problems which are all gone.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/994309130625042/]

* “I have MCTD - Lupus with a likely DM (dermatomyositis) overlap… I'm 14 months into HT and about 85 to 90% improved!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/866316313424325/?comment_id=866319226757367&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

=== Developmental delay ===

* "The teachers were telling us it was a definite possibility that he would never actually be able to write and that he would need assistive technology for life… We've been struggling to teach him to read for two years now… Well, in the last month (following inoculation), he's had major developmental leaps... and is now actually reading, has progressed about 12 months in the last month as far as his fine motor skills go. He's reading and writing now, actually reading at or above grade level." (Reported in a private discussion, 2011) [http://turnotheworm.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/update-part-iii-from-worlds-worst.html]

=== Diabetes type 1 ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy and diabetes#Type 1 diabetes | '''Helminthic therapy and diabetes: Type 1''']].

* "We started to notice high blood glucose (BG 250) in our 9 year-old in early Nov of 2012, and when we went to the endo on 20th of that month, we were given a 6-12 month projection for insulin dependence and had autoantibodies measured. The results came back significantly positive for GAD65 and IAA... About 2 days before our 6 month check up in mid Aug 2013 we went out for sushi and had ice cream afterwards. Post Prandial was 111. The Post Prandial should be below 180 to not be considered diabetic, but below 140 is more in the normal range. We were dumbfounded because, a while back, this PP would have been near the 160-180 mark if not higher. We were also not being as strict with diet and sleep, when we saw the endo, as it was summer, and we still need to be a kid! ;-) However, I really was thinking that the A1C would be at least 6.0, but it wasn't. It was 5.5... Currently we have 70HW on board and will be dosing with another 30 or so to get to the 100 mark." (Link expired)

* “My 9yo son now has 70 HW, as our effort to head off pre-diabetes. His labs show his Triiodothyronine (T3) has gone from 181 to 136 with the helminths… His hemoglobin was called "high" before helminths at 5.8... Now it's 5.7.” (Reported at 10 months after the first inoculation.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/886469608075662/]

* “I have a son who was tested positive for type 1 diabetes autoantibodies (ICA,GADA IAA,IA2A) at the age of 8 months. We have been told that he will almost certainly develop diabetes sooner or later. He had his first HW when he was 2 years old (3 years ago). Since then his B-HbA1C (glycosylated haemoglobin) has gradually come down from 5.7 to 5.0. Also two out of four autoantibodies have disappeared.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/886469608075662/?comment_id=886561801399776&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] (For more about this case, see [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/886469608075662/?comment_id=5492472724141971 this and subsequent posts].)

* “I am 60+ male who developed LADA (latent auto-immune diabetes in adults - sometimes called Type 1.5) out of the blue appx 20+ years ago. It gradually evolved to becoming insulin dependent. Nov. 2014 (13 months ago), all was going pretty well until I developed flu-like symptoms… Small doses of ibuprofen kept the pain at bay, but overall health continued to deteriorate… Then came the periodic double vision and ocular aches. January 31st, I started losing vision in one eye for 10 minutes at a time… My CRP was 165 and Sed Rate was 67. Oops! Neural ophthalmologist and Rheumatology Docs put me on high dose of Prednisone (60mg) to knock out the inflammation which had localized in the fat cells behind my eyes… by June the docs could not determine what caused this inflammatory outbreak. They ruled out everything and primarily ended up with a diagnosis of auto-immune disease with inflammation of unknown origin. Put me on 20mg weekly of Methotrexate (MTX) to replace the prednisone, but there was still some residual inflammation around my eyes. Rheumatologists wanted to put me on Rituximab… Still fatigued most of the time. My primary suggested HT as another approach. I began taking HDC at end of July. After 3 doses I was feeling much better and started reducing my doses of MTX… I increased doses to 60 ova biweekly in mid-October and have stayed at that dose. I weaned off MTX and stopped it entirely in mid-Nov. My inflammation markers are back to normal (CRP is 4.4; Sed Rate is 11) and I feel better than I have in 12 months… Ophthalmologist says everything looks ok and to only call if any symptoms return… My primary and I are both pleased with how HT is going.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/928017050587584/]

* "Treating T1 Diabetes with hookworms in a 10 year old male. Initial dose: 10 NA in 2016. From weeks 6 to 7, my son's blood sugar levels were extremely stable never going over 6.5, which is very rare for a diabetic. He had a few hypos mainly to do with putting in too much insulin, but we got down from 22 units of insulin per day to just 10/12. Hookworms were still helping at approximately 1 year, but his colony might have died soon after that, when I gave him oregano oil. After that happened, we saw worsening of blood sugars. We reinoculated with 10 NA and his BGs got better and better again. Most importantly, they were consistent with his diet... After those first two doses, my son decided not to continue dosing because of the initial discomfort, and he didn’t dose at all for the next 4 years, after which he resumed the treatment with a dose of 20 NA, which caused no major reactions. Now, the treatment seems to work for the first couple of weeks but doesn't last... We'll continue dosing as he is ok about it now, and perhaps he needs to have smaller doses but more often?" (Edited from three posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/1029979617057993] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/1029979617057993/?comment_id=1151303944925559]] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/1029979617057993/?comment_id=5226104084112171&reply_comment_id=5226964697359443].)

=== Diabetes type 2 ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy and diabetes#Type 2 diabetes | '''Helminthic therapy and diabetes: Type 2''']].

* “My blood sugar came down steadily with my first few doses of HDC, until I was getting readings of 70 (close to perilously low!). Then it normalized to 90-100 range (excellent even for non-diabetics) when dosing with 30 every 2 weeks. When a shipment went astray, my blood sugar crept up to diabetic levels again. The replacement dose arrived 2 weeks late, but brought quick relief, and five days after taking this dose, I was normal again. My blood sugar readings went down each day: first 130 (solidly diabetic), next day 122 (borderline), then 110 (fair), 103 (good) until today 100, NORMAL!” (Received via email.)

* “I used to be classified as pre diabetic with a BG of 7.1 consistently over a decade. I have helminths now (NA and TTO) and I run 4.5 consistently.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/BiomeReconstitution/permalink/1007761562754763/?comment_id=1009263012604618&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Diarrhea / diarrhoea ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and bowel function#Diarrhea/diarrhoea | '''Helminthic therapy and bowel function: Diarrhea/diarrhoea''']].

===Diverticular disease (diverticulosis / diverticulitis)===

See [[Helminthic therapy and diverticular disease |'''Helminthic therapy and diverticular disease''']].

=== Dry eye syndrome (DES) / keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) ===

(Some of these comments are abbreviated from reports presented elsewhere on this page.)

* “Last few years I noticed my eyes are not producing tears when I cut onions, only slight burning. Less than 3 weeks since inoculation with 5 NA, my eyes are producing tears again when cutting onions.” (A patient with ulcerative colitis.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3352741131448485/]

* “My dry eye also improved, where before it felt like plaster.” (A patient with lupus, Sjogrens, MCS and food allergies.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1021788624543759/]

* “I was diagnosed with Sjogrens… particularly dry eyes… I started with NA two years ago, seeing positive results after 9 months… in all symptoms.” (Link expired)

* “I am nearly completely symptom free for the first time in years. No more sandpaper dry eyes, dry mouth…” (A patient with asthma, eczema, dust mite and multiple other allergies, IBS and pemphigus.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1570547399667876/]

* “Her presenting symptoms included dry eyes and mouth… She procured NA larvae and self-inoculated… On this visit, she was asymptomatic.” (Re a 33-year-old female with a history of mixed connective tissue disease.) [https://journals.lww.com/jclinrheum/Citation/2017/06000/Helminthic_Therapy__A_New_Era_in_Immune_Mediated.19.aspx]

=== Dysautonomia ===

* “I was dx with NCS dysautonomia a long time ago. NA has removed the 'leg pooling' of blood which allows me the freedom of not getting that leaded leg symptom which would cause me to get dizzy... When I have the right number of NA my dysautonomia goes away." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1395722170483734/?comment_id=1396554450400506&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1816875021701778/?comment_id=1817266521662628&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Eczema / dermatitis ===

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

* [[The effects of NA on chronic idiopathic urticaria and eczema | '''The effects of NA on chronic idiopathic urticaria and eczema''']]
* [[Hookworms help a one-year-old overcome severe eczema and food allergies | '''Hookworms help a one-year-old overcome severe eczema and food allergies''']]

* "The symptom that reduced the most was skin problems (eczema) and general itching of the skin... which was one of my most bothersome symptoms before hookworm." (Link expired)

* The following two reports were written, two years apart, by the same person.
** "One of my symptoms was severe eczema in the crook of my left arm. This has gone into complete remission since treatment." (Link expired)
** “I had an area of weeping eczema in the crook of my left arm, which has been in complete remission for a couple of years now. I also had papules that covered my upper arms, and they are now in about 97% remission.” (Link expired)

* “... I always have little, random patches of eczema-like rash... about ten little patches at any given time on arms, shoulders, neck, or ears, and in the last month it's been closer to two at a time. At the moment I have NONE, which is unheard of for me." (Link expired)

* "I'm at 18 months now, and I have seen a gradual and consistent improvement over this time in both my food allergy/intolerance and my eczema. The improvements in the former have been so amazing that they have overshadowed the changes to my skin, but these have also been occurring very gradually over the 18 months to the point where I now only have three tiny patches of eczema that still need to be creamed, and now only every few days. This is instead of having to apply lashings of cream, every day without fail, to both feet, both knees and both elbows." (Link expired)

* ☹️ "... it is my unfortunate duty to report that, so far, the helminths have not had an impact on my chronic, severe eczema." (Link expired)

* “He used to break out in eczema if he had gluten more than 2 days in a row and now he can eat it every day.” (Link expired)

* "I had eczema mostly on my hands and arms, and sometimes on my neck for about 20 years. For the last 10 years or so I used prednisolone as needed. My first dose (of hookworms) was 2 months ago. I have had no eczema, and haven't been on pred for a few weeks. My skin hasn't looked this good in 10 years, and especially without any drugs." (Link expired)

* “It’s now been a bit more than 6 months since my initial inoculation, and I'm now the proud mom to 85 hookworms and the results I have seen have been amazing! My eczema is fantastic! All summer I was able to wear short sleeves without worrying about how bad the eczema on my arms was.” [http://moderndaym.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/hooked-up.html]

* "My excema is prone to occasionally re occur but is much better than it was a few years ago, at this time of year I would scratch my skin raw in my sleep (very disturbed sleep) and flake dry skin all day. It was unbearable, my wife was genuinely concerned for my mental health. I feel more relaxed and generally contented than I can remember." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/bacteriotherapy/permalink/458557630846596/?comment_id=458866144149078&offset=0&total_comments=10]

* "Our two year old son was sensitive to fragrances in detergents and soaps - we noticed he would scratch excessively if we put him in clothes that had been washed with scented detergent, and his eczema would flare up. (He has had mild eczema since he was 3 or 4 months old.) Since his first dose with 5 HW about 13 weeks ago, we have seen a significant improvement! His skin is pretty much clear, just a small patch of dryness on each of his feet. He no longer seems bothered after washing his hands with scented soap (this used to make his wrists itch for hours)." (Link expired)

* "Our 2½ year old started with 5 HW in May 2013. He had eczema, mild food allergies (egg white, wheat, and peanut), and was sensitive to fragrance and some foods (dairy, potatoes). So far we have seen significant improvement in the eczema and sensitivities. We have reintroduced dairy and potatoes in small amounts with no reaction…" (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2013)

* “I started HT with hookworms for eczema in June 2013 and have now been totally eczema free for nearly 8 months. I had it mainly on my hands and face, but it could also spread all over in bad flares which were usually caused by contact with perfumes. It used to be so bad on my hands that I couldn't even bare to put them in water - couldn't bathe my own kids! It got particularly bad during the winter months when I would get patches on my face, arms and legs too. I'd had it pretty constantly for about 25 years and went through all the treatments to no avail. I now haven't even had a spot of dry skin for over a year and last winter is the first one I've had eczema free since I was a child! So I would say that HT has been pretty miraculous for me!” (Edited from two posts, including [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/683464168376208/?comment_id=683847065004585&offset=0&total_comments=3 this one].)

* “Both my daughter and I had eczema and although the main condition she took hookworms for, was Crohns, it has cleared up our eczema. I take hookworm and whipworm just as a parental dose to support my daughter but my eczema has completely gone.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/710456489010309/?comment_id=710518852337406&offset=0&total_comments=28]

* “... helminths have done wonders for my eczema. I had horrible eczema for years, all over my body, that really intensified over the last few years. I've had what counts for me as clear skin (it's not clear, but the difference is so staggering that I nearly don't care) since about 14 months with helminths. I'm now at around 19 months. It's incredible.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/744266695629288/?comment_id=744275762295048&offset=0&total_comments=2] And an update 6 years later: "NA has been key in my (severe) eczema management. It's consistently 80-90% better than it used to be." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3691704464218815?comment_id=3696299650425963]

* “TSO has been unbelievably effective for my daughter’s eczema. She is now 23 years old but has tried EVERYTHING in the past with fair results at best.” (Reported in a private communication, Jun 2015)

* “I inoculated (4 years ago) for severe eczema and allergies, which started 17 years ago after taking multiple antibiotics. Over the following 13 years I tried everything from many MDs and NDs and diet changes, Chinese medicine, allergy shots and acupuncture (which did, amazingly, turn off the itching but only temporarily). But, by FAR, the NA inoculation helped immensely. It took 9 months to see significant improvement but it is so much better. I can go outside without my eyes swelling shut and full body rashes. My eczema still worsens with emotional stressors but nothing like before. Life is normal again: no more oral steroids, only tacrolimus ointment rarely. I❤️my worms.” (Edited from three posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1047992125256742/?comment_id=1048505995205355&reply_comment_id=1048919628497325&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1885402941515652/?comment_id=1887103944678885&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2649283981794207/?comment_id=2652153004840638]) And an update: "Now, 7 years later, still hosting NA, I rarely have any eczema patches." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4815098248546092/?comment_id=4830087990380451&notif_id=1647099354534603&notif_t=group_comment_follow]

* “I’ve been waiting to update for my daughter, who is 18 months old. (Ten weeks ago) I inoculated her with 3 NA for severe eczema and allergies… The back of her neck, arms, and legs were riddled with eczema and she didn't sleep well. Last week her skin became smooth, the redness is greatly reduced. She doesn't need to be moisturized at every diaper change, only twice per day. She started sleeping without our 4 am itch fest, which was our nightly ritual for months… the change in her skin is remarkable progress. I had tried so much before Helminth Therapy. It's the only treatment that has brought my girl relief. I look forward to the weeks to come.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1357911737598111/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1357911737598111/?comment_id=1357969577592327&reply_comment_id=1357974130925205&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] “It took 2 doses (both of 3 NA) and 10 months to see 90-95% complete remission in my daughters severe eczema.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1817731238282823/?comment_id=1820226768033270&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "One dose of 25 (NA) 10 months ago and I've had no excema since. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1470102026379081/?comment_id=1472068202849130&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I have just entered week 6 after my first dose of 5NA on 4/16. I am treating eczema, asthma, and allergies. My usually cracked, bleeding, seeping, and life-ruining skin has been WONDERFULLY clear, about 95% clear since May 1st. My eczema was the disease causing me so much misery for so many years and for 6 weeks I have been almost symptom free! I have never cried happy tears as frequently as I do now. I am just so happy to feel so good and to be able to wear short sleeves and shorts in this 90 degree weather. If you are debating trying this treatment, please don't wait any longer.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1674192019303413/] (Linked post includes before-and-after pictures.)

* “Since when at 14 years old I got an antiparasite medication I started suffering from dust mite allergy and eczema. I’m now 27 and I’ve inoculated 3 times with 5 NAs… (and) have zero allergies and eczema.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1737070919682189/]

* “For about 20 years, I have struggled with eczema on my face. I often had ugly red and purple patches of it at various places on my face, and it was also sometimes oozing and painful. For the last three months (and after 14 months of taking HDC), the eczema has been virtually non-existent, and this without any other treatment or attention.” [https://zippy890.wordpress.com/2nd-year-of-worms/]

* “I had chronic dyschotic eczema on hands. I got nothing before the 7-8 months with NA, then it cleared.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1920123484710264/?comment_id=1920273114695301&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “We began giving our son NA a year and a half ago. He was almost two years old at the time and had suffered from severe (and I mean extremely severe) eczema from one month of age. We had tried everything possible including fecal transplants, and NA was probably the last thing I could think of that we hadn't tried. 12 weeks into his first dose of 5 NA, he was able to play naked, without two layers of clothes on for the first time in his life (he couldn't have skin anywhere within itching reach as he wouldn't do anything else other than scratch his skin to the point of bleeding). Since this first dose, we have given him a few others and also included 8 months of TSO treatment. There have been ups and downs with his skin but overall, a year and a half later, he is a completely different kid. Looking at him you would never know he had eczema and I couldn't be more grateful.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1992070807515531/]

* “I started (with NA) around 2 years ago. My food intolerances meant I usually had painful eczema on my hands, mouth and eyes mainly. I still have a little on my face now and again. My hands are no longer that painful, there is still eczema but it has toned down to a level I've not seen since I was early teens. I still plan on doing more and hopefully see more results. I still do have to avoid the stuff I was most intolerant to but my quality of life is so much better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2124394367616507/?comment_id=2125000094222601&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “At 12 weeks after 5 NA, my hand eczema disappeared and hasn’t returned since (almost two years ago).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2193898847332725/?comment_id=2195585200497423&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Right now I take 30 HDC every two weeks and my severe skin problems are almost 100 percent gone. It’s kind of incredible. At best, the extreme chronic eczema is on my hands and feet only, but, in the last 8 years since I went off the steroid creams, I’ve had crazy outbreaks of rashes, hives, swelling skin, itchiness and red skin syndrome (incredibly swollen red skin). It would come and go but was always there in the background. Sometimes, when I was in a flare, it felt debilitating, painful and uncomfortable. I took the HDC and it immediately calmed the severity of things and now, after two months, my skin is better than it’s been in years.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2436766709712603/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2436766709712603/?comment_id=2436905773032030&reply_comment_id=2436927946363146]

* “I have started helminthic therapy and been on it for almost one year and seen great improvement in my skin, I no longer flair everyday from foods and my surroundings and have starting mircodosing my trigger foods. My hands and mouth are no longer dry, cracked and peeling. It’s done wonders for me.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2649283981794207/?comment_id=2649383171784288]

* ☹️ “My main problem with atopic eczema in the last few years was that I developed nummular or discoid eczema which are quite severe concentrated discs like spots that started appearing all over my body and head so can often be termed psoriasis as it moved to the head. I had a very stepped, well thought through and exacting approach after doing a tonne of research and giving the worms lots of time to work between each dose, but the discs and psoriasis still persisted without any reduction. However I never get hay fever anymore during spring so maybe that’s something. I had really hoped this was going to be my holy grail, but after 4 years of trying I finally gave up and looked to other aetiology. I’m on Methotrexate now and that stuff is pretty amazing, cleared it right up. Also fasting works for me.” (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3576993069023289/?comment_id=3584884901567439] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3576993069023289?comment_id=3584884901567439&reply_comment_id=3593172197405376])

* “My teenage son shows no signs of his eczema with NA. Occasionally he drops below a therapeutic dose and needs more.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3576993069023289/?comment_id=3576998415689421]

* “I had chronic eczema for many years. Usually it was on my fingers, hands, wrists, forearms, elbow creases and neck, and sometimes would spread much more than that. Food sensitivities like sugar aggravated it, and I managed it with topical steroids, but I don’t need these any more. I got improvement in about 3 months, then, after a couple years with NA, my skin was clear. My dosing is pretty irregular: 5-12 NA 2 or 3 times a year.” (Condensed from several comments in [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3576993069023289?comment_id=3577189242337005 this thread].)

* “My moderate eczema was chronic since birth, and would have been severe if I was not using cortisone creams. Before NA, I had it on my face, crotch, neck and back. After 15 weeks with NA, rash is now moved to only left elbow flexture, underarms & neck. Much less distressing!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3576993069023289/?comment_id=3592509757471620]

* “Ever since we started taking them (HDC), there has been no eczema for my kids, even during winter or even if they eat dairy.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3576993069023289/?comment_id=3577567365632526]

* “I have eczema, allergies and asthma and it’s lessened the severity of all three, especially my eczema.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3691704464218815?comment_id=3696275863761675]

* "It took my husband a couple of doses before his eczema settled, dosing 5 or so (NA) every 10-12 weeks, but it cleared up really well." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7619435961445626/?comment_id=7643364899052732]

=== Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS) ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS) | '''Helminthic therapy and Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS)''']].

=== Endometriosis ===

* “I started about 4 months ago and have had a huge reduction in sharp, shooting and stabbing pelvic pains after the first 2 months of treatment.” (Link Expired)

* “I had excessive period pain associated with endometriosis and adenomyosis. I now have no period pain at all. I still find it incredible that my period just starts with no warning now. I used to be doubled up in agony. I think it took about 6 months after starting HW for the pain to stop.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1101817313207556/?comment_id=1102058073183480&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

*“Worms helped me a bit with end[ometriosis].” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/913446655377957/?comment_id=913640748691881&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* “I have endometriosis that made me crawl over the floor 2-3 days per month if I didn't want to take pain medication. I was very surprised that stopped entirely 2 months into hosting (NA). I don't like anecdotal info but I can find no other explanation for this than suspecting the helminths regulated the TH17 pathway involved in endometriosis, after nothing helped with that for years.” (Link Expired)

=== Erythromelalgia ===

* "I was suffering from a painful, debilitating autoimmune condition called erythromelalgia, in which my feet would periodically flare a bright red color. (Erythromelalgia involves a loss of small-fiber nerves controlling blood flow.) I also had large-fiber neuropathy, where there was no longer a measurable signal for my sural nerve (a major nerve running from the calf to the foot). Another symptom of the large-fiber neuropathy was losing all strength in the muscles which were supposed to straighten my toes. Not long after I began hosting hookworms, I also started taking low-dose naltrexone. While I think both autoimmune treatments have been helpful, and complementary, the hookworms seem more essential to my well-being. My erythromelagia has improved tremendously since treatment. In addition, I have recovered a measurable signal in the sural nerve, and can straighten my toes normally again. Although I'm not completely free of erythromelagia symptoms, my activities are no longer limited by my feet. And where I was once routinely awakened three times per night by flaring feet, I haven't experienced such a flare for 6 years now. There have also been a number of the "bonuses" that hookworm recipients sometimes speak of. Where I was very susceptible to tendinitis for most of my adult life, this is no longer the case since treatment. Where eating pineapple or strawberries always made my tongue look like a map of the world, those no longer give me any trouble. And my sense of smell, which had diminished significantly, has improved." (Via private communication, July 2015)

=== Eosinophilic esophagitis (EE / EoE) ===

* "My daughter who has EE is off of Prilosec for the first time in six years!!! Only one incident of reflux in the last eleven days and none of the other typical symptoms that we've seen without it -- sleeplessness, crabbiness and emotional volatility because of increased pain. I'm not giving her anything else -- no antacid, betaine HCL, TUMS, or baking soda in water… This is absolutely huge for us… Her eating is much better in general as she is now able to eat a lot more nutritionally dense food… Yesterday she went to sleep before the rest of us. This has practically never happened." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* "… after the initial inoculation with seven hookworms, Cole experienced some side effects—periumbilical pain and mild diarrhea—but his food reactions improved. After five months, however, Carmon says, 'He regressed a little.' She and her husband decided to have Cole inoculated with 20 more worms. That’s what did the trick, Carmon says. Cole stopped having reactions to his remaining foods and Carmon is slowly adding foods back into his diet. According to his doctors, Cole is in clinical remission, and they are 'fascinated' that helminth therapy worked. Helminth therapy has had other benefits, in addition to dramatically improving his health. 'He used to have trouble learning but he is now doing wonderfully in school … He used to be fussy and hard to please but now he’s just so happy all the time.'” [http://www.livingwithout.com/issues/4_21/fishing_for_cure-2955-1.html]

* "… there has been a dramatic improvement with the eosinophilic esophagitis. Prior to inoculation, I was experiencing some level of food impaction that would, on a weekly basis, require a rush trip to the bathroom to find a way to push food down. I could not eat most foods without a glass of water near by at all times to help wash down each bite of food. Since inoculation, I have not experienced a single episode of food impaction! It's no longer necessary for me to remember a glass of water every time I want a snack… It has been 5 weeks since I used the medication (Flovent) with any regularity, and I'm still symptom free. I'm surprised for 2 reasons. First, EoE was not a condition that I really hoped the worms to improve… Second, I am surprised to have seen such a significant improvement so early in therapy…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/504053876317239/]

* "I have been dealing with EE for the past 25 years. Food would get stuck in my esophagus just about every day. I have made several trips to the ER to get it pulled out. I started getting dilations done, but it would just close up again within a 2 months. I've had ~30 dilations. My throat was so tight (worst all my doctors have ever seen) they would have to use pediatric scopes and wires to do the dilations. Normal adult sized instruments where two large. I started therapy with Hookworms 20 months ago. It was not until 6 months after starting that I could really say it was starting to help. The dilations done in the past they were BARELY able to dilate me to 8mm and it would close up again in a few weeks. Today I'm dilated to 13mm and we are dilating every 6 months just to stay on top of it… I am very happy with the results so far. It is not 100%, more like 60%, but that 60% has made a HUGE impact on my quality of life." (Link expired)

* “Both my sons were diagnosed with EE at a young age. They were avoiding long lists of foods. One of my sons got to the point that he wasn't tolerating any food, and was on a special hypoallergenic formula. we were considering a feeding tube. We infected both of them with hook and whip two years ago. They now only are allergic to nuts and shellfish! It is a miracle for our family. Their last endoscopies looked great! Our quality of life has greatly improved!! I also had hookworms during my last pregnancy. I was a little worried but delivered a beautiful, healthy baby girl. She has no food allergies. Our allergist is shocked based on our family history.” (Link expired)

* “I started helminthic therapy almost 2 years ago in a desperate attempt to get my eosinophilic esophagitis and endless list of serious allergies under control. At several points, the number of foods I could tolerate was... zero. Even on "medically fabricated food" I was still pretty sick. One of my most burdensome allergies was oral allergy syndrome - an allergy to any food that has not been cooked. I am celebrating this week, because I've discovered that for the first time in 8 years I can eat raw food with NO reaction! Blueberries, strawberries, spinach, broccoli... Delicious! I was close to giving up on my little worms, since I saw no discernible improvement for a year and a half. I'm glad I stuck with it. I'm the healthiest I've ever been, and I wanted to share my joy and gratitude with all of you.” (Reported in a private message, Sept 2013)

* “Our son is five-years-old. He has EoE, Ige mediated allergies, Gastroparesis, OAS, and all of the symptoms of MCAS. He began treating with Helminths seven months ago. We had a rough start. His first dose of 5 HW made him incredibly sick. Thereafter, he had two small doses of HDC a few months apart. The HDC helped him slightly, but their purpose was to acclimate his body for a second dose of HW. He received his second dose of 5 HW around two months ago. Those little guys took him to task. He was extremely ill: vomiting, weight loss, refusal to eat, dangerously high fevers with sudden onset that wouldn't go down, I rushed him into his doctor's office, sometimes several days in a row. His Helminthic doctor suggested terminating the worms, but we hunkered down and stuck through it. Now, he is doing absolutely amazing. He feels better than he has ever felt in his life. The aches and pains that he had learned to live with, in his throat, stomach, chest, and legs have vanished. He is not throwing up. He still struggles a bit when he eats, but he is eating like a champion. He's eating faster and he's eating more. Most importantly, the pain that he used to feel while eating is gone. His rashes are gone. He achieved a new weight record (35 pounds! Yay!)… He has been holding strong, symptom free, for an unprecedented stretch of time now… In hindsight, I am grateful that the mainstream treatment options didn't work for him. He is now pharmaceutical free and feeling good, and that is a wonderful thing.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1040729659316322/]

* “Re daughter, 11 yrs old, with EOE. Failed pork on elimination diet trial. Doctor ordered elimination of pork, and either adding Prilosec back in, or up Flovent from 2 puffs twice daily to 4 puffs twice daily. We opted for the later: eliminate pork and 4 puffs twice daily on Flovent. PLUS we added 3 NA. During the three months we cheated on chicken, turkey and pork over a dozen times. She was not consistent with her Flovent. Probably did not do it 1/3 of the time. Scoped yesterday (for latest biopsy) thinking the worst. Doctor comes in with the biggest smile on his face. Showed me pictures of the beautiful pink veins and smooth skin. He was so shocked at how good the pictures where. He actually talked about a 6 month trial without Flovent. HA HA… Am getting excited about the next dose (of NA) to arrive!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2507957052593568/]

* "The TSO worked for the eosinophilic esophagitis for me. I used TSO 2500 eggs every two and a half weeks for 5 months and stopped for about a month and I could feel it coming back so I bought five months more and that seemed to do the trick. It seems to be ok now. I have not taken any for a couple of months now." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5560751367314106/?comment_id=5564462373609672&reply_comment_id=7150044245051469]

=== Fatigue ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis / Chronic fatigue syndrome) | '''ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis / Chronic fatigue syndrome)''']].

* "... I have had the most amazing increase in energy. I woke up one morning feeling off-the-charts great, and it has more or less stayed that way... I have *never* felt this good, even when I was a kid. (Link expired)

* "I found that I no longer needed to go back to bed for a couple of hours in the middle of the day in order to prevent myself from sinking into extreme exhaustion, and a brief rest in a chair was now all that was required to recharge my battery." [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Wriggling_out_of_total_food_intolerance,_M.E._and_Crohns_disease]

* "... she has more energy..." (Link expired)

* "I realized - after a few comments from friends - that I had stopped craving ADD drugs like Vyvanse and Adderall for their sheer energizing effect, stopped drinking – ready for this? – a pot and a half of coffee a day. I had more energy than I have had in something like 15 years. The afternoon fatigue wasn’t there as strongly – still there but reduced in its ability to floor me. I didn’t wake up tired and ready to go back to bed… All in all, I'm a happy girl so far. To have some energy back - not complete but so, so much better - is beyond joyful." (Reported by an MS patient, 4 months after inoculation with hookworms, in a private discussion, Dec 2011.)

* "I did not remember what healthy felt like until I found helminths (NA). I was very ill when I began using helminths... My energy and general health is better than most people, I think. I exercise regularly, and push myself hard at times with work, without issues. It's been amazing to be healthy again..." (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012.)

* "I suffer , or should I say, used to suffer from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and multiple chemical sensitivities. I have hookworms, follow the SCD diet, ....and seem to be doing much better." (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012.)

* “He says (that, since inoculating with hookworms) he feels as though he has more energy than he can remember in a long, long time. He's started running and exercising at the gym regularly.” [http://turnotheworm.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/update-part-iv-from-worlds-worst.html]

* “OMG... yes hookworms have literally given me my life back, I did 10 mile walk on 1 Jan. Just a few weeks ago I couldn't get off the sofa and do anything.” (Link expired)

* “From week 10 (after inoculating with 25 NA) my fatigue slowly started to dissipate. This week, I have worked a 45 hour week framing houses in the hot sun (3 months ago I was fatiguing after 3 hours of work). Also, whatever brain fog I had has also resolved.” (Link expired)

=== Fibromyalgia ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and fibromyalgia | '''Helminthic therapy and fibromyalgia''']].

=== Food allergy ===

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Hookworms help a one-year-old overcome severe eczema and food allergies | '''Hookworms help a one-year-old overcome severe eczema and food allergies''']]

:* [[Hookworms transform a food intolerant and food allergic patient into a foodie | '''Hookworms transform a food intolerant and food allergic patient into a foodie''']]

:* [[Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS | '''Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS''']]

* “I eat "forbidden" food and it is like a miracle, all my food allergies and even my histamine intolerance are gone, I can eat everything again, not a single reaction. As if I had never had food allergies before. I am euphoric.” (Link expired)

* "The difference in our son is nothing short of miraculous. He can eat foods he could not eat before without reaction.” (Link expired)

* "... my allergies to the following foods have disappeared: avocado, cherries, plums, peaches, almonds... and am now in remission from severe Crohn's disease." (Link expired)

* "… for the first time in years, he was able to eat bread without feeling ill." [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/244238.php]

* "I am/was allergic to egg. I had egg 3 times this week and it did not effect me! … Even had some spelt bread and that did not effect me either… I am cautiously happy!" (Reported at 16 weeks after first hookworm inoculation.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/410587118997249/]

* “Since I was but a tot, I've been allergic to peas. Well, last night I had a (delicious) pot pie that had peas. I decide to be daring and ate a couple to see what would happen - ta-da! NOTHING! Thank you little hookworm friends for making my life better day-by-day!” (Reported in a private message, Jan 2013)

* “Now it is 2½ months since first application of hookworms -- my food allergies to common meats, fish, vegetables and grains have, over the last 2-3 weeks, begun disappearing after 15 years of extreme diet restrictions.” (Link expired)

* "Our 2½ year old started with 5 HW in May 2013. He had eczema, mild food allergies (egg white, wheat, and peanut), and was sensitive to fragrance and some foods (dairy, potatoes). So far we have seen significant improvement in the eczema and sensitivities. We have reintroduced dairy and potatoes in small amounts with no reaction…" (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2013)

* The following two reports, six months apart, are by the same person.
** “And when I tried a banana 5½ weeks into inoculation, I was amazed to see that I was able to eat the whole thing. That is pretty unprecedented. Previously, I could only have one bite before the itchy and swelling started. And when I tried a cherry tomato later that day, no reaction again. So I ate a dozen more. And still no reaction! One cherry tomato a couple of weeks ago would have set the swelling off. A carrot later that night also went down well. Ate the whole thing with no reaction. Pretty damn amazing.” (Reported in a since deleted blog.)
** ”Today (seven months after inoculation with hookworm) I can eat lots of foods I avoided for years: bananas, oranges, carrots, lettuce/salad, berries, grapes. I can now eat about ½ an apple without my lips swelling -- much better from only tolerating one bite 7 months ago. I have also had an incredibly mild pollen reaction so far this spring. Hookworms and allergy shots have changed my diet completely. I eat healthier than ever before and I feel so much better about my diet. Can't wait to see where I'll be in a year or more.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/654110831311542/]

* “I would like to announce that 6 months after my initial inoculation, I am free of soy allergy. My negative skin and blood tests were a few weeks ago, and I passed the food (soy milk) challenge today.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/719285221460769/] And, a year later, an update: “My soy allergy is in complete remission with hookworms, no inconsistency.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/888400361215920/?comment_id=888414131214543&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “Five months for me and my food allergies are gone.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/719285221460769/?comment_id=720283761360915&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* "On Saturday it will be my 50th birthday and it will be one of my best ever. Having reached the point where thanks to hosting HW for just over a year I can eat almost everything (I was down to only 26 different foods in total before I started and that included counting things like Chicken and Turkey separately). I will need to be on a diet after the weekend - we are having a cream tea for Saturday lunch, going out for a meal Saturday night, and for coffee and cake on Sunday. My presents include a bread maker, a sandwich press, a soup maker, a cheese making kit and several cookery books that don't have allergy in the titles anywhere.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/880523022003654/]

* “I’ve had hookworms for 5½ years. I've never achieved full remission of my food allergies, but my list has gone from 30 things I could eat to ~20 things I can't eat (and zero instances of anaphylaxis in 5 years, go team!). I started reintroducing foods around 3 months but still had negative reactions. After a year things were a lot better, 18 months things were relatively great with most of my problem foods.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/898919560164000/?comment_id=898951820160774&offset=0&total_comments=6&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “When I started NA a little over a year ago for food allergies and eczema, I could only eat rice and sweet potatoes. Now I can eat all kinds of fruits and veggies without having a problem. My food allergies mostly resulted in lots of itchy, bloody eczema, and inflamed eyes - none of that since taking NA. Overall I've seen a major improvement in my health and I've put on 20 lbs of badly needed weight.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1165603583495595/?comment_id=1165941253461828&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R2%22%7D], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1165603583495595/?comment_id=1166030453452908&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “I had severe food and seasonal allergies primarily consisting of hives and facial edema. I tried everything else over 10 years before finally using helminth therapy. I did NA starting in November 2014. It took almost 9 months to see results. I have maintained my colony since then with home incubation. When my colony gets low, my symptoms start to come back. I love my ‘friends.’” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2210645655658044/?comment_id=2211960085526601&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “It has been 12 months now since my 18 year old daughter has been hosting NA for treatment of: coeliac disease, leaky gut, chronic fatigue, multiple food allergies, facial swelling and eczema and ? Mast cell disorder. She has dosed 3 NA every 3 months for the last 12 months (trialled one dose of 5- but she does better with 3). I am so happy to report that she is doing so much better. She no longer has facial swelling, no nightly reactions (? Mast cell). Her eczema is under control. She can now tolerate more foods - some sugars, all nightshades, all vegetables and meats, soy, all nut flours, GF pasta, and rice (life changing). She still has some sensitivities - but it is a massive improvement overall. Her energy levels are great. If people met (her) they would have no idea that she was so unwell this time last year, that she missed an entire term of school.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2560570817332191/]

* “I had doses of NA in July and October last year, and one in May this year, trying to resolve my many food allergies (avocado, banana, grass, coffee, tea, pork and many more). At only two months after the last dose, I am amazed at how delicious green tea is! I can have avocados and bananas without any issues. I still avoid bananas as my mind has a hard time catching up with the fact that it is now ok to eat it. (I always had a very strong reaction to it). I love this new state of health and did not actually expect results so soon.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3021008524621749/]

* ☹️ “Today is 2 years on NA but cannot say I have had a true benefit. My immune system reacts to everything (stress, food, environment) and I continue to be hyper reactive to foods (both IgE and IgG reactions).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3078214698901131/]

* “It's been 4 weeks since my third inoculation with 5 NAs, and I don't have real side effects to report this time! After month 9, things have taken a noticeable turn for the better. It has been a steady albeit slow improvement. I started this because of my food allergies. I still don't tolerate gluten really but the other positive effects are so profound. I haven't had IBS symptoms or diarrhea in weeks if not months (with one exception when I had a big portion of gluten). I haven't felt what must have been inflammation in weeks. Nobody tells you what it is you're feeling but once it's gone you can infer what it must have been. Since the discomfort and inflammation went I actually have an appetite. I enjoy food. I don't react to a diet of very diverse foods. I eat what I want with the exception of gluten and large amounts of milk. I mix foods and drinks. There is no gut reaction, no urge to go, no discomfort, no embarrassing gut reactions that make you want to leave the room. I digest the foods. I have gained healthy weight. I feel the healthiest and best since I can remember. At the time I started this treatment I felt chronically ill. I had many symptoms (some of which I wasn't even aware of) and many diagnoses, all of which made sense, but there was no way forward. While I had all of these problems my life still continued and I wasn't considered sick. I was just struggling with symptoms and my life quality was often miserable. I've tried many things and I spent quite a bit of money on tests, doctors and supplements. None of the interventions I tried were as profound as helminths. There was a lot of questioning on my part as the first months were quite a struggle for me, but I’m glad I hung in. I'm very confident that I haven't seen all the benefits yet, but even if things stayed the way they are now, I've had the best improvement in life quality that I can imagine.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2726061500783121/?comment_id=3481326748589922]

=== Food intolerance ===
Also see [[#Histamine intolerance|'''Histamine intolerance''']], [[#Lactose_intolerance|'''Lactose intolerance''']], [[#Salicylate_intolerance|'''Salicylate intolerance''']].

The first four reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[A life saved at the eleventh hour by worms | '''A life saved at the eleventh hour by worms''']]
:* [[Hookworms transform a food intolerant and food allergic patient into a foodie | '''Hookworms transform a food intolerant and food allergic patient into a foodie''']]
:* [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']]
:* [[Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS | '''Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS''']].

* "I was on a very restricted diet and still felt bad whenever I ate... But now I can eat almost anything without negative side effects... My life has improved dramatically. (Link expired)

* "Having recently added 10 hookworms to my whipworms... I can now tolerate lots of foods that i had previously cut out, such as brown bread, nuts, wheat, citrus fruit, the list goes on." (Link expired)

* "The general malaise and slightly icky feeling (especially after eating, even "safe" foods) is gone... I have *never* felt this good, even when I was a kid." (Link expired)

* "Arthritic stiffness in the morning associated with food intolerances gone. Daily Nalcrom necessity... decreased to zero..." (Link expired)

* “After a life time of being extremely careful with my diet ... I can eat raw foods, salads, fruit of any kind, which I could never eat before.” (Link expired)

* "70 weeks - finally stopped counting the number of foods I can tolerate because I can now eat pretty much anything I like." [http://www.foodsmatter.com/allergy_intolerance/food_intolerance/articles/worms_for_food_intolerance.html] 

* "I’m now able to tolerate all foods that I’ve been willing to try. Some still precipitate a reaction, but a much-diminished one..." (Reported, 7 Feb 2011, in a now deleted blog) And, eight months later, after an additional dose of hookworm larvae, this blogger wrote:
** “Today I ate a breakfast burrito with eggs, hash browns, cheese and salsa inside a real wheat tortilla. And I had 2 cups of coffee! :)”

* "Since using helminths I have no more food sensitivities and can eat raw foods and complex carbs without issues." (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012.)

* "Should anyone ever wonder if hookworm can help with salicylate sensitivity, in my case I think it’s doing exactly that... Last night I tried eating a boiled carrot, since they are high in salicylates, and barely reacted. This morning I’m sipping a cup of organic coffee (also pretty high on the scale) and enjoying it. None of this would have been possible a month ago!" [http://gettinghealthiernow.wordpress.com/2012/01/02/hookworm-only-starting-over/]

* “just to explain how dramatic my relief from food intolerance is, back in mid-february i tried to eat lamb and had such a bad reaction my throat was tightening up for the entire rest of the night, my mind felt muddled, anxious. my breathing was affected, mostly nasal congestion. but it was miserable. and tonight i ate two pieces of lamb with no reaction at all. in fact, it tasted delicious. i am beginning to feel like a normal person again.” (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* "I suffer from a massive food intolerance with IBD symptoms. I was not able to gain weight for years independent how much I did eat. Now for the first time since years I was able to gain some weight and overall feel better (and) I am able to do some sports again. Honestly I thought I am a non-responder for a long time – I just kept on waiting and trying to be patient. It was worth waiting for – I am getting better – slowly but the success is becoming more and more visible. The decision to go on HT was surely the best of my life – as there was really nothing else that ever seemed to help me." (Reported in a private message, Jun 2012)

* "I have had food intolerances/allergies for years due to crohn's and general poor gut/digestive function. I've always reacted to many foods and seriously to all grains, in any form, as well as anything with lactose or sugar. My gut has been greatly improved by helminthic therapy and my diet has expended, so I thought it was time to check for food sensitivities... I tested for sensitivity (the blood test measured IgG antibody, food antigens) to grains, legumes, nuts, meat, fowl, dairy, fruits, vegetables, fish, Mollusk, Crustacea, Miscellaneous items such as honey, chocolate, coffee, and yeasts. Out of the 100 items tested I showed a single "moderate level 3 reaction" on a scale from I to 6." (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group, Jul 2012)

* "... my worms have significantly reduced my food sensitivities. I can now eat dairy after 15 years of not tolerating it. It took a while, but I am so much more resilient now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/512053015517325/?comment_id=512072335515393&offset=0&total_comments=15]

* "It's been over a year with HW… I feel the HW has helped me but not for the problems that were of greatest concern. My environmental sensitivities seem to have greatly improved. I can now handle scented products much much better than in the past. The HW also had a fairly dramatic effect on my anxiety levels. However, my food intolerances and related pain/inflammation in my muscles and joints are as bad as ever. I did add one food during the year (liver) and it went down ok for about a month, then I stopped tolerating it. I also dropped one food (Basa) and can only eat BC Red Snapper as a protein source now. Overall I'm glad I inoculated as it has provided benefit, just not the degree of benefit I was hoping for." (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2013)

* ☹️ “I have food intolerances and multiple chemical sensitivity and I didn't benefit from helminthic therapy… My lack of success with helminths might be due to liver issues as a root cause for my diseases (mutations in several of the genes CYP450 and some fluctuating liver numbers).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/599758136746812/?comment_id=599824556740170&offset=0&total_comments=33]

* “I took 25 hookworm and it changed my life by completely alleviating all digestive issues after 7 years of FODMAP issues and general severe IBS. Now, ~3 months after my initial relief, I am still 100% in remission and I still have no digestive issues.” (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support group.)

* “A family member had been on TSO for 22 weeks at dose of 1000 ova. Helped greatly w food reactions (along w SCD diet and other interventions). However still reacted - in a more minor fashion. We have recently raised dose of TSO up to 2500. 2 doses so far at that dose and now no traces of food reactions. Ate 2 trigger foods today - still no reaction. Truly amazing. This person had 0 safe foods in December. This is awesome!” (Reported to a closed group, Jul 2014)

* ☹️ "… I’m on HDC and they do not seem to help with food reactions sadly, i was ready to run for a 1kg bar of chocolate in the name of science!" (Reported to a closed group, Jul 2014)

* The following three reports are by the same person.
** “I'm in the early stages - just had my second dose - so three months in. I started trying to reintroduce foods at 10 weeks and have had great success. Some I will have to come back to later when I have a larger colony, but I have increased from being able to eat only 26 food stuffs to 35 so far in just a couple of weeks. You can imagine how excited I am.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/736007013121923/?comment_id=736078299781461&offset=0&total_comments=5]
** “Three weeks post my second hookworm dose and I can honestly say I have not felt so well in years. Not only have my food intolerances significantly declined, but I feel happier, healthier and the future is very exciting. This therapy is amazing.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/740770115978946/]
** "I had to share my excitement - last night we went to a business dinner for my husband's work and for the first time in many years I could provide a simple list of what I could not eat, rather than a very short list of what I could. I had a relatively normal 3 course meal and no one asked me why I was eating so little. I didn't feel different or embarrassed. I was able to drink wine, eat almost normally and enjoy myself rather than feeling stressed. All of this is thanks to HW.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/829393617116595/]

* “At six and half months in (25-25-40 HW) I am just short of claiming success for multiple food intolerances, likely leaky gut and a host of other related symptoms. I couldn't eat gluten or dairy without debilitating symptoms and had been GF DF for 7 plus years. For the past three weeks I have eaten anything I wanted for one meal a day without the terrible symptoms I have experienced all my life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/749286021794022/] And “I can tolerate beer better with HW.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/848418981880725/?comment_id=848501681872455&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]

* “The hookworms have cut my food sensitivities by at least 50% in 3.5 months.” (Link expired)

* “I inoculated with 30 HW in November, and since mid-March I've had great success with FODMAP foods. I've been able to have things like bread, garlic and avocados that I so dearly missed! I'm still not to my desired number of helminths yet, but even with only ~43 I don't feel any pain after eating FODMAP foods.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/876801635709126/?comment_id=877151842340772&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “I had Blastocystis approx 5 years before it was discovered. I was down to eating meat, rice sugar and pistachio nuts. I received the 'triple treatment’ through Dr Froomes in Melbourne, and I made good recovery until several months later I took antibiotics and my nightmare began. I started reacting to a lot of foods… I started with hook worms 17 weeks ago. My Intestinal condition gradually deteriorated over the next three months… and I had to give up certain varieties of rice. I lost over 15 kgs and … suffered from endless nausea and dizzy spells because my blood pressure was so low. Three weeks ago I got another batch of hookworms… And now at 18 weeks I can eat lots of food I haven't been able to eat in years.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/915392701850019/]

* “I have had numerous food intolerances as well as sensitivities to most chemicals for 45 years. I was malnourished too. It will be 2 years (next month) with hookworms. Improvements include reduced sensitivities to many foods and chemicals, loss of addiction to sugars and chocolates. Increased energy and reduced anxiety. It hasn't totally removed food and chemical sensitivities but tolerance has improved…” (Link expired)

* “Near-total FODMAP intolerance (from age 17 to 22), and general weak digestion. Alcohol sucks, Coffee sucks, etc. Totally fucked up my life when it hit me like a train. I dropped out of school and was depressed for a seven month period, at the beginning and end of which I was suicidal. Daily diarrhea for years… Symptom relief can be largely achieved by adherence to a low-FODMAP diet. I self-infected 25 hookworm (and) began to experience symptom relief (after) about 2.75-3.0 months… I have lately not been following a FODMAP diet, nor have I been taking probiotics at all, and my issues are extremely minor.” [http://pastebin.com/raw/1fHvWHTc]

* “My daughter can eat more and more foods the longer she hosts (hookworms). Her gut is less and less leaky. She could tolerate no dairy before hosting, absolutely nothing. Now she can eat ice cream without it bothering her.” (Link expired)

* “I inoculated with 25 NA hookworms around October of 2015. And since beginning of May, I have been able to add apples into my diet - something I couldn't tolerate at all. I have been mostly on a low FODMAP diet for over a year - and a Paleo diet before that. I couldn't eat apples for about 2 years and being able to eat them again is a remarkable achievement.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1014465525276069/]

* “Food intolerance and irritable bowel for 16 years. It had been gradually getting worse as time went by to the point where it was impossible to lead a normal life. It was almost impossible to eat out or go to friends houses to eat. When we went on holiday we would have to get an apartment with a kitchen so I could cook my own food, and I took my own food anytime we went out. I was following a low chemical, low fodmap diet, very restricted with what I ate. All the doctors I have seen over the years had no answers for me and just said to stay on my diet. It has taken time but I am able to eat much more now and can eat out now without having to question them about everything they use to cook the meal. We have also just traveled to Germany, something that would have been nearly impossible a year ago… Just being able to relax my diet is wonderful, my doctor has also been converted, he was horrified when I first told him.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1163802033675750/?comment_id=1166108690111751&reply_comment_id=1166182883437665&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* ☹️ “I tried it to deal with food intolerances (not allergies, no anaphylaxis) that result from enzyme imbalances. Hookworm didn't help.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1165603583495595/?comment_id=1166945713361382&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* "I had to do Low FODMAP AIP for a long time. It sucked, but I really needed to do it. I (was) able to tolerate FODMAPs since a couple months after my first NA dose. After a year and a half of HT, I can eat almost anything except for most of the nightshades. Most people would consider avoiding nightshades to be a huge ask, but if it gets down to ONLY that, we're talking a massive improvement!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1410382192351065/?comment_id=1410580672331217&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1434733359915948/?comment_id=1434827316573219&reply_comment_id=1434828976573053&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R8%22%7D]

* “I’ve been taking 20 hdc regularly every two weeks for nearly a year and I'm introducing foods I couldn't tolerate before, where I'd become constipated and break out in spots on my face and body. I've been taking the odd scary food once in a while, with little to no adverse reaction. Then more recently over Christmas I only had a mild reaction to herbs (in stuffing). Only last Wednesday I had a curry with practically no reaction... I'm getting braver, but cautious.” (Link expired)

* ☹️ “I've had hookworms for a couple of years and have to say, it didn't help my food intolerances. However, my hay fever was amazingly cured. I don't regret trying them at all and happy to know that overall inflammatory processes in my body are more controlled.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1674215795967702/?comment_id=1674297455959536&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “After years of food sensitivities, I was down to six foods I could eat (totally plain meat, sweet potato, kiwifruit, banana, parsnip and carrot). I definitely had to avoid all grains, dairy, eggs and the nighshade family of vegetables. But then I inoculated with NA about 18 mths ago and yesterday... get this... I ate a wheat bun with ham, egg, salad and mayonnaise, with milk chocolate to follow.. and no problems. I love my little pretties!” (Link expired)

* “It (TSO) really has helped me a lot with my food intolerances… I never used to be able to even touch beer or wine and I feel so much better I can actually tolerate it now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1739204826135465/?comment_id=1741899972532617&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I inoculated with 7 NA (11 weeks ago), also using TSO. I recently noticed some improvements in food tolerance - was able to eat high Fodmap foods such as soy milk, onions, garlic, beans. Also have been eating peanut butter, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, didn't notice too much brain fog or abdominal pain.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1835826143139999/?comment_id=1836365989752681&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I finished a course of TSO (4 months ago)… I had to be very careful with diet and couldn't eat much fiber (fruit, vegetables) or gluten and eggs. It worked like a charm and since then (6 months) I've been able to eat donuts, cake, beer, etc. with zero issues… I am frankly just so overjoyed to be able to have raw fruits and vegetables, baked goods, beer again... anything else is just gravy. So grateful for HT as I never thought I'd be able to indulge in a craft beer again.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2086465811409363/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2086465811409363/?comment_id=2086570641398880&reply_comment_id=2086582948064316&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ☹️ I've decided to concede defeat on using hookworms for Total Food Intolerance caused by blastocystis. It has helped my hayfever sinus issues, but I’m still pretty much at the same place I was over three years ago (with the food intolerance). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2166466753409268/]

* “I had food sensitivities to literally everything, even chicken, and helminths (NA) resolved them.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2281730391882903/?comment_id=2281810778541531&reply_comment_id=2282377211818221&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I have Hashimoto’s, extreme food sensitivities/intolerance including reactions to oxalate and histamine, migraines, depression and anxiety, and other autoimmune symptoms that have almost completely been eliminated by NA. It’s been the closest thing to a miracle that I’ve ever experienced. I had found that I could sort of function on the AIP diet, but even then many of the foods caused reactions. I had tried every drug, herb, therapy and nothing really helped until I did NA... NA has been a godsend. It took a while but I slowly added almost all foods back into my diet including gluten, eggs, nuts, nightshades, dairy and grains. It took almost a year to get to this point.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3028113193911282/?comment_id=3029321047123830] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3368291999893398?comment_id=3381862891869642] 

* “Whenever I ate dark chocolate, the end and underside of my nose would go red, then within a day or two break out in blisters and pimples. I tested this many times as I couldn't find any other complaints like this online. Five weeks into my NA adventure and, like a fool, I ate a big chunk of dark chocolate. Nothing... no redness, no blisters!” (Link expired)

* “For me NA make a huge difference. I was severely sensitive to wheat, I couldn’t even have one bun. Almost a year in therapy, I can eat Pasta or even a whole Pizza without issues.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3368291999893398/?comment_id=3368811803174751]

* “My food intolerances have improved hugely with NA. I’ve had around 14 small doses over a two year period. Long term intolerance to fructose, legumes, onions and other formats cleared up. I no longer get IBS symptoms from those foods.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3911540578901868/?comment_id=3915078901881369] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3911540578901868/?comment_id=3915078901881369&reply_comment_id=3915176508538275]

* ”I have taken TSO for several months and it definitely helps with fatigue, mood and food intolerances that cause digestion issues.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4116373835085207?comment_id=4122579557797968]

* "Helminthic therapy (with NA) reduced my 30+ food sensitivities to just gluten, and helped with energy, reducing symptom duration, and lowered systemic inflammation as measured by CRP. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5191721274217119?comment_id=5198841280171785]

* "It just flipped (after 3 doses of NA). Last week I couldn't have even a tablespoon of sour cream without feeling like crap, and yesterday I ate a whole bag of Reese's pieces and I feel fine!!!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5285737388148840/]

* (From someone treating intolerance to gluten and lactose, sometimes debilitating IBS-D, candida and mild vitiligo.) "It's been three years now. I've been to Italy and have been eating gluten and all sorts of other things. No adverse reactions. I'm feeling absolutely great. I've been (very) gradually working my way up and now ordered 10 NA. I'm absolutely thrilled still. My digestion has changed completely, I couldn't be happier where I am now." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/2726061500783121?comment_id=5672582842797624] 

* "I have had great results with 5 NA every 10-12 weeks over the last 4 years for food intolerance." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6842749495780947] 

=== GERD (reflux) ===

* "I was suffering from reflux… I was pleasantly surprised that it went away when I started hookworms to treat my allergies." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* "… my daughter who has eosinophilic esophagitis is off of Prilosec for the first time in six years!!! Only one incident of reflux in the last eleven days and none of the other typical symptoms that we've seen without it -- sleeplessness, crabbiness and emotional volatility because of increased pain. I'm not giving her anything else -- no antacid, betaine HCl, TUMS, or baking soda in water because it's so impossible to get her to comply. This is absolutely huge for us." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* “I have Lupus and GERD as a result of the high doses of steroids to control symptoms. I reduced the steroids over the past two years and the GERD persisted. I started hosting 25 HW in April and increased the dose at 3 monthly increments. There has been a marked improvement from October.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/915728268483129/?comment_id=916300455092577&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “Used to have problems with GERD which seems to be mostly a fructan issue for me. Before HW, I avoided GERD symptoms by cutting back/eliminating fructans in my diet. After a few months of HW (5-15 over the last 6 months), I now tolerate fructans better and only get reflux problems if I overdo it.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/915728268483129/?comment_id=1108329112556376&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “Since starting NA, my acid reflux has all but disappeared. If I ate very much of anything near bedtime, I would always wake up struggling to stop it coming back up, and I would prop myself up on pillows for gravitational help. Now it is simply never a problem, and I have no fear of absolutely stuffing myself right before bed.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930067010382588/?comment_id=1705000399555908&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "Has anyone else noticed that the 'reflux' GORD symptoms they have had for years disappear with Helminths too? It seems to be a common theme amongst many people I have donated NA to. A very welcome benefit. Many people have been taking all kinds of treatments to control pain/discomfort around the solar plexus area for years following a 'diagnosis' of reflux but it seems it may just be inflammation in that nerve rich area?" (Link expired)

* "I've been hosting NA for a smidge over a year now, and I've definitely had less trouble with GERD. I used to have pain if I consumed any of a number of acidic or spicy foods, several kinds of carbohydrate-based foods, or alcohol. Now I can mostly eat those things again, as long as I am careful not to put too much in my stomach at one time… When my shipment was delayed and the worms arrived weeks late and dead, I started to have the pain again until I got replacement larvae." (Link expired)

* "NA have helped me with reflux ..." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5854731341249439/?comment_id=5854778717911368]

=== Gluten ataxia ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Coeliac / celiac disease|'''Coeliac / celiac disease''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Non-coeliac / celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)|'''Non-coeliac / celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)''']].

* “The biggest indicator for me is I’ve only had to miss a few days of work. And prior I was considering disability. Improved quality of life. My inflammation is decreased. I’m no longer reacting to being CC’d with gluten. Decreased stomach pain. Increased absorption of food. I’m off most supplements. Depression is 90% decreased. Anxiety is 25% decreased. migraines down a little. Menstrual/ hormonal issues are resolving. And bladder issues seem to have resolved. It’s a multi systematic response, that I had no idea was all connected to inflammation. Still coping with RA. But it’s a process.” (Reported 4 months after commencing helminthic therapy to treat gluten ataxia, gluten allergy, RA, immune disease, systemic inflammation, migraines, anxiety, depression, allergies, chronic UTIs, early onset peri menopause, dental issues, weak muscles and generally failing health.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2255349147854361/?comment_id=2431323726923568&reply_comment_id=2431845346871406] “One day I will reintroduce gluten slowly. But I’m no longer so focused on that. It’s simply beautiful not being sick 90% of the time.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2513872352002038/?comment_id=2516893385033268&reply_comment_id=2516896031699670]

=== Hashimoto's thyroiditis / Graves' disease ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and thyroid disease | '''Helminthic therapy and thyroid disease''']]

* "I began my helminthic therapy a couple of months ago. Other than waking up two days after starting with a single episode of loose stool, I've been feeling better and stronger every day, bit by bit. Which is great, considering I have a collection of autoimmune challenges: Multiple Sclerosis, Graves' Disease (autoimmune overactive thyroid), and Lichen Sclerosus… My thyroid levels seem to have normalized: T3, T4 and TSH levels are in normal range - HALLELUJAH! It's been a long time since I've had that! I hope I won't ever have to use propylthiouracil again!" (Link expired)

* “I've had very impressive early improvement of my Graves disease from HDC (in a month).” (Link expired)

* “I have Hashimotos & Graves diseases - both autoimmune issues that affect thyroid hormones - the NA dialed my symptoms down (bloating fatigue, joint pain and swelling, itchy skin and eye swelling, racing heart) steadily without any harsh side effects - much more effective than any of the medications I have tried.” (Reported in a private discussion, Mar 2015)

* “I took one batch of 25 NA last year because I was experiencing pain and swelling every day from Graves and Hashimoto's diseases. I had a dramatic reduction in swelling and pain … also lost about 15lbs of water weight. A few months later, I got pregnant, and did not have a miscarriage (I had 3 earlier that might have had something to do with the thyroid diseases). My TSH, T3 & T4 levels stabilized right before the pregnancy, they followed the "textbook" levels through the pregnancy and stabilized right after as well. My antibody levels for both diseases dropped. My Endo tells me that she had expected my Graves disease to flare up as it had before the NA, as I had the beginnings of a goiter and pregnancy can do that. As she said - "you can't say for sure that your experiment is the cause of all the improvements, but the improvements are real - and they are unexpected.” I will certainly be continuing with this therapy!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912545925468030/], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912545925468030/?comment_id=912587202130569&offset=0&total_comments=11&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

* "I started NA (six months ago) for Hashimotos Thyroiditis and have had good results, with most symptoms subsiding." (Link expired)

* “I started taking HDC from Biome Restoration in December (8 months ago). I have Hashimotos (amongst other things...) and have always had TPO antibody levels over 1,000… Anyway, I was retested last week and my antibodies are down to 215! I'm gobsmacked! … I’m so pleased!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1404162359639715/]

* “For the first time since I started measuring, my anti-thyroid antibodies (I have Hashimoto's) are NORMAL. This is thanks to helminthic therapy. I have been trying to regain my health for five years (and was sick probably all my life). My thyroid antibodies decreased with the diet, but remained high, no matter what I did. They started slowly decreasing two years ago, when I started HT, first with TSO and then about a year ago with NA. Every time I measured, they were lower. Today for the first time, they are normal. And I feel...normal. I do not feel as if something was wrong with me anymore. I don't take any other meds.” (Link expired.)

* “I had early stage hashimoto’s in 2005. Did daily acupuncture treatments for a month and stayed in remission since, but with labs far from ideal. Started NA in 2015. Thyroid labs have been perfect since early 2017. (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3779136178808976?comment_id=3779238942132033] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3779136178808976/?comment_id=3779238942132033&reply_comment_id=3779316055457655].)

* “I started with diet changes 10 years ago, which helped quite a bit, and started helminths about 3 years ago. The helminths had a huge impact and I had so much more energy and was able to expand my diet. I have been dosing with approx 25 NA per year with good results. So good that all my blood's were normal and my Dr told me I must be in remission (Hashimotos Thyroiditis) so I missed a dose. 6 months later I crashed - worst symptoms in years… I will make sure I do 25 per year after that (lesson learned).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2514252805297326/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2514252805297326/?comment_id=2515140375208569&reply_comment_id=2516206431768630]

* “I started NA treatment for Hashimotos and went into complete remission. On my blood test no antibodies were detected. I also knew the treatment was working, as many of my symptoms including lethargy, body aches, and most notably painful thyroiditis had all disappeared. I can't remember exactly how long this took, but it was months not years. Through absolute carelessness, recently I accidentally killed my valued colony. I'm eagerly waiting by the mailbox for my next dose as all my afore mentioned symptoms have returned. It's been really interesting to note my subsequent decline and to reflect on how terrible I felt most of the time prior to treatment. This treatment has been life changing as evidenced by my improved quality of life and the blood tests. I can't imagine being without it now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2526407367415203/?comment_id=2526483304074276]

=== Headaches ===

Also see [[#Migraine|'''Migraine''']].

The first report is more detaild than the reports that follow.

:* [[Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho |'''Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho''']]

* "To be enjoying not only whole days without any headache, but also entire weeks, is just incredible." [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/headache_migraine.html]

* “… my daily regimen of panadol and neurofen for headaches has been cut back (actually cannot remember the last time I took neurofen (ibuprofen))…” (Reported in a private message, Dec 2012)

* “My headaches have nearly vanished…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1035931853129436/]

===Helicobacter pylori infection===
* “Helicobacter pylori influenced my immune system to become TH1 dominant which in turn caused ulcers in my stomach. I’ve just hit the 14th week with 25 NA on board and, as soon as the helminths started to modulate my immune response back to a TH2 response, my ulcers and gastritis disappeared.” (Link expired)

=== Histamine intolerance ===
Also see [[#Food_intolerance|'''Food intolerance''']]

* “I eat "forbidden" food and it is like a miracle, all my food allergies and even my histamine intolerance are gone, I can eat everything again, not a single reaction. As if I had never had food allergies before. I am euphoric. It is a small stage victory and a good sign indeed.” (Link expired)

* "I really think it helped my histamine problem at least 70%. I couldn't tolerate histamines without getting really tired and depressed. When my hookworms kicked in at the 9 week mark I was able to tolerate bone and meat broth." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/534417849947508/]

* "In the past I had serious problems with histamine and salicylates… Since hosting a bunch of hookworms I was able to gradually reintroduce all foods that previously made me sick." (Link expired)

* “Last night I celebrated New year's Eve with a glass of champagne! After almost a year of hosting hw for salicylate & Histamine intolerance I'm finally able to eat almost anything. Thanks to everyone here & hope you all have a wonderful 2015, I know I will!“ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/767179966671294/]

=== Hives / Urticaria ===

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[The effects of NA on chronic idiopathic urticaria and eczema | '''The effects of NA on chronic idiopathic urticaria and eczema''']]

* "Hives are 90% improved." (Link expired)

* “My baby started to get dermatographia hives from touch at 6 months when I introduced solids. At 8 months he got 3 hookworm and the hives have stayed away.” (Reported to a closed group, Oct 2014)

* “... my hive (urticaria) symptoms are 99% gone, I do get a small outbreak rarely... I am only a 14 months into the therapy. Symptoms cleared up 3 months after my third dose.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/736007013121923/?comment_id=736443993078225&offset=0&total_comments=7]

* The following three reports are by the same person.
** “I also have had almost no problems with the cold urticaria that I typically deal with several times a day every day (regardless of weather or environment). Last night I even felt comfortable reducing one of my three anti-hystamines and suffered no ill effects.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/734437413278883/]
** “I forgot to take my morning dose of meds (200 hydroxychloriquine, 10 omeprazole, 20 Loratadine). I found my pills in the pocket of my hoodie tonight so I know I didn't take them. However, despite not taking the morning dose of antihistamines, I didn't get a single hive today. Not one! And I even did yard work, which normally be a trigger for me right away. This is so exciting! ... I'm only about six months into HT, but for tonight I'm over the moon!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/742476952474929/]
** “Not a single outbreak for almost four weeks. This is following a long period of time where my best days "only" had four or five episodes a day.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/742476952474929/?comment_id=744691922253432&offset=0&total_comments=3]

* This person has also produced a further, very detailed report, written six months into therapy, and a “before and after” comparison of symptoms. [http://rightinthegut.weebly.com/blog/better-the-same-worse]

* “I achieved remission of chronic (idiopathic) urticaria (with hookworms) at 5.5 months and was able to stop the certirizine at that point.” (Link expired)

* "My chronic urticaria was horrible and one of the main reasons I started using Hws. After about the 2nd dose I haven't had them since." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1285926248129994/?comment_id=1286142681441684&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “In my case, HDC works (I had chronic nervous urticaria). I’m drinking 60 HDC and I don't have any symptoms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1954792641243348/]

* “Urticaria symptoms cleared up 3 months after my third dose (of NA). Symptoms are 99% gone, (but) I do get a small outbreak rarely... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/736007013121923/?comment_id=736443993078225&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Hot flashes (hot flushes) ===

* “Hot flashes have decreased somewhat in the past 4 years (while hosting hookworms), but not a huge change. However on my blood tests, very wonky hormones are now in normal or ‘optimum’ range, including thyroid panel. My doctor was impressed, at least.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2138594556196488/?comment_id=2139008426155101&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Hyperactivity ===

* "The allergist is blown away with the improvements in hyperactivity..." (Reported in a private discussion, Dec 2011)

=== Hypertension / high blood pressure ===

* “Both of my BP numbers dropped ten points VERY quickly after inoculation." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/889187854470504/?comment_id=889189021137054&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “… the worms dropped my high BP overall by about 15 points…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/872052362850720/?comment_id=872235809499042&offset=0&total_comments=15&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* “I received my first dose of N.A. in early June. I just checked my blood pressure, and I had a lovely surprise. In six weeks, my systolic blood pressure has fallen by almost 30 points, and my diastolic blood pressure has dropped by 10 points. During my last visit, my doctor said that if my blood pressure increases I'll need medication, but I'm well out of range for that now! I've been walking six days a week for an hour, but I've been doing that since March.” (Reported in August, 2016.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1072282952827659/]

=== Hyperthyroidism / overactive thyroid ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and thyroid disease | '''Helminthic therapy and thyroid disease''']]

* “My thyroid levels seem to have normalized: T3, T4 and TSH levels are in normal range - HALLELUJAH! It's been a long time since I've had that! I hope I won't ever have to use propylthiouracil again!” (Link expired)

* “A new positive development is the thyroid nodules I've had for a very long time are completely GONE and my thyroid looks completely healthy under an ultrasound.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1200588749997078/?comment_id=1737704236285524&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Hypochlorhydria / low stomach acid ===

* “I used to take ox bile and high doses of vitamin C (to supplement on acid), not needed anymore since NA.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3820038631385397/?comment_id=3820130068042920]

=== Hypoglycemia / Hypoglycaemia ===

* "I've had the Hypoglycaemia since I was a child… My blood sugar would drop down to levels where I almost blacked out… Now I can get up at 7-8 in the morning and last until 10-11 in the evening, which would be impossible before… I'm not as hungry all the time (or constantly craving sweets) and the 'flushing' sensation with the following wave of heat and warmth which I sometimes got after a hearty meal is also gone." (Link expired)

=== Hypothyroidism / underactive thyroid ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and thyroid disease | '''Helminthic therapy and thyroid disease''']]

* “My 15 new worm friends may have cured my hypothyroidism. After about 6 months I noticed I was burning up when I took my prescribed dose of thyroid hormone (Synthroid). I probably have Hashimoto's but have never been diagnosed to that level so all I can say for sure is I've had hypothyroidism for several years. I eased up on taking Synthroid and completely stopped it about three weeks ago. I'm doing fine. Skin warm (oral temp 98.3 which is normal for me), no hypothyroid issues other than perhaps muscle stiffness. But I suspect that may be more related to an astonishingly little amount of sunlight exposure this year than to thyroid issues.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1377725372283414/]

* ☹️ “I am hypothyroid and was on thyroid replacement meds before going on HW. My need for thyroid replacement has never changed in the several years I've been on HW. I guess what I'm saying is that HW have never helped my hypothyroidism.” (Link expired)

=== IgA nephropathy ===
Also see [[#Autoimmune_kidney_disease|Autoimmune kidney disease]] and [[#Kidney_pathology|Kidney pathology]]

* "After a few days of contemplating the choices of kidney dialysis in the future or some discomfort from worms (which I had none), everything made complete sense to me. Six months passed until it was time to visit the doctor again and surprise, surprise this time after two years of getting blood work that showed my number slowly getting worse now they were better than last six months.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/523433171045976/]

=== Inflammation ===

* “Three weeks post my second hookworm dose … not only have my food intolerances significantly declined, but so has the inflammation around the replacement knuckle I had 18 months ago. (I seem to have some degeneration of
the finger joints but am told it is not arthritis.) Until now I have not been able to take up playing the keyboard again, now I can. I could not use the hand without it swelling and being painful - now I can.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/740770115978946/]

=== Insect bite reactions ===

* "I can attest that using NA pretty much solved my problem with reacting to mosquitos. I used to get welts for days if I was outside for 5 mins. Now, if one happens to find me (rare now), it itches for 20 mins and is gone." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7612682462120976/?comment_id=7697778583611363]

=== Insomnia ===

For many more reports, see [[Helminthic therapy and sleep#Long term sleep improvement | '''Long term sleep improvement''']].

* "It was quite fast. For example the first day of TSO, it was regulating my anxiety & insomnia." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4887558924633357/?comment_id=4889396131116303]

* “Two months ago I could not sleep without giving me a dose of salbutamol, and that only for three hours of sleep. It was hell. I thus spent the last two years. I was so worried and so resorted to HT. Now I wake up with the alarm again!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/316642988391663/?comment_id=840982189291071&offset=0&total_comments=23&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “I have given sleeping tablets up after only 4 doses of NA (hw) after 30 years of needing them nightly.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2386215031434438/?comment_id=2386247241431217]

=== Interstitial cystitis (IC) ===

* "I’ve had IC for 11 years. It was fairly severe, causing constant pain, a frequent urge to pee, incomplete bladder evacuation and urinary incontinence. I took 5 NA and most symptoms of IC resolved in 2 weeks. Since my second treatment (with 10), I've been symptom free." (Via email)

=== Interstitial lung disease (ILD) ===

* "I am using NA for interstitial lung disease that seems to have developed from RA. I inoculated in August 2016 with only 5 NA and within 10 weeks symptoms were better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1281287248593894/?comment_id=1281882121867740&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Irritability ===

* "Since going on hookworms a year and a half ago, the irritability (and also the restless leg syndrome) have gone away." (Link expired)

=== Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and bowel function |'''Helminthic therapy and bowel function''']].

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[TSO relieves fibromyalgia, IBS and rheumatoid arthritis | '''TSO relieves fibromyalgia, IBS and rheumatoid arthritis''']]

* "And the impact on my disease, complete cure, is nothing short of miraculous." (Link expired)

* "... it was quite a day when I realized all my IBS symptoms had gone. Very happy with the results." (Link expired)

* "Having recently added 10 hookworms to my whipworms, the IBS symptoms have halved. I can now tolerate lots of foods that i had previously cut out, such as brown bread, nuts, wheat, citrus fruit, the list goes on." (Link expired)

* "ibs no longer causes discomfort…" (Link expired)

* "Very sensitive stomach, my doctor classes it as IBS, bowel issues etc. I got to the point where I could not sleep in a bed as my stomach would do cartwheels after half an hour horizontal and I can't sleep. Doctors had no idea, and I started sleeping in a chair. Now after a year with hookworms, I am sleeping in a bed again and my bowel issues are substantially improved." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* "17 weeks after the inoculation (with NA), I am in a partial and stable remission from my IBS symptoms (45 days in remission). So, I am very happy..." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/352466458142649/] And an update, almost 8 years later: "HT was the best thing that happened in my life, regarding my chronic inflammatory diseases. I have been doing HT since 2012, and I am currently at my best... Almost full recovery." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2585315494857723/]

* ☹️ A 40-year-old male with IBS since foreign travel and subsequent treatment with various antibiotics 23 years earlier, who inoculated with a total of approximately 150 hookworm and 2,700 whipworm during a two year period, reported that he had seen no benefits at three years after the first inoculations. He had also not experienced any side effects or overall worsening of his condition that he can attribute to the helminths. (Condensed from a personal message.)

* "Second inoculation for the treatment of IBS a week ago. Very mild rash and I am very happy. I was thinking about what my life was like some months ago, and today it is very different. I am feeling healthy and able to do lots of things I couldn’t do before. Able, for example, to do a full time job, without worrying about having to go to the toilet all the time, or about not being able to stay away from home all day. Much healthier and much better quality of life!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/391284350927526/]

* "I have IBS and lactose/gluten intolerance … The symptoms were pain, bloating, diarrhea, gas. I must confess: I was very skeptical about the treatment. But by the 7th week it has been amazing! I can not explain, but I feeling my body "stronger". I took courage and began to eat certain foods (bread, corn bread, soy milk, beans, sweet bread topped with condensed milk) and didn’t get sick. This was impossible until last week!! And, to further test, I ate a sandwich at Subway. Unbelievable! After years, I ate a sandwich and didn’t get sick. Extremely happy with my hookworm fellows! This is simply a new condition for me. That never happened before (in 14 years): to be diet free and healthy, without any medication. I don’t know if this improvement is temporary and how long it will last ... But I'm enjoying every second of it!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/405798956142732/]

* “I have now just gotten back (2 days ago) from travelling around the world since January. I came to one of those ‘lifes to short’ moments, chucked in my job (have to start looking for one now) and had the best year of my life broadening my horizons. I give my worms a big tick for the fantastic year I have had - one of the healthiest years of my life. I have been more tolerant of a larger variety of foods, and after a year of travelling, including third world countries, throughout south America, Africa, japan, turkey, Europe, and north America, I only got a 3 hour diarrhoea episode once (after brekkie in cairo).” (Reported in a private message, Dec 2012)

* “The hookworms seem to be working tremendously! Starting in September (5 months post-dose) the symptoms of my irritable bowel started to decline (I had less bloating, diarrhea, etc.). And my intestinal situation has continued to improve. I used to not be able to eat dairy, gluten, kidney beans, eggs, sesame seeds, peanuts, cranberries without major discomfort and intestinal problems. And at this point I can now eat any dairy, small portions of gluten, small amounts of eggs, peanut butter, cranberries. I feel tremendously more healthy. I have gained a little weight, in part because I need to rediscover the right amount of food now that my diet is so significantly expanded. I also think I'm digesting food more than I used to. Overall my quality of life feels greatly enhanced without constant intestinal problems and so many food restrictions. I've had irritable bowel symptoms since I was a small child, so this is really the first time in my life I've felt this well.” (Written 6 weeks after this individual’s 3rd dose of hookworms, and reported in a private message, Nov 2013)

* ☹️ “Because i only experienced side effects I terminated my hookworms early jan, 2014. I hosted HW for about two years trying to control my IBS. For me it turns out that a different diet is the way to go!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/625668784155747/]

* “I have been getting HDC for the past 6 months for allergic rhinitis and IBS, both of which which I have been battling for years. The improvements were amazing! I've been taking a dose of 25 - 30 every 3 - 4 weeks since September. Both issues are virtually gone when i'm on them. The effects seem to last for 3 - 4 weeks. I can tell when I need a new dose because my symptoms suddenly re-appear. Then when I take another does within a day or two, huge improvement!” (Reported to a closed group, Mar 2014)

* “I am currently hosting NA with no ill effects and only benefits. NA has completely mitigated my IBS symptoms, within a few months. Am now at a year+.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/775064405882850/?comment_id=775483569174267&offset=0&total_comments=13]

* “Hookworm has put my lifetime of post-infectious IBS into an almost remission. I was first hospitalized at age 18 months with chronic diarrhea and pneumonia. I am now almost 57 years old. It took me 16½ months of therapy to get here. I am absorbing foods. I have been able to gain weight. I no longer have a carnitine deficiency and my vitamin D levels increase now that I am absorbing food. TSO worked quickly to get my IBS in remission but I switched to the human worms almost 19 months ago. I had side effects from all IBS meds but the only side effect I seem to get from hookworm is a rash." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1260591407330145/?comment_id=1269056583150294&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I’ve just hit the 14th week with 25 NA on board and my IBS(D) / SIBO has improved about 50 percent and is improving every week!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1654846481237967/] And, an update after two years: “I’m symptom free 95 percent of the time. I’m still dosing 1-2 HW every couple of weeks. The powerful combination of low dose naltrexone and hookworms is by far the most efficacious treatment I’ve seen, and the best thing is they're both relatively cheap. I stoped taking whipworms as they didn’t offer any greater benefits.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1654846481237967/?comment_id=2792010594188211&reply_comment_id=2792139320842005]

* “Week 17 (with 5 NA). Wow. So after a long time of little social interaction due to Covid, I met friends for three days in a row… I usually regret having a few glasses of wine and eating out. Not this time though. My gut just shows no real reaction at all. So ALL my terrible IBS symptoms are still gone. No digestion issues at all. I was so used to my gut sending me signals of "don't do it, don't drink, don't eat this, don't do that". Now, nothing. I had small amounts of gluten too and even had some beer. None of that seemed to derail my current well-being. This has to be the worms. And I only have 5 of them so far! I'm beyond amazed by this. Haven't felt like this as far back as I can remember.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2726061500783121/?comment_id=3003118963077372] And an update, 6 weeks later. “So it's over three weeks after my second inoculation with 3 NAs. Feeling really good overall. I keep improving. No more IBS… My life quality has improved tremendously. I can eat out without problems. And I don't need to worry anymore. Love it :)” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/2726061500783121/?comment_id=3135146979874569&notif_id=1597609696987116&notif_t=group_comment_follow]

* “After almost 30 years of suffering from chronic diarrhea, diagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), I can now say, with great certainty, that I am cured, and that this is a result of using helminths to restore my microbiome. Just 32 days after starting helminthic therapy, in January 2012, with an inoculation of NA, I had the best improvement I had experienced in over 10 years. I then did a further 8 or 9 inoculations of NA between January 2012 and March 2019, and managed to achieve a very good level of remission with up to 80% improvement. However, living in a poor country, far away from helminth providers meant that it was often difficult to get doses of NA delivered to my home in Brazil. Shipments would always take a long time to arrive, and sometimes they didn’t arrive at all. Then the COVID-19 pandemic made this situation worse, so I tried supplementing my NA colony with fortnightly doses of 250 TSO, which are easier to obtain. After the second or third dose of TSO, I am in complete remission. The improvement is 100%, to the point that my intestinal functioning is now sometimes like it was in the early 1980s, when I was under 10 or 11 years old. I can now eat whatever I want, without any restrictions. It's really amazing!” (Edited from several posts in [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3644525365603392/ this thread].)

* “I'm in month 14 after I started treatment, and I've inoculated so far with 5/3/5/7 NA. I can now safely say that I'm seeing amazing benefits. Gone are the days of terrible IBS-D, gurgling, urge, discomfort, indigestion, fatigue and insatiation, and the improvement in life quality is tremendous.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2726061500783121?comment_id=3922843074438285]

* "Just a small number of NA (3) made a difference to my IBS. The first lot gave me an initial flare but I was seeing good results after 6 weeks." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5090423981013516?comment_id=5091458034243444]

* "I started off with HDC in 2015 and they worked. But it became impossible to get them in a timely manner and I stopped taking them. That’s when I started taking the other worms, but I just haven’t gotten the same results. I took NA for a couple of years and didn’t any see improvement with my IBS, and TSO helps for a couple of days after taking it, then stops working for a couple of weeks. The probiotic, VSL#3, has done the most good for my IBS." (Via private message)

=== Keratosis pilaris ===

* “Keritosis pilaris almost gone, something I've only been able to improve before by eating liver every day. My skin hasn't been problematic aside from the keritosis pilaris near my elbows, but it now seems softer and smoother in general. (Reported 18 weeks after inoculating with 5 NA and then adding 10-12 more at 12 weeks.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1079127865476501/]

=== Kidney pathology ===
Also see [[#Autoimmune_kidney_disease|'''Autoimmune kidney disease''']] and [[#IgA_nephropathy|'''IgA nephropathy''']]

* “I had elevated creatine and bun levels and also have UC. Turned out I had old scar tissue in my kidneys but everything got better after helminths. Kidney scores returned to normal and UC went into total drug free remission. UC was stressing out my whole body and after getting into remission my kidneys got way happier.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1411285755594042/?comment_id=1411710492218235&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Labyrinthitis ===

* "I had labyrinthitis. NA sorted that out perfectly. A lot of tinnitus and other symptoms have gone with it!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5352083428180902/?comment_id=5354146677974577]

=== Lactose intolerance ===
Also see [[#Food_intolerance|'''Food intolerance''']]

* "One other thing I have also noticed is a marked improvement in my lactose intolerance." (Link expired)

* “When my gut was inflamed (IBD) I could not tolerate any complex carbs, lactose sugar was very bad news, but after HT and remission of Crohn's disease I can eat complex carbs including lactose in moderation. I do not suffer from drinking milk on occasions, and or indulging in sugary desserts, eating bread, pasta, corn, rice or potatoes in moderation.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/355791157810179/?comment_id=355804637808831&offset=0&total_comments=37]

* "My husband seemed to have severe lactose intolerance. In the past, nothing helped and it was instantaneous, as in explosive diarrhea and severe within 20 minutes of ingestion. Since his leaky gut has gotten better since getting worms, he's doing a lot better, so that he can actually digest ice cream." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/355791157810179/?comment_id=356265841096044&offset=0&total_comments=37]

* "I have IBS and lactose/gluten intolerance … The symptoms were pain, bloating, diarrhea, gas. I must confess: I was very skeptical about the treatment. But by the 7th week it has been amazing! I can not explain, but I feeling my body "stronger". I took courage and began to eat certain foods (bread, corn bread, soy milk, beans, sweet bread topped with condensed milk) and didn’t get sick. This was impossible until last week!! And, to further test, I ate a sandwich at Subway. Unbelievable! After years, I ate a sandwich and didn’t get sick. Extremely happy with my hookworm fellows! This is simply a new condition for me. That never happened before (in 14 years): to be diet free and healthy, without any medication. I don’t know if this improvement is temporary and how long it will last ... But I'm enjoying every second of it!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/405798956142732/]

* "I have had food intolerances/allergies for years due to crohn's and general poor gut/digestive function. I've always reacted to many foods and seriously to all grains, in any form, as well as anything with lactose or sugar. My gut has been greatly improved by helminthic therapy and my diet has expended, so I thought it was time to check for food sensitivities... I tested for sensitivity (the blood test measured IgG antibody, food antigens) to grains, legumes, nuts, meat, fowl, dairy, fruits, vegetables, fish, Mollusk, Crustacea, Miscellaneous items such as honey, chocolate, coffee, and yeasts. Out of the 100 items tested I showed a single "moderate level 3 reaction" on a scale from I to 6." (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group, Jul 2012)

=== “Leaky gut” ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and leaky gut syndrome | '''Helminthic therapy and leaky gut syndrome''']].

===Lichen planus===

* “I ended up using TSO 2500 and it halted progression of my lichen planus, while doctors were telling me that I had to use immunosuppressive medication. Also I experienced no side effects from 20 weeks of treatment with TSO.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2050828448306433/?comment_id=2051458691576742&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Lichen sclerosus ===

* "My Lichen sclerosus is, for all intents and purposes, GONE! NO ITCHING, NO BURNING! Skin appears to be normalizing! WOW! I can't wait to see what happens when I take my second dose! If one dose has done this much, I'd think I have a lot to look forward to!!!" (A user of NA, link expired)

* ☹️ "Unfortunately NA had no effect for me for LS." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6492045087518058?comment_id=6492508820805018&reply_comment_id=6494843240571576]

* ☹️ "NA has also not worked for me in this respect." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6492045087518058/?comment_id=6492508820805018&reply_comment_id=6500291183360115]

=== Long Covid ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and COVID-19#Helminthic therapy and Long COVID | '''Helminthic therapy and Long COVID''']].



=== Lupus / systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) ===

Also see: [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) | '''Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD)''']].

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.
:* [[The effects of NA on lupus and Sjogren's | '''Treating lupus and Sjogren's disease with hookworms''']]
:* [[Lupus patient abandons wheelchair to run nine miles a week after getting hookworms | '''Lupus patient abandons wheelchair to run nine miles a week after getting hookworms''']]

* "The (hook)worms have been working for me. I have been in drug free remission for over 3 months now, I hypothesize that other lupus-spectrum disorders will respond similarly. After all, HLA-B27 is an autoimmune marker that is shared by inflammatory bowel disease as well as lupus/MCTD.” (Reported in a private message, Sept 2012)

* “Hi, I just wanted to let people out there know that I have been using hdc with great success for the last 6 mnths. I have lupus and myasthenia gravis and it has definitely helped. Along with hdc I do also use Hk and have been for three years., though for me it wasn't enough on its own and it gave me severe gi issues. I lost my hk frequently, but after adding the hdc I have not had that happen. One huge bonus for me is that I have had hair grow in that I thought was permanently gone due to the lupus.” (Reported in Mar 2014.)

* “I’ve had symptoms for almost 10 years… Was on cellcept/plaquenil/prednisone for 2.5 years… I also have hypothyroidism. so the week I started HW, I also had my thyroid meds increased. Since then I have been just about symptom free. I feel pretty normal. I know not I overdo it. I can get by with 8 hrs sleep instead of 12! And I can eat whatever. If I go overboard with junk and alcohol I feel shitty, but it's the most normal I've felt in 10 yrs!” (Reported to a closed group, Sept 2014)

* “It's been a little over 2 years since my first dose of HW. I took a total 125 with a top up of 10 to treat Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and food sensitivities. I just had a recent batch of rheumatology labs done and everything is normal - except for a positive ANA. I've been feeling about 90-95% symptom free for close to the entire 2 yrs I've been hosting... YAY WORMS!!!!!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/886731114716178/]

* 2016 - “It has been 5 months since I started Helminthic therapy for systemic lupus. Originally with 25 hookworms, then with 2500 TSO every two weeks which I started taking just over two months ago… My pre helminthic therapy pain and fatigue level had always been a steady 6.5 out of 10… Now my pain is a steady 3 out of 10… Fatigue has also been reduced to an outstanding level… For the first time since I was 14, I can wake up after 7-8 hours sleep and feel like I have enough energy to do a full day… For the past 3 weeks I’ve had the energy to go to the gym twice a day, 6 to 7 times a week. 45 minutes of moderate intensity cardio in the morning followed by weights at night… For the past five years I feel like I have been asleep. Although I worked and studied, my memories have been distorted by pain, fatigue and depression. For the first time since I was first diagnosed at 17, I feel that Im finally starting to wake up and that I have a lot to catch up on.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/940503262672296/]

* The following two reports are by the same person.

:* “I am doing amazingly well. I am back at work and, apart from some neurological deficits caused by the medication, I am back to normal. I did a tough climb in the Swiss Alps in the Fall without any problems. I need to top up the NA approx. every 3 mth. The symptoms start to return (mildly) at around 3 mths. I used to top up with 25-30 NA's, but I used around 10 on my last 2 dosing and it worked great! I cannot tell you how grateful I am to be well!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1978467308875881/?comment_id=1978498922206053&reply_comment_id=1979702842085661&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

:* “(I am doing) Absolutely brilliantly! Running, lifting weights and working. I still have the nerve damage but it has minimal impact on my life. I just celebrated a birthday that I did not expect to see.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1001001649955790/?comment_id=2249710055084937&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I have severe lupus (only two things work for me cytoxan and NA). I would not be here today had I not have HT.” (Link expired.)

=== Lyme disease ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and Lyme disease | '''Helminthic therapy and Lyme disease''']].

“This case is of a forty five year old woman with severe allergies after being diagnosed and treated for acute lyme… The patient took matters into her own hands and acquired hookworms… Luckily she did not listen to my advice to immediately kill her worms. What I saw in her case was a rapid, consistent improvement over a few months to the point where the patient described herself as cured. This was in a case that nothing else had worked for... The case has continued to improve to the point where the patient feels improvement even after two years. The patient now feels better than even before infecting herself with hookworms. Including symptoms that existed prior to the initial lyme infection. These included joint problems, and hormonal problems and sleep problems, and various food allergies and sensitivities that have been resolved directly as a result of her hookworm use.” (Link expired)

=== Lymphocytic colitis ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Microscopic colitis | '''Microscopic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Pancolitis | '''Pancolitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative colitis | '''Ulcerative colitis''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative proctitis | '''Ulcerative proctitis''']].

* “I struggled for over 8 years with autoimmune disease, coeliacs, lymphocytic colitis and gastritis. Progressively my immune system decided food was the enemy. I began having allergic reactions to foods I’d eaten all my life. In a short period of time, my health became so chronic I hit rock bottom. The physical, emotional and financial cost has been huge. Finding an integrative GP was the game changer for me. Helminthic therapy was recommended. Initially, as expected, my immune system was not happy about sharing my gut. Starting with just 2 HDC, after almost 5 months we’re up to 10! Helminthic therapy has brought healing, happiness and joy back into my life. I’ve re-introduced foods back into my diet, gently. I no longer experience pain, bloating, belching or diarrhoea every time I eat. Only 2 of the last 140 days with any symptoms. I enjoy eating now. Bliss.” (Reported in a message submitted to the wiki.)

* “I had an accidental brush with gluten on the weekend just passed. For the first time in almost 10 years I had no immediate reaction; moreover no dread of being ill for the next few weeks and then some. Now that’s a hugely triumphant moment for me. So very happy with my life, feeling blessed. I am diagnosed Coeliac. I’ve also had lymphocytic colitis and gastritis over the past 5 years, all confirmed through biopsy by my gastroenterologist. Helminthic therapy was recommended to me after my last bout of gastritis after all other avenues had been thoroughly exhausted. I started with just 2 HDC, and now (at 7 months) I take 10 HDCs fortnightly.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2745763175479620/]

* “I have LC, so I know how miserable it is, and I wanted to share that TSO and LDN changed my life. I now eat a completely normal diet, except for eggs, but, if I accidentally eat something with egg, I now bounce back super fast.” (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3658649560857639/?comment_id=3658744304181498&reply_comment_id=3659307824125146 this post].)

=== Malnutrition ===

* “Got my blood test results today, I am no longer malnourished! Before helminthic therapy, I tried almost every supplement under the sun to fix my nutritional deficiencies. First time in about 6 years, my alkaline phosphatase levels are back to normal! This is a HUGE improvement for me because, with time, I would develop a number of conditions due to a long list of deficiencies. I'm treating dysbiosis (chronic infection).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1000449266677695/]

=== ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis / Chronic fatigue syndrome)===
(M.E./CFS / Myalgic encephalitis / Chronic Fatigue and Immune Deficiency Syndrome (CFIDS) / Post-viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS)) 

See [[Helminthic therapy and ME/CFS | '''Helminthic therapy and ME/CFS''']].

Also see [[#Fatigue|'''Fatigue''']].

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [https://web.archive.org/web/20210620011543/http://colonyofme.com/escaping-autoimmune-hell-helminthic-microbiome-immune-support/ Escaping Autoimmune Hell with Helminthic & Microbiome Immune Support] (Migraine, CFS/M.E.)

:* [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']]

* "Personally any CFS I had is gone (although I still don't fair too well after spending a day in some office buildings with poor air quality)." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* “Before I got hookworms, I was in a VERY bad way! I could only spend the briefest of periods out of my bed or chair… My basic needs were attended to by visiting carers, but just interacting on a minimal level with these invariably very cheery folk would leave me exhausted! After many years of living like this, I adopted a team of hookworms in early 2009 and, in a matter of weeks, was feeling energised to an extent that I’d assumed I’d never experience again. I still get some brain fog if I’m tired, and rely on a good night’s sleep to ensure optimum cognition. But, thanks to the worms, I no longer need to take a rest during the day, and I can now enjoy gardening, and even paint a fence, when required. I can also do exercises and use a spin bike to keep my ageing frame mobile. And, although officially retired, I’m working again, part-time. I doubt I’d get very far if I tried to run a marathon, but I can now do everything I want to do, and that’s all that matters, so far as I'm concerned.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/741771742545450/?comment_id=742211235834834&offset=0&total_comments=51]

* ☹️ “I have had some minor and curious improvements to my health, but no improvements in my major symptoms, including my ME/CFS. Although, I must admit, my gut function is greatly improved. I used to have constant discomfort and pain there. Now, almost never.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/911465048909451/?comment_id=932832606772695&reply_comment_id=933421280047161&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]

The following two posts are by the same person.

:* “At 10 weeks post inoculation with 5 NA for CFS/ME and chronic migraine, in the past two days I suddenly have many times more energy than usual for winter. Vastly more. Last winter a weekly trip to the grocery store would wipe me out to the point of being able to do NOTHING (no work, no housework, no cooking, nothing but resting) the entire rest of the week and I struggled to stay awake past 7 pm no matter how much I rested during the day. Yesterday, I cleaned the kitchen, batch cooked for half of the day, vacuumed, changed the bed linens and stayed up until 10 pm. Today I'm mopping, cleaning the bathrooms, doing laundry and cooking a bit more. This energy is in addition to the early improvements I've had in brain fog, joint pain, plantar fasciitis and increased tolerance to high FODMAP foods.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1040952539294034/]

:* “18 week update, treating for CFS/ME, chronic migraine, suspected RA. 5 NA, then 10-12 more at 12 weeks. My typical state pre-NA was 4-8 migraines per month and energy so low that I counted any day where I managed to cook food for dinner (with the rest of the day spent in bed or on the couch) as a good day. I had a step change improvement in energy at week 10, then a new surge of energy the last two days. In two days, I've cooked for hours, cleaned most of the house, done laundry and done a bit of spring pruning in the garden. A few minutes after I finished vacuuming this morning, my partner came up to the bedroom see me, expecting to find me in bed. Instead he found me outside on the deck with watercolours. My main concern today is not overdoing it to the point where I crash out for a week. I keep having to make myself sit down to rest as I have the energy to keep going. An unusual feeling for me. Also of note, it is winter in the Southern Hemisphere and typically my worst time of year for energy. Brain fog is no longer a daily problem. Greatly improved tolerance for high fructan foods.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1079127865476501/] [http://colonyofme.com/escaping-autoimmune-hell-helminthic-microbiome-immune-support/] [http://forums.phoenixrising.me/index.php?threads/incredible-improvements-with-helminthic-therapy.48955/]

* ☹️ “I have ME and helminthic therapy did not help my general symptoms. It only removed my specific allergic reactions (so now I can have a cat and don't mind the pollen season). Nothing else (no side effects either).” (Link expired.)

* “Two and a half years ago, one of our 12 y/o twins acquired a virus that left her with debilitating post viral complications. She was diagnosed with POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) and CFS (chronic fatigue). This was one very sick kid. She spent several months bed/couch ridden. Could barely walk from couch to toilet. Struggled to dress and wash herself. Her brain fog was so severe she quite literally could not do the sum 1+1, and any mental activity would result in her becoming teary with frustration and hopelessness. She was clinically depressed and completely socially withdrawn, and missed 12 months of school. Approx 5 months into her illness I inoculated her with approx 10 NA… It was about 2-3 months after this inoculation that she finally started to climb the long hill out of her illness… While she had a rocky year last year, missing a full term and several weeks here and there when she had flares or was unlucky enough to catch a virus, she gradually did make the climb out of the ditch. Today she is a powerhouse. She rises early with her sister 6am! to ride her bike to school (14kms!!) a few mornings a week, and takes an evening taekwando class…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1274557485933537/]

* “I have both fibromyalgia and CFS/ME and was first inoculated just over 2 years ago. I have found improvement, especially since it has helped with inflammation. It is not a cure for me but I have been able to slowly go off medications, get less infections, have less flare days, and recover quicker than I use to. For me 5HWs is a dose where I obtain the most benefit with the fewest side effects.” (Link expired)

* “My wife watched me use the helminths for my Crohn's and soon jumped on board for her CFS and allergies. She is a friggin energizer bunny now. Some days, I regret turning her onto the HDC! She was a fast responder. Her allergies went away in about 4-6 weeks and the CFS was improving at the 8 week mark. She is hosting about 15 NA and doses 40 HDC every two weeks." (Link expired)

* “I suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and it's almost a year ago since I took my first helminths (NA). By last summer my fatigue was progressing from mild to intermediate. It was getting to the point where I would struggle to leave my apartment and walk two blocks to do grocery shopping. I also had some issues relating to IBS, rhinitis, and eosinophilic esophagitis which made me suspect that there was an auto immune component to my fatigue. From what I read the helminths seemed to do well with that particular angle so I decided to give it a shot. For the first five months I made no other changes and I noticed a definite difference in energy. 11 months and 40 NA later I feel the best I have in years. Obviously I can't guarantee that it was all the worms, but I absolutely feel like the helminths played a big a part.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1677403632315585/]

* “I‘ve done many treatments to heal myself, so it’s hard to tell which was decicive, but hookworm definitely helped and continues to help. It’s the only treatment that I continue to follow.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1945012178888061/?comment_id=1945170708872208&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I have CFS of many decades that was mild to moderate but had got bad in the last few years. I started NA just over two years ago and, in the first 14 months, I got 3-4 (bad) bouts of flu followed by flares of autoimmune symptoms, all of which can be a sign for people with CFS that they are recovering. Now, my autoimmune symptoms are in remission and my CFS is much improved. My food intolerances are miles better, and my baseline heath is hugely better than prior to starting NA.” (Edited from three posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2986117701444165/?comment_id=2987228881333047&reply_comment_id=2990567960999139] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3741291362593458/?comment_id=4081939218528669&reply_comment_id=4084649094924348] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3741291362593458/?comment_id=4081939218528669&reply_comment_id=4084649094924348]) 

* "Initially it was very hard going with additional fatigue, could hardly stay awake for the first 12 weeks or so. But after about 6 months, I noticed my energy levels improving and my food intolerances have also improved. My autonomic symptoms, e.g., poor body temperature regulation, have also improved a bit but probably not as much as the other symptoms. Brain fog depends a lot on food intolerance reactions and how well I sleep... It's really been worth it. Just as an example, for years I couldn't walk up any more than 5 stairs, now I can do well over 20 with no problem... I started with 5NA (but now) don't inoculate any more than 3NA at a time." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5143705719018675?comment_id=5144208765635037]

* "It’s still early days for me but since starting low doses of TSO in Late March I definitely feel like I have noticeably more energy. For example, before I started HT if I got over 2000 steps in a day I would always crash for a few days. Now, though, I regularly get between 2300-2500 steps with few problems. That sounds like a small gain but for me it’s big. Also, my sleep and mood are better, my stomach is more settled, and I can eat a few more foods that I couldn’t before. And when I overdo it the PEM (post-exertional malaise) is not as severe. I still have a very long way to go but I’m more hopeful with this treatment than I have been in years." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5143705719018675/?comment_id=5144852775570636]

: And a six month update.

:* I have noticed a mild reduction in all ME/CFS symptoms including sensitivity to light and sounds. The main thing I’ve noticed is that when I do crash I now bounce back to my baseline noticeably faster. I take TSO and NA. My colonies are still fairly small as I’m moving very slowly with this therapy as per the wiki advice for people with ME/CFS. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5693579460697962/?comment_id=5694577020598206] 

* "I’ve had ME/CFS for 30+ years and was in a particularly bad patch for the last 4½ years. Couch bound, noise sensitivity, balance issues, headaches that easily tipped over to migraines on a daily basis and debilitating fatigue. I had my first dose of 3 NA around Christmas last year, and that first month was jolly hard work. I wish I'd put meals in the freezer and set things up so I could just deal with existing. Putting things in place so I could get through each day in the easiest way possible… My symptoms worsened and I struggled to do anything. This lasted for a month and then my energy levels began increasing little by little each day. I applied another 3 NA after 3 months and again my symptoms worsened. I also noticed that I caught whatever was going around. This was again for the first month after treatment, then I again went from strength to strength each day. I've had another dose of 3 NA at the 3 month mark and the same pattern has happened again, I get worse and then I get better. Thankfully with each dose I am finding that my overall health is improving - an upward trajectory. The gains I get in the 2 good months are moving me forward and I'm now beginning to gently re-join the world. I can meet friends for social gatherings and cope with the noise and the interaction. I can be active through the day and not pay the price for it afterwards and for days following." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5258273134228599?comment_id=5258492314206681&reply_comment_id=5259717450750834]

* "I have been using helminthic therapy for the past year to treat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Initially, I used 3 NA every 12 weeks for 3 doses, and derived significant benefit from this. However the flu-like side effects following each dose were substantial - a sore throat, sore muscles and fatigue. The worst of these would last, reliably, for a week after each inoculation, with lesser, although still significant, symptoms continuing for another 2 months. After discussing my situation with someone experienced in HT, I decided to try using TSO, which I started 4 months ago. The doses I am using currently are 0.4ml drawn from a 15ml bottle containing 2500 ova, and dosing at 4 day intervals. This regime has worked very well for me, and the side effects from the TSO have been much more manageable than with NA. Since beginning HT, I have had significant benefits. I have far greater exercise tolerance and my cognitive function and mood have both also improved, although these improvements do require continued careful dosing to maintain. I still have to be careful to avoid excessive stressors, but I am the healthiest I have been since I was first diagnosed at the age of 15 (I'm now 27) and I have improved to such an extent as to be able to resume full time study towards my degree." (Edited from three posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5861198820602691/], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5861198820602691/?comment_id=5861331507256089&reply_comment_id=5862916413764265], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5861198820602691/?comment_id=5862143060508267&reply_comment_id=5863293490393224].)

* "I’m in full remission from my pretty severe [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-exertional_malaise post-exertional malaise] by hosting 3 tiny human hookworms… for me, it worked on long covid… after less than two months of hosting, I am essentially cured… also my FODMAP intolerance seems mostly fixed, and I had that for years… My CFS recovery is kind of continuing. I've been getting better over the past month which is month two for me. I've been a very strong responder. I essentially knew it was going to work since I experienced 95 to 100% recovery during the "bounce" period around day 10… It was nuts, I was actually running around… I was just able to go on a 4 day sailing trip on my boat and I actually started crying from happiness near the end at realizing I seem to have most of my life back. We even climbed a small mountain and while I was very tired and went slowly, I did not get sick after!" (Edited from several comments in the same Reddit thread. [https://www.reddit.com/r/covidlonghaulers/comments/13xq6oz/this_will_probably_get_deleted_but_i_just_wanted/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=2]

=== Memory loss ===

* “I’m finding that I have a much improved memory. My thoughts are more clear & sharp. I'm in less of a fog. I'm retaining more information and able to recall events from the past that I had forgotten.” (Reported only one month after inoculation with NA.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2255349147854361/?comment_id=2307182056004403&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Ménière's disease / endolymphatic hydrops ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and Ménière's disease | '''Helminthic therapy and Ménière's disease''']].

* “Although my diagnosis is Menieres, I believe it to be secondary endolymphatic hydrops caused by my allergies. Except during weeks 3 - 8 after a dose of helminths, I have reached a point where I have no tinnitus, no vertigo and have significantly less problem from fast moving visual stimuli. Prior to this I had all but given up watching television - sport on tv has been impossible with cameras panning to follow the action. After my third dose, once I was past the problem period, I had started to be able to watch things to a limited extent and was finding being a passenger in a car more bearable. During weeks 3 - 8 after a dose my tinnitus is worse, and yesterday I had the worst spin attack I've had for a long time but know this will right itself in a few days. Whilst I have been well, I have felt less pressure and fullness in my right ear than in many years and generally felt less tired after activities that would have left me drained. I still cannot tolerate loud noises easily (but) NA have given me my life back and it's wonderful.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/846121412110482/?comment_id=846310412091582&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/846121412110482/?comment_id=1077297355659552&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Menstruation, irregular ===

* “I would attribute regulation of my periods with having NA on board. My periods were erratic and occasionally *very* heavy when my Graves' disease has been active. NA seem to have modified this to a normal (for me) state.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1752041738185107/?comment_id=1753640071358607&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Menstruation, painful (Dysmenorrhoea / dysmenorrhea) ===

* “I had pain-free periods for the first time in my life after 6 months with hookworm, having previously suffered horrific pain. The feeling of pressure during a period, like my uterus is trying to fall out (which I understand is from the adenomyosis) is also massively reduced. I stayed pain-free for 6 months, then accidentally killed my hookworm with antibiotics and had immediate return of endo pain with next period. The pain was somewhat reduced after a small reinoculation (10 larvae) and stopped again 3 months after taking a further 35 larvae.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/913446655377957/?comment_id=913547835367839&offset=0&total_comments=9&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

* “After almost 4 months with NA, my painful menstrual cramps are suddenly gone. Fatigue and bloat remain, but the worst part, the pain, just didn't happen. It's a pretty amazing development. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1101817313207556/?comment_id=1865934220129191&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* “They (NA) also seem to have completely eliminated my life-long period pain.” (Link expired.)

* “During my period, which happened soon after the third dose of HDC, I did not have to take any pain relievers. I see this as not just a coincidence because last such occurrence happened almost a year ago in July 2018, after I started NA therapy.” [https://neuropsychamateur.com/2019/07/17/hymenolepis-diminuta-observations-and-paper/]

* “It is my 3rd dose (of HDC) now. No stomach pain during period, better thermoregulation. I still have head ache during my period, no change in that.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2263527243703218/?comment_id=2263545097034766&reply_comment_id=2264434520279157&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Microscopic colitis ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Lymphocytic colitis | '''Lymphocytic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Pancolitis | '''Pancolitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative colitis | '''Ulcerative colitis''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative proctitis | '''Ulcerative proctitis''']].

* “I finished a course of TSO (4 months ago). I had been in remission at the time, but to me it wasn't a true remission as I had to be very careful with diet and couldn't eat much fiber (fruit, vegetables) or gluten and eggs. It worked like a charm and since then (6 months) I've been able to eat donuts, cake, beer, etc. with zero issues. I did notice I still seemed to be a little sensitive to egg and was avoiding them by themselves (in baked goods they didn't bother me). I am frankly just so overjoyed to be able to have raw fruits and vegetables, baked goods, beer again... anything else is just gravy. So grateful for HT as I never thought I'd be able to indulge in a craft beer again.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2086465811409363/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2086465811409363/?comment_id=2086570641398880&reply_comment_id=2086582948064316&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Migraine ===

Also see [[#Headaches|'''Headaches''']].

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Migraine, depression and autoimmunity relieved by TSO and NA | '''Migraine, depression and autoimmunity relieved by TSO and NA''']]

:* [http://colonyofme.com/escaping-autoimmune-hell-helminthic-microbiome-immune-support/ Escaping Autoimmune Hell with Helminthic & Microbiome Immune Support] (Migraine, CFS/M.E.)

* "Before I started treatment, I was having a 7.0/10 migraine once a week. Now, I am having a 4.5-5.0/10 migraine once a month." Two years later, this individual rated the improvement in his migraines as 75%. (Links expired)

* "In addition to the reduction in daily, M.E.-related headaches, my migraines are also greatly reduced in both frequency and severity." [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/headache_migraine.html]

* ☹️ "… I have ~35 HW and they do not lessen my migraines." (Link expired) (NB. This individual may eventually have responded if he'd maintained his colony for longer. A single dose is often insufficient to provide benefits.)

* "I used to get headaches all time and some migraines, and now I hardly ever get them since I've inoculated almost a year ago. Actually haven't had a single migraine since, come to think of it…" (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* "My migraine does not appear that often anymore and I am able to do some sports again." (Reported in a private message, Jun 2012)

* “I am still on migraine meds but I was using 4 Maxalt wafers (Rizatriptan benzoate) /week. Now I use about 1 every 7-10 days…” [https://web.archive.org/web/20220419041825/http://sjogrensworld.org/forums/index.php?topic=25593.msg272659%23msg272659]

* “My good friend Rick was having migraine headaches about 3 - 5 times or even more per week... Then I started to pick up the HDC for him (and) he had about 30 for his first dose. In a couple of days the migraines subsided. Three weeks later he received his second dose; about the same amount. He continued migraine free for three more weeks. This trend continued as long as he got the necessary dose, apparently about 30 every three weeks.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/870267926362497/?comment_id=870524099670213&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* “In 2008, I got sick. Frighteningly sick. I had excruciating head pain that was unlike anything I'd ever experienced… Month after month, I was in unrelenting, blinding pain. I was so exhausted I could barely move… Three day migraines hit me 8-10 times per month. Nausea often made it impossible to eat. I was so exhausted I could barely move from the bed to lie on the couch all day. Some days I couldn't eat meals because I was too tired to chew… As I write this, it is a week short of seven months since I started helminth immune support... Things aren't perfect. A person with normal energy can easily work me into the ground. I still have migraines, although they occur less frequently and with lower intensity... (but) I started my day with tandem kayaking. After that, I came home, fed and watered the chickens, collected eggs, cooked a hot breakfast, tidied up the kitchen, washed and hung out laundry, attended to some gardening duties and spent several hours designing this new site and writing this page. I'm no longer too tired to chew.” [http://colonyofme.com/escaping-autoimmune-hell-helminthic-microbiome-immune-support/]

* “My wife's allergies got worse and worse over seven years, manifesting in migraines that would last for days. The codeine she took for the pain masked the normal allergy symptoms so we tried endless dead-end therapies. Only after trying HDC has she got rid of her migraines, all her allergies went away.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1337615056294446/?comment_id=1337641046291847&reply_comment_id=1467860849936532&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I didn’t start HT for migraine in particular, but I actually haven’t had a single migraine attack ever since. (I had migraine on a regular basis for 10 years). So for me it was obviously related to my autoimmune issues.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3297207570335175/?comment_id=3297665496956049]

* “My brother in law is treating migraines with NA. He has very severe frequent migraines and relies on injections. Since starting NA he has had a gradual reduction in frequency and severity. It's been about 8 months and he swears by them.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3297207570335175/?comment_id=3297848590271073]

=== Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) ===
Also see [[#Lupus|'''Lupus''']]

* "I can hardly believe it has already been 8 months since I started my helminthic therapy journey. In the briefest terms possible, it has been the more dramatic, mind-blowing, and wonderful decision of my life... I began to notice the crippling symptoms of my autoimmune diseases (MCTD/lupus, Fibromyalgia, Raynaud's, and Autoimmune hepatitis) fading about 1 month after my second dose ... I Feel Normal: hardly any severe, debilitating, mind-numbing, exhausting, unrelenting P.A.I.N. Energy levels on par with other people my age, as opposed to narcoleptics and flu-patients. The ability to get up in the morning without wanting to cry from the pain, dizziness, and crippling fatigue. The ability to think and speak clearly. The ability to play with my son, do the laundry, brush my teeth. Basically, all things I completely took for granted before I got sick, and which I had waved goodbye to for good, so I thought... Just like falling in love, I see the world in a whole new light. I see possibilities and hope where I once saw nothing but blackness and despair. My new love affair with life has begun." [http://potomacfallsmama.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/helminithic-therapy-8-month-update.html]

* ☹️ "18 months ago (I was) finally correctly diagnosed as having an autoimmune mixed connective tissue disorder. I've also had IBS my entire life. So far, at 30 HDC every 3 weeks, my symptoms (severe pain in my muscles, that is crippling at times) are not improved. I am also going to be experimenting with much higher HDC doses on me. At the very least though, I hope that HDC will stop me developing yet another autoimmune disease.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/263818550462551/permalink/265373996973673/]

* The following three reports are by the same person.
** “I'm about 11 months into my HT (hookworm, for lupus and Mixed Connective Tissue Disease), and doing really well. There are long periods (days, even a week or more) when I have zero pain in my body. My recurring nephritis now sits dormant for weeks at a time. I no longer have chest pain every single day, my heart doesn't race several times a day, and I hardly ever choke. Almost every symptom I had at the beginning has been reduced about 80% or so. Almost every symptom - my malar rash worsened. I'm treating it very carefully, though, and I see small improvements every few days. In the end, I've decided that if HT allows everything else to disappear, I can put makeup on the rash. It's worth it. The depression has also melted away... I believe that the improvement in my quality of life is at least partly responsible. I am happy now - happier than I have been in a long time. I don't dread waking up in the morning to discover what's going to hurt today. I don't dread stepping out of bed, unsure if my legs will actually hold me up. I am comfortable making plans with people several days out, instead of putting them off until I know how I'm feeling. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/819068444815779/?comment_id=819340621455228&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] I really wish I had done this way back when I first heard about it… If I could go back and get hookworms five years ago, I would." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/728615583861066/?comment_id=728619870527304&offset=0&total_comments=2]
** “I’m almost a year past my first dose of HW. I've had four doses all together. Last week, I worked eight days in a row without a day off … mostly working on my feet in a retail environment … and worked almost 40 hours on the sales floor. Before my HW, I was limited to 20 hours a week… While I was getting ready for bed, my daughter said, "You know Mama - I can't even remember the last time I had to help you get dressed. Can you?" No, I could not. I'm doing so much better!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/827179724004651/]
** “I have MCTD - Lupus with a likely DM (dermatomyositis) overlap… I'm 14 months into HT and about 85 to 90% improved!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/866316313424325/?comment_id=866319226757367&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* “I am using Human Hook Worms for the Treatment of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease with my predominant symptoms being Lupus… So almost 5 months after first inoculation and my labs are all normal except my eosinophils (0.7 against a normal of 0.4). I googled this and it indicates that I have helminths in my body.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/895656247156998/?comment_id=895687123820577&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/895656247156998/?comment_id=895687783820511&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] And, posted 2 years later: "I have been off all meds for 2 1/2 years now." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1526834757372474/?comment_id=1527227493999867&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “A 33-year-old woman with a history of mixed connective tissue disease presented for routine follow-up… Her presenting symptoms included polyarthritis, mouth sores, photosensitivity, malar rash, dry eyes and mouth, and Raynaud's phenomenon… She procured Necator americanus larvae and self-inoculated… She reports significant improvement in symptoms (joint pain, swelling, rash) after her second inoculation… On this visit, she was asymptomatic. There was no evidence of rash or synovitis on examination. Complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and complement levels were within reference ranges. She was contented with helminthic therapy and wanted to continue it.” [http://journals.lww.com/jclinrheum/Citation/2017/06000/Helminthic_Therapy__A_New_Era_in_Immune_Mediated.19.aspx]

* “I was diagnosed with mixed connective tissue disorder about two years ago. Plaquenil and some huge dietary changes helped significantly, but I still had some problems… So I dosed with my first five NA. I'm not quite at twelve weeks yet and I already see improvements. My energy level was decent before, but even better now. My skin is starting to look like human skin for the first time in years. No more hardening and splitting skin, it's less scaly and dry, less swelling around the joints. I ate a tiny bit of curry with pepper in it and I didn't have a terrible rheumatoid arthritis flare in response.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1783159398406674/] (Post includes before-and-after pictures of this self-treater's hands.)

=== Mold (mould) illness / sensitivity ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and mold illness | '''Helminthic therapy and mold illness''']].

* “Thanks to helminthic therapy, she can cope much better now with mold.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/402111096511518/?comment_id=403432993045995&offset=0&total_comments=23]

* “I was poisoned by the floxie antibiotics. That is why I started Helminthic. My fungal issues are still with me but I am so much better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/402111096511518/?comment_id=1658157664240182&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "I have CIRS from mould illness, MCAS and histamine Intolerance, although, when I began HT, I wasn’t aware of these diagnoses. I must say HT has been a lifesaver for me, and I found NA and TSO extremely helpful with mould symptoms; HDC, not so much. I started with 8 NA in 2019 and felt positive effects within the first three months. When I started TSO, I had a sophisticated colony of NA on board already. Zero side effects to a full course of TSO. The effects of both species on board were absolutely fantastic. I couldn’t afford to take TSO after that, unfortunately, and so benefits declined rapidly after finishing the last dose. Through this period, I was living with mould. Hence, I am confident that HT has helped me a great deal with the symptoms of mould illness." (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5665304660192109?comment_id=5667245379998037 this post].)

* "I have recently started my helminth therapy about 4 months ago with outstanding results! I was treating mold reactions, asthma, food allergies, and MCS. I am so much better with all but the MCS. I've been able to dig in my garden without a mold reaction or a very tiny one. This is all with just one treatment of 3 NAs." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3383888028333795?comment_id=5796753870380520]

=== Mononucleosis / infectious mononucleosis / glandular fever ===

"A young friend of my son's has had 2 years of fatigue post glandular fever. Would become unwell if he pushed himself at all. One dose of 5 NA and within 2 months is 90 percent back to his old energetic self." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4705875772801674?comment_id=4706132432776008] 

=== Mouth ulcers ===
* “Mouth ulcers - they happened frequently and were severe, now it barely ever happens.” (Link expired)

=== Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) ===

* These first two reports are by the same person.
** "I have MCS and I get (among other things) rashes from exposure to people wearing scents, going into buildings other than my home (due to cleaning chemicals, carpets, air fresheners, etc.), and exposure to the sun… I BELIEVE I'm seeing some improvement in rashes." (Link expired)
** "... my MCS symptoms are also improved... the irritability I get after seeing fragranced students or clients is also gone." (Link expired)

* "... my bronchial tubes no longer react at all to the myriad of lesser triggers (i.e. perfumes, scented products, smoke)." (Link expired)

* "I no longer need to worry at all about fragrance, so can entertain ‘smelly’ people, use ‘smelly’ taxis without incident, and, recently, have even managed to do some painting on the house – the first I’ve done for many years – without any problem at all, and I was using absolutely bog standard, very smelly, solvent-based gloss paint!” (From an NA user) [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/helminths_mcs.html]

* "So my problems ranged from :-- chemical allergies especially pesticide and petroleum sensitivity, cold fever on exertion, no energy (running on empty feeling), reacting to nearly all foods, never confident of going out anywhere, mental confusion, ringing ears, extreme itchy ears etc, sensitive to odours etc. etc. (But, after 8 months with NA) things are radically different. That whole dysfunctional autoimmune veneer I was smothered by has gone. Imagine walking out of a fog that has been with you for decades…” (Reported in a private discussion, 2011.)

* "I suffer , or should I say, used to suffer from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and multiple chemical sensitivities. I have hookworm, follow the SCD diet, ....and seem to be doing much better." (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012)

* The following two reports are by the same person.
** "Her chemical sensitivity, identified by how much she can smell chemicals, has almost disappear..." (Link expired)
** “My wife suffered from allergies, food intolerances and chemical sensitivity for about 13 years and we tried many therapies. 22 months ago, she started helminthic therapy (with NA) and this is by far the best remedy we have found.” (Link expired)

* "Our two year old son was sensitive to fragrances in detergents and soaps - we noticed he would scratch excessively if we put him in clothes that had been washed with scented detergent, and his eczema would flare up. (He has had mild eczema since he was 3 or 4 months old.) Since his first dose with 5 NA about 13 weeks ago, we have seen a significant improvement! His skin is pretty much clear, just a small patch of dryness on each of his feet. He no longer seems bothered after washing his hands with scented soap (this used to make his wrists itch for hours)." (Link expired)

* "Our 2½ year old started with 5 NA in May 2013. He had eczema, mild food allergies (egg white, wheat, and peanut), and was sensitive to fragrance and some foods (dairy, potatoes). So far we have seen significant improvement in the eczema and sensitivities. We have reintroduced dairy and potatoes in small amounts with no reaction…" (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2013)

* "My environmental sensitivities seem to have greatly improved. I can now handle scented products much much better than in the past." (Reported to a closed group, Aug 2013, after 15 months with NA.)

* ☹️ “I have food intolerances and multiple chemical sensitivity and I didn't benefit from helminhic therapy… My lack of success with helminths might be due to liver issues as a root cause for my diseases (mutations in several of the genes CYP450 and some fluctuating liver numbers).” (Link expired)

* “… it is now easier to breath than since I was a kid, my snoring has gone down and I have not had any reaction to perfumes that previously had me blowing my nose profusely, it feels great!, it was worth doing NA just for that!” (Link expired)

* “While my response is incomplete, it allows me much greater freedom to interact socially, to get through the workday with considerably less, and less frequent pain, and to interact with my wife and children in a much kinder, supportive, and rewarding fashion upon returning home from work. Although imperfect, hookworms (NA) are the ONLY preventive therapy I have found for my condition, and I am very glad to have them.” (Link expired)

* “I was hyper sensitive to the world. A trace of perfume. A trace of plastic smell. I had to be so careful with foods - no man made commercial stuff. After helminths (NA) everything damped down. I was able to go out and perfumes no longer bothered me. I started eating more foods... bananas came back in which is nice; Basically I wasn't on a knife edge any more.” (Reported to a closed group, Nov 2014)

* “I have had numerous food intolerances as well as sensitivities to most chemicals for 45 years… It will be 2 years (next month) with hookworms. Improvements include reduced sensitivities to many foods and chemicals, loss of addiction to sugars and chocolates. Increased energy and reduced anxiety. It hasn't totally removed food and chemical sensitivities but tolerance has improved.” (Link expired)

* “I noticed last week I was able to enjoy music in the car, particularly "noisier music" for the first time in many years. I deal with ME/CFS and can find noise of any kind can be overstimulating and extremely unpleasant.” (From a user of NA. Link expired)

* "My chemical sensitivity is largely gone (after first using HDC and then NA). The only chemicals I'm still wary of are e numbers in packaged foods.' [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4873143939408189?comment_id=4873173692738547]

* "I’m running around my home and cleaning on a Sunday. And I realized that I’ve started to use chemicals that I wasn’t able to use for 10 years. I know that it may seem trivial. But a home is made up of things that are comforting. And scents are certainly a part of that. Yet for a long time, I would become sick by simply touching and breathing in certain ingredients. Especially the cleansers that contained gluten. It could put me in bed for 2 days (or more), in pain. So vinegar, baking soda, and Castile soap were my friends. Yet now it’s been 4 years since I started helminthic therapy. And I may hesitate buying something that is processed and artificially scented. But I’m able to use the Lysol wipes and Murphy oil soap if I want. And I don’t have to read the ingredients to make sure that I’ll be ok. And I certainly will not end up in bed for 2 days if use one of them." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6323029084419660/]

=== Multiple sclerosis (MS) ===

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS | '''Travels with 10 hookworms. Treating total food intolerance, food allergy and MS''']]

* Three annual reports by the same person:
** "... this is the first April I have been attack free." (Link expired)
** "This is my second MS season... attack free!" (Link expired)
** "... its been just over three years since receiving hookworm therapy and... my MS and allergies are still in complete remission!" (Link expired)

* Two reports by a different individual, written nine months apart.
** "In summary I will say that without a doubt it has been a success for me." (Link expired)
** “So far my hookworm experience in fighting my Relapse Remitting MS has been great! I would say awesome even.” (Link expired)

* The following reports were posted by yet another person, nearly three years apart.
** "It has been 3 years since my last relapse. And since I've had hookworms, all left over traces from my last relapse have disappeared completely… I think that the hookworms have stopped any disease activity and that has allowed my brain time to heal… I'm incredibly happy and relieved with the results, and I encourage anyone with MS to get treated with helminths, the sooner the better.” (Link expired)
** “I've been on HT for almost 4 years now, and I still have not had a relapse or any new or active lesions on my yearly MRI's.” (Link expired)

* "I followed Swank/Jelinek's diet when I was diagnosed eight years ago (2003) and I believe the diet made a huge difference for me but the hookworms stopped my ms progression 100%" (Reported to a closed group, Sept 2011)

* "I realized - after a few comments from friends - that I had stopped craving ADD drugs like Vyvanse and Adderall for their sheer energizing effect, stopped drinking – ready for this? – a pot and a half of coffee a day. I had more energy than I have had in something like 15 years. The afternoon fatigue wasn’t there as strongly – still there but reduced in its ability to floor me. I didn’t wake up tired and ready to go back to bed… All in all, I'm a happy girl so far. To have some energy back - not complete but so, so much better - is beyond joyful." (Reported by an MS patient, 4 months after inoculation, in a private discussion, Dec 2011.)

* "… had 3rd top up last week and since then almost symptom free - just slight nerve fatigue towards end of the day." (Reported in a private discussion, Feb 2012)

* "… while my M.S. hasn't disappeared, I've been consistently stronger with no long weak periods, no more daily or every other day elevated temperature leading to falling and exhaustion, and I'm starting to remember what feeling "normal" feels like..." (Link expired)

* "Two months after I took the hookworms, all my MS symptoms vanished. I have not had a relapse or any kind of MS activity since I started hookworm therapy. Every brain MRI that I have had (4 of them) has shown no active lesions and no new lesions. In fact, a few lesions have actually disappeared… As far as I am concerned, hookworm therapy has been a total success so far, and I recommend it to anyone with MS." (Link expired)

* "I am on Necator Americanus starting in September 2007. I reached complete remission in six months. I'm happy to report my MS is still in remission!" (Reported to a closed group, Nov 2012)

* The following two reports are by the same blogger, two years apart.
** “… my MS has pretty much been benign since my initial diagnosis almost 5 years ago; I have still had what I call “ghost symptoms” from time to time. These are not real relapses. They happen when I get overheated or have a fever. The body mimics MS symptoms like tingling in the feet or hands and extreme fatigue. Since my wormies moved in, I’ve experienced none of these. I have been able to be out in the heat of the summer without problems. In a lot of ways, the last 6 months have been absolutely fantastic!” [http://moderndaym.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/hooked-up.html]
** "My MS has been pretty much non-existent. So much so that some days I can almost forget about it… When I take a step back to analyze where I am health wise now as opposed to where I was 2 or more years ago, the results truly have been life changing." [http://moderndaym.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/still-hooked.html]

* "18 months so far. Nothing to report! All symptoms have disappeared late summer of 2011 and since it's all quiet. Is there anything else to add?" (Reported to a closed group, Jan 2013)

* "My most recent MRI… showed no new disease activity over the last year. Yay! Over the last two years I have made numerous life changes including beginning a disease modifying therapy, helminthic therapy, a transition to a pesco-vegetarian diet, stress reduction techniques, and regular exercise. My doctor is telling me to keep doing the same stuff, including the helminthic therapy." (Reported Mar 2013, two years after diagnosis, following inoculations with a total of 135 hookworm larvae.)

* ☹️ "Since I'm not having the desired effect for my MS from the 230 HW I've been hosting for more than two years, and the 1500 WW I've been hosting for about a year, I'm considering terminating them and trying TSO for a while." (Link expired)

* "Have been inoculated with hookworms since Sept of 2011. Dietary changes were made years ago and I now have been off any MS medication for over 2 months and am feeling and doing very well." (Reported to a closed group, July 2013)

* "Since my second "dose" I can now lift my left leg which I couldn't do before. I actually can walk around without my cane at times. In fact, the other day I was walking around my daughter-in-law's home and my grandson tells me "Grandma, you aren't using your cane". I didn't even realize that I wasn't using it. I can feel that this therapy is working and I am slowly getting stronger. I now feel like I have hope for a better future with being able to function better." (Reported in a private message, July 2013)

* “The more important results were my M.S. results which I have responded very well to. I have not had any symptoms since one month after inoculation…now I do not need MS meds or anything.. They are truly a miracle for me..” (Link expired)

* “Coming up to 3 year anniversary of starting Helminthic therapy. Overall things very good. No significant relapses. Holding down very well paid job and loving it.” (Posted to a closed group, Jan 2014)

* The following reports are all from one individual who was diagnosed in 2012 and has hosted NA since 2013.
** “Had my MRI results this week (after 3 inoculations with NA) and compared them to 2 years ago. My brain lesions have disappeared… I am taking no MS meds, just Paleo diet and 20,000 ius Vitamin D daily. My gait has improved and neurologist tested it this week. I am full of energy and back in full time work.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/614921948563764/?qa_ref=pp&comment_id=673178322738126&offset=0&total_comments=43]
** “All the MRI’s this year (2018) showed no active lesions and no new brain lesions. I have had lots of energy, I am working and even took up Tango! I dance 💃🏻 for hours in 3 inch stilettos 👠!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/550484688340824/?comment_id=1920174818038464&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R3%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/550484688340824/?comment_id=1920176598038286&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]
** “After 7 years of only Helminthic Therapy, I am (still) in remission from MS!!!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/550484688340824/?comment_id=2503104803078793]
** "Got my results for my 10th year MRI’s. The results from the brain, cervical and thoracic images with and without contrast show no new or active lesions once more! Feeling grateful for my helminth population!!! I have only inoculated with hookworms in all these years. I have had no antibiotics, nor steroids, nor medicine!!! I love my old friends!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5591839860871923/]

* ☹️ "Unfortunately, I am not a success story with helminthic therapy. I was diagnosed 20 years ago with RRMS, but my condition has since progressed to SPMS. I had hookworms for about three years. It completely cured my allergies, but my multiple sclerosis did not improve. During the three years, I experimented with many different doses of hookworm and found that my MS symptoms were continuing to progress slowly. In 2012 or 2013, I got a severe stomach bug and had the worst MS attack of my life. After that, I stopped trying HT and continued back onto disease modifying medication." (Via private message.)

* “What a difference a year and 12 hookworms can make! Yesterday I went snowboarding!!!! Woo!!! Last time I tried that was 13 months ago, and it didn't go well. But yesterday went great! Nerve pain in my feet has diminished so I could wear boots. My fatigue and depression have eased. Had no vertigo. I could control my legs and my eyes were rock solid steady. I could wear contact lenses (first time in 1.5 years.) And I could even breathe.” (Link expired)

* “I have very mild MS. I saw total remission with hookworms about 8 years ago, and haven’t had a serious exacerbation since.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1862114863844460/?comment_id=1862139977175282&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

* “I've also been using NA for MS, and I think it helps quite a bit.” (Link expired)

* “I have had MS for 10 years, and NA for 3 years without any issues. Prior to NA, relapses came every 6-8 months. Now, since the NA, I have not had a relapse. That’s 3 years with greatly reduced symptoms, including pain. I cannot encourage people enough to get on board with this alternative to standard medicine. It can be in addition to your current treatment too.” (Link expired)

* "I have been on HDC for MS for 6 months. I started slowly on 30 HDC every 2 weeks and stayed on this for a few months. I have good weeks and bad weeks with symptoms which relate to the phases in my monthly cycle, and I found my bad weeks were better than I would expect. After developing a new symptom, I stopped the HDC for 6-8 weeks to see if this was causing it. It wasn’t, and I noticed I was worse in the bad phases of my cycle, so I restarted the HDC. Before that, I had got up to 50 HDC every 2 weeks, and I resumed at that dose for a month. Then I increased it to 100 HDC every 2 weeks. I don’t think I’ve found my optimal dose yet, but there is definitely a positive effect happening for me and, yesterday, my osteopath commented on how well I was walking." (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5197543453634901/ this post].)

* "My sister in law has MS and RA, and she’s been in remission since getting on NA with a small amount of TSO." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5927173557338550?comment_id=5929200120469227]

* "I have RRMS. I was in a clinical trial years ago and took TSO. I started with 5 brain lesions and 10 months later had 0. I felt great I was so pleased… Since then I have taken no meds. My MS has only shown one new lesion a few years ago." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6053229198066318/]

=== Myasthenia gravis ===
* "Hi, yes the (hookworm) definitely help with myasthenia gravis. I have MG and I know this treatment works for me… The benefit was gradual, but I was doing hour long spinning classes 5 mths into the treatment. I had strength and endurance which I had completely lost to the MG… I accidentally killed (my worms) with oregano extract in December. My symptoms rebounded quite fast and that was totally scary. I couldn't work out anymore due to muscle fatigue etc. I have noticed that although it has only been 3 wks or so (since I re-dosed), my legs don't shake when I go up stairs, my double vision is gone, and I am starting to feel strong again." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* “Hi, I just wanted to let people out there know that I have been using hdc with great success for the last 6 months. I have lupus and myasthenia gravis and it has definitely helped. Along with hdc I do also use Hk and have been for three years., though for me it wasn't enough on its own and it gave me severe gi issues. I lost my hk frequently, but after adding the hdc I have not had that happen. One huge bonus for me is that I have had hair grow in that I thought was permanently gone due to the lupus.” (Reported in Mar 2014.)

=== Myodesopsia (floaters) ===
(Also known as myodaeopsia, myiodeopsia and myiodesopsia.)

* "Right now (at about 22 weeks since my first dose of NA) I have about a 75% reduction in distinct dark dots. There are still quite a few faint ones but its a huge reduction that had been increasing for the 5 yrs previous to NA." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1491534154235868/]

=== Myopia ===

* “I'm at week 14 (2 inoculations of 40 HW) and i noticed today that i can read my clock from across the room. 2 months ago i could not have done that without glasses.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/854883214567635/]

=== Narcolepsy ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and narcolepsy | '''Helminthic therapy and narcolepsy''']] 
* "I don't have MS but narcolepsy, which is actually pretty similar, autoimmune reaction to brain, and have found a lot of relief with the paleo diet combined with (hook)worms. I used to have to take amphetamines so stay conscious, now I no longer need them, although I do still take medicine at night to improve my sleep cycles." (Reported in a private discussion, Mar 2012)

=== Nasal congestion ===

* "Prior to inoculation I was continually congested… I could not smell for the last few years because of the congestion. This was on antihistamines and a double dose of nasal steroids… But I am dramatically improved on a much decreased medication schedule." (Link expired)

* "... my slumbers ceased to be nightmares of nasal obstruction, and my days became completely free from the need to blow or even wipe my nose." [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Nasal_allergies_nuked_by_worms]

* “My hookworm benefits are really blooming. Tonight i was rummaging around in the kitchen and realized the cabinets have a distinct smell -- old paint, dish soap -- and i hadn't smelled that the entire time i've lived in this house -- about 9 years. there's a whole world of odor out there!” (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* “I began, all at once, really, to have a surprisingly sudden lack of unhealthy mucus. I can literally trace symptom relief back to this exact moment (3 months after inoculation with hookworm). The next morning was the first morning I woke up with a more-or-less clear nose in about the last seven years. I have woken up with an increasingly clear nose every day since then and today is the first day in seven years that I woke up with absolutely nothing in my nose at all. It is only writing this now that I realize that I actually forgot to use my nasal steroids as well. I don't think I need them anymore… I'm not on any pills or drugs or crap and I have no problems. I am normal.” [http://pastebin.com/1fHvWHTc]

=== Nasal polyps ===

* "My father has something called Samter's syndrome which includes nasal polyps, chronic rhinitis, and aspirin sensitivity. For 20-25 years, he had little sense of taste or smell, due to polyps on his sinus nerve, and he had multiple surgeries to remove them. Starting about 6 months after getting hookworms, the polyps went away, never to return. He's now had his sense of taste and smell all day every day, acutely, for a good 3 1⁄2 years.” Two years after posting this, the contributor added, “Now he is getting the same efficacy from HDC." (Links expired)

* "Recurring nasal polyps… I have reversed them without surgery, I can smell so well now that shampoo can give me a headache.. I can smell soap.. I can properly taste food.. and I feel generally great." (Link expired)

* "When i was treating myself with HDC I had a crazy level of sense of smell come back within a couple of weeks of starting therapy. It was amazing all of a sudden to be able to smell both roses and farts." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4107707925951798?comment_id=4118088888247035]

=== Night terror (sleep terror) ===
See [[Helminthic therapy and sleep#Night terrors | '''Helminthic therapy and sleep: night terrors''']].

=== Non-coeliac / celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Coeliac / celiac disease|'''Coeliac / celiac disease''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Gluten ataxia|'''Gluten ataxia''']]

* “A few weeks ago, I (nervously) tried bread and ice cream: no reaction! I have since been eating wheat and dairy products regularly, with no problems… This therapy has profoundly improved my life.” (Link expired)

* “He used to break out in eczema if he had gluten more than 2 days in a row and now he can eat it every day.” (Link expired)

* "… for the first time in years, he was able to eat bread without feeling ill." (Link expired)

* “I don't have celiac but HW is reducing my gluten sensitivity.” (Link expired)

* "I started Helminth therapy last November. I think my numbers are at 150. I am happy to say that my allergies are mostly gone. I am eating corn and gluten again. Amazing." (Link expired)

* “Helminths have helped me with my gluten intolerance. I have had some transgressions with gluten recently and not had the terrible sleepiness and brain fog I normally get.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544570138932279/?comment_id=546531245402835&offset=0&total_comments=44]

* "Helped me eat gluten whenever I want worry free as well. I used to get serious headaches.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/868369199885703/?comment_id=868413366547953&offset=0&total_comments=3&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* “18 month update. After hitting the one year mark with no improvement I was starting to get discouraged… Finally, a couple weeks ago, everything changed. I was able to eat regular foods again. I did a gluten challenge... I did get symptoms, but nowhere as bad as before starting the treatment…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1035915279797760/]

* “I had severe food intolerances to Gluten and Dairy and I now eat anything and everything with no trouble at all. It took me about 6 months and 100 HW before I was able to introduce gluten without a bad reaction.” (Posted to a Closed group, Jun 2016)

* ☹️ “I have been hosting NA for two and a half years (but) I am gluten sensitive yet. I feel much better but I still have issues with gluten.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1346596455396306/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1346596455396306/?comment_id=1347073685348583&reply_comment_id=1347397008649584&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “The only difference NA has made to my overall health is to 100% treat my gluten intolerance...” (From someone with fibromyalgia.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1262542997134986/?comment_id=1553031971419419&reply_comment_id=1553240934731856&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]

* “The things that I wanted to get some positive result with was the fatigue and the pain associated almost certainly with gluten. The fatigue has been almost completely addressed. I still get tired but don’t get that knocked out sensation. The gluten tolerance is now much improved. If I do have too much, I can still get uncomfortable bloating etc but nothing like the pain previously, and can often get away with no pain at all. I am still careful but don’t have to be so rigid with excluding it.” (Reported at 9 months, after 3 doses of 5-7 NA at 3 month intervals.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2575977019124904/]

* “So I’m a little over a year into NA treatment. Last night I had dinner with a friend who is not familiar with my gluten allergy. And I decided to eat a full meal with no dietary restrictions (including flour). I did great! No noticeable symptoms until 12 hours later. I woke up with some moderate arthritic pain in my hands, and a mild headache. 16-18 hours later I had some mild GI discomfort. About 2-3 pounds of inflammation, so that was significantly decreased also. No staying in bed for 24 hours due to severe and debilitating pain. Although this isn’t going to become the norm at this point, it was incredibly freeing. I almost felt normal. I almost felt well. I did not truly believe that this would ever be possible.” (Link expired)

* “I have (had) Crohn’s and used to fear gluten for my life. I still feel like trash if I eat a diet of primarily carbs but I don’t fear gluten anymore and eat it occasionally. For the last 7 years now. It’s been great eating a donut every once in a while.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3818185338237393?comment_id=3821668694555724]

The following three reports are by the same individual.
:* “I’m in month 14 and have inoculated so far with 5/3/5/7 NA, and (finally!!) I see some real improvements when I eat gluten. I digest it much better now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2726061500783121?comment_id=3922843074438285]
:* (At 18 months.) “I AM EATING GLUTEN! Yes, capital letters today. In the past two weeks I think I have achieved a milestone. For the first time I have had consistent success with digesting gluten and other things on a frequent basis. I have been testing it out daily and had my fair share of pastries, cookies and pasta (forgive me, I haven't had that in what feels like an eternity!). I can most definitely say that the worms have changed my digestion (and IBS-D) and have increased my tolerance to allergens significantly.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/2726061500783121?comment_id=4327263047329617]
:* (At 3 years.) "I've been to Italy and have been eating gluten and all sorts of other things. No adverse reactions. I'm feeling absolutely great. I've been (very) gradually working my way up and now ordered 10 NA. I'm absolutely thrilled still. My digestion has changed completely, I couldn't be happier where I am now." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/2726061500783121?comment_id=5672582842797624]

* “I started with 5 NA… It was about 9-10 months before I was sure of positive results. Probably the best health care investment I could have made. No more gluten intolerance! Better energy, mood, etc.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4114243931964864/?comment_id=4122630134459577&notif_id=1628341306998476&ref=notif&notif_t=group_comment_follow]

* "I have non-celiac gluten sensitivity dx via a wheat zoomer from Vibrant America (though I do have genetic markers for celiac) that causes joint pain, constipation, and eczema (along with chronic EBV, lymes, hashimotos, type 2 diabetes, and NAFLD/NASH). I introduced a puny 3 NA in September and ate so much gluten over the holidays and didn't have increase in joint pain, constipation, or eczema." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6839806062741957?comment_id=6925787744143788]

* "My wife is basically healthy. But she doesn't eat gluten because it generates a little bit of inflammation and mostly because she gets somewhat depressed when she eats anything with even a small amount of gluten. Seeing all the good TSO did for me with UC (Ulcerative colitis - more than 2 years symptom free) she began taking around 500 ova every 2 weeks for maintaining her general health. She began just 3 months ago. Last week she went on a nature trail / kayaking vacation with a group of 12 people. She had asked for no gluten meals but somehow that was not done. So she spent 7 days eating gluten every day. It had no negative impact at all. No inflammation, no depression feeling during or after the trip. Nothing. We believe this to due to TSO. It is the only thing that has changed in her lifestyle. For at least 10 years she always reacted to the slightest amount of gluten. Just not this time around. This will make traveling much more easy of course!" [https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid06V3ii9g5vT7mH1s5RQsQotWSggJgDikphGDKP4TvDdyZDb6ez2RsCHu7VBP4AdQ2l&id=100006887117779]

* "Following a few months off the NA, I took another dose about 2 months ago to treat gluten intolerance. I've been eating gluten filled noodles and had two slices of bread the other day with minimal to no reactions. It's been day and night of a difference." (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7489879411067949/ this thread].)

=== Osteoarthritis (OA) ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Arthritis | Arthritis]], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) | Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)]] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) | Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)]].

* “I was starting to get early onset osteo, seems to have stopped.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/547711618618131/?comment_id=548558781866748&offset=0&total_comments=8]

* “In my own case, (osteoarthritis) is well controlled by taking Glucosamine/Chondroitin and Hyaluronic acid, but, having recently forgotten to get a top-up dose of hookworm on time, I noticed a reappearance of discomfort from my affected joints and had to increase the supplements to compensate, so it looks like the worms were helping with this condition.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/547711618618131/?comment_id=548698365186123&offset=0&total_comments=8]

* ☹️ “I have solid osteo in the hips. I have also had NA for about 5 years. No apparent help at all for osteo but good help for hay fever.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1254838447905441/?comment_id=1255643867824899&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

* “HDC reduced the inflammation I suffered from osteoarthritis so I feel it indirectly helped.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1254838447905441/?comment_id=1259204867468799&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “My osteoarthritis is most evident in my right hand knuckle and spine (back and neck). At 12 weeks post inoculation (with NA), my osteoarthritis improved noticeably, measured by pain in knuckle and 'cricking' noises in my neck during exercises.” (Via email.)

* “I have Osteoarthritis in my big toe/foot joint and Coeliac Disease. I was also diagnosed with Polyarthralgia. After getting my 10 NA about 14 months ago and then another 10 about 5 months later I really noticed a difference in the aching joints. My polyarthralgia in my hands and feet have improved immensely and the osteoarthritis is definitely better although I still get pain walking as constantly have to walk using that big toe joint. It was when I lost my colony of NA after having to take a series of courses of antibiotics in early 2018 when my symptoms came back and I really noticed how well I had been with the NA on board.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2193706024018674/?comment_id=2194063233982953&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Palpitations ===

* “Before I started helminth therapy my heart would flutter a lot and I had irregular heart beat. It got where I could feel it all the time. It hasn't happened since.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1129400567115897/?comment_id=1130814773641143&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

=== Pancolitis ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Microscopic colitis | '''Microscopic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Lymphocytic colitis | '''Lymphocytic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative colitis | '''Ulcerative colitis''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative proctitis | '''Ulcerative proctitis''']].

* “I just got word after the last colonoscopy that my pancolitis is fully disappeared. After nearly a decade of failed treatments, I am fine thanks to a course of TTO. Took about 3 months for remission.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2037920129597265/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2037920129597265/?comment_id=2039808636075081&reply_comment_id=2040019929387285&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%2315%22%7D]

* “I was 19 years old when diagnosed with pancolitis. I have tried everything with minimal if any relief from my symptoms. I'm 6 weeks in hosting human hookworm (NA) and I can't tell you how much i wish I had done this sooner.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1852446168144663/?comment_id=1853108804745066&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* These two posts are about the same boy:
**“My son has pancolitis and we are 7 months into helminth therapy. We have had a very smooth journey on TTO with really no side effects or worsening of symptoms. My only regret is that we didn’t start sooner.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1852446168144663/?comment_id=1854858797903400&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]
**“My boy is going really well. We have just hit 12 months on TTO. His blood results are all very good, best they have ever been, and he is growing consistently for the first time in years. He is able to go to school and has a part time job, he just turned 15.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1852446168144663/?comment_id=1854858797903400&reply_comment_id=2055318647857413&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D]

* "I’m 23 years old with severe ulcerative pancolitis. 5th time of dosing with NA, and I’ve never felt this good in all the years i have had this disease. Its like I don’t even have colitis anymore. 10/10 feel great. Currently no adverse symptoms except for diarrhea/inflammation for the first 2 weeks after inoculation." (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7679276818794873/ this post].)

=== PANDAS / PANS ===
(Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections / Paediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome)

* "We are almost six months past his initial inoculation (with NA). His PANDAS is pretty much completely gone, his sensory issues are back to what they were pre-PANDAS. He is dramatically improved. This is all way beyond our wildest dreams, since we had no idea these results could happen and were trying to address his allergic rhinitis and chronic ear infections with the treatment." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* "I can't believe it's been almost a year since we got inoculated with hookworm… It's amazing to see my son run up to school from the end of the block on his own when at the beginning of the school year, he was almost paralyzed by panic attacks from PANDAS, a disease for which there is basically no treatment or cure aside from antibiotic administration until adulthood." (Reported in a private discussion, Jun 2012)

* "Our son, who is 10 and has Autism as well as PANDAS, was our first child to go on TSO and he has benefited greatly from it. It is also helping quite a lot with his allergies. (High Histamines = raging BAD mood for him.) His bloodwork results have been coming back close to normal where they'd not ever been close to normal in the past. Similar with our daughter, who is almost 13 and who began TSO in January 2013. She has had PANDAS and OCD for 9-10 years, since she was a toddler, but with the addition of TSO to her regimen, she lost her OCD overnight in January and it's not returned, though she says she can feel a little "buzzing" when it's time for more TSO, and that means the benefit is starting to wane. She was doing well enough in April to take a break from IVIG, at which point her bloodwork began coming in normal. She continues TSO every 2 weeks and is now happy and stable." (Link expired)

* “5 months without a PANDAS flare up!! Thank you helminths!! My ASD & PANDAS daughter was having horrible anxiety, involuntary movements, some really scary tongue and breathing tics and, before she got her 45 Necator Americanus helminths, she was having flares every month. I was so desperate to stop the suffering and I only regret not doing it two years ago when I first heard of helminthic therapy and thought it was just crazy. There was a dramatic worsening of tics the first few weeks. At times it seemed like she was for sure starting a new flare but the symptoms would only last for minutes or a couple hours, and there has been a complete resolution of PANDAS flare ups now. I had tried TSO before the NA and I was amazed at the immediate improvements but I just couldn't afford to pay $400 a month for the TSO. The majority of research that I found on helminths for autoimmune conditions is for NA, and the cost is better since they live 3+ years.” (Edited from several posts in this thread: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1068326963223258/])

* These two posts are about the same child:
**“My son was very very sick when we started HDC worms. We have been on them every two weeks for over a year... Worms have changed my kids life drastically. He was on 3 antibiotics to treat his PANDAS before. He was always up and down and under weight. He gained over 5 inches in 7 months on the worms. Is 30 percentile in weight and 20 percentile now in height. This is a kid that never even made the charts.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1181463555242931/]
**“We do HDC for over a year for my PANDAS autism kid. Best thing we have ever done. He was on 3 antibiotics and still having flares before we started. He is 12 and for the first time since 4 off all antibiotics and no flares for this entire year. Ocds, tics and anxiety so much better. Using more language. Trying so many new things. Went from dangerously underweight to 30 percentile. Grew over 6 inches in one year. Overall healthier. Best thing we could have ever done. He is just so easy going and that is not what anyone would have said about him before.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1187124991343454/]

* "Good news re: my PANS / PANDAS child (age 9) - his obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) decreased by 95% practically overnight, following his 4th dose of 2,500 TSO. It has lasted for 2 days now, where he no longer cares where things are placed/ordered around our home. Previously, if one thing was "out of place" he would grow very agitated and angry until it was back the way he needed it to be. We started him on a half dose (1,200) of TSO at the beginning of October with 2,500 TSO every two weeks after. He would temporarily get worse after each dose, but it was worth it. His appetite has also improved lately. Best thing I have heard all year - 'Mama, I'm so happy I don't care where things go any more.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1494227933966490/] And an update, two years later... “He’s still doing well. The severe OCD, constant crankiness and rages never returned. He does backslide a bit during pollen season where we live - a touch of OCD, some anger and crying over little things. As soon as he's done crying, he's himself. This happens a few times a week during pollen season. So still way, way better than he was before helminths.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1469185616470722/?comment_id=2384367651619176&reply_comment_id=2385235008199107]

* “My son’s PANDAS was essentially cured in six weeks after inoculation with NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1469185616470722/?comment_id=2389019767820631] He was five years old. He had intense separation anxiety, palilalia, verbal tics, obsessive destructive tendencies taking things apart, chewing holes in his clothing multiple times per day, not eating, attacks of enuresis of wetting his pants uncontrollably, not being able to sleep. He couldn’t go alone into any room in our house. We had to have all the lights on 24 hours per day. He would ask me, “Mama, where are you?” hundreds of times a day when I had not moved. He could only sleep lying on top of my body. This was on amoxicillin for five straight months. Off of it, he was worse. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1469185616470722/?comment_id=2389019767820631&reply_comment_id=2389075397815068] My son still gets a spike in anxiety when exposed to strep but he is essentially cured. He was treated eight years ago. We reinoculated multiple times but he has not had an inoculation in four years." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1469185616470722/?comment_id=2389019767820631&reply_comment_id=2389396524449622]

* “We just started my 8yo pans daughter on HDC and within days she was so much better than she's been in months!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1068326963223258/?comment_id=1270599359662683&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Omg, my PANDAS son is infected with strep and he's NOT in a full on flare! This is HUGE. In the past when he's been infected, I know it before the doctors do. His behaviors go off the charts, and we start thinking things like maybe he needs to go to a mental institution for treatment. This time, his behaviors have increased slightly, and I was honestly thinking that maybe the HDC wasn't effective for him and this was a sign of that. Instead, he's been fighting the infection and only slightly worsened. I am hopeful for the first time in a long time!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2641427349246537/] (Also see this [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2445510625504878/ support group thread] about the same boy.)

* “Our son is Fully recovered! the treatment actually put his Pans into remission. He has not done Flovent since last January 2019.” (Reported in October 2020.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2703388759717062/?comment_id=3287677181288214]

* “My son, who is 15, is on the autism spectrum, is gay, overweight, fatigued, depressed, and has PANDAS/POTS and OCD, along with mast cell and allergy issues. The list is long! He started using helminths to treat the PANDAS. The first dose was 5 NA in November 2019, then a second dose of 5 in May 2020. He has always struggled with being awkward and different, and had difficulty expressing what he was feeling, but I didn’t realise just how severely depressed he had become. When he told me how much he had hated himself for so long, it broke my heart. His anxiety was off the charts. He said he was suicidal. Fortunately, a month on helminths has cleared his brain. He wakes up early now, and has lost 15 lbs. It’s like night and day, like a switch turned off and his inflammation is gone, and I am so thankful for this. I wish I had given NA to him 5 years ago. He's doing so great on them. Helminths have literally saved his life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3419265288129402/]

* “HDC (I take 10 every three weeks) have a positive impact on my mood. My case may be different from others, but... PANS is what leads to my low mood. In PANS, autoantibodies attach to dopamine and glutamate receptors in the basal ganglia, which blocks their transmission in normal amounts. I think my good mood when I take HDC is likely because it helps whatever is leading to those autoantibodies being in the wrong place (my basal ganglia receptors), so more dopamine and glutamate can reach their proper destination. Not sure if these mechanics apply to many other disorders, though.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2296657347056874/?comment_id=2334347929954482&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] (There's more about this individual on her blog, [https://web.archive.org/web/20230513003041/https://mysymbiontjourney.wordpress.com/ Old Friends].)

=== Parkinson’s disease ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy and Parkinson's disease | '''Helminthic therapy and Parkinson's disease''']].
* “They (pig whipworms - TSO) have a brilliant effect on dyskinesia and the need for drugs. It reduces the need for levadopa considerably.” [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jtTDSP3BOo Watch the video]

=== Periodontitis (gum disease) ===

See [[Helminthic therapy and oral health | '''Helminthic therapy and oral health''']].

=== Peripheral neuropathy ===

* “I have peripheral neuropathy in my feet, which in my case manifests most strongly as erythromelagia... I got helminthic therapy (hookworm and human whipworm) in spring 2008. Since then I've been experiencing slow but fairly steady improvement. For a long time I had to soak my feet in cool water to interrupt the attacks, a couple of times a day and always several times in the middle of the night. I no longer need to that, and have no trouble sleeping. Had also lost control of the muscles that straighten my toes, and have gotten that ability back... My feet are not 100%. But the improvement has been very pleasing.” (Link expired)

* "I am pleased to report that after two months on the therapy my symptoms are improving and I'm off the prednisone. I had no side effects except a little dizziness the day I applied the patch." (Reported Mar 2013, after only one dose of hookworm larvae.)

=== Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) ===

* “My son who is 15 uses NA for POTS and pandas. It's the only thing that has truly helped him. He has had them since Nov (i.e., for 3 months). Truly a different kid. I gave him a very small dose and it has changed his life for the better in so many ways.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2699529700102968/?comment_id=2699631023426169&reply_comment_id=2699839240072014]

=== Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) ===

* “I have polymyalgia rheumatica (an autoimmune disorder mediated by interleukin-6). The worst symptoms of pain (which made me yelp out loud whenever I moved) and stiffness (like walking in hip-deep water) can be controlled with prednisone, assuming one can tolerate the side effects of that. However, prednisone does not help with the fatigue which is often quite disabling. In my case, whenever I was standing up, I wanted to be sitting down and whenever I was sitting, I wanted to be lying down. Going anywhere, doing anything was a struggle - I was swimming upstream all the time. When it was time to meet a friend to go sailing (one of my favourite activities), I’d wail to myself “Oh, no, I have to go sailing!!” because all I wanted to do was lie down. The major effect of my hookworms has been relief from this overwhelming fatigue. About 3 months after the first inoculation, this just went away. Then, maybe 6 weeks after the second inoculation, I noticed the yard was full of fallen leaves, so I got a rake and raked them. The previous year, the same sight was overwhelming and just made me want to cry and, after a few halfhearted attempts, I gave up. I am probably still somewhat less energetic than before the polymyalgia, but I no longer feel like the Earth’s gravitational field has doubled (maybe tripled).” (Link expired)

* "I also have PMR... The standard treatment, prednisone, had worked OK at relieving the pain and stiffness, but I was still staggering around with fatigue... I can't tell whether I'd have needed more prednisone without the parasites (PMR is exceedingly variable), but the fatigue is greatly decreased and my allergies to fruit, poison ivy, and pollen have gone away." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1339849382737680/?comment_id=1343990772323541&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

* “I have been donating Necator americanus (NA) to someone who is currently 67 and had been prescribed Methotrexate and Prednisone for wide ranging autoimmune pain diagnosed as polymyalgia rheumatica. He was clearly struggling when I mentioned NA to him. His first dose was 5 NA and we have dosed every 3 months or so with small doses. He hasn’t had any issues, possibly just a headache one time. We have been gradually increasing the amount of NA and, two weeks after the last dose, he was in such pain with his right hand and wrist that he couldn’t work and went to his GP begging for pain relief, However, he didn’t take the drugs that were prescribed because the pain had gone the next morning, just short of 12 months after his first inoculation. Since then, his pain levels are the lowest they have been in five years and his work is so much easier. All the evidence points to the hookworms being responsible as he is not taking any other medication. He says ‘The difference was sudden and amazing. My pain levels are still really low and the relief is fantastic.’” (Edited. Original link expired)

* "I had PMR. After 18 months I dosed three times with NA, and it absolutely helped. I had tried to lower prednisone - terrible pain - and after I began the hookworms it improved with each dose. Now I am totally clear... I’m 80, run four miles a day and swim a mile. I could not walk without pain before." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7352661034789788/?comment_id=7352717028117522&reply_comment_id=7373007832755108]

=== Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) ===

* “Helminth has helped my pms now that I think about it.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1033503240038964/?comment_id=1033591873363434&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* “ When I first got NA (3NA eleven months ago) I had worse PMS than usual for the first four months. More bloating and cramping and fatigue, and back pain which I had not experienced since I was a teenager. Then, after four months from the first dose, my PMS literally disappeared. I had ZERO cramps. I did not need ibuprofen at all when I was normally taking ~6 ibuprofen each day for 3-4 days just to be able to function.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2214207825301827/?comment_id=2224325204290089&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I'm currently through week 15 of first dose of 5 NA and my premenstrual syndrome is practically gone! Just wow! Also the accompanying acne markedly improved. I have to say, I'm impressed!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2263527243703218/?comment_id=2264175676971708&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) ===

* “I used helminths to treat psc. It did help reduce the symptoms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2238337022888907/?comment_id=2238810239508252&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Prostatitis ===

* “In years past I’ve always noticed prostatitis is a problem for me as seasons change, particularly from Summer into Fall. Not so, this year, and perhaps this is also due to my hookworm! Why? My theory is prostatitis can be the result of seasonal allergies. In quite a few forums around the web I’ve noticed men wondering about a connection, and my experience could help to confirm it. I do hope in time hookworm will be put to use for this “off-label” condition, as I find it to be more beneficial than any other therapy I’ve tried!” [https://gettinghealthiernow.wordpress.com/2014/08/15/hookwormforprostatitis/]

=== Psoriasis ===

The first two reports and video are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[The effects of NA on psoriasis | '''The effects of NA on psoriasis''']]

:* [[Hook me up! Treating autoimmune disease with hookworms | '''Hook me up! Treating autoimmune disease with hookworms''']] (re. guttate psoriasis)

:* [http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6zq7u_psoriasis-treatment_tech An adaptive trial for psoriasis using hookworm]

* “The psoriasis i used to get has also completely gone.” (Link expired)

* The following two reports are from the same person, four months apart.
** "I have 25 hookworms so far and my psoriasis is almost gone.. I have had it all over my head for my whole life and have had it on my face before as well as my arms... I got the worms because I have M.S. and I have had no more symptoms so far. I got them around 5 months ago…" (Link expired)
** “Well my psoriasis is 90 present gone but sometimes I get a little then it goes away again . These are very good results seeing as I have had it my whole life.” (Link expired)

* “Over the last 20 years I have tried everything the NHS has offered me - methotrexate, cyclosporin, fumaric acid esters, UV treatments, dithranol - among other things - but I've *never* seen results anything like this. The only treatment I have had in the last year is hookworms. At about 9 months in, most of my torso cleared up in the space of a couple of weeks. Then about a month ago my legs cleared up almost overnight. So I seem to have had little spurts of healing, rather than a constant improvement. I have continued to use dovobet ointment most days throughout the hookworm treatment, just because I find it prevents my plaques from building up and becoming cracked and painful. But I've been doing that for about fifteen years anyway, so I'm confident that the worms are the reason for this big change! I don't have psoriatic arthritis, but I did have a lot of muscle pain in my joints due to hypermobility, and that has improved a great deal as well. To get these results without side-effects, without daily trips to hospital or monthly blood-tests and blood-pressure monitoring, without risking melanoma or chemical burns, without killing my immune system and suffering repeated infections... it just seems too good to be true. I really couldn't be happier with the results!” (Edited from several posts.) Read more, and see the before and after pictures - [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/The_effects_of_NA_on_psoriasis] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/736961443026480/?comment_id=737800506275907&offset=0&total_comments=17] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/823327041056586/]

* ☹️ “I've tried helminths treatment for my psoriasis (105 NA worms in doses of 35) almost 2 years in with absolutely no results... very discouraging... I still suffer like a bastard with psoriasis. In fact it has only progressed.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1035566929832595/?comment_id=1098435003545787&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “I've had huge success with my psoriasis taking only a single inoculation of 25 NA larvae. From a PSA score of at my worst nearly 9 to now only just on the scale.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1418137994908818/?comment_id=1419795441409740&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “At about 7 months (with NA)... all I had left was a gluten allergy and the psoriasis that was remaining in hair (body had cleared)... At a year and a half my psoriasis is gone...” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2013913788664566/]

* ☹️ “I started the worms (HDC) to help with my psoriasis and thyroid, (but) they never changed anything concerning those two things.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1992506134138665/?comment_id=1993393770716568&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "Prior to treating myself with NA, I suffered from very bad seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis on my scalp and sometimes on other parts of my body for more than 10 years. I didn't have a proper diagnosis so I couldn't confirm exactly which one it was. I started noticing some good improvements after having my third NA dose. It's been 3 years now and my skin is still completely clear. All I have to do is inoculate myself with 10 NAs once every few months." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5085475758175005/]

* "My Brother does NA and TTO and that helps with psor /PSA. One species was an intermittent relief for him and the second stabilized the benefit to be persistent." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7656697271052828/?comment_id=7659231470799408]

=== Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Arthritis | Arthritis]] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) | Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)]].

* "As the months after taking them passed, I was increasingly delighted with where things were going… any psoriatic arthritic symptoms I might have had just continued to fade away, my general feeling of well-being was great, my breathing felt easier and easier and my reaction to scents and whatever else that might have sent me off in the past virtually disappeared." (Reported in a private message, Jan 2013)

* “It took about two years, to get my psoriatic arthritis under control. I had mostly inflammation of joints to the point of locking. Needed hospitalization and physio. with one episode and azathioprine and steroids to keep under control for many years. I no longer require immunosuppressant drugs. It does take time.” (Reported in a closed group, Apr 2015, by someone who uses NA, TTO, and occasionally TSO)

* ☹️ “I am coming up on my 3 year Mark in March. I don't believe my hw have worked for me… I have PsA and … I still get bad sinus issues and constantly have post nasal drip. I cannot go without metamucil or I get all bound up… I just hoped my worms would help me... I started with 35 hw and two more instalments. I have topped up 3 times with 10 each time. I had the initial classic diarrhea. Everything was textbook except that I didn't notice anything different.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912502722139017/], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912502722139017/?comment_id=912541692135120&offset=0&total_comments=4&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

* "My primary dr asked me to try helminths again because he remembered I did so well the last time I hosted hookworm. He's had at least two patients put psoriatic arthritis into remission with hookworm and that made him a believer." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1421721357883815/?comment_id=1427772080612076&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "Started NA (8 months ago) for psoriatic arthritis. Did 20 NA each 3 mo: Feb, May, Aug. I was able to taper prednisone 15 to 8 mg after 1st dose of worms, then slowly tapering after my 2 subsequent worm treatments. This week off prednisone for first time in 15 months. No pain. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1457882774267673/] Off all my meds since Dec 17 (11 months after first inoculation). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1649792538410028/?comment_id=1649809781741637&reply_comment_id=1649882271734388&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] I wouldn't say full remission because I have aches and pains here and there but (at 16 months) I'm 90% better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1649792538410028/?comment_id=1649809781741637&reply_comment_id=1649889381733677&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Raynaud syndrome / Raynaud's phenomenon ===

* “I have pretty nasty Raynaud's and I think they've backed mine off.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/906449846077638/?comment_id=906467652742524&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]

* ☹️ “I’ve also got Raynaud's (but) it hasn’t helped unfortunately.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1070723766316911/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1070723766316911/?comment_id=1381592021896749&reply_comment_id=1383972454992039&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R3%22%7D]

* “On this visit, she was asymptomatic. There was no evidence of rash or synovitis on examination. Complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and complement levels were within reference ranges.” [http://journals.lww.com/jclinrheum/Citation/2017/06000/Helminthic_Therapy__A_New_Era_in_Immune_Mediated.19.aspx] (Scroll down the page to read the Letter To The Editor.)

* ☹️ “I have not had any success with raynaud's myself.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1355145527874732/?comment_id=1380088098713808&reply_comment_id=1381008138621804&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]

* “My Raynaud syndrome is almost non existent, only showing up with several minutes of exposure to extreme cold now… I can actually hold frozen foods in my bare hands for several minutes at a time, and I almost never have to wear gloves any more. I still have some problems occasionally with the skin on my hands cracking and bleeding, but it's so much better than it was.” (Edited from two posts. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1783159398406674/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1287365668005208/permalink/2654170037991424/])

* “My raynauds is all but gone. I was walking today in chilly wind and fingers were cold but no sign of any colour change. Plus I am not getting the whole body hypothermic feeling. I really had lost hope of the raynauds improving!” (Edited from two posts. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2883581001697836/?comment_id=2883887595000510] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2883581001697836/?comment_id=2883887595000510&reply_comment_id=2884063814982888])

=== Restless legs syndrome (RLS) ===

(Also see [[Helminthic therapy and restless legs syndrome (RLS) | '''Helminthic therapy and restless legs syndrome (RLS)''']])

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms | '''Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms''']]

* The following two reports were both written by one individual, eighteen months apart.
** "... my restless leg syndrome is completely gone..." (Link expired)
** "Since going on hookworms a year and a half ago, the irritability (and also the restless leg syndrome) have gone away." (Link expired)

* "It’s now 18 months since I adopted my treasured harem of hookies (NA), and there has been no sign at all of any restlessness in my legs since week 19..." [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/restless-legs.html]

* “… since taking a recent dose of TSO (porcine whipworm eggs) I found that, within a few days, my restless legs syndrome has thankfully been reduced to nothing!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/608123942576898/]

* “An added bonus is that (after inoculating with NA) I no longer get restless legs at night when I'm trying to get to sleep.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/625790094143616/]

* “For the last 3 years my restless legs would start around 9pm, it was hard to fall asleep. It was getting worse and worse, even when some other symptoms were being helped by the AIP diet. I found that CBD oil helped if I put it under my tongue right before bed, but it still returned every night. It gradually disappeared once I was on NA. It was probably around 20 weeks that I realized it was gone. When I lost my colony, it came back almost immediately. It’s now 10 weeks after my new colony was started and my legs have been mostly calm for about 2 weeks. It’s so great. I’m so thankful.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2691889877533617/?comment_id=2692808750775063&reply_comment_id=2693035944085677]

* "I have had Restless Legs Syndrome since I was about 6. Over the last two decades it had achieved a disabling, sleep depriving fear of having to do an airplane journey of any length, and I was taking at least 2 x 30/500 Co-codamol every night. I was typical of all the poor pitiful sufferers of RLS. (You can check them out in the FB group, Restless Legs Syndrome Support!) The efficacy of the worms on my RLS is black and white. The first time I inoculated was because someone told me it could help with tinnitus. So several days after I’d inoculated, my girlfriend said, “Hey. You haven’t had restless legs in the last few days!" The worms had no effect at all on the tinnitus, but my RLS completely vanished, like nothing. I could kick back in my office chair with my feet up and actually relax for a whole 30 minutes, or even an hour. Before the NAs, I could possibly get 1-2 minutes before being reminded that I’m not allowed to relax. After about 3 months, the RLS slowly drifted back in to its usual level over a couple of months. I assumed I had probably killed off my little friends due to rubbish diet and lifestyle, so I re-inoculated with 15 NA. But it didn’t seem to work so well this time. So I got another 12. This did work a bit but not as successful. So I inoculated with 22 NA about 6 weeks ago, and this time it has been similar to the first go. The RLS went from soul destroying to nothing in less than a week. And, as I type this, I’ve been laying in bed for at least an hour and have no inkling of RLS. It’s like I never had RLS. This has been a revelation for me. I’m sleeping much better, so my business is doing better, and I don’t keep my girlfriend awake all night. The NAs have just cured it." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5455820461140531/]

=== Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy for well people#Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) | '''Helminthic therapy for well people: Rheumatoid arthritis prevention''']].

These first four reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO | '''Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO''']]

:* [[TSO relieves fibromyalgia, IBS and rheumatoid arthritis | '''TSO relieves fibromyalgia, IBS and rheumatoid arthritis''']]

:* [[Hookworms relieve chronic autoimmune pain | '''Hookworms relieve chronic autoimmune pain''']]

:* [[Reversing helminth deficiency disease: a case study | '''Reversing helminth deficiency disease: a case study''']]

* "I was teetering on the edge of being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, and that seems to have been helped. The 4 rheumatoid nodules I'd developed on my fingers have gone away." (Link expired)

* “I initially started combination therapy September 2011 for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Prior to helminths I had tried Remicade IV infusion and methatrexate. The Remicade worked extremely well however, my immune system was so suppressed I kept getting sinus and ear infections. My rheumatologist switched me to Orencia IV infusion minus the methatrexate in hopes to limit the infections. The infections got better but my arthritis got worse. Finally, my arthritis was so bad I decided to try hookworms and whipworms I figured if nothing else my allergies would go away. I am thrilled to tell you I no longer take any medications for pain or inflammation!” (Reported in a private message, Sept 2012)

* “I wanted to let you know how I am doing. Starting in mid-may i experienced a great increase in energy - not to the "bounce" level, but much better than it's been for the past 4 years. That has remained steady. Also, I have secondary sjogrens, which means I also have rheumatoid arthritis. Luckily it was inactive until December, when it became quite painful in my right hand. In addition to my anti-inflammatory diet, I became stricter by adding another diet I heard about. Soon my hand felt much better. I could not stick to it and realized after I stopped that my hand feeling so much better was due to the worms, not the diet. I now only have rare twinges. I don't know where i'd be without the two improvements i do have.” (Reported in a private message, July 2013)

* “I have moderate to severe RA (I was diagnosed 17 years ago and I have been on most of the drugs at some time or another) and severe allergies (severe reaction to sulphasalazine). I host 35ish hookworms (1year), follow a Paleo diet and take vitamin D, B complex, magnesium and a variety of probiotics, and I'm careful about sleep and stress management. My RA is in remission, I don't get hives in the sun anymore, no anaphylaxis, no depression and I have my energy back. I still have a few food triggers and certain sunscreens still cause problems but nothing too serious. I feel like I got my magic wish and my RA and allergies went away. I feel and look better than I have in 3 years.” (Edited from two sources, including this one. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/614921948563764/?qa_ref=pp&comment_id=615385435184082&offset=0&total_comments=43]) And an update: "I have had great success from HW. I'm close to the 3 year mark and have been in remission for the majority of the time." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/904803269575629/?comment_id=904885336234089]

* “Just an update... got my blood work today my crp is .4 and my sed is 24. Considering my sed rate was over 70 in oct that is amazing!!!!! (I’m taking) 60 HDC every 2 weeks. In all fairness though I do hv confounding variables. I am using multiple treatments. Traditional and otherwise. But by God Something is working. I was crippled and almost bedridden a year ago and today I’m working and feeling great!” … I have RA, sjogrens, psoriasis, and colitis. RA being my greatest source of angst and issues. Only one of those that I have much left of in the way of symptoms is sjogrens.” (Link expired)

* “It’s been over a year since I first inoculated (with hookworms), and I haven't had significant joint pain since this March (nine months ago). I still get occasional little flares in the few months after I inoculate (maybe once every week or two), but I’m keeping at a very slow pace and getting more resistant after each inoculation. I can't tell you how great it is to not be limited in what I can do by joint pain!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/922790417776914/?comment_id=923143521074937&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “RA symptoms more or less gone aside from the odd twinge.” (Reported 18 weeks after inoculating with 5 NA and then adding 10-12 more at 12 weeks.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1079127865476501/]

* "I’ve been a helminth user for 2 years now. I began with NA and did have some improvement with it… I decided to try TSO 2500 every 2 weeks, and for the first time, had some real improvement in my inflammation and pain… I am confident that the TSO will keep me well and functioning while I build up a therapeutic colony of NA, but the long-term goal is to wean off or significantly down on the TSO only for cost reasons. Otherwise, I’d happily stay on TSO forever!" [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1325920704130548/]

* ☹️ “I tried NA to treat RA. It didn't work for the RA, but my irritable bowel and food intolerances did go away.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1900640429991903/?comment_id=1900865763302703&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I can tell you 8 weeks in that I feel awesome! My naturopath suggested it months ago when I was first diagnosed with RA but I put it off because I wanted to try LDN which didn't work. Things were getting worse so I decided to try the NA and I am SOOOOO HAPPY I did.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1894359700619976/?comment_id=1898087880247158&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* "The improvement in RA proved to be real. So funny, after I had decided it would be another year... My biggest problem right now is relearning how to live a normal life. I had so many years of severe illness that I got into habits that are not serving me well now. I tend to think about lying down when I don't really need to, not fatigued or in pain, but because I'm so used to doing that. I have a ton of things I need to get done but I have a habit of basically moping around." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3697257550330173?comment_id=4688590374530214]

* "I have RA and have had great success from HW. I'm close to the 3 year mark and have been in remission for the majority of the time."

* "I am 58 yrs old and have had RA since I was 32 yrs. I have tried 4 biologic drugs all which have had some side effects. The one that worked best was rituximab so I requested it at half strength which has been great, no side effects noted. However I was finding that the benefits from it wore off around 4 months as I can only access it every 6 months. I introduced NA about 18 months ago, more to treat fibromyalgia and anxiety. I have felt improvement in my wellbeing all round and I don't get a flare up of RA in those last 2 months awaiting my rituximab infusion. I'm also on 10mg methotrexate weekly. It's taken 26 years to find a balance that works for me." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6077184892337415/]

* "My husband had RA. We got it calmed down pre NA and then used NA to help modulate the immune system. His labs are good now (not perfect) but no symptoms at all with no meds… As a functional med Chiro I have seen that the worms can do amazing things at modulating the immune response, and for my patients and my husband worked better than almost $1000/month in supplements and meds." (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6912557012133528/?comment_id=6914592725263290 this post].)

=== Rhinitis ===

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Rhinitis can ruin your sex life, but a few worms might restore it | '''Rhinitis can ruin your sex life, but a few worms might restore it''']]

* “Anyone who doesn’t try this isn’t suffering enough!” (Comment on a now defunct forum from someone whose severe rhinitis had driven him to the point of suicide, but who had been given a new lease of life by a dose of hookworms.)

* "Now, at nearly two years since I began helminthic therapy I am nasally more normal than at any time in my life." [http://www.foodsmatter.com/asthma_respiratory_conditions/hay_fever/articles/nasal_allergies_nuked_by_worms.html]

* “I have been getting HDC for the past 6 months for allergic rhinitis and IBS, both of which which I have been battling for years. The improvements were amazing! I've been taking a dose of 25 - 30 every 3 - 4 weeks since September. Both issues are virtually gone when i'm on them. The effects seem to last for 3 - 4 weeks. I can tell when I need a new dose because my symptoms suddenly re-appear. Then when I take another dose within a day or two, huge improvement!” (Reported to a closed group, Mar 2014)

* “I'm nearly 5 months on HW and my rhinitis and asthma have improved 80%” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/884460748276548/?comment_id=884502191605737&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* ☹️ “I hosted (hookworms) over three years and saw no benefits mainly for allergic rhinitis and fatigue.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2289021001153842/?comment_id=2289089654480310&reply_comment_id=2289457487776860&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Rosacea ===

* "Rosacea has diminished." (Link expired)

* "I started HT… for allergies/rosacea… amazed at progress so far. I haven't needed any over the counter meds of any kind since the fourth week after inoculation and the flaky red stuff I always have on my chin is now gone." (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group, Aug 2012) HW

* “I had mild rosacea--triggered especially by hot baths--and it has cleared at 12 weeks with 5 NA.” (Link expired)

* “I just noticed (after 6 months with NA) that I am not bothering with makeup sometimes and this is because I haven't had rosacea lately! This has been a constant bother over the years even before I had scleroderma!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1287365668005208/permalink/2423327061075724/?comment_id=2434266003315163&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* “My rosacea has essentially disappeared.” (After 12 weeks with 5 NA.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1813087112080569/?comment_id=1940645255991420&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Hi, I’m now 63 and I had been struggling with rosacea and irritable bowel syndrome for a few years. After about 5 years, I found these problems were affecting my lifestyle. Travelling, and not knowing if a toilet was readily available, was becoming a real problem. We were getting close to retirement and travelling was our passion, but I was becoming nervous of what might happen. My rosacea was also getting worse and not only was my once “great” skin aging, but I was struggling with inflammation, sores, lumps and bumps! I was working long hours, supporting aged parents and looking after my family, so my health problems were the last straw! I needed to be good for me, so that I could be good for everyone else. I think I’ve now been on HDC therapy for around 2 years, and the improvement is wonderful. I think of my worms as a “probiotic”, or as my “magic spoonful” to improve my health. I’ve had no side effects and find things are sooo much better. I am now travelling lots & enjoying life. I still have aging skin, but it’s clear and healthy... and I am feeling great for my age.” (Received via email, Feb 2020.)

=== Salicylate intolerance ===
Also see [[#Food_intolerance|'''Food intolerance''']].

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Hookworms treat anaphylaxis and salicylate intolerance in a 5-year-old | '''Hookworms treat anaphylaxis and salicylate intolerance in a 5-year-old''']]

* "Should anyone ever wonder if hookworm (NA) can help with salicylate sensitivity, in my case I think it’s doing exactly that... Last night I tried eating a boiled carrot, since they are high in salicylates, and barely reacted. This morning I’m sipping a cup of organic coffee (also pretty high on the scale) and enjoying it. None of this would have been possible a month ago!" [http://gettinghealthiernow.wordpress.com/2012/01/02/hookworm-only-starting-over/]

* "Her reactions to salicylate were eczema and very depressive mood swings. She was always crying… It's now 7 months since we started the therapy (with NA) and we are already seeing a good reduction in her salicylate intolerance. She is eating high-salicylate foods in greater amounts, like tomato sauce, mandarins, grapes, broccoli, nectarines, tinned salmon and lemonade ice poles, with no reaction. Her stomach aches have also now gone and so has her eczema… We tried many different alternative therapies in the past… nothing has really worked until now… and people who haven't seen our daughter for a while are surprised by how different she is now." (Link expired)

* "In the past I had serious problems with histamine and salicylates… Since hosting a bunch of hookworms (NA) I was able to gradually reintroduce all foods that previously made me sick." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/542807619108531/?comment_id=544553025600657&offset=0&total_comments=3]

* “Last night I celebrated New year's Eve with a glass of champagne! After almost a year of hosting hookworms (NA) for salicylate & Histamine intolerance I'm finally able to eat almost anything. Thanks to everyone here & hope you all have a wonderful 2015, I know I will!“ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/767179966671294/]

* “I am a long time coeliac (im 52 years old). When I hit 45 my stomach took a big dive for the worse. I ended up allergic to salicylates and an inability to digest flour except for Quinoa. Symptoms were extreme muscle soreness and extreme lethargy. Also anxiety and depression. Enter helminths (HDC). They dramatically reduced my reactions to salicylates, cured the anxiety. Didn't do so much for the carbs intolerance though. When I had been on them for a year I went off them. I deteriorated quickly. Will never go off them again. I cant live without them. I take 140 of em every 3 weeks.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1475611862494764/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1475611862494764/?comment_id=1475697559152861&reply_comment_id=1475761375813146&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]

===Sacroiliitis===

* “I have sacroiliitis and have taken NA since 2016. I have not taken anti inflammatory pharmaceuticals. Generally I can see an improvement, right now I have the flu which tends to reduce their effectiveness.” (Comment posted in April 2019) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2114280641961213/?comment_id=2114730521916225&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

===Sarcoidosis===

* “My nephew who is 30 and has had lumps in his neck and jaw since childhood and diagnosed with sarcoidosis in the lungs on CT scan took 4 NA. Lumps in jaw area have disappeared and neck lumps halved in size. He reports less wheezy and much more energy.” (Link expired)

* "… the hookworms are controlling the symptoms of sarcodosis. Great stuff." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6195364570519446/?comment_id=6195828550473048&reply_comment_id=6198999753489261]

=== Sciatica ===

* “At 5 months, my sciatica pain from rotating, and numbness in leg from standing still, stopped. I had had this for 27 yrs.” (Link expired)

* “I had sciatica and, at 7 months (post-inoculation with NA), the pain from rotating and numbness in leg ceased.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2114280641961213/?comment_id=2114803621908915&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] And an update, nine months later: “Since starting HT I have had remission of sciatic pain from movement though there still is the L3-L4 narrowing which is there for good. My previous history was a tweaked sciatic. Was bed ridden for weeks, and a month to two months for pain to subside. A week ago I tweaked the nerve as bad as I every have, leaving me unable to move (bed to upright was a 5 minute process). I took 15mg prednisone and 30mg codeine and two hrs later this only marginally relieved the pain. My initial response was to get a two week supply of the above drugs for my recovery so my expectation based on severity was a long one. At about fours hours, I was walking and getting up carefully in 10 seconds. It was like all the inflammation dropped away though still reactive to rotational factors. I did not take any more drugs and, at a week, I feel completely normal again! I cannot explain this other than helminths.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2619124714810134/]

* “The best thing I’ve found so far (8 months into using NA to treat ankylosing spondylitis) is that I haven’t had a single flair up of sciatica since I started taking helminths.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2391605270895414/?comment_id=2397347986987809]

===Scleroderma===

The first report is more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[My scleroderma helminth journey | '''My scleroderma helminth journey''']]

* The following four posts are by the same individual.

:* “It is 10 weeks since inoculating the probiotic therapeutic helminith N. americanus. I have systemic sclerosis aka scleroderma for 8 years. I have crest, with all the usual symptoms. I started to see skin softening on the back of my hands from 6 weeks. My energy is better. I feel alive and hopeful for a future which I suspected might be quite constrained. I had hard immovable skin for the last 8 years and now it's a miracle!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1287365668005208/permalink/2214521648622934/] (This post includes before-and-after pictures of this self-treater's hands.)

:* “Six months ago, I took 10 hookworm. I've since had about 10 more. I have had great results. Skin softening, can almost make a fist now and can drink from a water bottle without spilling water all down my front because my lips have softened and can seal around the nozzle. My muscles are not burning when I exercise and I can build fitness where before if I did more than a gentle walk I would have to rest for a couple of days. I just don't have to pace myself like I did, no myositis flares in 6 months and have weaned from 7.5 mg prednisone down to 4.5. My energy is hugely improved (better than I remember even before I got scleroderma). My raynauds has mostly gone (its summer here but last summer it still appeared). I feel like I have my life back!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1287365668005208/permalink/2423327061075724/]

:* “Nine month update. I have had continued skin softening which is noticeable on hands and face. I haven't had to use high dose prednisone in the 9 months hosting which is a big change, usually I need to go up to 30mg every few months. I have got down to 5 mg a day. I'm not climbing any mountains right now but am working and walking on the flat. And dancing without sneaking extra prednisone. So... all and all it's a cautious win on the myostis front. Raynaud's I can definitely claim a big improvement. The temperature is dropped here and I am not getting much: a faint blush of blue fingertips occasionally but I previously had severe reaction to a faint breeze, so subjectively I think its 80% better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1818402868215660/?comment_id=2077879792267965&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

:* (At 14 months) “I have scleroderma which affects the lungs. My diffusion capacity was in the abnormal range prior to helminth. My lung function tests are now completely normal.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2351985448190730/?comment_id=2352914744764467&reply_comment_id=2359474807441794]

* “I have mixed connective tissue disease with scleroderma primary. The scleroderma symptoms have been around for almost 20 years undiagnosed in the form of severe skin issues in my hands (hardened, cracking, bleeding skin), severe GERD, and Raynaud's that was so bad I almost always had to wear gloves no matter where I was. I was diagnosed with MCTD in spring 2017, and I was a total mess. I couldn't work or take care of myself or even leave the house most days… I did my first dose of 5 Necator americanus in June 2018… The effects I saw from helminth dosing was noticeable skin softening, less dryness, less GI tract inflammation, and a huge improvement in my Raynaud’s… I saw my rheumatologist a few days ago (April 2019) for a routine check up… Basically, checking white blood cell counts, kidney function, and metabolic activity. Everything was PERFECT! My bloodwork has stabilized so much in the last year… At this point, with plaquenil, modified diet, and helminths, I'm pretty much back to a normal life. I'm generally healthy, I work full time, I have energy for a social life, I can live alone and take care of myself again, I'm back to exercising and trying to get back in shape, and my life is mostly like it was before.” (This report is excerpted from a very detailed post, which is worth reading in full!) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1287365668005208/permalink/2654170037991424/] “My PCP and rheumy both tell me keep doing whatever I’m doing, because they rarely see people recover this much.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/SclerodermaFM/permalink/2987857747955983/?comment_id=2990250127716745]

=== Seborrhoeic dermatitis / seborrheic dermatitis ===

* “In March, I started HDC. The allergies immediately vanished. Lately the seborrheic dermatitis has been much better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/876026072453349/]

=== Sensory hypersensitivity ===

* “I used HDC and felt all my oversensitivity to sensory stuff lowered a lot - in a matter of a few weeks. Sounds my children made, machines, noise etc stopped overwhelming me, my sense of smell and taste became a little better.” (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3791715124217748?comment_id=3791862480869679] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3791715124217748/?comment_id=3791862480869679&reply_comment_id=3791877454201515].)

=== Shingles / herpes zoster ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and infectious diseases#Helminthic therapy and viral infections | '''Helminthic therapy and viral infections''']]

* “… the person in my life who had HT had a shingles outbreak less than 3 weeks before inoculation. Two months post inoculation, the patient is doing fine with no further problems with shingles.” (Link expired)

* “Had nerve damage from shingles when I was in my 20s. Was told the nerve damage was permanent and I would alway have pain. Bothered me for years and went away after my HWs came into my life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1220453241343962/?comment_id=1220477524674867&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== SIBO ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) | '''Helminthic therapy and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)''']].

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.
:* [[Treating SIBO and sinusitis with NA and TTO | '''Treating SIBO and sinusitis with NA and TTO''']]
:* [[Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy | '''Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy''']]

* “In my case hookworm do seem to help SIBO. I’m sitting here right now hearing healthy movement in my gut. One of the most debilitating symptoms of SIBO for me has been high blood pressure spikes and rapid pulse, plus insomnia. With hookworm on board I’m feeling much better in this regard. If anything, my BP is on the lower side of normal. My face has also cleared up, brain fog is greatly improved, and i have more energy.”

* “I have already tried antibiotics (including rifaximin and neomycin) to no avail. HT, FMT and dietary changes have been most effective so far for me. NA have greatly improved my quality of life. I can now digest/absorb GOS and fructose without any issues.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1509328469123103/?comment_id=1554719764583973&reply_comment_id=1555522701170346&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1509328469123103/?comment_id=1511116095611007&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1001536179902337/?comment_id=1001542496568372&reply_comment_id=1005809582808330&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R4%22%7D]

* “I’ve just hit the 14th week with 25 hw on board and my IBS(D) / SIBO has improved about 50 percent and it is improving every week!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1654846481237967/]

* “I've been using HDC for several months and largely I can say my SIBO is gone.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3582086288513967/?comment_id=3592712530784676]

=== Sinusitis ===

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:*[[Treating SIBO and sinusitis with NA and TTO | '''Treating SIBO and sinusitis with NA and TTO''']]

:* [https://www.foodsmatter.com/asthma_respiratory_conditions/hay_fever/articles/nasal_allergies_nuked_by_worms.html Nasal allergies (and sinusitis) nuked by worms]

* "... my father (who is the big sinusitis person)... had such an issue with this that for almost 30 years he lost his taste and smell every day at some point, and often for days at a time... By about 6 months after getting hookworm, the problem resolved." (Link expired)

* "I inoculated at two months after my sinus surgery and did so because at the time I was having green discharge and mucus that was almost as bad as before the surgery. Starting only 6 days after inoculating and continuing for the 4 month until now, the signs of sinusitis with purulent nasal discharge and PND have been the best 4 month period in the approx. 15 months since the sinusitis abruptly started. And this is with NO antibiotics, which I took for months before submitting to the surgery… At this point I would continue HT even if I had no further improvement." (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/], Jul 2012)

* "… the worms have totally changed my body's reaction to a cold virus. In the past, I would get an immediate sinus infection (post nasal drip, sinus pain, sinuses filled with pus). This time, I have a sore throat and a slight fever. This is awesome!" (Reported in a private discussion, Sept 2012)

* (From a 22 year old male with perennial ‘non-allergic' chronic sinusitis / nasal congestion, since age ~15) “I have blown my nose once every 10-20 minutes while awake for the past 7+ years. Waking up was a process which involved going through hell. Sleep at times has been far from restful due to waking up unable to breathe (too congested)… nasal steroids, nasal mast cell stabilizers and neti pots were effective but each presents their own side effects and issues and I was unable to ever use them in dosage significant enough to achieve relief of symptoms… A significant laundry list of surgeries, dietary supplements, lifestyle changes, voodoo and bullshit was tried in order to achieve relief. I self-infected 25 hookworm (and) began to experience symptom relief (after) about 2.75-3.0 months… I began, all at once, to have a suddenly very dry throat. A lot of hacking coughing occurred and I drank a lot of water but it was, basically, just a surprisingly sudden lack of unhealthy mucus. I can literally trace symptom relief back to this exact moment. The next morning was the first morning I woke up with a more-or-less clear nose in about the last seven years. I have woken up with an increasingly clear nose every day since then and today is the first day in seven years that I woke up with absolutely nothing in my nose at all… I actually forgot to use my nasal steroids as well. I don't think I need them anymore. I am waking up rested after just 7-8 hours of sleep.” [http://pastebin.com/raw/1fHvWHTc]

* “I’ve just hit the 14th week with 25 NA on board and my sinus inflammation has improved about 80 percent.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1654846481237967/]

* “I have an ideopathic sinus condition. I endure massive sinus floods for 4-5 hours and am oh so stopped up, low energy, and miserable the rest of the time. It's about 6 months since I got my first 5 hookworms, with another 10 administered 3 months later. Instead of where I typically have been at this point after the twice-yearly respite provided by prednisone, I AM BREATHING WELL. I have had only a very few sinus floods. I am sleeping (because I am breathing well at night.) I have energy. I am so encouraged.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1951855604870385/]

* "Now, at nearly two years since I began helminthic therapy I am nasally more normal than at any time in my life." [http://www.foodsmatter.com/asthma_respiratory_conditions/hay_fever/articles/nasal_allergies_nuked_by_worms.html]

* “I had chronic sinus infections for years that I managed with antibiotics, allergy meds, and irrigation. I started NA for celiac (the symptoms of which were, for me, way worse than sinusitis) and within a couple months my head was clear for the first time in years. It was amazing. My worms died about a year and a half later (I only had 10). I only realized they had died when my sinus infections returned. Four-plus months of face and head misery this winter got me in gear to get more NA.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2248559301866679/?comment_id=2248890805166862&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Sinus inflammation has completely gone since starting (TSO) 4 months ago.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2560596777329595/?comment_id=2564927410229865]

=== Sjogren's syndrome ===

The first two reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[Treating lupus and Sjogren's disease with hookworms | '''Treating lupus and Sjogren's disease with hookworms''']]

:* [https://web.archive.org/web/20230528062810/http://www.whatyousjo.com/2016/01/helminthic-therapy-for-sjogrens-syndrome-10-5-month-update/ '''What you Sjo'''] (Using NA and HDC to treat Sjogren's syndrome).

* "This is awesome, I am almost 50 so the scar tissue damage is never going away, but I have a huge increase in saliva in my mouth, my eyes have tears and my skin is very different. I lost about 20 lbs and my digestive system is much different. Also my desire for sugar which was the only thing that made me salivate is gone. My energy level is much better. I go weeks without having to take a nap or go to bed. I think everyone should get the worms." (Reported in a private discussion, Apr 2012)

* "...had saliva in my mouth at night...unheard of for me!" (Link expired)

* The following reports were all posted by the same person.
** (Oct 2008) "The Doctor raved at how my tear production had returned to normal..." (Link expired)
** (Jan 2009) "After a half a year, I consider my treatment successful beyond what I have hoped for." (Link expired)
** (Jul 2010) "Overall, I am in a state of joy at being able to blink and talk without constant eye drops, etc." (Link expired)
** (Apr 2011) "My terrible symptoms have left me, and as a result, my quality of life has changed for the better." (Link expired)
** (July 2017) “So I decided to get my Sjogren's specific antibodies retested. (They) are now at 8!! So my good news continues... For a price of $3 per day necator americanus is a bargain for me!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1368182629904355/]

* “I wanted to let you know how I am doing. Starting in mid-May I experienced a great increase in energy - not to the "bounce" level, but much better than it's been for the past 4 years. That has remained steady. Also, I have secondary sjogrens, which means I also have rheumatoid arthritis. Luckily it was inactive until December, when it became quite painful in my right hand. In addition to my anti-inflammatory diet, I became stricter by adding another diet I heard about. Soon my hand felt much better. I could not stick to it and realized after I stopped that my hand feeling so much better was due to the worms, not the diet. I now only have rare twinges. I don't know where I'd be without the two improvements I do have.” (Reported in a private message, July 2013)

* “I've been on HW for over a year and it's been very effective for the Sjogren's. It's lessened the dry eyes considerably, the dry mouth completely, and it has greatly eased some neuropathic issues that are related. The abdominal side effects have been very hard on me, however, and, unlike for many, the treatment has increased my food allergies significantly. That aside, I do recommend giving it a try. It took about 18 weeks to kick in with Sjogren's symptom relief.” (Link expired)

* “Before I started this therapy, I felt so lack lustre and generally unwell I wanted to stay home … and didn’t want to live for another 30 years (I was 50 then) as I thought life would be too tedious, fatiguing and painful … my quality of life sat at about 3-4 out of 10. Pretty dreary most of the time … 21 months into Hookworm therapy a lot has changed … I enjoy life and am happy. I have a quality of life that is often at about 8-9 most of the time. I can exercise most days. I can engage with my family and friends and I can go out a lot more and go away now. I now sweat, after the 3rd month of hookworm inoculation, and my mouth is a lot less dry. I use half of the eye drops I used to use and I haven’t had an eye flare up since I started the hookworms. I handled this last summer’s heat that lasted 6 months and was one of the hottest on record … and I have worked outside in 30C heat painting! I would never have achieved that 18 months ago. My skin and nails have improved big time … I have more energy in general and my head is a lot clear. I’m not in a haze the whole time. And best of all, I seem to be improving over time still … It probably took 15 months before I really started to feel WELL.” [http://sjogrensworld.org/forums/index.php?topic=25593.msg272659%23msg272659]

* “I have lupus bloods but all symptoms can be explained by sjogrens. I started helminth therapy in August last year (7 months ago) and have had 2 doses of 25 HW… my fatigue has improved - I would guess it is only about 10% of what it was. I think because of this my 'brian fog' has gone. All other SS symptoms still progressing though - but early days and I intend to have 1 or 2 further top ups in the next few months.” (Link expired) Full media article [https://web.archive.org/web/20221026183835/https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/well-good/teach-me/78818294/ive-got-parasitic-worms-living-inside-me-and-its-great here].

* “(I have) Lupus, Sjogrens, MCS and Food Allergies. I had diagnosed positive to Schrimers test as well as dry eye exam with split lamp. I'm ANA positive speckled SSB AB. I’ve had 25 NA for 1 year. I would go days without speaking to people because I had such significant mouth pain and my throat was so dry I could not swallow, tongue would be burned at the tip just from talking. It really took quite some time for the worms to get in their stride, but saliva and mucosal protection is now astounding. My dry eye also improved where before it felt like plaster. Joint pain is also improved. Heat regulatory system is better as well and not as much swelling in the hands. I itch, but no swelling or internal burning. But, just given the mouth benefits are life changing.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1021788624543759/]

* “I was diagnosed with Sjogrens about 15 years ago, after several years of symptoms, particularly dry eyes, photophobia, brain fog, inflammation and fatigue. Food intolerances began about 10 years ago. Eliminating wheat and dairy improved symptoms somewhat, but not entirely. I started with NA two years ago, seeing positive results after 9 months. Dosage has been conservative (4 doses of 5, 5, 10, 5) and inconsistent. However, I can clearly see improvement in all symptoms. When viable doses were not available, I saw a return of symptoms.” (Link expired)

* “I lived for many years with Sjogren’s Syndrome - fatigue, dryness, joint and muscle pain, cognitive limitations, food intolerances. Hookworms have saved me from a deteriorating life. Positive results were slow to come, but so worth it. (Nine months and 3-4 inoculations of 5 worms each.) Ultimately, I know that I need worms to function well. I am 66 years old and walked 85 miles in 6 days - historic Cotswold Trails. Never could have managed this without worms.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2240462269343049/?comment_id=2241213039267972&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “HT has been the most useful treatment, helping reduce most of my symptoms, particularly flares.” [http://www.whatyousjo.com/2016/09/personal-sjogrens-syndrome-treatment-update-september-2016/] Full 10.5 month update [http://www.whatyousjo.com/2016/01/helminthic-therapy-for-sjogrens-syndrome-10-5-month-update/ here]. 

* "I started with 3NA in January of 2020 then 5NA in May of 2020 but didn't feel much response. I know it can take up to 2 years but the pain was really impacting my whole life (especially as a marathon runner, it was devastating to not be able to even walk with a crutch). I added 2500 TSO every 2 weeks for 10 doses starting in July of 2020 and I haven't had a major flare since. I still dose about 600 TSO every 2 weeks and 10-12NA 2-3x per year and I'd say I've achieved about 90% improvement." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5726099820779259/?comment_id=5726135240775717]

=== Sleep apnea ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy and sleep | '''Helminthic therapy and sleep''']].
* The following two reports are about the same person.
** "My sleep apnea has all but dissapeared and I'm breathing through my nose better." (Link expired)
** "Thom began to breathe through his nose for the first time in decades… he has mostly stopped kicking and thrashing during the night. He's sleeping more soundly…" (Link expired)

=== Sleep, problems with ===
Search the rest of this page for “sleep”, and also see [[Helminthic therapy and sleep | '''Helminthic therapy and sleep''']].

=== Stress ===

* “I've lost that 'tired but wired' feeling that stopped me relaxing properly, and I've started to sleep better. I get less stressed by ordinary events, and almost never use my inhalers any more." (Reported in a private discussion, Feb 2013)

* “My hookworms came, I put them on a bandaid, and applied them to my skin. My reaction was immediate and intense. Any feeling of stress that I felt went away - completely. I was stressed from my son being sick, but I also had other normal stresses; and they all went away too. I could look at the same situation, and I could not feel stressed about it.” (Link deleted)

* “Last night we went to a business dinner for my husband's work and for the first time in many years… I was able to drink wine, eat almost normally and enjoy myself rather than feeling stressed. All of this is thanks to HW.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/829393617116595/]

=== Sweet syndrome (SS) ===
(Acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis)

* [[Hookworms literally saved my life | '''Hookworms literally saved my life''']]

=== Tendinopathy (tendinitis / tendonitis) ===

* "With my husband’s first attack (of tendonitis), the doctor said it's probably nothing. With the second, he said if he gets a third attack odds are it will be permanent. Well, he hasn't needed the crutch for his hands in 6 months and he's been on NA for 8 months. It never even clicked that it could be autoimmune (the doc didn't say so either). His issue was small, he only had two fingers on each hand that were prone to this, off and on, but the doctor wasn't optimistic after having had so many 'attacks'. Especially since his father has it too on his wrist." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4847022252020358?comment_id=4850971704958746]

=== Testicular atrophy ===

* “One positive sign I have not mentioned thus far has to do with my passionate parts. Yes, my wobblies. For several years, I have noticed that my testicles were getting smaller and lighter. I did not like it, but wrote it off as a natural consequence of aging. Almost immediately, after I began taking worms (HDC), this situation began to reverse. My testicles began to grow and grow, getting heavier, and heavier. Now, I haven’t been weighing them on the bathroom scale, and keeping a chart of their progress, mind you. It’s just something a feller notices. Anyway, now they are a normal size, like when I was younger, my “reproductive health” has increased significantly. Quite interesting. [https://zippy890.wordpress.com/2015/07/10/twelve-months-of-cestodes/]

=== Tinnitus ===
Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ménière's disease / endolymphatic hydrops |'''Ménière's disease / endolymphatic hydrops''']], above, and the separate page, [[Helminthic therapy and tinnitus | '''Helminthic therapy and tinnitus''']].

* “For years tinnitus was a constant scream and, at about 5 months (post-inoculation), had intermittent easing. Then, at about 8 months, was gone. Now it just reoccurs for a few days with (each) inoculation…” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1357306717658613/?comment_id=1644817585574190&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

=== Travel sickness ===

* "One major new development is that, as of about 10 days ago, my car sickness seems to be cured. I have never been able to read on the bus, in stop and go traffic, without getting nauseous." (Link expired)

=== Trimethylaminuria (TMAU) ===

* “I have a case which I think is a first for helminth therapy. The case is a young man in his twenties who suffered from Trimethylaminuria (TMAU), and whose family became so desperate they decided to try (HT). After a dose of 10 NA, all symptoms started to disappear after just 3 weeks. He is totally in remission and has not had to re-dose at this stage. It has been 8 months.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4157822464273677/]

=== Ulcer, leg ===

* "I have a long history of cd and … I had a pyoderma gangrenosum on my leg… when I did the hooks my ulcer healed. This is the only treatment that has worked for me." (Link expired)

=== Ulcerative colitis ===

Also see:

* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Microscopic colitis | '''Microscopic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Lymphocytic colitis | '''Lymphocytic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Pancolitis | '''Pancolitis''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative proctitis | '''Ulcerative proctitis''']].

* [[Helminthic therapy and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) | '''Helminthic therapy and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)''']]

The first seven reports are more detailed than the quotes that follow.

:* [[TSO successfully treats ulcerative colitis after drugs cause adverse reactions | '''TSO successfully treats ulcerative colitis after drugs cause adverse reactions''']]
:* [[Crohns and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants | '''Crohn's and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants''']]
:* [[TSO tames colitis in a 70 year old | '''TSO tames colitis in a 70 year old''']]
:* [[Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease | '''Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease''']]
:* [[Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO | '''Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO''']]
:* [[Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails | '''Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails''']]
:* [[Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms | '''Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms''']]

* "... the great thing, the amazing thing, the wonderful joy is that when i need to go that it is not urgent." (Link expired)

* "...all the bleeding was gone, Stools were well formed, Frequency decreased to only once or twice a day. I feel completely normal now. What a change! I attribute this completely and wholly to the Whipworm.” (Link expired)

* "Repeated colonoscopies revealed that wherever worms colonized his colon, the symptoms of colitis were significantly reduced or nonexistent." [http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/helminthic-therapy-mucus/]

* The following two reports are by the same person, 14 months apart.
** "I previously tried TSO and it dampened the UC somewhat, but not to the extent that human whipworms (TT) have." (Link expired)
** "I undertook helminthic therapy with open eyes and the realization that it doesn't work for everyone. So, regretfully, I am probably going to kill off my human whipworm (trichuris trichuria, TT) infection soon after around 1.5 years. Unfortunately, the critters have not had any noticable benefit on my Ulcerative Colitis after all this time." (Link expired)

* The following two reports are by the same person, 7 months apart.
** "Over the last two months, I have had perfect bowels, every single day. One BM per day, solid, no mucus, no pain. Every time I go into the bathroom it’s like christmas morning." (Link expired)
** (At one year post-inoculation) "I’ve literally even invited people into the bathroom to look at my stools they look so good… The quality of life I enjoy is better than at anytime since I was diagnosed back in 2005." (Link expired)

* "I have been suffering from UC for two years now… having 6-8 terrible, bloody and painful BMs nearly every night… I took my first dose of human whipworm this past June, and in the past two weeks I have been seeing my symptoms simply disappear… I have even forgotten to take my meds several times because I AM NO LONGER IN PAIN! I have my life back." (Reported in a private discussion, Jan 2012)

* "I had UC for 5 years and was in a clinical study in Iowa city that changed my life. I've been in remission for 8 years now. No sign of the disease on my last colonoscopy. Thanks to the Trichuris Suis worms. These worms saved my life also!" (Reported on a Facebook page. [https://www.facebook.com/autoimmunetherapies])

* "This treatment has put my UC in complete remission and I am prescription free (yippie). I was able to get completely off prednisone, 6-MP, and asocol. I am medication free and symptom free. I feel and function completely normally! I would not have graduated, or have a career, or a normal life in any way had it not been for this therapy. I can't say enough good things about it!!!" (Reported in a private discussion, May 2012)

* “I was diagnosed with UC in 2008… Started HT therapy in May 2011... and I've been in complete remission for over 6 months now. I'm very happy and very grateful. I just graduated from a graduate program in May 2012 and I'm starting a new career. It would not have been possible without this treatment. HT gave me my life back.” (Reported in a private discussion, Jun 2012)

* "I suffered from a serious case of UC… I've been hospitalized several times with serious bleeding and infection, the doctors told me to evaluate surgery if it ever flared up again. After starting HT (human whipworms) my UC is completely gone, so is my asthma, and my allergies and hypoglycemia as well. I still can't believe it. It actually started working 2 weeks into therapy after the first dose (improvement in pain/stool/stomach activity/rumbling etc.) so I feel like it's a miracle… It's so nice to able to live again! (I work again and function normally) It feels like I can hardly remember how it was to be 'normal' … as I see it the whipworms saved my life :-)" Edited from two posts. (Links expired)

* “Helminthic therapy has put my UC in remission with only minor symptoms every now and then. Before HT I was not able to eat very many foods and would have never been able to hold down a job.” (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/], Jul 2012)

* "I was on 6mp when I started HT. I was also on 40mg prednisone daily. I was off both drugs in about 6 months… I had ulcerative colitis." (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/], Aug 2012)

* “My UC is now 100% in remission. it was months ago i saw any bleeding or mucus.” (Reported to the Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/], Aug 2012)

* "I dosed with 750 whipworm over 5 months starting in january. saw great results after one month. in june, I had one of the most stressful situations of my life at work, and flared again … 750 WW wasn't enough to temper the effects of that much stress on my system. I'm dosing again, and have already seen very positive results." (Link expired)

* "Everything is going great. A year after starting whipworm, I'm off drugs again, hoping it continues as i'm loving living life drug free and feeling awesome!" (Reported in a private message, Mar 2013)

* ☹️ "I tried various worm therapies, including human hook and whipworms, for around three years and never had any success whatsoever with them for my UC-leaning IBD- well, I had some very mild dampening with TSO, but both HW and human WW just made my symptoms worse. Tried various innoculation strategies, tried aiding the innoculation and suppressing the side effects with high dose prednisone - they did nothing." (Link expired)

* "I am off all drugs for my colitis which has been so bad at times 8 pentasa a day wasn't working and even prednisone started to be less efficient! Now it's been a year since starting Human Whip worm and i'm feeling amazing, off drugs as of 2 weeks, hoping to hold my helminth community and monitor keeping an amazing quality of life i have back!! … VERY HAPPY helminth host, thanking them everyday i wake up!!!!" (Link expired)

* "Hookworm working, feeling great! I feel ‘normal’ again… better than I have in about 15 years. Seriously!" [http://gettinghealthiernow.wordpress.com/2013/05/18/hookworm-working-feeling-great/]

* "I've been taking the doses (of whipworm) since May 19, 2013 and I got blood test results today and for the first time since I was diagnosed with UC six years ago, I am not anemic nor do I have low vitamin D levels (another recurring problem). At some points during the last six years I've had to recieve iron infusions because my iron levels were so low, but now my iron is actually on the high side of normal. I have one dose left and still have some UC symtoms, but overall things have improved and the lab results are really quite surprising." (Reported in a private message, Aug 2013)

* “Unless the other foot is about to drop, my worms have absolutely changed my life. Off of immune modulating drugs and in remission. New years eve was an emotional night out feeling like I have my life back. Whipworms and hookworms treating my once severe ulcerative colitis.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/768745763181381/?comment_id=768797076509583&offset=0&total_comments=3]

* “I have had this monster for 13 years and I am almost at 2 years of combination therapy with NA and TTO for a long list of symptoms I won't go into as it can get lengthy. I was a year and a half into HT at the start of the year and flaring. My GI wouldn't do my colonoscopy because I was so inflamed he thought I would perf. He thought I should be admitted for IV steroids and started on Remicade (but) I have been in complete remission for the past two months and have never felt as good.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/855123671210256/]

* “I have UC and I take HDC (30/month) and made dietary changes. I am now symptom free.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/899969503392339/?comment_id=901544583234831&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* “Just before starting treatment with TTO I had colon biopsies that showed dysplasia (precancerous cells or cell changes due to severe disease). After 7 months of TTO treatment I had a repeat colonoscopy which showed healed tissue in the colon and only mild inflammation in rectum. I just got the pathology report of the biopsies which showed no sign of dysplasia! Yippie!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/951119841610638/]

* “I got the TTO and was thrilled with the results. I went from being threatened at having my entire colon removed, to eating and feeling normal. As long as I keep my colony, I feel good. My GI was amazed to do a colonoscopy and my insides looked great. It's been about 5 years. I do not take any medication now.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1112784965444124/?comment_id=1112812048774749&reply_comment_id=1113063625416258&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1349775858411699/?comment_id=1351237928265492&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] And an update two years later: “I have NO symptoms and colonoscopy shows a happy healthy colon!!!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2312169125505696/?comment_id=2312290928826849&reply_comment_id=2312499145472694&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “Going on almost two years of NA for ulcerative colitis. I started with 10 NA and that put me in remission within 2 months. My symptoms seem to flare when NA gets low. I keep adding 10 NA every 4 months and that seems to be working out. No side effects aside from inoculation rash. I think NA helps tamp down inflammation overall and gives the TTO a chance to take hold. I think NA helps with stool formation while TTO heals colon ulcers, thus stopping blood and mucus loss, restoring gut wall. Not taking any other meds. I'm amazed and grateful.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1632453993477216/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1826863680702912/]

* “I have Crohns Colitis — all my inflammation has been in my colon and rectum. I spent ungodly amounts of money over several years working with elite functional medicine docs. And I eventually came to the conclusion it wasn’t going to work for me… I’ve been doing helminths for about 2 years, and I am completely symptom free and have almost weaned off meds entirely (I take 25mg of 6mp/daily). I used to eat strict Paleo but now I eat 80% really clean and the other 20% I don’t worry as much about. Last night I had vodka, beer, bread, and a donut at my friends wedding. I’m fine today. Crohns Colitis really doesn’t impact my life anymore. Last colonoscopy was basically squeaky clean and my doc is ok with me going off all meds in March if nothing changes.” (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1634529973269618/?comment_id=1634673803255235&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2511716132217660/?comment_id=251236592215268])

* “At my worst flare, I had 15 ulcers in my colon. None of my colon was functioning, it was just trying to survive the attack from my immune system. The HDC was remarkable! My response to them convinced me to try the NA and TSO. My first colony of NA did not survive my immune response. However, the TSO was like a miracle drug. I felt better almost after the first dose. TSO really help when a flare is coming on. I calmed 2 flares using those. After taking the TSO for a year, I have decided to give the NA another try because the cost of the TSO is not sustainable for me.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1852446168144663/?comment_id=1852697221452891&reply_comment_id=1852719821450631&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R4%22%7D]

* “For the first time in my chronically ill life has my scope been NORMAL! No inflammation. I have had this illness since I was 12 and, till 24, I have been having scopes yearly or every 2 years at max and they always always have shown either mild, moderate or severe inflammation. At my worst, I was recommended to take Humira/ Remicade due to severe illness that put me out for about 2 years. I refused it and was on the verge of total collectomy… Before I started Hookworms, I was at the beginning of a relapse and had pain, nausea, cramping, diarrhea and constipation alternating each other and a lot of fatigue etc. After my first dose - 3 weeks into - I started to feel a positive difference and it's been upwards since then.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1868023383253608/] “UPDATE: I went in to my doctor today (and) what shocked me and my doctor are my biopsy results. I am clinically free of Ulcerative Colitos and have zero inflammation on a cellular level. My doctor is now working on taking me off Immuran/Azathioprine as my status has gone from having moderate to severe colitos to IBS!!!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1868023383253608/?comment_id=1907170472672232&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Hookworms have saved my life. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2833202876735649/?comment_id=2841131739276096]

* “Week 25 (with 10 NA). Probably my most consistent month since having colitis. So glad i did hookworm. I have to say that i rarely get a fart that smells now, something i have to attribute to them, they have sorted whatever was wrong in my digestion. As soon as i get my pancreas/liver issues sorted i believe i will have near perfect digestion.... UNBELIEVABLE... 6 months ago i would never have thought this.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1820079598047987/?comment_id=2036236216432323&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “I am at week 16 with the first inoculation of 5NA. My UC symptoms are normalizing… urgency has lessened *significantly*, blood/Diarrhea have normalized almost completely. I have not taken my Asacol in months... I seem to feel like a normal person again, not realllllllyyy worrying about traveling, car rides, social activities, etc!! (although some of the learned anxiety still remains).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2058945780828033/]

* “My husband has UC and we have had great success with the TTO for the past 3 years, he takes 400 every 4 months. Was able to get off of prednisone. Thank goodness for this page and the info! It’s saved my husbands colon!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2184846741571269/]

* “I've been using TSO for UC and it was a little rocky starting out but after about 10 doses I'm feeling the best I've felt in 2 years.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2278067295582546/?comment_id=2278970092158933&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* “My son who is hosting TT for UC had a scope on Wednesday and has had a dramatic improvement since the last one 2 years ago. Only change in what we are doing is the HT which he has been on for 17 months. I have been quietly confident it was helping as his bloods have been perfect and he has been growing this last year much more that before, but still really great to see inside and confirm.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2350377818351493/]

* “I have UC and, after several years of the usual drug therapies, was on track to have my colon removed ten years ago. Started helminths in combination with maintenance drugs. Sure it’s a sample size of one, and sure it’s anecdotal, but I still have my colon, and I lead a pretty normal life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2511716132217660/?comment_id=2512196335502973]

* “I have UC, inoculated 6 months ago and again 3 months ago. I was in the middle of a pretty severe flair. I’m in complete remission now. I haven’t had a colonoscopy to confirm, but I’m symptom free. This treatment is the real deal. I will be forever grateful for these worms!!!” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2511716132217660/?comment_id=2512239692165304]

* “Moderate colitis since age 23. Ulcers, urgency, the whole digestive problems. Inflammatory arthritis so bad I couldn’t walk from the car into my classroom. Sores in my mouth, on my eyelids, fatigue mental and physical. Extreme food sensitivity, emotional distress as a result. I tried dietary modifications, acupuncture herbal therapy, massage, mental health therapy, western meds… A bunch of stuff. I am now on (human) whipworm and hookworm and have a completely different quality of life. I can go biking, skiing, skateboarding, backpacking... All sorts of different activities that I couldn’t do beforehand. I can eat a great variety of foods and even cheat a little bit on my anti-inflammatory diet. I stay away from gluten, soy, dairy, and eggs. But I can cheat on the gluten soy and eggs with minimal digestive rumblings. The greatest benefit has been to my anxiety about daily life. I have a regular digestive function now and can, for the most part, go about my life without worrying. I can’t say enough good things about the therapy and it’s consequences for me.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2544371922285414/?comment_id=2546987368690536]

* “I am 40 years old and was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis about 20 years ago. About five years ago, my gastroenterologist wanted to start discussions about removing a portion of my colon because of several precancerous polyps found during a colonoscopy. Not long after that, I started HT with 50 HDC every 2 weeks, and have continued that regime for the last 5 years. I started seeing improvements almost immediately. The day after my first dose I had fewer urges to go to the bathroom and, after a week or two, I had no more blood in my stool. I also take TTO at about 600 ova every year, 50 bi-weekly until I have taken all 600, or about 12 weeks. I’ve done that every year(ish) for the last 4-5 years. I have achieved 5-6 years of remission, and I am 100% better today compared to before I started taking helminths. My gastroenterologist was skeptical until he had confirmation through a colonoscopy. I've since had other colonoscopies and still found to be in remission.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2800049873384283/]

* “I will reach the 3 month mark this week. Treating IBD (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis) with 5 NA. Unbelievable the improvements. Heart palpitations gone, vertigo significantly reduced, abdominal gurgles/gas/pain gone, dry eyes gone, headaches, joint pain gone, normal digestion… This is the best I have been since falling ill 7 years ago. Life changing.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3451736611548936/]

* “Going on 6 years hosting hookworms for colitis, along with TTO. Helminths are part of the regime keeping me in remission. I plan on hosting a colony for life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4477309755658278?comment_id=4478716335517620] Update, June 2022: "I've been in a good remission for a year now, got a stable colony of hookworms and whipworms (seen on my colonoscopy last year). I add 10 hookworms once a year now, although I added them every 3 months for a couple years. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5106577522731495/]

* "I have been building my colony (NA) very slowly for a year now, and no longer have colitis which is fantastic. No more head fog either and my joint pain is majorly reduced. I can eat broccoli and cooked apples and cooked onions now! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5090423981013516/?comment_id=5091458034243444&reply_comment_id=5093097297412851]

* ☹️ "Stopped the helminths... due to expense, and they seemed to lose effectiveness. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/944307848958504/?comment_id=5619469574775618&reply_comment_id=5619534414769134] First (I used) TTO then TSO for a total of 4 years. About 2 years on both." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/944307848958504?comment_id=5619469574775618&reply_comment_id=5619958138060095]

* "In 2018, I was starting the conversation with my doctor to remove my colon. Prednisone wasn't having any effect whatsoever. That experience was what pushed me to pull the trigger on hookworms (and they) turned off my ulcerative colitis and celiac disease like flicking a switch. I was able to get back on an unrestricted diet 40 days after inoculation. I had known about hookworms for years as a treatment for IBD but it took the real possibility of bowel surgery in my near future to push me to pull the trigger. I felt immediately relieved and silly at the same time. I had endured so much unnecessary illness when I had the answer the entire time." (Edited from three posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5070971286292119/?comment_id=5073182056071042&reply_comment_id=5074432752612639] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5782644668458107?comment_id=5782949001761007&reply_comment_id=5783089918413582] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5782644668458107?comment_id=5782949001761007&reply_comment_id=5783262828396291])

* "I've had UC for 18 years, mostly mild to moderate. Azathioprine finally got me into remission, but I couldn't stay on a higher dose that would keep me in remission. Finally started helminthic therapy beginning in 2012. Took me several years, but eventually settled into a dosing/treatment regimen that keeps me in clinical and endoscopic remission with no diet restrictions of any kind. I take 25-50mg azathioprine daily and 250 TTO every 12 weeks." (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6595206410535258/?comment_id=6622999654422600 this post])

* "11 doses of TSO in, my father is cured from his colitis." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6641211952601370/]

=== Ulcerative proctitis ===

Also see [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Microscopic colitis | '''Microscopic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Lymphocytic colitis | '''Lymphocytic colitis''']], [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Pancolitis | '''Pancolitis''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative colitis | '''Ulcerative colitis''']].

* "The litmus test occurred yesterday when I went into the bathroom and found something most people would shudder at, an un-flushed poo. It was gloriously solid and normal." (Comment by the patient's wife. Link expired)

* “My problems mostly disappeared within few days with HT. My health significantly improved and I felt completely healthy although very few times some blood appeared… I started another course 10x2500 TSO with even better results than before. I’m completely without any problems, my blood tests at my GI showed I’m in complete remission.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1125332027522751/?comment_id=1375773889145229&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) ===

* “… after taking the TSO for about 6 months, the inflammation in my intestines which my gastroenterologist told me was connective tissue disease, disappeared. How do I know this? I have MRI’s and CAT scans prior to taking the TSO which show and mention it. Then, I have one 6 months later which doesn’t show or mention it. I really don’t think this is a coincidence. The abdominal pain was greatly reduced also.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1751922911530323/?comment_id=1751952268194054&reply_comment_id=1752059174850030&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Urinary tract infections (UTIs) ===

* “My chronic UTIs have been alleviated (at 3½ months post-inoculation with NA). As have my bladder control issues. I would not have ever associated this with autoimmune issues. But I’ll take it.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2298643776858231/?comment_id=2467440596645214]

* “When the (NA) colony is working at 100%, the UTIs practically disappear.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/702101716512453/?comment_id=705096122879679&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R4%22%7D]

=== Vertigo ===

* “I have just come back from driving 900 miles in the last two days and don't feel in total melt down. I'll be tired tomorrow, but in the past I'd have had several days where my vertigo was a problem after this sort of journey. I've been hosting (NA) for a year and it has changed my life.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/867146593341297/?comment_id=869712143084742&offset=0&total_comments=20&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

=== Vitiligo ===

* “HDC has stabilized my vitiligo. It did not progress anymore. However, hookworms made both (vitiligo and alopecia areata) progress even faster again, especially in the beginning.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1475314889191128/?comment_id=1475585119164105&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== Warts ===

* “Since inoculating (with NA) less than six months ago… two pesky warts I've had for over a decade have disappeared.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/987048264684462/?comment_id=987150608007561]

* “I did notice a wart on my foot that has lived with me these past 8 months is completely gone!” (While taking HDCs.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3226282547427678?comment_id=3400404903348774]

=== Weight, excess ===
Also see the separate page, [[Helminths, appetite and body weight | '''Helminths, appetite and body weight''']].

* “I actually lost weight from decreased inflammation as did my husband. No problems, though. I'd never realized how much water for inflammation I was carrying around - about nine pounds.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/416913611697933/?comment_id=417374204985207&offset=0&total_comments=12]

* “My appetite also decreased, and the weight that I have gained while being sick started to drop away.” [http://rightinthegut.weebly.com/blog/on-the-upswing]

* “Even though he was taking (hook)worms to soothe his terrible heartburn, seasonal allergies, and IBS, it helped him lose the extra weight without doing anything.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/894870717235551/?comment_id=894993707223252&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

=== Weight, insufficient ===
Also see the separate page, [[Helminths, appetite and body weight | '''Helminths, appetite and body weight''']].

* “In the last 28 months since my wife started helminthic therapy she has gone from 70 to about 85 Kg, even if the amount of food she consumes has not changed much.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/416913611697933/]

* “With the use of HDC, I gained 15 pounds (despite eating exactly the same).” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/977396905649598/?comment_id=977744555614833&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

== See also ==

* [[Helminthic therapy for well people | '''Helminthic therapy for well people''']]

Helminthic therapy and narcolepsy

2024-09-04T03:19:03Z

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Although narcolepsy has been confirmed as an autoimmune disease, [http://www.nature.com/news/narcolepsy-confirmed-as-autoimmune-disease-1.14413?WT.ec_id=NEWS-20131224] [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_and_narcolepsy] helminths had been thought not to be able to help in many cases of this disease because studies have shown that the hypocretin-producing neurons are killed rapidly, within 2 weeks of the disease developing. So it was believed that intervention would only be possible at the onset, if the patient shows sudden dramatic symptoms but, unfortunately, only familial cases are likely to be diagnosed within that critical 2 week period, and the average time to diagnosis is 10 years.

However, there are reports that narcolepsy has improved on both a gluten-free diet and a low-carbohydrate diet, which suggests that the hypocretin cells are not necessarily all killed. In this case, helminthic therapy might help after all, and there are two reports confirming this.

{{Quote|indent}}I don't have Narcolepsy myself but my relative does. She has found three things to be most important:
:1. To adhere to a Low Carb, High Fat - diet. 
:2. To do daily exercise (running/yoga/weightlifting/cycling. 
:3. When she added helminth therapy (some 15 + 20 hookworms by now) she got even more awake. 
She can really tell a beneficial difference from the hookworms. She could tell after 5 weeks that something had changed very much because she was staying wide awake during university lectures for several hours, contrary to what had been the case before. The helminth therapy aspect has really changed her quality of life for the better!!! She wants to keep her hookworms and is very content! She tried HDC, for approx half a year, that made no difference at all so she stopped taking HDC. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1026400947415860/?comment_id=1027350097320945&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I don't have MS but narcolepsy, which is actually pretty similar, autoimmune reaction to brain, and have found a lot of relief with the paleo diet combined with worms. I used to have to take amphetamines so stay conscious, now I no longer need them, although I do still take medicine at night to improve my sleep cycles.{{Quote|/indent}}

Any patient with narcolepsy who decides to try helminthic therapy should use very conservative dosing. See the details in the following page section.
* [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing''']]

{{Quote|indent}}The first time I took hookworm I took 25 and had a terrible reaction and had to kill them. Restarted with 7 and didn't react. I've been inching the dose up every time I re-dose and have not reacted. That's what you have to do if you are on the CFS spectrum, which includes narcolepsy, mast cell disease, fibromyalgia, ME. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/975178472538108/] (After hosting helminths for several years, this individual was able to tolerate a dose of 15 NA without experiencing any side effects.){{Quote|/indent}}

Even if helminthic therapy does not help their main condition, patients with narcolepsy may benefit from hosting a small colony of worms to help with the comorbidities, and also in preventing the development of additional autoimmune diseases. It is known that narcoleptics tend to accumulate other autoimmune diseases, such as celiac disease, which appears to develop in an estimated 50% or more of narcoleptics.

If a parent has narcolepsy, it may be worth using helminths prophylactically in their children in the hope of preventing them developing the same condition.

Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) has been suggested as a possible treatment for narcolepsy, and features in the list of treatments for this disease on the Cure Together website, [http://curetogether.com/narcolepsy/treatments/] with no mention of any adverse side effects. LDN is compatible with helminthic therapy.

* [[Helminthic therapy and low-dose naltrexone (LDN) | '''Helminthic therapy and low-dose naltrexone (LDN)''']]

===See also===

* [[Helminthic therapy and sleep | '''Helminthic therapy and sleep''']]

Hookworm side effects

2024-09-04T03:19:01Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb|[[Using_helminths|Using helminths]]}}
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==Side effects overview==

===Side effects following the first dose===

The first inoculation with NA can cause '''''transient''''', dose-dependent side effects during the first 12 weeks.

:A parasite said to its host,  
:‘Though I’m not trying to boast,
: My favourite trick  Is making you sick, 
:So your health will be better than most.’ [https://www.amazon.com/Riddled-Life-Friendly-Ladybug-Parasites/dp/0151012253/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1402855886&sr=8-1&keywords=Riddled+With+Life:+Friendly+worms,+ladybug+sex+and+the+parasites+that+make+us+who+we+are]

In the majority of cases, the earliest that side effects might appear is on or after the 4th day but, occasionally, they may start from day 2 and might include coughing, respiratory symptoms, fatigue, diarrhoea, cramping, gas, nausea or vomiting - symptoms collectively known as [[Worm flu | '''"worm flu"''']].

{{Quote|indent}}It feels SO MUCH like a normal flu. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2397365493652725/?comment_id=2397368003652474&reply_comment_id=2397369183652356]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had severe side effects the two first days with 3 NA and had to stay in bed because of high fever and nausea. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4644202185635700/?comment_id=4646180948771157]{{Quote|/indent}}

All the side effects experienced following inoculation are a result of the immune system responding to what it perceives to be an invading alien organism, and trying to get rid of this. The immune response involves an increase in eosinophils that usually begins in weeks 2-3 following inoculation, then rises more rapidly from week 4 and peaks at around weeks 5-8, before dropping back to normal at about 14 weeks. This progression can be seen in the following graph, which also illustrates why higher numbers of larvae produce more severe side effects.

[[file:Eosinophil_count.gif]]

Graphic taken from: [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6674179_Dose-ranging_study_for_trials_of_therapeutic_infection_with_necator_Americanus_in_humans Dose-ranging study for trials of therapeutic infection with Necator americanus in humans]

For more detail about eosinophils in helminthic therapy, see [[Helminthic therapy and eosinophils | '''Helminthic therapy and eosinophils''']].

Since the side effects are dose-dependent, their severity can be minimised by commencing with a small dose. For much more detail about the best approach to hookworm dosing, see [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']].

When the guidance to limit the size of doses is ignored, especially at the commencement of therapy, there is a risk of triggering very challenging side effects, as was discovered by someone who began with an excessively large first dose of 20 NA.

{{Quote|indent}}(After) my initial dose… I had 36 hours with symptoms identical to the worst flu I've ever had in my life except I had no fever. That is I had vomiting, diarrhea, and a strange feeling like time was drifting over my head. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1496030463786237/?comment_id=1497285636994053&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Even starting with a small number of larvae can be tough for a few people.

{{Quote|indent}}I must say the 1st week (with 5 NA) was hard. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/SclerodermaFM/permalink/3073307496077674/?comment_id=3073854619356295&reply_comment_id=3076031772471913]{{Quote|/indent}}

In addition to the side effects discussed on this page, the disease being treated can also flare during the first 12 weeks.

{{Quote|indent}}In the last few days (going on 3 weeks with 5 NA) I’ve been feeling like crap. Headache, ringing ears, bloating, tired. All normal stuff for me but exaggerated. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3116443291744938/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Week 8 was like hell for me, too. My arthritis was the worst it has ever been in my life. Now at week 9.5 I feel like things are slowly getting better. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2691495487573056/?comment_id=2692070590848879]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I did have a flare in neuropsychiatric symptoms (which is the main thing I am trying to treat) around week 10. It cleared up in a week and a half. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1890842694305010/?comment_id=1891331044256175&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Although the side effects and/or disease exacerbations tend to follow the graph shown above, self treaters can experience personal peaks at different times.

{{Quote|indent}}I usually have week 3 as my worst. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2401206293268645/?comment_id=2401362916586316]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Week 8/9 was the worst for me. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2401206293268645/?comment_id=2413226655399942]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}For me it’s week 9. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2401206293268645/?comment_id=2401218413267433]{{Quote|/indent}}

There may also be a reappearance of old injuries and illnesses (see [[Hookworm side effects#Recapitulation of old injuries, illnesses | this section]], below), but, in most cases, the side effects and exacerbations resolve between 12 and 14 weeks, eventually giving way to the emergence of benefits.

{{Quote|indent}}After inoculation both times I experienced increased chronic fatigue and lasting low energy. It was bumming me out and lasted for weeks. Now it’s passed. I have great energy. Normal bowel movements. Asthma disappeared. Pollen allergies disappeared. Strange headaches that were chronic are gone! Sleep is great. Sexual function is even boosted. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4126676507388273?comment_id=4128779390511318]{{Quote|/indent}}

As well as being dose-dependent, the severity of side effects varies widely between individuals and is to some extent determined by the subject’s disease.

There is no reliable link between the presence or severity of side effects and eventual success with the therapy.

For what to expect in the days, weeks and months after first inoculating with hookworms, including all the ''typical'' side effects, see the following page.

* [[Hookworm timeline | '''The Hookworm Timeline''']]

=== Symptoms experienced after inoculation are not always worm side-effects ===

Symptoms experienced after inoculating with helminths might be assumed to have been caused by the worms, when they may in fact have other origins! A number of people who have been convinced that symptoms they were experiencing were worm-related, have eventually realised that the issue(s) they were having actually had a different cause altogether.

{{Quote|indent}}I killed the worms, thinking it was all them, but it was not until I stopped the LDN that the nighttime retching and daytime nausea went away. Only a very small amount of people taking LDN get gut issues, so I was in denial that it could be that. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2980446142011321/?comment_id=2980523308670271&reply_comment_id=2980535385335730]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The sleep disturbances I thought were from NA were actually from vitamin D megadoses and klonopin, both of which I took to *prevent* side effects. (whoops!) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1715076141881667/?comment_id=2995809023808366]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I got rid of my NA... to see if they were contributing to a sudden and consistent drop in energy I've been experiencing. (Yes, this was misguided. Yes, I regret doing this... I was desperate to feel better and this was the nearest thing I had control over.) I find that I am more depressed without them... More NA on the way to restock. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1715076141881667/?comment_id=3042523755803559]{{Quote|/indent}}

===The 'bounce' - a very enjoyable side effect!===

A much more welcome phenomenon that may be experienced by some new helminth self-treaters is the so-called 'bounce', which can provide a brief period of temporary, yet sometimes profound, symptom relief accompanied by a sudden feeling of unusual wellness, and perhaps also by a strong sense of calm, focus, happiness and lightheartedness. For more details, see the following page.
* [[The helminthic therapy bounce | '''The helminthic therapy 'bounce''''.]]

===Side effects following supplementary doses===

Once there are mature worms living in the gut, these help to modulate the immune response to any new worms that are added. Therefore, when side effects occur following supplementary doses, these usually reduce progressively with each successive dose, and are typically absent in the long term unless overly large doses are added.

{{Quote|indent}}I had very sharp pain the first time. On the second, I am just getting a tightness in the same area. So quite different. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1489781371077813/?comment_id=1490049997717617&reply_comment_id=1490150091040941&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The side effects with my first dose were pretty discouraging! They got better with the second dose, and I am glad that I kept going. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2325589907496951/?comment_id=2338312102891398&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The first dose (25 NA) was extremely painful to the point I wanted to take anthelmintics to terminate them. The other doses (10, 25, 25) were gradually less painful. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1489781371077813/?comment_id=1490049997717617&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had a bad reaction of poor energy with my first and second innoculation, first one lasted quite a few weeks, second one less and now its not long at all... days if anything... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1470403189682298/?comment_id=1472526732803277&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I noticed last time I did 10 NA and again this time I have done another 10 NA, that my hot flushes (hot flashes) that had virtually gone, have come back for I think it was the first 8 weeks or so (on and off). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2138594556196488/?comment_id=2139005642822046&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Side effects that recur following inoculations in the longterm===

There are a '''''few''''' individuals who continue to experience side effects after inoculations in the long term.

{{Quote|indent}}I still get a spike in inflammation when I take a new dose and I do the therapy for about 2 years now. It only is for a few days though and for me it’s a sign of a successful inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2182238021832141/?comment_id=2184350624954214&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have Graves' and I have symptom flares from that when I inoculate. I introduced 10 more NA on March 12th and I've had disease symptoms flaring for the past week (second week of May). I'd expect them to continue for another month or so based on previous experience. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1658237297565552/?comment_id=1658252197564062&reply_comment_id=1658381660884449&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I feel dead tired for about 4 to 6 weeks following a hookworm inoculation. The peak of these effects happens at the 6 to 8 week mark. It can be really challenging. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1929845233738089/?comment_id=1929870023735610&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I usually add 7 NA each time, and I always get side effects. They're not horrible horrible, but they start around week 3 and sometimes last till week 9, peaking between weeks 3 and 5. The nausea is often sporadic, usually lasts for about a week and can be really bad. It almost feels like I’m pregnant! I get lymph node pain in my arm pits and knee pain or joint aches, and a flu-like feeling throughout my body. My extremities (hands, feet and nose) get cold, I get very tired and I sleep more during this time. My heart can also skip beats and I can get breathing issues. This happens to me at every inoculation to the point where my family knows. When I begin complaining, they tell me: "Oh, you just took your worms… it will go away." And I would never ever give them up because of the benefits they have given me. They have changed my life for the better and allowed me to live my life to the fullest extent possible. (Via Messenger.){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Every time I apply Hookworms, a couple of weeks (sometimes days) later I get a red left (or right, or sometimes both) eye(s). It happens 2-3 weeks after inoculation, without any pain or itch, and persists for a very long time. (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2224946950894581/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2224946950894581/?comment_id=2225005914222018&reply_comment_id=2225018647554078&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I got random skin inflammations and 1 or 2 "puffy eye" each time I upped my dosage. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1376977685691516/?comment_id=1378003632255588&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My symptoms always seem to peak right at 8 weeks after a new inoculation with HW. Did 7 last time, and my left eye was swollen nearly shut this morning, plus lots of skin rashes and sores, and unhappy gut. And 3 days later I started 9 days of deep despair. I know it’s temporary, so I just hang on and get through it, but now I know 7 is too many. The inoculation before this, I woke up exactly 8 weeks after inoculating, with both eyes swollen shut and the right one streaming gobs of goo. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1376977685691516/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1936169449772334/?comment_id=1936702619719017&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

The author of this last comment has also reported that her response to each inoculation can be quite different, ranging from just a few symptoms to a complete melt down. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1915345108521435/?comment_id=1915353551853924&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] And new symptoms that appear following inoculation can last anywhere from a couple of days to 6 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1915345108521435/?comment_id=1915353551853924&reply_comment_id=1915361221853157&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

===Side effects that persist, even in the longterm===

In a few '''''rare''''' cases, a side effect may persist for a considerable time.

{{Quote|indent}}I inoculated… with 3 NA. I was originally planning to add 5 more after around 12 weeks, but I was also waiting for the effect to "stabilise" and since nothing really changed and I had lots on my mind, I guess I just did not realise how much time has passed (next Thursday it's going to be 24 weeks). Since about a week after the inoculation my regular allergy symptoms have diminished: skin looks much better, don't really have significant red patches, only barely noticeable reddish coloration in some places, much less runny nose, even when I'm dusting (nice!), much less dryness and wounds on head/in hair (great!). But it's not just positives unfortunately. All this time I'm also struggling with a very strong itching all over my body; the kind you usually get in a single place when e.g. you're bitten by a mosquito. It's so bad, that for the last few months I constantly have small wounds and scabs in all sort of places I keep scratching without even thinking. There are moments when it's stronger (usually I think in days after I eat things they don't like, or after drinking etc), and there are moments when it's a bit weaker, but although I hoped it would diminish over time it did not really, or maybe just slightly. I keep taking my antihistamine meds just in case, but I don't really see them doing much (or anything) about the itching. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4525402410849012/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Very occasionally, the side effects may persist more or less indefinitely.

{{Quote|indent}}I tend to get flatulence that really never goes away... This is about the 7th or so time I have been inoculated… but I have had the flatulence the entire time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3579053868817209/]{{Quote|/indent}}

==Side effects in detail==

The side effects that can arise while hosting hookworms usually only appear in the early stages following the initial introduction of NA larvae, or as a result of adding too many larvae. This is quite unlike the situation in which side effects can be encountered after taking pharmaceutical products. The adverse effects of drugs can follow the use of standard dose sizes, will often persist long-term, can be very serious and may even be life-limiting. One helminthic therapy self-treater commented on the difference as follows.

{{Quote|indent}}Life with creepy crawlies in my gut is better than slow death on biologics. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1831064423616171/?comment_id=1831721263550487]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Acne===

{{Quote|indent}}I had acne flare up about a week or two after dosing with 3 NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5124379494284631/?comment_id=5125576964164884&notif_id=1656373866356159&notif_t=group_comment_follow]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I’ve been having acne break outs on my face and chest since shortly after my first NA dose. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

===Anaphylaxis===

The chance of an anaphylactic reaction to helminthic therapy is extremely small, but it is possible, especially with ''large'' doses of hookworms. For more detail, see [[Helminthic therapy and anaphylaxis | '''Helminthic therapy and anaphylaxis''']].

===Anxiety===

Helminth doses, including doses of NA, can occasionally produce a temporary increase in anxiety. See [[Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function#Temporarily increased anxiety |'''Temporarily increased anxiety''']].

But, in the longer term, helminths are likely to alleviate anxiety. See [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Anxiety | '''Helminthic therapy personal stories: Anxiety''']].

===Bloating===

{{Quote|indent}}Going on 3 weeks since I stuck 5 NA on my arm. In the last few days I’ve been feeling like crap. Headache, ringing ears, bloating, tired. All normal stuff for me but exaggerated. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3116443291744938/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had odorous and painful gas with bloating and cramps with one of the doses. Peak was between week 6-8. Then it started to calm down and was all gone by week 12. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1949838038405475/?comment_id=1949902961732316&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Update at 11 weeks. I've noticed most side effects have subsided. However, replacing the original side effects in the past 2-3 weeks is something new; I have been outrageously bloated. Stomach is often quite distended particularly after eating a meal. No other GI distress, and normal (but more frequent) BMs. There is no pain that accompanies the bloating but it is a noticeable amount of distention and makes the waist on my clothing uncomfortable at times. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5104996536222927?comment_id=5180950335294213]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Body odour / body odor, increase in===

This effect may be partly related to an improving sense of smell, which some new hookworm hosts have reported. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3695934930462435/?comment_id=3696803643708897]

{{Quote|indent}}One really weird thing I've been noticing pretty much since I've innoculated is I'm sweating and actually have BO. I usually don't have any BO at all!{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The first weeks after my inoculation my sweat smelled like it did in my twenties. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3695934930462435/?comment_id=3696626623726599]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Weird thing-My feet have never smelled. Like, it’s a thing. Well I’m sad to report this as an unfortunate side effect of NA - they are no longer so pleasant [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3695934930462435/]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Claustrophobia===

{{Quote|indent}}The week I took my first dose of NA, I had my first-ever experience with claustrophobia. I awoke in the middle of the night, feeling constrained. I got up, went outside, breathed big and deep, and the sensation passed. IIRC, it happened again the next night, but not as severely. It did not repeat itself after that. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1500750116647605/?comment_id=1524683410920942&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Constipation===

{{Quote|indent}}The constipation started a week after inoculation and was suddenly gone on about day 20. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1983332318389380/?comment_id=2080023232053621&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I got constipation after 3 weeks hosting 10 NA. After a period of 2 weeks constipation, all went like before again which means slightly soft stools. My second dose of NA did not give that effect… [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1371981816191103/?comment_id=1372410166148268&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}NA definitely caused constipation for me for a bit about 4 weeks in. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7016977215024840/?comment_id=7020577497998145]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Cravings===

See [[Helminths, appetite and body weight#Cravings | '''here''']] for examples.

===Depression===

Depression can present temporarily following the first inoculation, and is most likely to appear in those with a pre-existing tendency to this condition. See [[Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function#Temporarily increased depression |'''Temporarily increased depression''']].

In the longer term, hosting hookworms can bring about a reduction in depression. See [[Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function#Reduced depression / improved mood |'''Reduced depression / improved mood''']].

===Diarrhoea / diarrhea===

{{Quote|indent}}I was having bad diarrhea every day starting around week three or four. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/960597907329498/?comment_id=960661000656522&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

One self-treater, who had a longstanding problem with diarrhoea, found that this became even worse for several months after a first dose of 15 NA.

{{Quote|indent}}I had science fiction level diarrhea... took a few months to decrease.{{Quote|/indent}}

===Dizzy spells===

{{Quote|indent}}Well, I finally have decided (39 days in) that my 10 NA are there - just a little slow on the uptake. The last couple of days the gut has become increasingly uncomfortable, with some severe pains and quite a lot of dizzy spells. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1123870124335608/?comment_id=1124843610904926&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I'm about 3.5 weeks into 20 NA. It’s my 3rd and highest dose thus far over the last 2 years… Starting around inoculation time, I began getting little head rushes here and there and it has been building up to full dizzy spells. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3387168258005772/]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Dry mouth and eyes===

Someone who began to experience a dry mouth soon after inoculating with 3 NA, observed that this seemed to have settled somewhat by week 14, by which point she had also developed a continuing dryness of her eyes, which had worsened gradually since the first dose. When a second dose of 5 NA caused a worsening of the dry eye condition, the pain from this prompted appointments with an optometrist and ophthalmologist. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4983577991698116?comment_id=4983891068333475&reply_comment_id=4984028604986388]

===Fatigue===

This is particularly likely in someone with M.E./CFS, especially if they start with more than 3 NA. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworm_dosing_and_response#Even_3-5_larvae_can_cause_significant_side_effects_in_some_people]
{{Quote|indent}}I have CFS and started with 5. This was too much as my fatigue got a lot worse for many weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3828931347162792/?comment_id=3830599996995927]{{Quote|/indent}}
The following comment was reported at 2 days by a patient with CFS/M.E. who had inoculated with 5 larvae.
{{Quote|indent}}Horrible fatigue today…[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2092455257477085/]{{Quote|/indent}}
This was followed by the further comment at 4.5 weeks.
{{Quote|indent}}Too much fatigue, can't stand any more. This is simply unbearable… [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2135581166497827/?comment_id=2135584446497499&reply_comment_id=2135609303161680&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Gas / flatulence===

{{Quote|indent}}Day 4 now, and I have enough gas to power a sail boat on a world trip. 😂 [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2526407367415203/?comment_id=2529148333807773&reply_comment_id=2529672667088673]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Toxic farts!... about 1-2 weeks of strange, otherworldly smells... [https://mysymbiontjourney.wordpress.com/2018/10/24/days-102-116-first-major-result-and-new-friends-join-the-club/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1949838038405475/?comment_id=1949870388402240&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The noxious gas and runs are more common in week 3 for me. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2026465510742727/?comment_id=2026494907406454&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I think i started noticing gas, diarrhea and ab pain right around week 3. Very gassy, very odorous and painful. It lasted for 2-3 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1949838038405475/?comment_id=1951206288268650&reply_comment_id=1952186231503989&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1949838038405475/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1969827113073234/?comment_id=1970846426304636&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I swear my last batch of 20 NA had me competing with an entire dairy herd for methane production. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2504164162972857/?comment_id=2504329252956348]{{Quote|/indent}}

===GERD / reflux===

 A few people have mentioned a transient post-inoculation increase in stomach acid with heartburn/reflux.

{{Quote|indent}}I rarely suffer gastric reflux but usually do a few days post inoculation with NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1419247764797841/?comment_id=1420032944719323&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My mother inoculated 5HW for dust mite allergy and atopic dermatitis 2 weeks ago. At one week she started having reflux (never had before). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1426082444114373/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I've been having nighmarish GERD symptoms since about week 2, accompanied with horrible belching. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1237238522998767/?comment_id=1353908904665061&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I inoculated with 10 HW at the end of September. I had zero issues and was thinking of doing a second round of ten right away. Then, in the beginning of November I suffered from a massive increase in stomach acid production, which brought on GERD and gastritis type symptoms, along with other GI symptoms characteristic of HW infection. It was really bad for three weeks. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

Two cases of more severe and prolonged manifestations of GERD have been reported.

{{Quote|indent}}Around week 9-10 (after a first dose of 5 NA for adult onset celiac and undifferentiated connective tissue disease) I started having extreme amount of stomach acid, 10 times worse than I had ever experienced and requiring a lot more PPI and H2 blockers to function normally. My abdominal pains also worsened. With my history of GERD, I avoided prednisone and took Claritin for 3 weeks to no avail… I held on until day 139 (week 19) when I gave up and took albendazole. Within the night of the first dose (400mg per day X three days), my stomach acid subsided and got better and better. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3670873856301876/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I went pre-worm from having occasional heartburn every few months and sort of avoiding onions, to daily agony with diagnosed gastritis and an ulcer over a 3 month period and needing medication. It showed up around the 6-10 week mark and just got worse and worse. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4211120622277194?comment_id=4211570012232255&reply_comment_id=4212872418768681]{{Quote|/indent}}

This side effect is also sometimes [[Self-treating with TSO#Reflux / nausea / gastritis | experienced by users of TSO]].

===Headache===

{{Quote|indent}}On the evening of day 3 post inoculation with 5 NA (my first) i started feeling a bit of a headache as I went to bed. I woke up after sleeping about 2 hours with a searing headache and growing nausea. This lasted all night and all the next day. It was very intense and I couldn’t function all day. Around 8pm, however, the headache and nausea suddenly subsided and I was able to eat again and feel pretty normal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1694070157315599/?comment_id=1694175967305018&reply_comment_id=1695252557197359&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Hives===

See [[#Rashes|'''Rashes and itching distant from the inoculation site''']], below.

===Hypersensitivity===

====Alcohol intolerance====

{{Quote|indent}}(My alcohol intolerance) was severe (vomiting, stomach cramps) and first occurred at the 8 week point after my first innoculation of 35 NA (for skin allergies). I don't drink much anyway, but it happened 3 times over 2 weeks (at which point I avoided alcohol for the next 3 months). I re-inoculated 10 weeks ago but haven't had the problem recur. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Both me and my mother experienced alcohol intolerance after doses of 5 NA. We both had cramping and pain - a very strong and immediate response that I discovered as soon as I sipped at a beer 1 month in. (Via private communication.){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Inoculated with 5 NA right on 10 weeks ago. At the 8 week mark I developed - literally overnight - quite stunning alcohol intolerance. Same bottle of wine, one night to the next, went from being fine to producing immediate (upon first mouthful) burning pain in the stomach, persisting with severe cramping over an hour, resulting in vomiting and graduating to lower gut cramps and eventually, the next day, diarrhoea. Happened once with wine, then (because I didn't join the dots together and thought it was a reaction to the wine, perhaps allergic in nature) once with a clear gin mixed with soda water about a week later. Last night (2 weeks on) I tolerated a much smaller glass/half a shot mixed with soda water, but started to feel what might have been the onset of those same symptoms so gave it up as a bad job. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3441587845897146/]{{Quote|/indent}}

A few others have reported abdominal pain after drinking alcohol, including three bouts of almost instant burning pain below the navel at 5 weeks after inoculation with 25 NA [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1276571042398848/?comment_id=1603795249676424&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] and two incidents of mild to severe stomach pain at 4-5 months after inoculating with 20 NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1276571042398848/]

As with other hookworm side effects, this experience does not usually persist indefinitely, although it has done for one individual.

{{Quote|indent}}After 2 years with NA, I am still unable to tolerate alcohol. It’s not an allergy, I just process it differently. I can become quite intoxicated off of one glass of wine, and initially would remain that way for several hours. Although it no longer lasts for hours, I basically still have to pass on alcohol, but obviously NA benefits are worth the trade off. (Edited from 3 posts.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4069771826412075/?comment_id=4072365886152669]{{Quote|/indent}}

For most who temporarily develop this intolerance, there is much to look forward to once the worms have settled in! See [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Alcohol intolerance | '''Helminthic Therapy personal stories: Alcohol intolerance''']].

====Caffeine intolerance====

Sensitivity to caffeine may develop, or, if present previously, may increase, during the early stages of hosting NA.

{{Quote|indent}}I was very sensitive to caffeine and alcohol during peak NA side effect period. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1845731158816164/?comment_id=1846422158747064&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I took a caffeine pill yesterday (200 mg) and all my symptoms immediately came back with a vengeance. I’m at week 5 of my second dose. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1845731158816164/]{{Quote|/indent}}

This increase in sensitivity typically subsides once the worms have matured, and previous intolerance to caffeine may improve.

{{Quote|indent}}My NA has made me less sensitive to the bad effects of coffee. If I ever drank more than one cup I'd get shivers and feel drunk.😆 I don't feel amazing if I drink 3 cups now, but I'm definitely not shaky or weird anymore. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4177936308928959?comment_id=4179468282109095]{{Quote|/indent}}

====Food intolerance====

A few medical practitioners have noticed an increased rate of chicken and duck egg intolerance appearing in patients after their first inoculation with hookworms.

{{Quote|indent}}I had no known allergies, but I developed an intolerance to eggs after starting NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5332199000169345/]{{Quote|/indent}}

People who normally eat a lot of eggs without issue have noted intensified acute abdominal cramping, especially around weeks 6-7, although this is usually fairly short-lived.

{{Quote|indent}}I developed an egg sensitivity when worms were at 7 weeks, but last week (around 4 months) ate egg with only mild upset, and egg white with no pain at all. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6839806062741957?comment_id=6925787744143788]{{Quote|/indent}}

In some individuals, however, egg sensitivity has persisted for several months. In one case, a patient had extremely severe reactions to egg for a whole year, experiencing incapacitating bouts of abdominal cramping that would last for several hours but then resolve on their own. This reaction did eventually subside, and, by the 2nd year post inoculation, this patient was able to resume eating eggs without any issue.

{{Quote|indent}}I was able to eat eggs again after 2.5 years. I don’t eat them every day as I used to, but am now ok eating them several days per week. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2086465811409363/?comment_id=2086570641398880&reply_comment_id=2086745721381372&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

This phenomenon has led some clinicians to recommend patients to avoid eggs following inoculation, especially around the 6th week, to minimize the risk of increased abdominal symptoms that are typical at that period post inoculation. The egg intolerance appears to induce or worsen abdominal cramping acutely after eating, within one hour, and then subside without other incident.

Self-treaters have reported the following additional transient food intolerances following inoculation.

{{Quote|indent}}Before HT, I was only intolerant to dairy and gluten. With my first inoculation (5 NA) I become intolerant to rice. Now with my second inoculation - beans and probably buckwheat... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1120928157963138/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I think I may suddenly be unable to eat tree nuts. I've never in my life had any food intolerance/allergy. I'm quite fond of macadamia nuts and they're causing some pretty severe gastrointestinal distress as of last week. On days where I don't eat them, I'm fine. I'm about 5 weeks into my most recent inoculation (inoculation #5). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6165227390199831/] It took about 2 months but I was able to eat them again. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6165227390199831?comment_id=7539025832819973&reply_comment_id=7540160246039865]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I ate macadamia and cashew the last 2 days and got stomach ache and loose stools. It’s the first time I took 5 NA (5.week). Before that I did 3 and 4 Na… [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6165227390199831?comment_id=7539025832819973]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Prior to hookworm I only had problems with gluten and occasionally dairy. But about 3 weeks after inoculation (with 25 larvae) I started reacting to what seemed like almost all foods. And at exactly 12 weeks it dropped off and now, at about 15 weeks, I'm fine with all other foods again. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1120928157963138/?comment_id=1121126284609992&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I now have 5 NA on board, in week 12. I did fairly well for much of the last 12 weeks, but I did have a few episodes of intense stomach ache in week 8 and 9 after having oatmeal and blueberries with almond milk. The pain was so bad during the second episode that I felt like I was going to throw up and I also got dizzy and passed out for a few seconds. Pretty scary stuff. I experimented with the almond milk and raw almonds a few times after that and each time I got a stomach ache, so I have since backed off almonds and almond products. Also should note I had a similar intense stomach ache with pecans in week 10/11. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4811175975604986/]{{Quote|/indent}}

====Hypersensitivity to contact lenses====

{{Quote|indent}}I became allergic to contacts (after wearing them without issue for almost 30 years) a couple weeks after my second inoculation with NA. It took more than a year to resolve, but I’ve gotten used to glasses again so never really went back. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4338944486161473/?comment_id=4339356609453594]{{Quote|/indent}}

====Changed response to insect bites====

Some people see an increased reaction to insect bites, especially in the early stages following inoculation, but the severity of reactions, as well as the susceptibility to bites, typically decreases over time.

{{Quote|indent}}At week 7, have been getting huge bumps from mosquito bites on my legs and back. Tree bites is like 5 cm in diameter, usually i dont react to this. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2237580629631213/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I usually don't react much to mosquito bites at all but for a couple weeks (probably around week 7) I was getting big itchy bumps that seemed to take forever to go away. I'm at 12 and a half weeks now after my first inoculation of five NA and mosquitoes aren't bothering me anymore. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2237580629631213/?comment_id=2237789106277032&reply_comment_id=2237927382929871&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2237580629631213/?comment_id=2237789106277032&reply_comment_id=2237931289596147&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I still get bitten but no longer react, it's great 💕 [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6214270565295513?comment_id=6214394528616450]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Mosquito and No-see-um bites no longer bother me! For 45 years I was a mosquito magnet. I used to attract them from miles. And each bite would swell, with major itches that could last over a week. Many itched so much it had to scab over. Now, 8 months into NA, and no more! It's almost 2 months into mosquito season, and I've only seen one or two near me. It's like I'm no longer tasty to them...but also, I don't seem to react negatively to the bites I do get. A 2mm red spot of skin for 2-3hrs, and a smallest of itch. Then, it just goes away. It's hard to overstate how amazing it is to both be less appetizing to them, as well as to not react badly to them. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6214270565295513/]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Hypotension (reduced blood pressure) / lightheadedness===

Several people have reported a reduction in blood pressure, e.g., as reported [https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/helminthictherapy/conversations/messages/11143 here].

A few have described becoming light headed.

{{Quote|indent}}I just inoculated (with 20 NA) and within 5 minutes, I felt the itch! Another 10 minutes and I got light headed, I'm now lying on the couch -- head spinning. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1470903532965597/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I’ve been lightheaded for a couple of days, especially when standing up, and I've never had that before... I'm a couple weeks in. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1022014974521124/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I, too, have had several low blood pressure events recently. I'm 2½ weeks into hosting 25 NA. I have gone through several phases in my life when I have gotten dizzy due to low blood pressure. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1022014974521124/?comment_id=1024554070933881&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I’m one month in with 5 NA and for two days I felt lightheaded like if I was going to faint, then it went away and came back a week later. (Via private communication.){{Quote|/indent}}

===Infections, exacerbation of===

====Herpes virus reactivation====

One self-treater with no history of cold sores had a serious outbreak of Herpes type 1 virus a few weeks after his first dose of 5 NA. This was diagnosed as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eczema_herpeticum eczema herpeticum], and the individual was hospitalised for 2 days.

====Urinary tract infection (UTI) exacerbation====

{{Quote|indent}}I'm 10 weeks post inoculation (with 10 NA) and my UTI and related symptoms have been through the roof for the last 5 or 6 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/693651310690827/?comment_id=1804070266315587&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R4%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}In week 4 or 5 after my first inoculation with 3NA, I did notice some incipient UTI symptoms as well as some incipient yeast infection symptoms, but these never became full blown infections. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/693651310690827/?comment_id=1804217276300886&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Once the initial side effect phase has passed, NA may alleviate UTIs. See [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Urinary tract infections (UTIs) | '''Helminthic therapy personal stories: Urinary tract infections''']].

===Insomnia / hypersomnia===
See the following separate page section.

* [[Helminthic therapy and sleep#Initial insomnia or hypersomnia | '''Initial insomnia or hypersomnia''']]

===Menstrual issues===

(Also see, [[Helminthic therapy and menstruation | '''Helminthic therapy and menstruation''']].)

{{Quote|indent}}My menstrual cycle has changed. I've had lighter and shorter periods with more spotting, fewer PMS symptoms, and acne break outs. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I am 12 weeks in on first dose with 3NA. I have found that during these past three months, my PMS was worsened to what it was when I was a teenager - namely, irritability (verging on blind rage!) and terrible back pain, so bad I could not stand up straight for a couple of days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1834330689956211/?comment_id=1834428259946454&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Nausea===

One hookworm host felt so dizzy and nauseous at work, she couldn't drive home until it passed. (Link expired)

{{Quote|indent}}It lasted almost all day for a few days around week 5-6 but then as I got more towards weeks 7-9 it seemed to be 2 to 3x per day. Definitely more intense early on.{{Quote|/indent}}

===Night sweats===

Someone has reported getting night sweats on and off during the first two weeks or so following his third and fourth inoculations, saying that these usually just woke him once each night during this period. (Details from a [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5994770997245472/ post to the Helminthic Therapy Support group] and a private communication.)

===Oral symptoms===

{{Quote|indent}}... mouth pain 3 to 4 weeks after innoculating (25 hw). Feels kind of like I burned the roof of my mouth. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1379333685455916/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}At 6 weeks (post-inoculation with NA) burned like tongue feeling. Not the roof of the mouth. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1379333685455916/?comment_id=1379457402110211&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had lingua geographica ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geographic_tongue geographic tongue]) for the first time in my life after my third dose of NA. It disappeared in a week. No treatment needed. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1438286506227300/?comment_id=1438391296216821&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1438286506227300/?comment_id=1438391296216821&reply_comment_id=1438670439522240&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Two people have reported a consistent “needing to clear throat” feeling at around 13-16 days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1472567586132525/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1472567586132525/?comment_id=1472673079455309&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

===Pain===

<blockquote>

====Abdominal pain====

{{Quote|indent}}I would get cramps for two days with each dose. I just laid face down with a heating pad on my gut and it helped a lot. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1600163656706250/?comment_id=1600166230039326&reply_comment_id=1600319756690640&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}For the past week, 15 min after a meal I get intense intestinal pain. This resolves after 4 - 5 hours, only to come back after another meal. The pain is not in the stomach, but in the lower abdomen. I never experienced anything like this before the inoculation. (Reported 5 weeks after inoculating with 5 NA.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2303657659690176/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I'm at week 7 and only took 8 NA. I'm having stomach aches after almost every meal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2244097125646230/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The only abdominal pain I felt around week 6 was for 2 days and it was intense muscle contractions/cramping of my entire abdomen. This was different from GI-distress associated with my IBS, which was more localized/rumbly/gas-pain that came and went. The HT cramping was nearly constant and felt like I was doing a painful crunch/sit-up that engaged my entire core. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1722742731115008/?comment_id=1724470354275579&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Two mornings in a row (at 6 weeks post inoculation with 20 NA) I have had incredible pain in my abdomen - and I can't exactly pinpoint where it is located… It lasts 30 minutes or so, but during that time it is so bad I can't even describe… The pain resembles the pain I tend to feel as a result of my very painful endometriosis… But I normally only suffer from endometriosis once per month - and certainly not at this time of the month. And certainly not 2 days in a row for 30 minutes at the same time in the morning. I can only come up with the explanation that it must be the worms… The pain is so intense I feel like jumping from a roof at that very moment. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1738874942835120/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had pretty extreme stomach pain at times. But my illness involves stomach pain. Now that I think back and I’m out of the woods I think it was totally worth it! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1738874942835120/?comment_id=1738951506160797&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I recall experiencing what I would describe as an occasional (not constant) definite, though mild, gnawing sensation in the middle of my belly from about six weeks following inoculation with NA to about five or six months post inoculation. As I was noticing steady improvement in my severe allergy and asthma symptoms, and expected to have some abdominal symptoms with HWT, for me, the gnawing sensation was encouraging, and never a real problem. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1760894503966497/?comment_id=1770120086377272&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Abdominal pain may be intensified on an individual basis by certain types of food, as happened in the following case.

{{Quote|indent}}My first dose was 7NA and I noticed dairy, seeds and seedy fruits really intensified the gut/gas pain sensations for me (until) the gut issues began subsiding after week 9-11. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6862485400474023?comment_id=6887591751296721]{{Quote|/indent}}

====Joint pain====

Joint pain may be experienced by a few, especially when this was a problem prior to inoculation.

{{Quote|indent}}My mother inoculated 5HW for dust mite allergy and atopic dermatitis 2 weeks ago. At one week she started having... joint pain (the kind you experience when you have flu, or a fever) and light flu-like fatigue and fever. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1426082444114373/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I’ve been on HW and WW for 45 days. The first 18 days were easy. Then, on day 19, I was hit with crushing fatigue for eight days…Throughout, I'd been having some joint pain (and have been for years) but it was bearable, but around day 36 the joint pain became awful -- by far the most unpleasant side-effect of the worms I've had yet -- and I'm used to a certain level of joint pain. This is truly horrible. [https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/helminthictherapy/conversations/messages/10978]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}At around the 7 week stage I developed strong and scary neuropathic symptoms in my feet and hands. And joint pain especially in my fingers. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1231739366882016/?comment_id=1231801796875773&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had painful tingling in my fingers, legs, arms and feet that I described in my journal as "almost like thousands of piranha’s nibbling under my skin." I also noted "a jumpiness that feels cellular". Along with this symptom I also had severe joint pain. Lower back, ankles, neck and one knee. The worst of all of this started around week 8 after my first ever inoculation with 5 NA. The symptoms finally started to taper off gradually around week 11. I am now at week 14 and all of these sensations are completely gone. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1207083356014284/?comment_id=1209858305736789&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

====Neck pain/ache====

{{Quote|indent}}Before taking helminths i suffered from chronic severe neck pain... When i took my first and so far only dose of NA, the neck pain flare up occurred now and then during the initial ten weeks, but it eventually went away. Basically its gone for good as far as i can tell. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/947025325353423/?comment_id=947396378649651&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/947025325353423/?comment_id=948866608502628&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My 10 year old son using 5 HW for dog dander allergies experienced neck ache for a short period on day 4 and 5 after inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/947025325353423/?comment_id=948905575165398&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

====Pelvic pain====

One female subject reported pelvic discomfort on days 23 and 24 - not so much a pain as a “menstrual feeling”, as though she was about to start a period. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/755884327800858/]

====Generalised pain/ache====

{{Quote|indent}}... about 30 days post inoculation with NA I get flu like body aches all over, splitting headache and chills. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7015826448473250?comment_id=7023464121042816&reply_comment_id=7026826000706628]{{Quote|/indent}}

</blockquote>



===Prophetic dreams===

Three self-treaters have had dreams that foretold improvements in their conditions.

{{Quote|indent}}Eleven weeks and five days after my new 'old friends' moved in, I woke suddenly in the night with an extremely vivid recollection of a dream. I was in an oriental take-away (not my usual haunt, of course!) trying to decide what, if anything, I could safely eat, when I became aware of someone telling me that I could have rice, meat and vegetables… I began, very gingerly at first, to try a little chicken and, as that was OK, some rice, and then potato. That I coped with all of this without any adverse reaction was utterly amazing after so many years of overwhelming food allergy and food intolerance. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Wriggling_out_of_total_food_intolerance,_M.E._and_Crohns_disease?fbclid=IwAR02ISw5vcpiabPAaU1MZfjXcWKPD4y3Qp6jXb-uyVoDeZR0m74gOwwKGOU#Not_just_a_dream]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}About 3-4 months after my second inoculation (with NA), things drastically improved. It was like a switch was flipped and suddenly I could eat food again… I had a sort of "prophetic" dream around that time. I dreamt that I could eat forbidden foods, and I think that was around the time that the worms "activated" and I actually could start to eat many foods again. It was almost like they "told" me that it was now okay to do so. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5625029050886337/]{{Quote|/indent}} 

{{Quote|indent}}I had another crazy dream. For some reason I am really active in these dreams. Running and jumping and crawling and things AS has made it difficult to do these past 2 years. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3655230004532928?comment_id=3692224940833434] (This individual's dreams may have been triggered by TSO rather than NA, as he was hosting both species.){{Quote|/indent}}

===Rashes and itching distant from the inoculation site===

(For the rash at the inoculation site and the itching associated with this, see [[The hookworm inoculation rash | '''The hookworm inoculation rash''']].)

Several people have reported transient skin manifestations away from the inoculation site, such as mild rashes, or “weird bumpy hives”, on the neck and face, a "sunburn feeling” (in the absence of any sun exposure), tiny bumps all over the forearms (beyond the rash site), and nocturnal "itch attacks" all over the body, all of which can appear from day 3 onwards but usually resolve by the tenth week.

{{Quote|indent}}Apparently I've traded my usual allergy symptoms for skin dryness/irritation. I inoculated with 3 NA 13 days ago. Around 5-6 days ago I started noticing my usual allergy symptoms reducing (I usually have areas of red itching patches in different parts of my body, now it's less severe), and instead my whole skin is constantly pretty dry. Also it's dry in a bit different way than usually, more like... internally? No flaking like allergy sometimes causes, but it is irritated in some way, scratching it also causes small wounds much easier than usually. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4114243931964864/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I got full body itch after my first dose of NA. It did pass after a week or two. Subsequent innoculations haven't brought on the full body itch. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3026919184030683/?comment_id=3027117827344152]{{Quote|/indent}}

One individual experienced a full body rash at about 12 days after inoculation. Describing this as being similar to contact dermatitis (small raised lumps with a tiny water blister), the individual said that he had never experienced anything like this before. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/893278837394739/]

Another subject, whose skin was very itchy and flared before commencing HT as a result of chronic urticaria and severe eczema, reported, at 14 days after an initial dose of 35 hookworms:

{{Quote|indent}}My skin is out of control with itching and inflammation. I look like a toad. My eyelids are swollen and I'm red everywhere on my upper body. Face, neck, arms, hands. All of the same places that are normally affected but now the hives are closer together and connecting. I just can't stop scratching.{{Quote|/indent}}

And yet another subject got a rash across his back following a supplementary inoculation, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/941103435945612/] while someone else had a rash on her chest for several days, a few weeks into her second dose of 40 hookworms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/941103435945612/?comment_id=942881659101123&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

Others have had similar experiences up to 10 weeks post inoculation.

{{Quote|indent}}I've never had urticaria before, but I'm getting small skin eruptions - like a white head - that eventually turn into a wide itchy patch and take over a week to go away. I have about 5 or so on my body, mostly around my upper arm and shoulders but also around my knees and ankles. This started about 18 days after introduction of 5 NA hookworms, which were my first. I've never experienced hives like this before, so it isn't a worsening of any existing symptoms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1694956050560343/?comment_id=1695399737182641&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}After about 3 weeks, I had very dramatic skin flare ups (eczema and urticaria -- the conditions I'm treating) mild joint pain, and also tingling in my hands and wrists. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/814067228649234/?comment_id=814111748644782&offset=0&total_comments=11&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R7%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I developed hives and rashes a week or two past the 21 day point/molt. My doctor suggested that high eosinophils might be responsible. If I had any sensitivity high eosinophils could cause hives in cases where it wouldn't ordinarily. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/785431908179433/?comment_id=785511978171426&offset=0&total_comments=10]{{Quote|/indent}}

Some have reported developing rashes on their faces.

{{Quote|indent}}I'm always suffering rashes. Never on my cheeks though. That was a very strange one. Not itchy at all and I just knew it had to be the immune response to my new friends. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/785431908179433/?comment_id=785444718178152&offset=0&total_comments=10]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I'm at 5.5 weeks post inoculation and I've been getting a weird rash on my face. It almost looks like my facing is breaking out with pimples, which is weird because I've always had very clear skin with no breakouts. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/785431908179433/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}… a few years ago around Fall/Winter season, I woke with an odd red patch on my face, straddling my upper lip and cheek, just on one side…Flash forward to today, I've been having this same weird redness on my face. Now it's on the other side, and my chin. I determined it's "perioral dermatitis", which is a mystery to dermatologists… So I checked my calendar in 2012 when this first happened. Lo and behold I'd done a 75 hookworm top-off, about 10 weeks before it developed. That's exactly where I'm at in the current hookworm cycle, so I think it's safe to say one of my side effects from NA is perioral dermatitis. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1140954622627158/]{{Quote|/indent}}

At 7 weeks after inoculation with 50 hookworms, one individual had a rash appear, literally overnight, about 2 inches above his waistline. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1077380182317936/?comment_id=1117564791632808&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]  

Other experiences include the following.

{{Quote|indent}}I introduced 6 NA 13 days ago. (Applied them to my leg; I still have itchy welts in the area.) Six or seven days later, I developed similar itchy welts on my arms and back. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1227954537260499/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My hives got worse when I started HT. Seems to be settled down now though at 2+ years. LDN helped bridge the gap. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1983242591731686/?comment_id=1983748741681071&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had cold hives all over my face and body when I started NA. Prior I would get mild cold hives in winter. I still get a tiny bit on my hands or arms in very very cold weather, but when initially starting NA it was a lot stronger. Didn't last long, maybe a few weeks or so till it fully settled. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3914106261978633/?comment_id=3915987855123807]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Reactivation of sites of old bug bites and injections===

Sites where the skin has previously been punctured by 'alien' organisms other than helminths, or where 'alien' material has been introduced, for example via injections, can flare unexpectedly following a helminth inoculation, even years after the introduction of helminths.

{{Quote|indent}}My old leech bites often wake up, swell & itch, shortly after inoculating with NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3385034908219107/?comment_id=3386852408037357&reply_comment_id=3386936151362316]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had (the site of) an old TB test pop up today. I don't get bug bit, ever, and I was still in my long sleeve nightgown anyway. And the TB tests are so distinctive: location, size, etc. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3385034908219107/?comment_id=3386852408037357]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have been using hookworms for about 5 years now and one constant is the return of old bites when eosinophils are on the march. Usually about two weeks after inoculation, all my old inoculation sites will act up and get itchy. I'll get these little mosquito bite-like spots on finger and on top of toes, that itch like hell. It's like the skin "remembers" old inflammation when new NA are getting settled. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4252884758100780/]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Recapitulation of old injuries, illnesses===

A remarkable side effect phenomenon that can appear following helminth inoculation is a "strange, mysterious and magical" reappearance (recurrence, reoccurance, repeat, repetition) of symptoms from old injuries and illnesses.

This was reported by someone who inoculated with '''TSO''' a few weeks after a bout of pneumonia:

{{Quote|indent}}I took my very first dose of TSO three hours ago (for Hashimoto's and psoriatic arthritis) and my lungs are killing me. Out of nowhere. Really bad pain, almost burning sensation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1242666762455943/]{{Quote|/indent}}

After taking her fifth fortnightly dose of 30 '''HDC''', one self-treater reported experiencing night terrors for almost 2 weeks, before returning to “sleeping great” again.

{{Quote|indent}}I've started getting night terrors again! I haven't had multiple night terrors in years ever since I discovered magnesium 7-8 years ago. It's like a deep wound that healed and left a scar. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3226282547427678/?comment_id=3324862274236371] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3226282547427678/?comment_id=3325467854175813&reply_comment_id=3370345276354737]{{Quote|/indent}}

Someone who followed two doses of 35 '''NA''' with a dose of 45, reported that this larger dose caused a reappearance of pain from past injuries.

{{Quote|indent}}... the finger I broke last year is killing me, my TMJ is flaring, my knee is all screwy (high school thing), another finger someone hit with a cymbal in high school hurts, and the wrist I broke 28 freaking years ago is acting up. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/873265256062764/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Other self-treaters using NA have had similar experiences.

{{Quote|indent}}My first inoculation (5NA) I ended up with weird symptoms I hadn't experienced for YEARS. Full blown reactions. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1414931745229443/?comment_id=1418396941549590&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antidepressant_discontinuation_syndrome#Symptoms "brain zaps"] briefly this morning, 32 days into inoculation with 3NA. These are a common side effect of SSRI (antidepressant) withdrawal that I used to get when I lowered my dose or forgot to take a pill that day. It is a very distinctive feeling! (I’ve been off SSRIs for about a decade.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1760383044017643/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The first and second time I dosed with NA, I got scared by some disease symptoms I hadn't seen for maybe 10 years. They dissipated after 12 weeks. Now, on my 3rd dose, I'm not having symptoms from 10 years ago but I'm having symptoms I used to have as a child (from 25-30 years ago). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1267994686589817/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}... then this morning I started having back spasms - real brief intense spasms that hunch me over, knock my breath out, and then are gone. I've had these super randomly in the past (like 3 spasms a year), but I just had 4 within 20 minutes this morning. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/873265256062764/?comment_id=873604356028854&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}One week after my 2nd innocualation of 5 NA, I'm having a return of old pains symptoms. Yesterday, my leg was killing me! Had problems walking....then I remembered, oh yeah....I fell when walking the dog back in March, and bruised the bone. Still have a small bump. Today my jaw is aching! Oh no....I must have cracked "another" molar. But no....in the same spot? It's just an old symptom. Having a cracked molar (hidden by a filling, not visible by xrays) for 3 or 4 months was agony. This worm journey is so interesting! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1335248503197768/?comment_id=1450211868368097&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I've been on HT for 2+ years, so maybe 9 doses (of NA). This last time, I felt a heavy, aching soreness all up and down my right arm, and a pain near my elbow. I became seriously alarmed that I might be developing some symptoms of MS or Parkinson's or something, because it felt like a strain to lift my arm. Then I remembered breaking my right arm at age 9 after a fall from a fast-moving horse. So strange and mysterious and magical to revisit these cellular body memories through the helminth experience. It went away after a couple of days... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1267994686589817/?comment_id=1268002879922331&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I developed pemphigoid of pregnancy 27 years ago, resolved with treatment. I developed pemphigoid on my hands 3 years ago, resolved with treatment. Now (after inoculating with NA) I have it again on my face. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1452396584816292/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}When I was younger… my left ribcage locked up and breathing/moving hurt really bad. (This [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precordial_catch_syndrome precordial catch syndrome]) would always pass eventually. As my PANS got a bit better as I grew up, these incidents essentially disappeared. After inoculating with 3NA three weeks ago, I have had several "lock-ups" of my left heart area that hurt when I breathe and move but go away in a few minutes, like when I was a kid. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1746429688746312/?comment_id=1746863272036287&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I've started getting night terrors again! I haven't had multiple night terrors in years ever since I discovered magnesium 7-8 years ago. It's like a deep wound that healed and left a scar. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3226282547427678/?comment_id=3324862274236371] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3226282547427678/?comment_id=3325467854175813&reply_comment_id=3370345276354737]{{Quote|/indent}}

Someone else who experienced this phenomenon reported a recapitulation of the pain from ''all'' the injuries, and the symptoms of ''all'' the diseases that he had ever had, including nerve pain from an auto accident 10 years earlier and an Achilles tendon injury at the age of 8. These all began to appear within a week of his first inoculation with NA and lasted around a month, causing pain in seemingly every part of his body.

Like other inoculation side effects, these mysterious reappearances of old illnesses and injuries don't last very long, and are usually gone within 12 weeks, although it is also possible to experience this phenomenon after supplementary doses.

{{Quote|indent}}Wow these things are mysterious! Each successive dose, I seem to go though later periods of my illness. I’m at the most recent one: severe and long lasting reactions to trace gluten. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1623904804332135/]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Sense of smell, changes to===

An enhancement of one's sense of smell is sometimes evident from around 5 or 6 weeks post inoculation.

{{Quote|indent}}My latest symptom — at almost six weeks — is heightened sense of smell. I can literally smell the chlorine in tap water, which I don’t drink BTW, and subtle scents in clothes, towels, cloth napkins, etc. I can also taste the subtle differences in water. The spring water at my office tastes different than the filtered water I use at home. If water sits in a glass for any length of time, I can tell exactly which scents it has absorbed. At the moment, I could tell you what my downstairs neighbor is cooking for dinner! It’s incredible. Before, my sense of smell was pretty horrible, honestly. I couldn’t smell much of anything. Right now, I could get a job as a wine taster — if I could get rid of my histamine intolerance! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1874982289224384/?comment_id=1877405798982033&reply_comment_id=1877420212313925&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}A couple of days ago I went to an excercise class with a small group of ladies and I could smell the burning oils and the yoga mats and the blankets and the tea they were drinking. It has been decades since I could smell like that (I can’t remember the last time) and the only thing that I’ve done differently is start hosting (NA) about 5 weeks ago so I guess it may be the worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2251898131532796/?comment_id=2253378831384726&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Some NA self-treaters have reported a marked change in their response to certain smells.

{{Quote|indent}}Having been unable to eat normal food for many years, it was fortunate that, during most of this time, I was not really interested in normal food. I could inhale the aroma of other people's cooking, but not feel any desire to eat what was being cooked. Now, at almost the sixth week since inoculation, I found myself suddenly taking an interest in any cooking smells that assailed my nostrils, and I began to have yearnings to eat whatever foods were being prepared - my first experience of real hunger in years. [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Wriggling_out_of_total_food_intolerance,_M.E._and_Crohns_disease#Chilling_out]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}An interesting, minor effect of NA is that I went from hating the smell of grass, to it seeming sweet. It's always interesting when I drive by someone mowing their lawn and or cutting the side of a highway. I used to dread it, roll my windows up, and put the recirculating air on blast. Now I just smell it and think about the worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7621325214590034]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Shortness of breath / air hunger===

Shortness of breath has been reported occasionally following the first dose of NA.

{{Quote|indent}}I had my first round of hookworms nearly 3 weeks ago. In the last week I have been having sharp chest pain, shortness of breath and bad depression which I never ever suffer from. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/657619667627325/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I am in the middle of week 6 with 2 NA. In the past week I've had two big (for me) allergy attacks or possibly mild asthma episodes. I have had this before the worms and it lasted about 10 days, including 2 trips to urgent care and 1 trip to the ER, (where) they gave me nitroglycerin which opened up my breathing and fixed the problem. I also have a minor version of breathing issues/chest tightness at night sometimes, and just sit up in bed for an hour or so and it passes. Benadryl helped last night. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3620410001348262] (NB. This individual was subsequently diagnosed as having MCAS, and also likely responding to environmental mold exposure, either of which may have been involved in the respiratory problems she described.){{Quote|/indent}}

This side effect has been reported more frequently by hookworm hosts following their second inoculation.

{{Quote|indent}}I’m at about week 8 or 9 of my 2nd inoculation. I took 15 NA and didn't have any symptoms or side effects. All of a sudden in the last 3 days, I have experienced shortness of breath randomly throughout the day, like I can't get enough oxygen or something isn't converting correctly. I can breathe deeply but my body isn't satiated with what I'm bringing in. I don't have other symptoms (and) some parts of the day feel fine. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2432537526802188/]
{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I am in week 4-5 of my second dose of NA and I have been experiencing the same thing over the last few days. It feels like ‘air hunger’ even though I seem to be breathing fine... I’ve had about 6-7 incidences of it over the past 6 days. I did have some occasional symptoms like that many years ago so also wondered if it was the ‘ return of past symptoms’ I have read about.
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2432537526802188/?comment_id=2433442886711652]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had my second inoculation of NA 3-4 weeks ago. No noticeable symptoms, but when I lie in bed at night and sometimes in the morning I can't get a full breath into my lungs. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2477830875606186/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2477830875606186/?comment_id=2477904942265446&reply_comment_id=2478179072238033]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}This happened to me about 8 weeks into my second inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2477830875606186/?comment_id=2478350755554198]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Not sure what to make of this. Have not experienced it until now. Most recent worms were about 3 months ago. Am experiencing the shortness of breath, as you describe it, but I have been Dx’d with two different tick borne diseases. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2432537526802188/?comment_id=2432688946787046]{{Quote|/indent}}

===SIBO===

Although helminthic therapy can improve SIBO in the longer term, [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories#SIBO] there has been one case where each new dose of NA has produced a temporary SIBO flare.

{{Quote|indent}}I may be a special case, as for me NA always trigger a bout of SIBO. I usually have to do a fully ketogenic diet for a few weeks, then it settles down. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1499383136784303/?comment_id=1499564203432863&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] (Also see [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1509328469123103/?comment_id=1509673985755218&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R3%22%7D] and [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1509328469123103/?comment_id=1509673985755218&reply_comment_id=1510093365713280&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]){{Quote|/indent}}

===Sleep issues===

Some self-treaters have reported temporary insomnia, while a few others have experienced hypersomnia. For more details, see [[Helminthic therapy and sleep | '''Helminthic therapy and sleep''']].

===Thirst===

{{Quote|indent}}I am into the 2nd week of my second inoculation (5 NA again). Have been feeling insanely thirsty all day. And then I looked at my notes from last time and I had the exact same thing for a week back then. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2555376637851609/?comment_id=2836684726387464]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Throat constriction===

{{Quote|indent}}I received a dose of 35 HW about 3 weeks ago and last night I awoke gasping for air because my throat had closed up. It was a harrowing experience that lasted about a minute as I was unable to breathe. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/884562471599709/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Exactly 5 days post inoculation (with 25 NA), I awoke in the middle of the night thinking someone was choking me. My throat was burning and closing up fast, causing my breath to rasp in my chest. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hook_me_up!_Treating_autoimmune_disease_with_hookworms]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My throat closed while eating several times (5 weeks in) after different innoculations of around 25. The first time it was quite alarming - I thought I was having an unprecedented allergic reaction. It resolves itself in a week or two, and does not happen every time I get more worms. I have been dosing for 3 years. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1131267180262569/?comment_id=1133169820072305&reply_comment_id=1592757977446818&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Goddamn my throat closed up this morning, didn't expect that on 5 worms (NA) and not 70 days in! I've never experienced anything like it before. Luckily it only lasted a few seconds.{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I got my package yesterday at 1600 and applied the 3 larvae right away. By 0900 this morning, I felt something like a lump in my throat (not closing off where I can't breathe, just that it felt hard to swallow) and had a few mild coughs. (Submitted via email){{Quote|/indent}}

===Tinnitus===

See: [[Helminthic therapy and tinnitus | '''Helminthic therapy and tinnitus''']].

===Twitching===

{{Quote|indent}}I've noticed I get twitching when my inflammation is reducing from the helminths (NA). I also had mad eye twitching when I did a course of FMT, which leads me to believe it's related to the gut. The twitching is all over... sometimes rather severe to the point I can see my arm muscle moving.[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4011873232201935/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4011873232201935?comment_id=4012568308799094&reply_comment_id=4013727998683125]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I get a few facial twitches in the first days after my (NA) inoculations - only few twitches, then they disappear. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4011873232201935/?comment_id=4012433235479268] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4011873232201935?comment_id=4012568308799094&reply_comment_id=4012650738790851]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I also get twitching on eyelids and more premature ventricular contractions after inoculating (with NA). Weird neurological symptoms in general, but they are always mild and self-limiting. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4011873232201935/?comment_id=4012578782131380]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had twitching in my left eye at about 14 weeks after each of my first three inoculations with NA (10/10/25) lasting for a few days to a week at most. (Via Messenger){{Quote|/indent}}

One hookworm host has reported that she gets twitches and ticks when she's in need of a new dose of NA. Once she has added a fresh dose, they go away immediately. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4011873232201935?comment_id=4014012608654664]

=== Vomiting ===

{{Quote|indent}}I’m not 100% sure if it's the worms (NA) - could've just been something I ate - but I threw up a month after my first dose and a month after my second dose. Just seems strange coz I don't vomit very easily or often! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5979307135458525/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The only variable change that caused me to nearly vomit... was eating a small piece of garlic. I eat the same exact thing everyday, but that was literally the only difference and it happened within 20 minutes of eating the meal... I never in my life responded to garlic like that before. Only after having NA in my intestines. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7143697379019489/?comment_id=7152305374825356&reply_comment_id=7160476870674873&notif_id=1709833278709434&notif_t=group_comment]{{Quote|/indent}}

==Treating the side effects==

=== Prednisone ===

If necessary, inoculation side effects can be quelled completely by taking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prednisone prednisone/prednisolone]. Those who are already taking 5 mg, or more, of this drug per day for a preexisting condition will usually not notice any inoculation side effects, to the extent that they may be convinced the inoculation was unsuccessful.

{{Quote|indent}}… we've found that a half-pill (5 or 10 mg?) of Prednisone per day is enough to kill any of those symptoms from dosing. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1016630521726236/?comment_id=1016974145025207&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I was having bad diarrhea every day from worm flu starting around week three or four. 5mg of prednisone per day helped a lot (I'm 135 pounds). I am in week 7 now and stopped taking prednisone a few days ago (tapered off even though idk if you need to with 5mg) and feel really good. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/960597907329498/?comment_id=960661000656522&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}5-10 mg/day completely alleviated my GI symptoms after my first inoculation... Generally, I prefer non-pharma approaches to managing my health but was really thankful for prednisone mitigate the side effects of my first dose of NA. It made the difference between whether or not I could get off of the couch and function throughout the day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/977396905649598/?comment_id=978535158869106&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D] (This quote includes additional details from an expired link.){{Quote|/indent}}

A short course of prednisone immediately following inoculation can be particularly helpful for anyone with an intestinal stricture. The drug will obviate the possibility of localised inflammation making a stricture worse. Prednisone may also be appropriate if diarrhoea or fatigue persist for more than a few days, and it could be continued for a week, with a doctor's approval, followed by a taper agreed by the doctor.

Anyone who is worried about inoculation side effects could ask their doctor for a prescription for prednisone and keep this to hand for use in suppressing the side effects if these were to become troublesome. As it should only be needed for a short time, there would be no long term adverse consequences of taking this drug.

=== Other steroid preparations ===

All the side effects are related to inflammation, so anything that reduces inflammation could potentially help.

{{Quote|indent}}I decided to try taking hydrocortisone with my NA this time, to avoid the usual loose bowels in the first week. I took 8mg on day 2 then quickly tapered to 4, 3, 2mg over the next 3 days. Magic. No gut issues at all. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3508883289167601/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Even the small amount of immunosuppression provided by a steroid nasal spray can be useful for this purpose.

{{Quote|indent}}I am on week 4 of 3NA and seeing some side effects. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluticasone_propionate Flonase] (the sensitive kind), which I take in the spring for allergies, seems to be helping a bit. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1761224033933544/?comment_id=1761277187261562&reply_comment_id=1762775553778392&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Antihistamines ===

The side effect mechanism is very similar to allergies, so antihistamines can help and many self-treaters have reported good results with this type of drug.

{{Quote|indent}}Allergy medication helped me more than anything else because it calmed down my reaction. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1248358258553460/?comment_id=1248404615215491&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R8%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Taking daily Claritin seemed to all but eliminate the side effects of my last dose of 5NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2336171929772082/?comment_id=2338295286226413&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fexofenadine Fexofenadine] tempers the (epigastric) pain almost the entire day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1057160664339888/?comment_id=1058455910877030&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Taking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benadryl Benadryl] (antihistamine which, in the US, contains diphenhydramine) has helped a lot and keeps the (stomach) pain away for the most part. I take it several times a day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1381206295268655/?comment_id=1381812371874714&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

However, only worm-safe antihistamines should be used, and these are listed in the [[Human helminth care manual | '''Human helminth care manual''']].

In addition to using the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H1_antagonist H1-antihistamines] such as fexofenadine and diphenhydramine, there have been reports that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antihistamine#H2-antihistamines H2-antihistamines] such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranitidine ranitidine] can also help [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1527187794003837/?comment_id=1527200144002602&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1375917779130840/?comment_id=1375920815797203&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1527187794003837/?comment_id=1527200144002602&reply_comment_id=1527241793998437&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D].

'''NB'''. Hookworm self-treaters with restless legs syndrome (RLS) should be aware that this condition can be exacerbated by fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7689230/] and possibly also by other antihistamine drugs. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33314463/])

=== Vitamin D3 ===

Vitamin D3 has also proved to be effective for this purpose. The blogger who made the first of the following comments used [https://www.amazon.com/Ortho-Molecular-Vitamin-Capsule-Blister/dp/B008KZD6EO/ref=sr_1_6_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1531236581&sr=8-6&keywords=vitamin%20d%2050%2C000 Orthomolecular Products Vitamin D3 50,000 IU - 15 Capsule Blister Pack].

{{Quote|indent}}I took one pill (50,000IU vitamin D3) last Saturday and by Sunday night the nearly constant cramping had ceased! [http://doingtheworm.blogspot.com/2018/05/day-55-support-from-your-community.html]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Without vitamin D, I get only side effects from HW. With vitamin D I get more benefits than side effects... I just take one dose about 60k IU every 2 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2005401089515836/?comment_id=2005422022847076&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Vitamin D is helpful for side effects. I take 50,000 IU once or twice a week when I’m feeling NA side effects. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2011561408899804/?comment_id=2011672238888721&reply_comment_id=2011958108860134&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== A microdose of TSO ===

{{Quote|indent}}Re-treated with NA 3 days ago. I took a small dose of TSO (83 ova - 0.5ml from a bottle of 2,500) beforehand. So far it does seem to have helped. Normally the day after treating with NA I get a strong worm flu and feel poorly for 2-3 days. The day after treating with the NA/TSO combo, I felt “normal." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4040337509355507/]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) ===

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low-dose_naltrexone Low-dose naltrexone (LDN)] can be another means of offsetting symptoms during the side-effect phase, and is [[Helminthic therapy and low-dose naltrexone (LDN) |'''fully compatible with helminthic therapy''']].

{{Quote|indent}}The LDN seems to have solved my fatigue problem. I have been associating the fatigue with the hookworm since it started at week 3 of my hookworm treatment. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/942686542453968/?comment_id=942887655767190]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== CBD oil ===

CBD oil (50-100mg daily) has been reported to help reduce hookworm side effects. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3491864257536171/?comment_id=3493902483999015]

=== Homeopathy ===

For a list of homeopathic remedies that have been used successfully to treat itching, nausea, gas, diarrhoea, exhaustion, cough and sore throat, see [[Helminthic therapy and homeopathy#Homeopathic remedies used to relieve side effects following the introduction of NA | '''Homeopathic remedies used to relieve side effects following the introduction of NA''']].

=== Loperamide ===

Diarrhoea usually responds well to a standard diarrhoea relief preparation such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loperamide loperamide].

=== Clonazepam ===

One hookworm host has reported that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clonazepam Clonazepam] (aka Klonopin, Rivotril, Paxam, etc.) helped her deal with insomnia and an intoxicated feeling caused by the worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7641448892577666/]

=== Paracetamol (acetaminophen) ===

In theory, ibuprofen should work well, as it is an anti-inflammatory but, in practice, it may make things worse. Like Naprosen and other NSAIDs, ibuprofen is notorious for being hard on the stomach and gut. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) might be better.

=== Probiotics ===

The Lactobacillus plantarum 299v strain has been reported to help ease gastrointestinal side effects. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2618338774888728/?comment_id=2621316721257600]

=== Keto diet ===

{{Quote|indent}}On low protein Keto I don’t get side effects from NA… On non Keto restrictive diet, have been suffering at 7 NA level, but about the same as 3. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6254274261295143/]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Colony reduction ===

In cases of severe side effects caused by inoculating with too many larvae, it may be necessary to terminate the hookworm infection and start over with a smaller number of larvae, or at least to cull part of the colony. See [[Hookworm dosing and response#Reducing the size of a hookworm colony | '''Reducing the size of a hookworm colony''']].

'''NB. None of the above is medical advice, and drugs like prednisone are prescription-only medications that should only be used with the guidance of a doctor.''' Please see the [[Wiki:General_disclaimer|'''Disclaimer''']] page.

==See also==

* [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']]
* [[The hookworm inoculation rash | '''The hookworm inoculation rash''']]
* [[Hookworm timeline | '''The Hookworm Timeline''']]
* [[The helminthic therapy bounce | '''The helminthic therapy bounce''']]

Helminthic therapy support groups

2024-09-04T03:19:00Z

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Since 2003, when TSO became the first helminth to be made available for use by self-treaters, knowledge about this subject has evolved continuously. As a result, some of the information in the groups listed below has become obsolete, so details in older posts should not be relied upon, and details should always be checked against the information in this wiki, which is kept up to date.

== General discussion groups ==

* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport// '''Helminthic Therapy Support'''] (Facebook) - 8,790 members. A vibrant and friendly community with many experienced and knowledgeable members.

:: Due to the high success rate of helminthic therapy (approximately 75% eventually experience improvement in their health), this group’s membership is constantly revolving. People join, spend time researching the material in this wiki and then order worms. Once their health has improved, they no longer need the group so typically reduce their involvement, or even leave the group, to move on with their lives and enjoy their improved health. Consequently, the current active membership represents only a fraction of the global community of helminthic therapy self-treaters, and they tend to be people who are still in the early stages of treatment or with more severe, complex or longstanding health issues who need help with optimising or troubleshooting the therapy. The guide, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/7074281102627784 How to Get Help], has suggestions for best use of the group.
*
* [https://www.reddit.com/r/HelminthicTherapy/ '''Helminthic Therapy'''] (Reddit) - 200 members.
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/142874834658175 '''Helminthes thérapeutiques'''] (Facebook) - 120 membres. Un groupe pour francophones.
* [https://mewe.com/join/helminthictherapy '''Helminthic Therapy'''] (MeWe) - 120 members.
* [https://discord.com/invite/KdN5rtbHpV '''Helminthic Therapy Support'''] (Discord) - 60 members.

== Helminth incubation group ==

* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/ '''Helminth Incubation Group'''] (Facebook) - 1,130 members. A community of helminth growers who are mainly cultivating '''NA'''. A few have also grown their own '''HDC''', but '''TTO''' is rarely cultivated by home growers due to the more complex process.

For detailed instructions on how to cultivate NA, HDC and TTO, see [[Helminth_incubation#Helminth incubation methods | '''Helminth incubation methods''']].

== Support group welcome message and guidelines ==

If you are a new member of one of the helminthic therapy support groups, we extend '''a very warm welcome''' to you!

'''1. We have ALL the information you need!''' 
This Helminthic Therapy wiki is the world’s largest database of information about the therapy. 
* [[Helminthic Therapy Wiki | '''Home page''']]
* [[Index to topics | '''Index to topics''']]
* [[Special:AllPages | '''List of pages''']]
* [[Sitemap | '''Sitemap''']]

'''2. Please do not post to the group until you have at least read the introductory page.''' 
This includes everything you need to know in order to understand and get started with this therapy. 
* [[Introduction to helminthic therapy | '''Introduction to helminthic therapy''']]

'''3. Before posting a question, search both this wiki and the group’s post archive.''' 
Most questions about this therapy are answered in this wiki or in past comments to the group. Use the search box available on every wiki page, and the group’s search tool.

'''4. We only accept posts about helminthic therapy.''' 
We are not concerned with any other topic, or with any form of parasite other than the four species of [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Therapeutic helminths | '''therapeutic helminth''']] available from the [[Helminth providers | '''helminth providers''']], unless research has shown that another species, or its products, may have a therapeutic effect.

'''5. Please do not ask for helminth provider recommendations.''' 
The selection of a helminth supplier needs to be approached on an individual basis, bearing in mind the customer's location, which organism they are seeking and which pricing and payment options they prefer. All the details required in order to make a selection are on the following page.
* [[Helminth providers | '''Helminth providers''']]

'''6. Never discuss the locations or shipping arrangements of the helminth providers.''' 
This is essential to protect the providers from unhelpful regulatory attention. If you need details that are not in the wiki, contact the provider directly.

'''7. Never reveal details about helminth shipments or their contents.''' 
Details or photographs of packages, or their contents, could be used to identify and block future shipments to you and other self-treaters.

'''8. This group is moderated.''' 
Moderators will endeavour to ensure that posts are on topic, and that the information in them is accurate. Members may occasionally be asked to edit a post or, in some cases, a post may be removed. Members who block a moderator or admin are removed from the group.

'''9. Please read the rest of our welcome message, which continues below.''' 
The following details include abbreviations that we use, plus information about other important matters that will help you and others get the most from group membership.

=== Personal privacy on Facebook ===

We are a “Private” group, which means that no one outside the group can see our members’ posts. However, anyone can see the group and its members in News Feed, searches and other places on Facebook, and Facebook does encourage people to join the same groups as their friends, which it does by showing them the member’s avatar above the names of groups they are in. Unfortunately, this feature can’t be turned off, even if members prevent others from seeing the groups they’ve joined. So, if you think this might create a problem for you, it may be worth having a response prepared in case you’re asked what the “Helminthic Therapy” group is about. This name is the only clue that others will have about what kind of group it is, but anyone who is still concerned about their friends seeing this can rejoin the group after creating a new Facebook account using an alias.

To review the privacy settings for a Private group, see [https://www.facebook.com/help/220336891328465?ref=learn_more this page] in the Facebook Help Centre.  

=== Abbreviations we use ===

HD - the rat tapeworm, Himenolepis diminuta 
HDC - the cysticercoids (larvae) of the rat tapeworm, Himenolepis diminuta 
HK - hookworm, referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus 
HT - helminthic therapy 
HW - hookworm, referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus 
NA - the human hookworm, Necator americanus 
TS - the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis 
TSO - the ova (eggs) of the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis 
TT - the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura 
TTO - the ova (eggs) of the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura 
WW - whipworm, usually referring to the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura, but, alternatively, Trichuris suis 

=== We have ALL the information you need! ===

1. '''Helminthic Therapy wiki'''.

All the wiki’s pages can be read in any language by using the Translate tool at the foot of the left-hand sidebar on any page.

New members will sometimes reject the material in the wiki, saying that they prefer to have feedback from “real people” with “real experience”, but this is, in fact, exactly what the wiki offers. The site’s contents have been built using the shared anecdotes of thousands of helminth self-treaters, many of whom have now left the group after having learned how to use helminths to successfully manage their respective conditions. By collating all this past experience, the wiki offers many more examples of the real experience of real people than are available at any one time in the group. The site is updated continually and new details are added immediately they appear in the group.

{{Quote|indent}}The first thing one should do when considering helminthic therapy is read the Helminthic Therapy Wiki. I read pretty much every page on this wiki before reaching out to order. [https://doingtheworm.blogspot.com/2018/05/week-5-going-gets-tough.html]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The only bumps I have had as a self treater, was when I didn't check the wiki. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2100578413331436/?comment_id=2103549636367647&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

2. '''Group guides'''

The Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support group has Guides presenting basic information on how to use the group for support. The Guides are self-explanatory, but finding them can be a little difficult. In a browser, they are located in the tabs shown just below the bar of icons of recently active members, or at [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/learning_content/ this direct link].

[[File:guides browser.jpg|207x207px]]

On a smartphone, they may be located in the tabs, as shown above, or in one of several different facebook menus, such as those below.
*

[[File:HOW TO find guides phone.jpg|199x199px]] 

3. '''Group files'''

The [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/files/ files section ] contains a few additional materials that may be of interest to members.

NB. When posts written before February 2017 refer to documents in the files section that can no longer be found, their contents will have been transferred to this wiki, which contains the latest details about everything.

=== Obtaining helminths and protecting the supply ===

There are complex differences between the products and services offered by the helminth providers, so the selection of a provider needs to be approached on an individual basis, according to which organisms are most likely to meet the individual self-treater’s specific needs, which companies sell these particular worms and will ship them to the self-treater’s locality, and which services and pricing options will be most appropriate to them. Seeking, or offering, a provider recommendation is not helpful because everyone’s health issues, needs and circumstances are different. We therefore request that you DO NOT ASK THE GROUP FOR A PROVIDER RECOMMENDATION, and not just for the foregoing reasons, but also because doing this could attract comments from other members who may not have read this document and whose responses may place one or more of our providers at risk. (There’s more about this below.)

All the information necessary to make an informed choice of provider is available from the following two pages in this wiki.

* [[Helminth providers | '''Helminth Providers''']]. (It’s important to read the entire page and not just the list of companies.)

* [[Helminth provider reviews | '''Helminth Provider Reviews''']]. (Customer feedback about the quality of service offered by each of the providers.)

Since the FDA has issued an Import Alert effectively banning the shipping of all therapeutic helminths into the US, and since the Customs departments in some other countries have occasionally intercepted and destroyed packages that they believed contained helminths, we need to avoid revealing details about the shipping arrangements of the helminth providers, especially the locations they ship from and the physical appearance of their packages. Details or photographs of packages, or their contents, could be used to identify and block future shipments.

While some providers are open about where their labs are located and where they ship from, others need to keep these details strictly under wraps. Revealing the whereabouts of a provider’s base could lead to that company being closed down and their customers losing access to the helminths they need. It is therefore absolutely essential that members NEVER REVEAL THE LOCATION OF ANY PROVIDER IN POSTS TO THE GROUP, AND NEVER ASK QUESTIONS THAT MIGHT LEAD OTHERS TO DO THIS.

If you ever agree to be interviewed about your treatment by a representative of the media, please don’t reveal where the packages you received were shipped from and, ideally, don’t even mention the provider by name. Just say that you got your worms from a “commercial helminth provider”.

In view of the above, we generally don’t discuss individual providers in the group unless someone has a question that is not answered on the Helminth Providers and Helminth Provider Reviews pages of the wiki, or some new information has become available about the services they offer - such as the addition, removal or improvement of a service, changed prices, or a website update, etc. - or unless the quality of a provider’s service has fallen significantly below an acceptable standard. In these cases, it’s helpful to let other members know about these details but, when doing so in posts, it’s important to concentrate on the facts rather than express subjective opinions.

It isn’t helpful to draw attention to isolated incidences of delayed emails or deliveries, or hookworm doses that are not viable on arrival, since these are all inevitable from time to time and not a reflection on the quality of service offered by the provider who sent them.

=== Group focus ===

Our focus in this group is on the science, management, experience and results of helminthic therapy.
Our aim is to share, and add to, what is known about helminthic therapy with a view to improving our own heath and also helping others to achieve their respective health goals. We therefore welcome comments from anyone with an interest in helminthic therapy, whether researchers, clinicians, providers or self-treaters.

Due to the fact that helminthic therapy is effective in approximately 75% of cases of inflammation, autoimmunity and allergy, most of our members eventually reach a point where they no longer need our support, and leave the group. The result of this is that many of our active members are still in the early stages of the therapy, so the discussion tends to centre around trouble-shooting - managing any initial side effects, establishing an effective dosing regimen and supporting new members through the often lengthy wait while their worms begin to work. This can unfortunately give new members the impression that this therapy is troublesome, difficult to manage and not very effective, but this is not the case, as can be seen very clearly from reading the contents of this wiki.

We are not concerned with parasites other than the four “therapeutic” species available from the helminth providers, unless research has shown that another species may also have therapeutic effects. Posts about non-therapeutic parasites are generally not helpful, especially when these link to examples of sensationalist journalism and/or scary-looking photographs. In fact, these can be disturbing to members who have an aversion to worms and who may already be struggling to come to terms with the nature of the therapy.

=== Post management ===

In this internet age, information spreads like wildfire, and incorrect information about helminthic therapy can potentially threaten people’s safety and possibly reduce their chances of success with the therapy. Moderators will therefore endeavour to ensure that the information in posts is accurate. This will usually be accomplished by posting responses containing correct details, but it might occasionally be necessary to ask a member to edit a post or, in some cases, a post may be removed altogether.

Any posts of a commercial nature, or seeking charitable donations, will be removed, as will those that are not directly about helminthic therapy. Posts about vaccination will also be removed because these invariably invite controversy, can cause conflict, and may threaten the future of the group. There is a page in this wiki on [[Helminthic therapy and vaccines | '''helminthic therapy and vaccines''']] for those who want information about this.  

We are not a parasitology group, nor a microbiome or autoimmune disease group, so we only accept posts about these topics if they fall within the context of helminthic therapy, or are offered as constructive suggestions to a specific member to help with the health problems for which they are using helminthic therapy.

Members who wish to post questions relating to their own therapy should be aware that group members cannot give medical advice, and that such questions are best addressed in consultation with a personal physician and/or a helminth provider.

When posting comments or questions about your personal experience with HT, it will greatly help other members if you include all of the following details.

* disease(s) being treated 
* details of other treatment modalities that you are using concurrently with HT 
* species of worm used 
* total length of time that worms have been hosted 
* rough dates of doses, or the length of the intervals between them 
* size of doses 

When posting updates about your progress, it helps other members to follow the sequence of events if all the updates are added to a single thread. (Clicking on the date of a post will reveal its URL in your browser. This can then be copied and saved for future use whenever you want to add updates to that post.)

== History of the helminthic therapy groups ==

Helminthic therapy became a reality in 2003 when the first helminth was made available commercially for therapeutic use. After a period of development commencing in the mid 1990s, the pig whipworm, Trichuris suis, which is sold as microscopic ova and referred to as TSO, was introduced for sale by entrepreneur [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOk2mMcPB7Q Detlev Goj]. Initially, TSO was sold through Goj’s first company, Ovamed, but is now supplied by [http://www.tanawisa.com Tanawisa].

The next helminth to be made available for therapy was introduced four years later, and this was the human hookworm, Necator americanus, known as NA. This enterprise brought together two men: Garin Aglietti, a former medical student, and [[Jasper Lawrence and helminthic therapy | '''Jasper Lawrence''']], who was looking for new opportunities following the [http://www.deranged.com collapse of his marketing agency].

Together with Marc Dellerba - a clinical scientist and Lawrence’s brother-in-law - Aglietti and Lawrence formed [https://autoimmunetherapies.com Autoimmune Therapies] (AIT), which began selling NA larvae from the clinic of a Mexican doctor, Jorges Llamas, in Tijuana. However, it wasn’t long before Aglietti found it impossible to work with Lawrence and, in 2008, left to form his own company, [https://www.wormtherapy.com Worm Therapy] while Lawrence continued to run AIT from his home in the US, supported by UK-based Dellerba.

Soon after the formation of AIT, Lawrence started a discussion group, the '''Helminthic Therapy forum''' on Yahoo, which was the first online meeting place for those interested in this therapy.

In 2009, AIT began offering the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura (TTO) in addition to NA, and, shortly after this, Lawrence persuaded a number of regular contributors to the Yahoo forum to accept blogs that he created under the AIT umbrella. One of these bloggers was [[John Scott and helminthic therapy | '''John Scott''']], who had successfully put his Crohn’s disease and severe food intolerance into remission using NA purchased from AIT. Scott had also begun advocating for helminthic therapy [https://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/index_worms.html elsewhere online], and, after being asked to help moderate the Yahoo forum in June 2010, assumed ownership of the group a year later when Lawrence lost interest in social media and indicated that he was considering deleting the group.

Someone else who was to play a significant role in the online helminthic therapy community for several years was a systems administrator from New York who created a Facebook account in the name of [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/6/61/Herbert_Smith_and_Helminthic_Therapy.pdf “Herbert Smith”]. After joining the Yahoo forum in 2008, Smith told Scott that he believed helminthic therapy was ripe for monetisation, and subsequently struck a deal with Lawrence whereby he would receive a commission whenever someone he had referred to AIT followed through with a purchase. Once this deal was in place, Smith began to vigorously promote helminthic therapy, and, in November 2010, created the '''Helminthic Therapy Users Discussion''' on Facebook.

Smith went to considerable lengths to promote himself online, creating accounts for his alias on Yahoo, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest and elsewhere, before “friending” hundreds of people on Facebook and adding them, sometimes even without their knowledge, to his group.

The relationship between Smith and Lawrence broke down when Lawrence discovered that Smith was not using his real name in his dealings with the people he approached, nor telling them that he stood to benefit financially from his relationship with them. But, when Lawrence pulled out of the deal, he failed to pay Smith what he was owed, whereupon Smith began a campaign of relentless disparagement of Lawrence and AIT.

Thanks to Smith’s promotional efforts, his Users group had, by then, become the most active helminthic therapy group on Facebook and was increasingly used by clients of AIT as well as those of Worm Therapy, which Smith began to promote in preference to AIT. However, Smith’s strident partisan position polarised the community and left many members of his Users group feeling uncomfortable, with the result that several of them approached Scott with a request for a new “provider-agnostic” group on Facebook in which the conversation would focus on the therapy itself rather than on those providing helminths. In response, Scott created the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ '''Helminthic Therapy Support group'''] in March 2012 - the first truly independent group run by and for the entire helminthic therapy community.

A fourth therapeutic helminth species was introduced in 2013 by the late [https://web.archive.org/web/20230422013410/https://www.hamlettdobson.com/obituaries/donald-donahue Don Donahue], a medical doctor from the US who founded [https://biomerestoration.com Biome Restoration] to supply the cysticercoids of the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta, known as HDC. Donahue brought in Dellerba - who, by this time, had already left AIT - and Judy Chinitz, a nutritionist and long-standing advocate for helminthic therapy, to run the company’s laboratory and customer services department respectively. Chinitz remained with the company until Dec 2021.

In March 2014, an enthusiastic user of HDC created the '''Hymenolepis (HDC) User Discussion and Support group''' on Facebook to share experience with the new species but, like several other helminthic therapy groups that were created for specific purposes, this only ever gained a very limited membership and has since been deleted.

Smith continued to cause discord within the helminthic therapy community until Facebook discovered that his identity was fake and, in late 2016, deleted his account. This action removed every shred of evidence from the platform that [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/6/61/Herbert_Smith_and_Helminthic_Therapy.pdf “Herbert Smith”] had ever existed, and the Users group he had created, and once so assiduously nurtured, fell into disuse as people turned instead to the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ '''Helminthic Therapy Support group'''].

With the generous help of an IT technician, who wished to remain anonymous, Scott created the [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_Therapy_Wiki '''Helminthic Therapy wiki'''] at the beginning of 2017 to accommodate all the data he had mined over the previous 7 years from the available science and posts to the '''Yahoo Helminthic Therapy forum''', the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ '''Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support group'''] and elsewhere. Around the same time, several new [[Helminth providers | '''helminth providers''']] began selling ''individual'' doses of hookworm larvae, thus freeing self-treaters from reliance on the long-term contacts by which AIT and Worm Therapy had previously sold this organism. The combination of easier access to NA with the free availability in the wiki of detailed information about its use, ushered in a new chapter in the story of the therapeutic use of hookworms.

Easier access to NA at reasonable prices also greatly reduced activity in a small '''Hookworm Donors group''' that had been created on Yahoo in early 2013 by several Australians to facilitate the sharing of hookworm larvae. This group, which had already become dormant as a result of the disappearance of its owner and a loss of interest by its moderators, was effectively closed in Dec 2019, when Yahoo removed all user content from its groups and reduced them to email lists. This action by Yahoo also stripped the archive of 11,000 posts from the '''Yahoo Helminthic Therapy forum''', which finally disappeared in Dec 2020 when Yahoo closed down its groups operation.

The groups that exist today are listed at the top of this page. The [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ '''Helminthic Therapy Support group'''] on Facebook meets the needs of users of all four helminth species in an atmosphere free from both commercial bias and manipulation by those with personal agendas. However, increasing censorship on the part of Facebook, and the platform's unjustified deletion of the accounts of several HT community members, necessitated the creation of the [https://mewe.com/join/helminthictherapy '''Helminthic Therapy group'''] on MeWe in late 2020 as a venue for those who wished to leave Facebook. There are also small groups on [https://www.reddit.com/r/HelminthicTherapy/ '''Reddit'''] and [https://discord.com/invite/KdN5rtbHpV '''Discord'''], and the first group for French speakers, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/142874834658175 '''Helminthes thérapeutiques'''], which was founded on Facebook in August 2021. The more specialised needs of those who are growing their own helminths at home are met by the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/ '''Helminth Incubation group'''] on Facebook. Groups not listed above have either been archived or deleted.

== See also ==

The full, detailed history of this therapy.

* [[The history of helminthic therapy | '''The history of helminthic therapy''']].

Helminthic therapy and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

2024-09-04T03:19:00Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb|[[Effects_of_helminthic_therapy|Effects of helminthic therapy]]}}
{{SEO 
|title=Helminthic therapy and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
|description=Helminthic therapy for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: the scientific evidence and the personal experience of helminth self-treaters.
|keywords=Crohn's disease, colitis, ulcerative colitis, proctitis, ulcerative proctitis, helminthic therapy for Crohn's disease, helminthic therapy for colitis, helminthic therapy for ulcerative colitis, helminthic therapy for proctitis, helminthic therapy for ulcerative proctitis
|og:image=}}
==The anecdotal evidence==

Many thousands of people are using helminthic therapy to treat Crohn’s disease and colitis, and the following quotes are indicative of the results being achieved.

{{Quote|indent}}I have been keeping Crohn's Disease and CD arthritis in remission using only helminths for the last 10 years. HT (using TTO, TSO and NA) is the best treatment I've tried and has no negative side effects. As long as I keep my colony large enough and healthy. I was diagnosed at age 12 and I'm 52 now. It has been a long struggle to find something that works. Helminths have been a life saver for me.{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}This treatment has put my UC in complete remission and I am prescription free. I was able to get completely off prednisone, 6-MP, and asocol. I am medication free and symptom free. I feel and function completely normally! I would not have graduated, or have a career, or a normal life in any way had it not been for this therapy. I can't say enough good things about it!!!{{Quote|/indent}}

The following graphic shows the colon of a patient with ulcerative colitis before and after treatment with TSO. (Read the whole paper [[media:A_NEW_APPROACH_TO_THERAPY.pdf | '''here''']].) 

[[File:TSO for ulcerative colitis.png]]

See the following links for more visual evidence of the effects of helminths on IBD.

* [[The effects of TTO on ulcerative colitis | '''The effects of TTO on ulcerative colitis''']]
* [[The effects of NA and TTO on Crohns colitis | '''The effects of NA and TTO on Crohn’s colitis''']]
* [[The effects of NA and TTO on ulcerative colitis | '''The effects of NA and TTO on ulcerative colitis''']]

The following detailed personal stories were written by people using helminths to treat Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

* [[Hookworms literally saved my life | '''Hookworms literally saved my life''']] (Patient with Crohn's disease and Sweet syndrome)
* [[Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease | '''Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease''']]
* [[TSO tames colitis in a 70 year old | '''TSO tames colitis in a 70 year old''']]
* [[Crohns and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants | '''Crohn's and colitis patient bounces back to health with hookworms and fecal transplants''']]
* [[Four family members with gut issues are all delighted with their worms | '''Four family members with Crohn's and ulcerative colitis are all delighted with their worms''']]
* [[TSO successfully treats ulcerative colitis after drugs cause adverse reactions | '''TSO successfully treats ulcerative colitis after drugs cause adverse reactions''']]
* [[Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis | '''Thirteen years and counting: maintaining remission with TSO for colonic Crohn's and IBD-related (non erosive) arthritis''']]
* [[Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO | '''Rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis relieved by TSO''']]
* [[Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails | '''Hookworms successful against colitis and celiac disease after medicine fails''']]

Here are collections of brief reports written by people using helminths to treat IBD.

* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Crohn's disease | '''Personal stories: Crohn's disease''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative colitis | '''Personal stories: ulcerative colitis''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Ulcerative proctitis | '''Personal stories: ulcerative proctitis''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Microscopic colitis | '''Personal stories: microscopic colitis''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Pancolitis | '''Personal stories: pancolitis''']]

==Research findings==

* 2023 Apr 18 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37189818/ Helminth Lessons in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10135676/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10135676/pdf/biomedicines-11-01200.pdf PDF]

:{{Quote|indent}}Treatment of moderate to severe IBD involves the use of immune modulators and/or biologics, which have several toxicities and side effects, such as predisposition to infections, cancer, and demyelinating diseases in addition to others. Helminths or helminth products are attractive therapeutic avenues given their safety profile.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2022 Jan [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0014489421001260 Potential of human helminth therapy for resolution of inflammatory bowel disease: The future ahead]

::The authors conclude that most of the currently available IBD therapies expose patients to substantial risk, whereas helminths will likely prove to be safe in therapeutic applications and that the administration of helminhs such as T. suis offers an approach to treating IBD with little risk of serious complications.

* 2021 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34579797/ The use of helminth therapy for management of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease: a systematic review]

::The aim of this systematic review was to investigate whether there is evidence to support the use of helminth therapy for the management of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis… all nine studies concluded helminth therapy was safe and tolerable, and therefore there is currently no evidence against further exploration of this treatment option.

* 2020 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32372471/ Systematic review: gastrointestinal infection and incident inflammatory bowel disease] -- [https://sci-hub.se/10.1111/apt.15770 Full text]

::While certain enteric pathogens are associated with an increased risk of IBD, others are potentially protective. For example, helminth colonisation and Helicobacter pylori infections were associated with a consistently reduced risk of IBD.

* 2019 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30413272/ Effect of Trichinella spiralis intervention on TNBS-induced experimental colitis in mice]

::A lack of Helminths is associated with an increased incidence of IBD.

* 2018 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29351392/ Young mice expel the tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta and are protected from colitis by triggering a memory response with worm antigen] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5966750/ Full text] | [http://www.physiology.org/doi/pdf/10.1152/ajpgi.00295.2017 PDF]

::Helminth exposure may prevent IBD in children.

* 2016 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27743501 Mucosal and systemic immune modulation by Trichuris trichiura in a self-infected individual]

::Colonisation by the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura, showed several indicators of mucosal and systemic immune modulation.

* 2016 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27080105 Helminth infection promotes colonization resistance via type 2 immunity] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4905769/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4905769/pdf/nihms790698.pdf PDF] (Also see this explanatory video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQd1RkgJGjM Worm infection counters intestinal inflammation by changing gut microbiome].)

::Reversal of IBD in mice colonised by a helminth was mediated by an increase in beneficial Clostridiales, which, in turn, reduced the number of disease-causing Bacteroides.

* 2015 [[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf | Overcoming Evolutionary Mismatch by Self-Treatment with Helminths: Current Practices and Experience]] (PDF)

::This survey of helminthic therapy self-treaters found that all four domesticated helminth species (NA, TTO, TSO and HDC) were being used to treat IBD, with a reported efficacy rate averaging in excess of 80% for Crohn’s and over 90% for colitis.

* 2014 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25436093 Potential treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: a review of helminths therapy] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017549/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017549/pdf/GHFBB-7-009.pdf PDF]

::The risk from therapeutic helminth exposure is modest compared with the dangers of modern pharmaceutical therapies for IBD, which can promote and worsen pathogenic infections.

* 2010 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21123809 IL-22+ CD4+ T cells are associated with therapeutic trichuris trichiura infection in an ulcerative colitis patient] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Png_Loke/publication/49650965_IL-22_CD4_T_Cells_Are_Associated_with_Therapeutic_Trichuris_trichiura_Infection_in_an_Ulcerative_Colitis_Patient/links/00b7d535585b829413000000.pdf PDF]

::An individual who self-infected with Trichuris trichiura ova (TTO) experienced almost complete remission of his colitis symptoms.

* 2009 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=20011066 Infection with Hymenolepis diminuta is more effective than daily corticosteroids in blocking chemically induced colitis in mice] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2789531/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2789531/pdf/JBB2010-384523.pdf PDF]

::Infection with Hymenolepis diminuta cysticercoids (HDC) was found to be superior to daily corticosteroids in the prevention of colitis in mice, and did not result in additional side effects.

* 2009 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18680198 Helminths and the IBD hygiene hypothesis]

::Failure to acquire helminths in early life negatively affects immune development, leading to immunological diseases such as IBD later in life.

* 2008. This year saw the start of a large, decade-long, research programme involving twelve trials set up to investigate the effects of TSO in several diseases, including IBD. The entire programme was doomed by fundamental failures in study design, and all but three of the trials were discontinued prematurely, ostensibly due to a lack of beneficial effect. Unfortunately, the large number of trials involved, and the lack of understanding of the trials' design flaws by the vast majority of commentators, including members of the medical profession, has led to the widespread, albeit incorrect, belief that TSO is ineffective as a therapy. For more detail about this flawed research programme, see [[The history of helminthic therapy#2008 | '''The history of helminthic therapy: 2008''']].

* 2005 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15825065 Trichuris suis therapy for active ulcerative colitis: a randomized controlled trial] -- [http://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(05)00025-9/pdf PDF]

::43.3% of patients with active ulcerative colitis who were given TSO showed improvement, in comparison with only 16.7% of those receiving a placebo.

* 2005 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15591509 Trichuris suis therapy in Crohn's disease] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774382/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774382/pdf/gut05400087.pdf PDF]

::79% of patients with Crohn’s disease who were given Trichuris suis ova (TSO) responded with a significant reduction in symptoms.

* 2003 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14499784 Trichuris suis seems to be safe and possibly effective in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease]

::The safety and efficacy of treatment with TSO was demonstrated in patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

* 1999 [https://web.archive.org/web/20090515230524/https://www.nytimes.com/1999/08/31/health/in-pursuit-of-autoimmune-worm-cure.html In Pursuit of Autoimmune Worm Cure]. Andy Newman, New York Times.

::Researchers at Iowa university reported that six patients with acute, chronic IBD were successfully treated with TSO after previously failing pharmaceutical therapies. When they relapsed after the worms died, they were said to be "begging to be re-treated”.

See also.

For more research papers on helminthic therapy and IBD, search the following page for the terms, “Crohn” or "colitis", “bowel” and “IBD”.

* [[Helminthic therapy research | '''Helminthic therapy research''']]

==Limitations of helminthic therapy in treating IBD==

===Previous structural damage cannot be reversed===

While the disease process can be arrested by helminthic therapy, any structural damage, such as scarring and strictures that have already formed as a result of disease, cannot be undone by hosting helminths.

===Duration and severity of illness, and age of patient, can restrict benefits===

A favourable outcome is more likely in those who are young, have a less severe form of the disease, and have had their illness for a shorter period of time. For example, among self-treaters using NA who are "very sick" with IBD, the treatment is only successful in about 40% of cases of ulcerative colitis and 65% of Crohn’s disease patients. [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf]

===Intestinal fistulae and abscesses are likely to require conventional treatment===

Helminths subdue inflammation over time by gradually calming the immune response, but this effect is too subtle to deal with acute inflammation or its consequences. Therefore helminths are unlikely to be able to treat fistulae or abscesses without the use of surgery and/or medication. (The gastric pentadecapeptide, BPC 157 ([https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02637284 Bepecin]), may also be worth consideration. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23220707/] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26875638] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26872976]) Once these conditions have been brought under control, however, the immunomodulation provided by helminths may prevent the development of further abscesses or fistulae.

One helminth self-treater has reported that, after having a fistula surgically corrected prior to starting helminthic therapy, she was mostly in remission for the subsequent 7 years, topping up her helminth colony whenever her symptoms began to return. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/524485754274051/?comment_id=524533054269321&offset=0&total_comments=5]

===It is not ideal to start helminthic therapy while IBD is flaring===

The introduction of helminths triggers a response from the host's immune system, and this can increase intestinal inflammation during the first 100 days of treatment, peaking at around 50 days. This inflammatory response, which is largely dose-dependent, may temporarily worsen an existing flare. It is therefore best to commence helminthic therapy while IBD is quiescent, or to take an immunosuppressant drug alongside the therapy until any additional inflammation resolves. If this is not possible, advice should be sought from a [[Helminthic therapy practitioners | '''helminthic therapy-literate medical practitioner''']] and/or an experienced [[Helminth providers | '''helminth provider''']].

===Helminthic therapy may take up to two years to deliver consistent results===

While consistent results are typically seen in a matter of months, they can take much longer to materialise in a few cases, especially when using the human helminths, NA and TTO. The pig whipworm, TSO, produces results more quickly. For further details about the response times of each species, see the following links.

* [[Self-treating with TSO#Response to TSO | '''Therapeutic response to TSO''']]

* [[Self-treating with TTO#Therapeutic response to TT | '''Therapeutic response to TTO''']]

* [[Hookworm dosing and response#Therapeutic response | '''Therapeutic response to NA''']]

* [[Self-treating with HDC#Response to HDC | '''Therapeutic response to HDC''']]

It will be obvious from the above that '''it is not a good idea to "save" helminthic therapy as a treatment of last resort'''. Commencing helminthic therapy as soon as possible will increase the chance of success, and many people have expressed considerable regret that they delayed getting started with this therapy.

* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Comments from people who wish they had tried helminthic therapy sooner | '''Comments from people who wish they had tried helminthic therapy sooner''']]

==Helminthic therapy is compatible with conventional IBD therapies==

Helminthic therapy is fully compatible with the use of immunosuppressive drugs. See the following page section for more details.

* [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Combining helminthic therapy with drug treatments | '''Combining helminthic therapy with drug treatments''']]

Someone with ulcerative colitis who saved his colon and eventually got off all systemic high-risk immunosuppressive medications by hosting worms, does continue to take a high dose of Balsalazide in addition to maintaining his helminth colony.

{{Quote|indent}}This cheap, oral 5ASA medicine costs me $5 a month with no side effects and works locally without messing with my immune system. I actually recommend most of the people who message me really try different 5ASAs before HT as they may be lucky and not need HT. I will probably take Balsalazide for the rest of my life along with HT. I feel extremely blessed that I still have my colon after 20 years and don't need to take steroids, biologics, or other systemic immunosuppressive medications anymore. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4393187174070537?comment_id=5728736133848961&reply_comment_id=5728958650493376]{{Quote|/indent}}

==The absence of regulatory approval belies the confidence of some researchers and clinicians==

No mainstream medical doctor is able to offer or officially condone helminthic therapy, or support its use, because it has not yet been approved for clinical use by any national regulatory body outside Thailand. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1831064423616171/?comment_id=1831253603597253&reply_comment_id=1831711236884823] And regulatory approval is unlikely to be forthcoming in other countries in the foreseeable future because the fact that living helminths cannot be patented makes it all but impossible to obtain funding for the type of trials demanded by regulators.

There have also been significant failures in the design of many of the clinical trials that been conducted previously using living helminths, to the extent that the conclusions from the majority of the most recent trials cannot be relied upon, as is explained in the following section of this wiki.

* [[Helminthic therapy research#Problems with clinical trials using live helminths | '''Problems with clinical trials using live helminths''']]

Most gastroenterologists remain unaware of this treatment, and those who lack an appreciation of the issues with much of the research may dismiss it as unproven, or even claim it to be potentially harmful. However, this position by medics does not prevent patients from using the therapy, which is essentially not a medical treatment. It is a natural replacement therapy used to correct a helminth deficiency, and, as such, it is already available for use at home by patients employing one or more safe "probiotic" helminths.

{{Quote|indent}}Although self-treatment with helminths cannot be recommended by medical professionals due to a lack of blinded, placebo controlled trials, neither should it be discouraged since the available evidence suggests that it is beneficial in most cases when practiced by knowledgeable individuals. [https://evmedreview.com/progress-on-reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/]{{Quote|/indent}}

There are many doctors who are already using helminthic therapy as a self-treatment to address their own health issues (e.g., [https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12061538&ref=NZH_fb this pathologist]) and those of their families, and scientists who have thoroughly investigated helminthic therapy have no reservations about treating themselves with worms.

{{Quote|indent}}In developed countries, where we are well nourished, worms are potentially good... If I had Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or multiple sclerosis, I would infect myself without hesitation. (Prof Alex Loukas, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine) [http://lifeonus.vhx.tv]{{Quote|/indent}}

==Selecting a suitable helminth for IBD==

Many self-treaters have found that TSO and NA are both very effective against Crohn’s disease, and that colitis responds well to either TSO or TTO. Some colitis patients have reported success using NA, either alone, or in combination with TTO or TSO, and a few have had good results treating both Crohn's and colitis with HDC. For more details about helminth selection, see the following page.

* [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth | '''Selecting a therapeutic helminth''']]

==Support for IBD patients using helminthic therapy==

To talk with people who are using helminths to treat Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, join the following support group.

* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group on Facebook]

To book an educational consultation with either a medical professional, or a specialist health coach, who is experienced in the use of helminthic therapy, see the following list.

* [[Helminthic therapy practitioners | '''Helminthic therapy practitioners''']]

==Further reading==

Given that helminthic therapy can take a while to begin producing benefits (up to 2 years in the case of NA [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworm_dosing_and_response#Consistent_improvement_can_begin_anytime_from_3_to_24_months]) it can help to have alternative treatment options to turn to while waiting for the worms to begin to work. The following two documents contain a wealth of mostly science-based, natural alternatives.

* [[media:Alternative_therapeutic_approaches_for_Crohn%27s_disease.pdf | Alternative therapeutic approaches for Crohn's disease]] (PDF)

* [[media:Alternative_therapeutic_approaches_for_Ulcerative_Colitis.pdf | Alternative therapeutic approaches for Ulcerative Colitis]] (PDF)

==See also==

* [[Introduction to helminthic therapy | '''Introduction to helminthic therapy''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy and bowel function | '''Helminthic therapy and bowel function''']]

NA incubation: very simple Harada-Mori method by Sarah

2024-09-04T03:19:00Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb|[[Helminth_incubation|Incubation]]}}
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|title=NA incubation: very simple Harada-Mori method by Sarah
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==Introduction==

This simple protocol provides the necessary basics for hookworm incubation. Anyone wanting more detail should read Alana's [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana | '''very detailed NA incubation method''']].

==Preparing the mixture==

If you are using a donor, have them do this step if they don’t live nearby and if it is going to take over 20 minutes to get the sample to you.

===Supplies===

* wide mouth container (urine container, mason jar, etc.) with screw tight lid
* barrier gloves (latex, nitrile, etc.)
* gallon ziplock bag
* waxed disposable plates (for a work surface and resting place for contaminated instruments)
* plastic knife
* vermiculite (with no added material)
* activated charcoal (capsules are fine)
* distilled water (filtered or dechlorinated tap water and bottled water are also suitable)

===Procedure===

Take some feces from a hookworm host who has been infected for at least 6 weeks. (Eggs aren’t produced before this, and the quantity of eggs increases in the weeks following, up to a maximum at 20 weeks.) The feces used must also be fresh because hookworm eggs degenerate rapidly during the first month. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27053130/]

Place the feces in a covered container. A large amount of feces is not necessary, a few heaped teaspoons will be plenty.

[[File:Incubate1.jpg]]

Add vermiculite (one part vermiculite to one part stool) and activated charcoal. I use one charcoal capsule, or two if I’m doing a big batch. The charcoal kills the smell and balances the pH (healthy stool is acidic, but a neutral pH of 6.0 or 7.0 is optimal for hatching hookworm eggs) and the vermiculite retains moisture so prevents the mixture drying out.

If necessary, add distilled water to get to a pudding consistency.

Use a knife or fork to mash any large chunks and stir until smooth.

Wash outside of container with soap and water or alcohol swabs.

Clean up by placing supplies in ziplock bags and into freezer overnight to kill any residual material.

Now you are ready to incubate.

[[File:Incubate2.jpg]]

==Incubation==

===Supplies for the rest of the process===

* wide mouth container (urine container, mason jar, etc.) with screw tight lid. It's also possible to use [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Test_tube test tubes], or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laboratory_centrifuge#Centrifuge_tubes centrifuge tubes] with conical bases placed in upturned egg cartons. In this case, the larvae collect conveniently in the tube’s conical base. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1381554768616803/?comment_id=1382314345207512&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]
* barrier gloves (latex, nitrile, etc.)
* gallon ziplock bag
* waxed disposable paper plates (for a work surface)
* glass microscope slides
* coffee filter paper (or flat, uncoloured paper towel)
* plastic spoon
* distilled water
* pipette
* conical-bottomed container such as a wine glass, silicone snow cone cup, or glass test/centrifuge tube
* microscope (This needs to be capable of 100x magnification, preferably binocular compound and with a moveable stage. See: [[Microscope selection notes | '''Microscope selection notes''']].)
* gauze
* tape/ bandage

===Procedure===

Cut a strip of filter paper to the size of the glass slide, leaving an area at one end free, so you can pick up the slide without touching the filter paper. If using centrifuge tubes, cut the paper slightly narrower than the slide to prevent it from touching the sides of the tube. (A wooden craft stick makes a suitable alternative to a glass slide if it is cut to size with shears so it fits inside the container. Old credit cards and sections of CD cases or takeaway food containers can also be used, and these will hold more stool than sticks or slides.)

Wet the paper and put it on the slide.

[[File:Incubate5.jpg]]

Put about half a teaspoon of the feces/vermiculite mixture on the middle of the slide. (This should yield at least 100 larvae.)

[[File:Incubate6.jpg]]

Add some water to the bottom of the jar. The mature larvae will wriggle into this water. (Note: use only enough water to wet the bottom of the filter paper, because you’ll have to search through all this water later when you look for larvae!)

[[File:Incubate7.jpg]]

If you have more prepared mixture, you can set up multiple jars, which is a good idea since some incubations can fail inexplicably. (See [[NA incubation: very simple Harada-Mori method by Sarah#Possible reasons for failure | '''Possible reasons for failure''']].)

{{Quote|indent}}I've had two containers, side by side, using the same poop preparation - one has some L3s, the other has nothing. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1183357308436551/?comment_id=1183714441734171&reply_comment_id=1183803391725276&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Let the container sit somewhere away from light for 1-2 weeks at room temperature. No incubator is needed if the temperature is 70ºF (21ºC) or above, and you can put it outside if the weather is warm. (Place a jar of coconut oil nearby. The oil should be liquid if warm enough.) If the ambient temperature is too low, place the container in an airing cupboard, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1449292451843034/] use an egg or reptile incubator, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_incubation#Ready-made_incubators] a plant propagator, or a suitable container plus a heat source. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_incubation#Home-built_incubators] For more detail about incubation temperature, see [[#Incubation temperature|'''Incubation temperature''']], below.

Keep the container covered to make sure no bugs can get inside. Mold may form due to the high moisture, but this doesn’t matter because it won’t affect the worms. The only problem I have with the mold is sometimes larvae get stuck to it when I’m trying to count them in the solution.

{{Quote|indent}}My most recent batch got pretty moldy, but… the mold doesn't affect the worms, just looks unpleasant. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1425514917554121/?comment_id=1425547137550899&reply_comment_id=1427367380702208&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I never understand why some batches are moldy and some aren’t. I’ve had different samples from the same batch incubated side by side - some with crazy mold and others with almost none. I’ve never noticed that it affected the outcome. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2627761320662802/?comment_id=2628543110584623]{{Quote|/indent}}

If you use a coffee filter or cloth over the top of the container instead of a lid you will get less mold but there's more chance of it drying out. If you use cloth you will need to mist daily. See [[#Keeping the sample moist|'''Keeping the sample moist''']], below.

I have had the most failures due to forgetting about it and letting it dry out. NA larvae die in a matter of minutes once they become dry. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3577191392336790/]

Hookworm eggs do need air for development [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27053130] but there is plenty of air for them in a jar, even when this is sealed with an airtight lid. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1688250204613923/?comment_id=1689724337799843&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] If using smaller containers, such as test tubes or urine sample bottles with airtight lids, it may help if the lids are removed briefly every day to provide an air change.

===Video demonstration===

(NB. The presenter of this video says he sets the thermometer on his incubator to 99°F (37.°C), but this temperature is too high for hookworm incubation, and he does mention that the thermometer he is using may not be accurate. See [[#Incubation temperature|Incubation temperature]], below, for guidance regarding the best temperature to use.)
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/dHRZkZ_b1sg}}

==Harvest==

One of the benefits of using this method is that only L3 larvae can escape from the feces and be collected in the water.

After a week or two, pipette all the liquid from the bottom of the container and put this liquid into a conical-bottomed container such as a wine glass, silicone snow cone cup, or glass centrifuge tube. Let this sit for at least a few minutes so the larvae - which cannot swim - have time to sink and collect at the bottom. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1425514917554121/?comment_id=1427317820707164&reply_comment_id=1427457467359866&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1425514917554121/?comment_id=1427317820707164&reply_comment_id=1427459424026337&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] The majority of the larvae will have settled in 2 or 3 hours, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1425514917554121/?comment_id=1427804717325141&reply_comment_id=1428626480576298&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] and all of them by 24 hours.

{{Quote|indent}}Conical bottomed centrifuge tubes (they come to a point on the bottom) were a godsend for me. I pre-harvest the worms and put them in these tubes for 24 hours. The worms settle to the point of the tube at the bottom, and are concentrated there. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1492210957551183/?comment_id=1493479904090955&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

An alternative to using a conical-bottomed container is to draw up the liquid into a transfer pipette and then stand this up in a container.

{{Quote|indent}}Suck up fluid with a transfer pipette. Let it sit 10-15 minutes upright in a paper cup. If you get a tiny bit of air at the bottom , it acts like a plug and there is no leakage. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1857385307700411/?comment_id=1859820324123576&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

[[File:Incubate8.jpg]]

Pipette the water from the bottom of the wine glass, or alternative container, onto the middle of a glass slide. Squeezing the pipette bulb before it enters the liquid will prevent bubbles from stirring up the collected larvae. Some growers recommend pipetting from 2 to 4 mm above the bottom to minimise the number of dead larvae that are collected, and to save time at the next stage, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1425514917554121/?comment_id=1427804717325141&reply_comment_id=1428626480576298&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] but others don't bother doing this, and just pipette right from the bottom. One grower swirls the larvae and then lets them settle for a few minutes, and recommends practicing this with fine dregs from tea leaves, or something similar, to watch how the swirling causes them to gather. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/3994846180620969/?comment_id=3994916170613970&reply_comment_id=3994964060609181]

[[File:Incubate9.jpg]]

Place the slide (without a cover slip) on the microscope's stage and set the magnification to 40x. Then, moving systematically up and down across the fluid on the slide, examine for larvae.

Some people may find it easier if a few small drops of fluid are placed on the slide rather than a single large drop.

{{Quote|indent}}I do small drops on the slide so easy to check. I put three small drops and its very quick. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1458115670960712/?comment_id=1471963106242635&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

It's easier to get small drops if you use a fixed-volume micropipette/minipipette. e.g., a 100 microlitre mini pipet such as [https://www.carolina.com/biotechnology-pipets/fixed-volume-100-ul-03-ulminipipet/214304.pr?question=214304 this model] which takes removable tips.

A single drop from a 100 microlitre micropipette may contain 100 larvae, but 10 larvae per drop is easier to count. If there are too many larvae, add more water to each drop, or divide each drop on the slide using a pipette tip, and then add water to these daughter droplets.

If you don’t get any larvae from the container, or don’t get enough larvae, add more room temperature distilled water to the bottom of the container. Repeat until the desired number of larvae are obtained.

I only use squirming larvae. I poke them with a mechanical pencil to see if they are alive (requires a steady hand and practice), but larvae that are not moving are not necessarily dead. They conserve energy until they find some skin, so motionless larvae that are intact may be viable. (I use 100x magnification for a closer look at individual larvae.) Scraping some skin cells from an arm and adding these to the water will often get the larvae moving, as will gently pushing them to the edge of the drop of water. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2376461892459414/] The light from the microscope may also waken them after a minute or two.

{{Quote|indent}}All my non-wigglers have worked. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1425514917554121/?comment_id=1427317820707164&reply_comment_id=1427372274035052&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Just because they are lying still don't mean they are dead, even with poking and skin cells to bait them. In my experience, worms that are dead quickly begin to show signs of decay. If they look sleek and smooth, they are probably still alive. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1492210957551183/?comment_id=1493479904090955&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I often have "dead beat" worms that just lie still and do not move. I will try to poke them with a fine diabetic syringe needle, but they often still won't budge. So today I took the needle and coaxed them to the edge of the drop of water, and finally out of the drop. This seemed to wake them up quickly! I did this on three different worms, and it worked every time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1884864568285818/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have deliberately chosen immobile larvae to inoculate with, and they've all been viable. I just make sure they look completely intact - once in a while I find one missing its internal structures, so those are almost certainly dead. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1306907306081550/?comment_id=1307374379368176&reply_comment_id=1307504029355211&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Video demonstrations===
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/mdY0DMnoMCw}}
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/iHrxm7BYAw0}}
{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/9kCJYKEHzfM}}

==Storage==

* If you are not ready to use the larvae immediately, they can be stored for several weeks in the water that was used to incubate them, so long as they are kept in the dark, or at least out of direct sunlight.

* If you need to add extra water, filtered or dechlorinated tap water or bottled water may be preferable to distilled water for this purpose. One very experienced incubator has found that rinsing or storing larvae in distilled water has killed some of hers, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5436965113075728?comment_id=5437013189737587] whereas store-bought spring water has not.

:{{Quote|indent}}I don’t spend much time rinsing when they’re for my own use. But if the water is really dirty and I want to clean it up a bit, I dilute it with purchased spring water, although I never completely change out the incubation solution... I never rinse with distilled water as I find larvae don’t survive long in it... But I have successfully inoculated with 4 month old larvae when using store-bought spring water. (Edited from several posts in [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5263637290358850/?comment_id=5264072233648689 this thread].){{Quote|/indent}}

* When [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverse_osmosis reverse osmosis] water is used to store larvae, the osmotic pressure may be too low and put undue pressure on the larvae's excretory system. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2088315117940761/?comment_id=2088363714602568]

* It has been suggested that a greater weight of water above the larvae in their storage vessel may shorten their lifespan, so it may be best to limit the volume of water to just enough to cover the larvae - perhaps just 3 mm. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1713704188735191/?comment_id=1973184766120464&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* One user of this method has found that, if home-grown larvae are stored at between 60°F (15°C) and 65°F (18°C), ''some'' can survive for as long as 4 months, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1306907306081550/?comment_id=1307057629399851&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] and occasional fluctuations between 54°F (12°C) and 70°F (21°C) are unlikely to be a problem. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1713704188735191/?comment_id=1713776315394645&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] However, out of one group of eight 4-month-old larvae, only one successfully penetrated the skin, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3806287252760535/?comment_id=3808200485902545] therefore 8-10 weeks might be a more realistic expectation for larva survival. Also see, [[Self-treating with NA#Hookworm larvae storage and survival |'''Hookworm larvae storage and survival''']].

* The larvae do need oxygen, which can become depleted at higher temperatures and by bacterial activity in the jar, although this is less likely to be a problem when using jars (e.g., [https://www.amazon.com/ProAdvantage-Specimen-Cup-Container-Lid/dp/B008B1D8H2/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34U8V8LFIWLEO&keywords=ProAdvantage+4+oz+Specimen+Cup%2FContainer+with+Lid+25%2FPack+Non-Sterile&qid=1674192474&sprefix=proadvantage+4+oz+specimen+cup%2Fcontainer+with+lid+25%2Fpack+non-sterile%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1 4 oz Specimen Cup/Container with Lid]) rather than test tubes, and it can be prevented by opening the lid every few days and ''gently'' shaking the jar’s contents. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1713704188735191/?comment_id=1719142781524665&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* Even when kept in perfect storage conditions, the larvae will inevitably become progressively weaker as a result of the depletion of their fat stores.

==Inoculation==

Have a bandage ready that seals on 4 sides, or use a gauze pad with tape. Test bandages first to rule out allergic reactions.

[[File:Incubate10.jpg]]

Use a pipette to gather larvae in a few drops of water on the slide, but I don’t do this while looking through the microscope. Once the liquid is on the slide, I put this under the microscope and count the larvae, then add or remove liquid as necessary and recount. If there are a lot of larvae, I suck the water up until I reduce the numbers. Then, when I get the amount I want, I let the water from the slide drip on to a prepared bandage, or gauze pad with tape, and finally wipe the slide onto the gauze to get every last drop. Then I immediately apply this to my skin. I repeat this until I get the number of larvae I want, but can often get the whole dose on a single gauze.

[[File:Incubate11.jpg]]

I recommend 1-3 larvae at a time, depending on your goal dose. (See [[Hookworm_dosing_and_response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']].) Place the bandage on a hairless, convex area of skin, such as your (shaved) leg. I don’t recommend the upper arm because the skin here is thin, and entry spots hard to observe, but a variety of sites have been used successfully. (See [[Self-treating with NA#Body sites used for hookworm inoculation | '''Body sites used for hookworm inoculation''']].)

Tingling should start after 10-20 minutes as larvae enter the skin, but let the bandage sit for at least 3 hours. (For more on this, see [[Helminth inoculation#Inoculation with NA | '''Inoculation with NA''']].)

Clean up supplies by freezing them in a ziplock bag overnight before disposal.

After a few hours or days, you should be able to observe the entry spots with the naked eye or a magnifying glass. If I didn't get a tingle and rash I would suspect failure.

==Safety==

Freezing is one of the easiest ways to kill off any remaining larvae at the end of incubation. Simply throw your slides, beakers, gloves etc. into a plastic bag and put them all into the freezer overnight.

This paper describes other methods you can use in your lab to kill hookworm larvae.

* [http://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/5929/ Techniques to kill infective larvae of human hookworm Necator americanus in the laboratory and a new material safety data sheet]

Note that hot water alone is not effective unless close to boiling point.

{{Quote|indent}}Addition of hot water was effective when the water was close to boiling, but did not kill 100% of iL3 at 80ºC.{{Quote|/indent}}

==Notes==

* Research safety extensively before starting (including reading [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana#The laboratory and safe practice | '''The laboratory and safe practice''']]), and have a doctor supervise you.
* Have a script for a course of an anthelmintic filled and ready before you start experimenting. Albendazole is more effective against hookworms than mebendazole, but isn't available everywhere. (See [[Terminating a helminth infection | '''Terminating a helminth infection''']].)
* If using a donor, get them tested for HIV, Hepatitis B and C as a minimum. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strongyloides_stercoralis Strongyloides] blood test is also recommended especially if you are on immune suppressing drugs.
* If using donor stool, take a peek at this under the microscope to see what’s in it when you first get it. Do a fecal float and check for eggs. (See [[Stool testing (egg counting)| '''Stool testing (egg counting)'''.]]) If you see larvae in less than 24 hours, do not use, since it may contain Strongyloides.
* Get bloodwork done on yourself before inoculating (CBC, Hiv, Hep A+B) and afterwards (Hiv, Hep A+B, Stronglyoides).
* Do not prepare or open the jars of feces outdoors. Bathroom is recommended, as flies can lay eggs in seconds and flies will ruin the feces. Feces are their favorite food.
* If you put your container outside to incubate, make sure the temperature stays between 77ºF (25ºC) and 95ºF (35ºC).


==Tips and adaptations==

Several users of this method have made modifications, and suggested tips, as follows.

===Using garden soil instead of vermiculite===

Sterilised soil can be used on its own as the incubation medium, as described by Alana in her incubation protocol.

* [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana#The medium | '''NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana: The medium''']]

Sterilisation of the soil is necessry in order to avoid the possibility of contamination by cat or dog helminths such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toxocara_cati Toxocara cati] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toxocara_canis Toxocara canis]. There is also a possibility of contamination by larvae of free living nematodes which, although not harmful, can interfere with the counting of larvae for inclusion in doses of NA. One method of sterilising soil is explained by Alana [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/NA_incubation:_very_detailed_method_by_Alana#The_medium here].

Someone else who is having continued success using sterilised soil has reported as follows.

{{Quote|indent}}I just used soil from organic garden bed. So just a spot that I knew had not been sprayed with chemicals. I baked 2 litres of soil in oven at 120C for two hours then put in large tin. I have used this same soil for over a year. I just mix about 2/3 soil to 1/3 fecal. Add water till like lentil soup and apply thinly to paper towel on slide. I have always got NA using soil. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1768370179935258/?comment_id=1817548321684110&reply_comment_id=1819399814832294&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1768370179935258/?comment_id=1817548321684110&reply_comment_id=1819409684831307&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Using more feces===
{{Quote|indent}}Larger amount of poop (more than a dime, more like a big cherry size). I was going off the photo in Sarah’s method but there's no reason not to go big 😀 [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1589892407783037/?comment_id=1590375064401438&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Maximal ”sample” and minimal water makes for a good harvest. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1676288182476792/?comment_id=1676296262475984&reply_comment_id=1676310389141238&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Using ''only'' feces===

One hookworm grower uses no soil, vermiculite or charcoal at all, and just adds enough water to produce a suitable consistency for the sample to stick to the slide without slipping off. He says there’s no smell and he gets lots of larvae. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/3644376115667979?comment_id=3653994954706095]

===Using less water in the jar===

This makes it easier to find the larvae.
{{Quote|indent}}I use much less water (a few pipettes' worth) and cover the top. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1654637527925529/?comment_id=1654646537924628&reply_comment_id=1654693647919917&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}As little water in the bottom of your jar as possible: 1mm depth. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1589892407783037/?comment_id=1590375064401438&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}If the lids are on the jars, then all you need is a teaspoon or two of water in each. Less water, less searching (for larvae). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1676288182476792/?comment_id=1676296262475984&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Mixing feces to a thinner consistency===

{{Quote|indent}}I got almost no worms with thick poop, and tons of NA with small amounts of runny poop. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/3056817001090563/?comment_id=3057273491044914]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I use about half a teaspoon of 50/50 sterilised dirt/fecal per slide, mixed like runny oatmeal and spread out thin over the slide surface. The paper towel on slide soaks up a bit of moisture. This seems to give a better yield. I think a lot (of larvae) get stuck if it’s a sticky ball of goop. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1609624899143121/?comment_id=1610438809061730&reply_comment_id=1610505872388357&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

If the poop mixture slides down whatever it's placed on and ends up in the water at the bottom of the container, try a wider container to allow the samples to sit at a flatter angle. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/3503177576454501/?comment_id=3503181353120790] Also try leaving whatever the poop mixture is placed on completely flat for 30 minutes before putting it in the jar. This helps to firm up the mixture and prevent slippage. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/3503177576454501/?comment_id=3503354199770172]

Note that charcoal can rapidly soak up water, possibly making a mixture too dry, unless it's been dampened first.

{{Quote|indent}}The only time I had a failed batch was when I added charcoal before wetting the mix... If I keep everything well moistened throughout the process, go easy on the charcoal and spray most days I get a bumper crop. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/1030691367036480/?comment_id=4120619941376925&reply_comment_id=4123671624405090]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Keeping the sample moist===

NA larvae die in a matter of minutes if they are allowed to become dry. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3577191392336790/]

The sample will remain moist if the container holding it is covered by a solid lid. However, if it is covered with a coffee filter or cloth, daily misting may be necessary to keep it moist.

{{Quote|indent}}I misted my poo each day during the last incubation and it greatly improved my results. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1749142928524650/?comment_id=1749942418444701&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

If you do mist the sample to keep it moist, only use a small amount of water. A garden or domestic sprayer may deliver too much.

{{Quote|indent}}I use a very small sprayer that I bought at a health food store. The bottle only holds two ounces of water... about 60ml. [https://www.youroiltools.com/products/2oz-clear-glass-spray-bottle-with-fine-mist-top] And I only spray one spritz per day. Maybe two if I think I didn't get it right. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1826076574164618/?comment_id=1826517454120530&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

One experienced hookworm grower likes to maintain his cultures at a humidity of 70-80%. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2293421117430159/?comment_id=2293877857384485]

===Re-wetting the sample===

After failing to find any larvae at all, in spite of repeated, careful examination of the water in her incubations jars, one hookworm grower decided to try re-wetting the fecal sample. She used the rest of the sample water from the bottom of the jar to irrigate the fecal blob on the slide. This resulted in the water "swarming" with active larvae, going from no larvae at all to many more than she could use. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5107193876052855/]

{{Quote|indent}}I want to urge anyone who thought their incubation didn’t succeed by this method to try re-wetting/rinse before giving up. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5107193876052855?comment_id=5107805085991734&reply_comment_id=5108070145965228]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Charcoal - a possible cause of failure===

Three growers have attributed failed, or reduced, yields to added charcoal.

{{Quote|indent}}I usually mix some charcoal powder in the sample before putting samples in the tubes. This time, I forgot before preparing the first slide. Today, I went to harvest and the samples WITH charcoal did not produce well at all, but the sample WITHOUT charcoal had quite the lively collection of NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4878629615575950/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I tried charcoal one time and had bad results. I have been charcoal free ever since. No problems! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4878629615575950?comment_id=4878918262213752]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I've noticed the same thing and will no longer use charcoal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4878629615575950?comment_id=4878960622209516]{{Quote|/indent}}

But others have had no problems with charcoal, so the issue reported above may have been due to specific brands of charcoal, or to coincidence.

{{Quote|indent}}I use an activated charcoal capsule - 'Radiance' brand, a dietary supplement - one capsule per faecal sample, and have found the only difference between samples with, or without, charcoal, is the smell which I prefer not to have. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4878629615575950/?comment_id=4879597002145878]{{Quote|/indent}}

Someone else who reports having no issues with charcoal is using the type of charcoal found in water purifiers, and grinding this in a blender. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4878629615575950?comment_id=4878700195568892]

===Type of container may affect outcome===

{{Quote|indent}}My incubations were successful using urine specimen cups, then someone gave me a bunch of old baby food jars. Using those, I kept finding all of the larvae dead. All I can think of is they washed the jars in something toxic to hw. I tried really scrubbing the jars before using and then found a few alive, but not many. I just stick to my tried and true urine specimen cups now. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2313867058718898/?comment_id=2313875328718071] {{Quote|/indent}}

===Using test tubes as containers===

One incubator prefers to use test tubes because the much smaller quantity of water in a tube prevents the need for the extra step of leaving the larvae to settle to the bottom of a separate conical-shaped container.

{{Quote|indent}}This way I pipette up the water straight from the test tube and don’t need to fill it in another vessel first, which saves me a day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4873999622705616?comment_id=4874985792606999]{{Quote|/indent}}

The following incubation method using centrifuge tubes was employed by one team of researchers.

The faeces sample was first homogenised by stirring, then emulsified with activated charcoal and sterile water until the consistency resembled bitumen or tar. Approximately 7 g of this material was then smeared on to the upper third of 9 × 9 cm squares of 80 gsm copy paper and rolled into cylinders, culture material innermost. These cinders were then placed within 50 ml sterile centrifuge tubes, each containing 5 ml sterile water. (The use of copy paper produces a cleaner harvest because it degrades more slowly than filter paper.) The base of the paper rolls rested in the water, with the culture material near the top of the tube with the lid loosely secured. The tubes were then stored in a tube rack placed within a plastic box, which was lined with adsorbent paper soaked in water to maintain a humid environment. Finally, the boxes were placed in an incubator at 77°F (25°C) for 7 days. To harvest the larvae, the roll of paper was carefully removed and discarded from each tube, leaving the water containing the larvae at the base of the tube. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9264692/]

===Substituting a coffee filter for the glass slide===

One incubator progressed from glass slides to coffee filter papers for holding the fecal samples. After placing each sample into the centre of a filter paper, she put this in the bottom of a jar, on top of a couple of canning rings from Mason jars. The rings allow the filter paper to touch a small quantity of water in the base of the jar, while preventing the paper from collapsing completely into the water. More details [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5375586972546876/ here] and [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5122776691161240/ here]. Eventually she abandoned the use of canning rings and switched to using 2 filters together, which helps to keep them upright. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5548349945270577/?comment_id=5548602448578660]

[[File:Coffee filter NA incubation.jpg]]

===Incubation temperature===

The ideal temperature for incubation is said to be between 73°F (23°C) and 86°F (30°C), but there are growers having success with a wide variety of temperatures.

* 90°F (32°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}I incubate at 90F and 70-80% humidity. I get around 87F (on the temperature gauge). I’ve thought about using lower temps to reduce bacterial growth, but I always get larvae. It takes 6-7 days at this temperature. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2717275201711413/?comment_id=2717312815040985][https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/6097096423729257/?comment_id=6097583243680575&reply_comment_id=6100943913344508&notif_id=1693696291437233&notif_t=group_comment_mention]{{Quote|/indent}}
:This may be close to the upper limit. One very experienced incubator has reported that she has completely failed to get any larvae at all when the temperature has even temporarily approached 95°F (35°C). [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/NA_incubation:_very_detailed_method_by_Alana?fbclid=IwAR1XuYtEXan7riRYUYokl9AdJPo72nGgVleS_XqZdSvltiflb4h64nteLog#The_vigil].

* 80°F (27°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}Keep mine at 80 and it works fine. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2717233865048880/?comment_id=2717241905048076]{{Quote|/indent}}

* 79°F (26°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}26.7 C works perfectly for me, harvest at 7 days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4836195663152679/?comment_id=4838164179622494]{{Quote|/indent}}
:{{Quote|indent}}We have purchased a "lab" incubator which we set to 26 degrees Celsius and results are amazing! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5302814896441089?comment_id=5303147473074498]{{Quote|/indent}}

* 72-75°F (22-24°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}If it drops lower or goes higher it gets wonky for me. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1208544105917871/?comment_id=1525608054211473&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

* 68-72°F (20-22°C)
:{{Quote|indent}} Room temperature 20-22 degree celcius is ideal for me. I don't use an incubator. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1306907306081550/?comment_id=1307011726071108&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]

* 65-70°F (18-21°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}I keep them in a dark cabinet in a space that is between 65-70 depending on the season. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2717233865048880/?comment_id=2717267355045531]{{Quote|/indent}}

* 62-65°F (17-18°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}Just harvested yesterday and I had the cleanest, largest, most lively batch ever. These great results were achieved with a lower temp - 64-65 degrees F for 14 days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1650567355048875/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2293421117430159/?comment_id=2295623237209947]
:{{Quote|indent}}Takes 12 days or so. (Without a heat source, just in a dark box in a basement.){{Quote|/indent}}

* 55-80°F (13-27°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}I incubate successfully at temps from 55-80 F. They begin to die at 50F on the low end and 90+F on the high end. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5056841931088050?comment_id=5057004877738422]{{Quote|/indent}}

* 50-70°F (10-21°C)
:{{Quote|indent}}My incubations get as low as 59°F and do fine. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5653332278105676/?comment_id=5653364981435739]{{Quote|/indent}}

:{{Quote|indent}}I have found that cooler and even temps, given a bit more time, produce weeks of long-lasting larvae. (Without an incubator, just in jars in a towel-lined box in a stable part of the house.) When I started with rapid and warm I frequently killed them. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1676288182476792/?comment_id=1676296262475984&reply_comment_id=1676310389141238&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Larvae incubated at higher temperatures may be ready after only 4-5 days. Those grown at lower temperatures might not be ready until 12-14 days, or later, but they will survive for longer.

Fluctuations in temperature should not be a problem so long as the upper and lower extremes fall within the range above.

{{Quote|indent}}Mine typically go through a 10 degree temp swing sitting in top of the water heater, depending on ambient temp & water use. And they’re used to being outside with natural temp changes. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2717233865048880/?comment_id=2717244061714527&reply_comment_id=2717263091712624]{{Quote|/indent}}

Someone else succeeds without any extra heating and at a room temperature varying from 66-73°F (19-23°C). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/6986093511496206/]

===Controlling the incubation temperature===

{{Quote|indent}}Egg incubators can run a bit hot, so get one with an adjustable temp if you can. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1726145557491054/?comment_id=1726160860822857&reply_comment_id=1726255030813440&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Get a thermometer that records high and low temp for the last 24 hours. Heaters (such as reptile warming mats) sometimes get just a bit too hot, so you need to check the temp range. I have used a seedling mat, which is a similar idea, and used a ‘dimmer switch’ (actually a fan speed controller that plugs into the wall, then the heater plugs into that) to get the perfect temp range. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1726145557491054/?comment_id=1726253104146966&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Or you can put something like a wire baking rack between the heater and the samples to allow a bit of air circulation to drop temp a few degrees... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1726145557491054/?comment_id=1726253104146966&reply_comment_id=1726256850813258&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Isolating single larvae===

'''Using multiple slides.'''

{{Quote|indent}}My best simple idea for isolating single worms is to use multiple slides, i.e. if you draw up a batch, and have many hookworms. Just keep siphoning off drops onto new slides until you get a number that suits you. Then put that drop from the slide onto a bandage and apply. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

'''Using a DIY micro-pipette.'''

Picking up individual larvae is much easier using a pipette with a micro-tip, and these can be created by super-gluing a "micro-tip glue applicator" nozzle to any standard pipette. These nozzles are available cheaply from Amazon and eBay: just search for "micro tip glue applicator".

Once you’ve glued a micro-tip to your regular pipette, it becomes very easy to pick up single NA larvae - or even individual TSO/TTO eggs - from a glass slide. And, to increase precision, just pinch the pipette’s tube, rather than squeezing the bulb at the end. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5121037528001823/]

===Transferring larvae from slide to bandage===
{{Quote|indent}}Take a 0.2 ml capacity disposable polyethylene transfer pipette [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mudder-Capacity-Disposable-Graduated-Polyethylene/dp/B01EWQZMUU] and use a single edge razor blade to cut the tip at a 45 degree angle. At 40x magnification, you’ll see individual larvae move into the pipette. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4298565240249060/?comment_id=4309392802499637&reply_comment_id=4371705966268320]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I just use a plastic pipette. It has a fine tip. But my secret tip is... we put the worm fluid onto the slide in multiple small drops, suck up a little bit of water into the pipette then put a drop of water onto a drop on the slide, immediately suck it up. They fall to the bottom very quickly and can be hard to pipette but the action of the drop lifts them away from the bottom momentarily, then suck and they come easy! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/4438150282957221/?comment_id=4438168272955422]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I use very tiny droplets which usually have fewer larvae. If there are too many, I dilute the droplet, suction up a corner, and make a whole new droplet. I keep going until the droplet has the exact number I want (which is generally 1 or 2.) The larvae like to migrate to the edges of the droplet where the distortion can make them difficult to see. The smaller the droplet, the less distortion you have to deal with. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4415396375232612/?comment_id=4446233762148873&reply_comment_id=4446276112144638]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}This step vexed me for months. I found that a large wooden spoon really helped. You lay the bandage over the back of the spoon, so that the bandage is curved. Then when you transfer the hookworms from the slide to the bandage, the slide doesn't get tangled up in the sticky part of the bandage, because it is curved over the back of the spoon. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I like using a Q-tip to soak up the drop on the slide, and then tape or bandaid it to my skin. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/3879463745492547?comment_id=3880855858686669]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Cleaning larvae to be shared with others===

Hookworm larvae do not need to be cleaned if they have been grown at home for use by the same individual who provided the stool sample for their incubation. However, if that individual wishes to share the larvae they have grown, these can be cleaned using the following method.

Add one drop of commercially available 5% Lugol’s iodine to 5 ml of water (distilled, filtered or dechlorinated tap water, or bottled water). Then add 1 ml of this 0.02% iodine solution to 1 ml of water containing the larvae. After the larvae have spent 20 minutes in this solution, the iodine should be neutralised by adding a pinch of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) powder to the water. Neutralisation of the iodine is confirmed when sufficient ascorbic acid has been sprinkled into the water to make this completely clear.

If the cleaned larvae are not going to be used immediately, they should be removed from the iodine/ascorbic acid solution and rinsed in fresh filtered or dechlorinated tap water, or bottled water, and then stored in a small quantity of one of these same types of water. While distilled water is suitable for incubation and for briefly cleaning larvae, it appears not to be best for storing them, unless it is the same water they were grown in. (By the time the eggs hatch, distilled water that was used for incubation will have been modified by solutes from the feces sample.)

{{Quote|indent}}I tried storing some larvae in distilled water in small centrifuge micro tubes and all of them were dead within a week. Larvae that I stored in the water that they incubated in survive up to 4 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5436965113075728/?comment_id=5437013189737587&reply_comment_id=5437116596393913]{{Quote|/indent}}

Since larvae that have been cleaned by any method will have a shorter shelf life than those that have not been cleaned, they are best left untreated until as close to the point of inoculation a possible. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4042866962485557/?comment_id=4043182392454014&reply_comment_id=4058810744224512]

Also see [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4742028475902732/ this support group discussion] about this topic.

==Possible reasons for failure==

Novice hookworm growers may need a period of apprenticeship before succeeding at the art of hookworm incubation, even when using this simple method. For more details, see [[Helminth incubation#Some find incubation surprisingly difficult | '''Some find incubation surprisingly difficult''']].

Hookworm incubations can fail for a variety of reasons other than a lack of experience. Long-term hookworm growers, and even hookworm providers, can experience fallow periods when their incubations produce no larvae. One reason for this can be the egg donor’s diet (for more about this, see [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana#Promotion of egg viability by dietary manipulation | '''Promotion of egg viability by dietary manipulation''']]) and certain brands of probiotic have been implicated by one grower, so diet should be considered if there is a continuing failure to grow larvae.

==Suggestions / observations==

If anyone using this method has any questions, suggestions for improving this page, or any other observations, please post these to the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/ Helminth incubation group].

==Other NA incubation methods==

* [[NA incubation: very simple petri dish method by Steven | '''NA incubation: very simple petri dish method by Steven''']] (The second most popular method.)

* [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana | '''NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana''']]. (This method provides information about every aspect of hookworm incubation.)

* [[NA incubation: simple method by Janice | '''NA incubation: simple method by Janice''']]

* [[NA incubation: simple method by Anon | '''NA incubation: simple method by Anon''']]

Helminth providers

2024-09-04T03:19:00Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb}}
{{Breadcrumb|[[Using_helminths|Using helminths]]}}
{{SEO 
|title=Helminth providers
|description=Full details about all the main commercial suppliers of therapeutic helminths (NA, TTO, TSO and HDC) compiled by independent editors.
|keywords=helminth provider, helminth providers, helminth supplier, helminth suppliers, worm provider, worm providers, worm supplier, worm suppliers, therapeutic worm provider, therapeutic worm providers, therapeutic worm supplier, therapeutic worm suppliers, providers of therapeutic helminths, providers of therapeutic worms, suppliers of therapeutic helminths, suppliers of therapeutic worms helminths, therapeutic helminths, hookworm, hookworms, NA, whipworm, whipworms, TSO, TTO, rat tapeworm, rat tapeworms, HDC, Necator americanus, Trichuris suis, Trichuris trichiura, Hymenolepis diminuta, Hymenolepis diminuta cysticercoids, Symmbio, Biome Restoration, Tanawisa, Worm Therapy, Autoimmune Therapies, AIT, Jasper Lawrence
|og:image=}}This page contains details about all the main suppliers of therapeutic helminths that have been vetted by the editors of this wiki. The individuals who founded and run these companies all emerged from within the helminthic therapy community and are passionate about the therapy. There are no purely profit-oriented companies listed here, and no scammers. Where there have been any concerns raised about the service that a company provides - for example, any unreliability, slow response to emails, or incorrect advice about dosing - these issues are mentioned in the details for that company, or on the separate [[Helminth provider reviews | '''Customer reviews''']] page.

All details have been gathered and carefully checked by independent volunteer editors, none of whom have any affiliation with the companies listed.

For more information about the helminths that are available from these providers, see [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Therapeutic helminths | '''Therapeutic helminths''']] and [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth | '''Selecting a therapeutic helminth''']].

== Providers ==

The providers each offer one or more of four different organisms, along with different services and pricing options, all of which need to be considered very carefully by each prospective customer in the light of their own unique needs and preferences. Most Providers ship to many regions so listed costs are generally '''without''' shipping costs included. In other words, you need to contact the suppliers to determine your final cost including shipping.

''Symmbio'', ''Au NAturel'', ''Nathural'',  ''Tanawisa'', ''Helminth Therapy NZ'', ''Biome Restoration'' and ''YourSymbionts'' all sell their products as individual doses. 
To assist readers in comparing the cost of obtaining helminths from each of the companies, the approximate annual costs are shown in bold.

The providers are listed according to the overall customer rating that each has achieved based on customer reviews. The companies with the highest rating and the most reviews are presented first.

<div style="background-color:#FFF5FA;border: 1px solid #F2CEDD; border-radius:16px; padding:8px; padding-left:8px; margin-bottom:12px;">'''Customer reviews for the companies listed below are available on the following page. 
[[Helminth provider_reviews | '''Helminth provider reviews''']]'''
</div>

<div style="border:1px solid #F2DFCE;padding:8px 14px 12px 24px; border-radius:18px; margin:15px 0px 15px 0px;">
==='''[http://symmbio.com/ Symmbio]'''===
★★★★★ 5 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#Symmbio | '''28 customer reviews''']]. 
Founded: 2016. 
Organisms supplied: [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#NA (Necator americanus) | NA]] and [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#TTO (Trichuris trichiura ova) | TTO]]. 
Ships worldwide, including to the US. Express shipping with tracking is available. 
Payment in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitcoin bitcoin] is preferred, and Symmbio is happy to help anyone who is unfamiliar with the currency. Other payment options may be available depending on country of residence.  
Contact: Simon. 
Communication is via email, however consultation calls are available. 
Supplies doses of various sizes on a pay-per-dose basis according to individual requirements. 
'''NA'''. A single dose of NA is $200 USD. Three doses are $450 USD, valid for 2 years from the date of purchase. '''Special offer from February 2020: a free dose with purchases made via Bitcoin. So $450 USD will buy 4 doses ordered at any time during the 24 months following payment. Further discounts''' are also available for children and families, and for those facing financial difficulties. 
'''TTO'''. Doses of 50, 100 or 250 ova are shipped in lots of 6 vials. (Minimum order: 6 vials of 50 TTO.) '''New prices from February 2020'''. 300 ova for $250 USD / 600 ova for $450 USD / 1200 ova for $750 USD. TTO have a long shelf-life so unused doses can be stored in a refrigerator until required. 
'''Cost per year: variable, depending on the number of doses purchased.''' 
No medical advice is offered, but free information is available about the therapy, along with email support. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']] and [[Self-treating with TTO | '''Self-treating with TTO''']].
</div>

<div style="border:1px solid #F2DFCE;padding:8px 14px 12px 24px; border-radius:18px; margin:15px 0px 15px 0px;">

==='''Au NAturel'''===
★★★★★ 5 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#Au NAturel | '''28 customer reviews''']]. 
Founded: 2019. 
Organism supplied: [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#NA (Necator americanus) | NA]]. 
Ships worldwide, including to the US. Expedited/Express shipping with tracking. 
Payment accepted via PayPal or Crypto option 
Contact: Max: max.contact$protonmail.com (change $ to @). 
Communication is via email only. 
Supplies single doses starting with a first dose of (usually) 5 larvae. Subsequent dose sizes are individually adjusted. 
Doses are a flat rate of $120 USD for 2 to 25 larvae. (plus shipping). Family rates are available. 
'''Cost per year: variable, depending on the number of doses purchased.''' 
No medical advice is offered, but use of the community resources is strongly recommended, i.e., [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_Therapy_Wiki this wiki] and the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ support group] on Facebook. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']].
</div>

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===[https://nalab.eu '''Nathural''']===
★★★★★ 5 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#Nathural | '''9 customer reviews''']]. 
Founded: 2022. 
Organism supplied: [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#NA (Necator americanus) | NA]]. 
Ships (from France) to Europe (express), to the UK (tracked letter) and worldwide (letter or tracked letter). 
Payment is accepted via PayPal, credit card or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitcoin bitcoin]. 
Contact: Nathalie. Orders are done via their website (https://nalab.eu/). 
Supplies single doses. Prices from €50. Shipping from €5. 
'''Cost per year: variable, depending on the number of doses purchased. Discount automaticaly applied during checkout for multiple doses'''. 
No support is provided for helminthic therapy. For this purpose, use the following resources: the [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_Therapy_Wiki Helminthic Therapy wiki] and the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group] on Facebook. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']].
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==='''[http://www.tanawisa.com/ Tanawisa]'''===
★★★★★ 4.9 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#Tanawisa | '''15 customer reviews''']]. 
Founded: 2003. 
Organism supplied: [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#TSO (Trichuris suis ova) | TSO]]. 
Ships worldwide, but excluding Russia, using express courier services with tracking. Shipments typically reach their destination within 3 days of ordering. 
Payment methods include PayPal, all major credit cards and bank transfers. 
Contact: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOk2mMcPB7Q Detlev Goj]. 
Support is available via telephone and email. 
Supplies doses of 500, 1,000 and 2,500 ova, with special offers on packs of 10 doses. 
'''Cost per year: $5,200''' for the most frequently used dose size of 2,500 ova, if taken every 2 weeks and purchased in multiples of 10 doses. A very small number of users may require up to 7,500 ova every two weeks, but many people who take TSO are able to transition to a much smaller maintenance dosage after the first 10 doses (5 months), which greatly reduces the annual cost. 
Individual discounts are available. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with TSO | '''Self-treating with TSO''']].
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===[https://www.facebook.com/HelminthTherapyNZ '''Helminth Therapy NZ''']===
★★★★★ 4.8 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#Helminth Therapy NZ | '''5 customer reviews''']]. 

Founded: 2022. 
Organism supplied: [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#NA (Necator americanus) | NA]]. 
Ships within New Zealand and Australia. 
Payment is accepted via bank transfer in NZD or Wise Payment AUD. 
Contact: Michelle. 
Contact Email: admin@helminththerapy.co.nz, or via Facebook messenger at [https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/102706412577752 Helminth Therapy NZ], or via their [https://www.facebook.com/HelminthTherapyNZ Facebook page] 
Supplies doses of various sizes, on a pay-per-dose basis according to individual requirements discussed during an initial free consultation. 
Prices (per person/dose). 1-10 NA larvae is $200NZD. 11 NA and over is $300NZD 
New Zealand shipping is with NZ Courier. Standard is $8.00. Rural delivery (RD) is $15.00 
Australian Shipping is $38.00NZD 
'''Cost per year: variable, depending on the number of doses purchased.''' 
No medical advice is offered, but a care pack with easy-to-follow instructions is provided, along with email and telephone support, if needed. Use of the community resources is strongly recommended, i.e., [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_Therapy_Wiki this wiki] and the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ support group] on Facebook. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']]. 
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==='''[http://www.biomerestoration.com/ Biome Restoration Ltd]'''===
★★★★★ 4.7 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#Biome Restoration Ltd | '''12 customer reviews''']]. 
Founded: 2013. 
Organism supplied: [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#HDC (Hymenolepis diminuta cysticercoids) | HDC]], which is produced to exacting quality control standards in the company’s UK laboratory. 
Ships worldwide, including to the US. Expedited shipping is extra, but a saving can be made on shipping costs by purchasing two doses at the same time. 
Contact: Marc Dellerba PhD. For shipping and order queries, use this email: shipping$biomerestoration.com (change $ to @). 
Supplies doses of various sizes on a pay-per-dose basis. 
'''Cost per year: £1,280 for UK residents (including VAT) or approximately £1,430 for customers outside the UK.''' These prices are for 30 HDC every 2 weeks, ordered via automatically renewing subscription and including shipping. 
Some users take 60 HDC every 2 weeks, or 30 every week, either of which will double the cost. 
No medical advice is provided, but assistance is available with how to use the HDC. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with HDC |'''Self-treating with HDC''']].
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==='''The Llamas Clinic'''===
★★★★☆ 4 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#The Llamas Clinic | '''2 customer reviews''']]. 
:'''NB'''. Dr Llamas is very reluctant to supply hookworm doses of less than 25 NA, which is far too large a number with which to commence therapy. And he has been known to send clients more NA than they have requested, for example, sending 10 NA to a client with MCAS who had asked for 3 NA - the recommended starting dose for her condition. (Best dosing practice for NA is explained here: [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']]). 
Organisms supplied. [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#NA (Necator americanus) | NA]] and [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#HDC (Hymenolepis diminuta cysticercoids) | HDC]]. 
Contact: Jorge Llamas MD. 
Contact email: dr_llamas$hotmail.com (change $ to @). Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DrJorgeLlamas/ 
Until 2018, Dr Llamas worked with [http://www.wormtherapy.com/ Worm Therapy] and allowed them to use his clinic in Tijuana, Mexico, but Worm Therapy are now operating independently. 
Dr Llamas has been invited to provide more details about his service for inclusion here but has not yet done so. Anyone wanting further information should therefore contact him directly via email or [https://www.facebook.com/DrJorgeLlamas/ Facebook]. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']] and [[Self-treating with HDC |'''Self-treating with HDC''']].
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==='''[https://www.yoursymbionts.com YourSymbionts]'''===
★★★★☆ 3.9 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#YourSymbionts | '''16 customer reviews''']]. 
:'''NB. There have been repeated reports of difficulty getting a response from this supplier, and in receiving helminths in a timely manner. For more details, see the most recent [[Helminth provider reviews#YourSymbionts | customer reviews]] for this company.''' 
Founded: 2018. 
Organisms supplied: [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#NA (Necator americanus) | NA]] and [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#TTO (Trichuris trichiura ova) | TTO]]. 
Ships worldwide, including to the US. All shipments are sent in an insulated box by UPS Express, with tracking. All prices include shipping. 
Payment is via PayPal, or by bank transfer (Europe). 
Contact: Steven. Email: info$yoursymbionts.com (change $ to @). Tel: +32456078504. Can also be contacted via WhatsApp and their [https://www.facebook.com/YourSymbionts Facebook page]. 
{{Quote|indent}}The best way to reach them is through WhatsApp. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5187217014667545/?comment_id=5187578297964750]{{Quote|/indent}}
Communication is via email only. 
'''NA'''. Supplies doses of various sizes on a pay-per-dose basis, starting with a first dose of 5 larvae. Subsequent dose sizes are determined by consultation. 
A starter package of the first 3 doses of NA costs €400. Thereafter, single doses cost €200 each, and three doses are €450, valid for 2 years from the date of purchase. 
'''TTO'''. Doses start at €1 per ovum. Doses of 25, 50, 100 or 250 are available, with a minimum order of €300. Discounts are available for bulk orders, e.g., a package containing a year's supply of 1200 ova is €750. 
A starter package of 240 TTO, comprising 6 doses of 40 ova, each to be taken at two week intervals, costs €200. 
'''Cost per year: variable, depending on the number of doses purchased.''' 
No medical advice is offered, but free information is available about helminthic therapy, along with email support, and 1 hour consultations are available for €50. (Details [https://www.yoursymbionts.com/booking here].) New customers get a €25 refund on the consultation when they buy a starter package. 
Also see: [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']] and [[Self-treating with TTO | '''Self-treating with TTO''']].
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==='''[http://autoimmunetherapies.com/ Autoimmune Therapies (AIT)]'''===
★★☆☆☆ 2.0 out of 5 stars. [[Helminth provider reviews#Autoimmune Therapies (AIT) | '''18 customer reviews''']]. 
Founded: 2007. 
Owner: Jasper Lawrence. 
The editors of this wiki cannot recommend Autoimmune Therapies, due to the many [[Helminth provider reviews#Autoimmune Therapies (AIT) | '''adverse reports''']] submitted to us by this company's clients, and because of the company's practice of advising the use of, and supplying, excessively large doses of NA. For more about this, see: [[Jasper Lawrence and helminthic therapy#Therapist | '''Jasper Lawrence: the therapist''']]. 

</div>

<div style="border:1px solid #A3B0BF;background-color:#CEDFF2;padding:6px;border-radius:5px;margin-bottom:22px;">The information above was believed to be correct at the time of publication, but please contact the providers to double-check prices, etc., in case of any recent changes.</div>

==Local sources==

In addition to the main providers listed above, there are a number of naturopathic physicians, particularly in the US, who grow HDC for supply to their own patients but who operate outside the online community of helminth self-teaters, and who typically charge exorbitant, and sometimes eye-watering, prices for their HDCs.

There are also many home growers who produce NA for their own use, a few of whom are sometimes willing to share any surplus worms with others in their locality. However, private growers of NA are unlikely to be able to definitively confirm the species of worm they have, or to screen their donors for communicable diseases, and they are unlikely to "clean" their NA, as the listed providers above always do.

==Contacting providers by email==

If you email a provider, be sure to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whitelisting whitelist] their email address to prevent their reply from being rejected or sent to a spam/junk mail folder. This happens regularly, resulting in people posting to the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group] asking if anyone knows what's happened to one or other of the providers.

It's also worth remembering that most helminth providers don't work weekends.

==Regarding advice from the providers==

When seeking information from a provider, it should be borne in mind that no one provider sells, or has experience with, all four helminth species. Since some people may have more success with one particular species, with a combination of two or more species, or by starting with one species and later switching to another, it is arguably better to rely more on the information in this wiki when selecting a therapeutic helminth than on advice from a single helminth provider. No single provider can match the objectivity or breadth of information found in this wiki, which offers a balanced assessment of all four available helminths based on the findings of science and the first-hand experience of self-treaters. See [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth | '''Selecting a therapeutic helminth''']].

It is also important to remember that the companies listed on this page are all commercial entities and, as such, their owners are keen to promote their own products. This can result in ''some'' of them occasionally exaggerating the benefits of their own worms and/or misrepresenting the attributes of the worms sold by their competitors, sometimes even claiming that their own worms are cleaner, safer or more powerful than the alternatives, or that their competitors’ products will cause worse side effects, and possibly even multiply within a host or mis-migrate to the wrong parts of a host’s body. However, none of these claims of adverse effects are true for NA, TTO, TSO or HDC. See the [[Helminthic therapy safety | '''Helminthic therapy safety''']] page and [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf this study].

Alternatives to the advice available from the providers include talking to a [[Helminthic therapy practitioners | '''helminthic therapy practitioner''']] and asking questions of the members in the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support Group], some of whom have many years of experience with several different helminth species.

==Doctors as providers==

Some naturopathic physicians who recommend therapy with NA, TTO or HDC and supply these organisms themselves, have claimed that the worms they supply are superior to those available elsewhere, or have implied that the worms sold by others might not be the species they are claimed to be. For example, some doctors who supply hookworms direct to their patients have claimed that their worms are "stronger" than those from their competitors, while others have maintained that theirs are "more gentle". One practitioner even claims that his hookworms are a superior subspecies of NA, termed, "NA457". However, all these claims are merely marketing hype, so self-treaters should always compare the prices quoted by doctors with those of the providers listed above, who supply exactly the same products but invariably charge much lower prices.

The physician who claims to be supplying his patients with the supposedly superior "NA457", introduced this notion in a book he published in 2018, [https://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Hookworm-Therapy-parabiotics-anti-fragile/dp/1729619983/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1D279X2XYOJ6A&keywords=Steve+Nenninger&qid=1662258403&sprefix=steve+nenninger%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-3 Understanding Hookworm Therapy: parabiotics - the rise of anti-fragile medicine]. (A free copy is available in digital book form as the [https://www.stevenenninger.com/thehookwormmiracle The Hookworm Miracle].) In the book, Steve Nenninger suggests that people who are looking to host hookworms should check that the worms they buy are [[Self-treating with NA | '''Necator americanus''']] (the New World Hookworm) and not the less desirable [[Ancylostoma duodenale | '''Ancylostoma duodenale''']] (the Old World Hookworm), appearing to suggest that some of the hookworms being sold by helminth providers may be AD and not NA, but this is just more marketing spin.

Although Nenninger has been reported to have claimed that "NA457" has been identified by "research", [https://youarethehealer.org/parasitic-worms-to-treat-autoimmune-disease/] a search of the scientific literature reveals no mention of "NA457", and there is no evidence that this term is anything other than the number of a particular hookworm sample that was prepared for genetic testing. It does not signify a new NA subspecies, and the special characteristics of "NA457" that Nenninger lists in his book are ''all'' descriptive of ''any'' example of NA that is available from ''any'' of the helminth providers.

The only difference between what is available from physicians and from an online provider is seen in HDC. This organism loses viability very quickly from the moment it is removed from its beetle host and, without nutritional support, will be dead within 48 hours. Biome Restoration use a proprietary nutrient solution that keeps their HDC alive for 2-3 weeks, so their product is the only one that will survive long-distance shipping. (For more detail, see [[Self-treating with HDC#Storage and survival of HDC | '''Storage and survival of HDC''']].)

The locally-grown HDC available from physicians’ offices must be taken within 24 hours of being harvested to be fully effective - not 24 hours after receipt. Provided that these ''fresh'' HDC are used within 24 hours of extraction, they do have slightly greater efficacy than a similar number of the ''commercially prepared'' HDC sold by Biome Restoration, and this difference is reflected in the [[Self-treating with HDC#Dosing with HDC |'''dosing guidelines for HDC''']] which show that the use of slightly larger numbers of Biome Restoration’s HDC fully compensates for their slightly reduced efficacy when compared with ''fresh'' HDC that are used within 24 hours of extraction. There is therefore no justification for the very high prices being charged for ''fresh'' HDC by some physicians.

==Comparing NA larvae from different sources==

NA larvae all produce the same therapeutic effects whichever company they are bought from.

All the Necator americanus in captivity today have come from one or other of only two sources. Firstly, the specimens collected from Kar Kar Island, Papua New Guinea, by Prof David Pritchard and his colleagues at Nottingham University, [https://web.archive.org/web/20180429035224/http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/01/health/research/01prof.html?_r=3&oref=slogin&oref=slogin&oref=slogin] and, secondly, those collected from the wild by the first two commercial suppliers of NA (Garin Aglietti and Jasper Lawrence) who were, at that time, jointly running Autoimmune Therapies (AIT). All the NA in use at the present time in research laboratories around the world were sourced from Pritchard's stock, and all the hookworms available from helminth providers, including doctors, are the descendants of those originally collected by AIT staff. Pritchard, himself, identified his hookworms as NA, and AIT’s stock was identified as NA by a PhD microbiologist using PCR testing.

With all the hookworm providers currently supplying NA larvae that are descended from the original AIT stock, any variation between the larvae from different providers is not due to those from one company being superior, or inferior, to those from other suppliers, whatever a few suppliers may claim when describing their own products.

However, different batches of NA larvae can produce differing strengths of skin response to inoculation, with varying severity of rash and itching - a fact seen by self-treaters as either positive or negative depending on their point of view. Some may perceive a stronger skin response as indicating better worms, while others might prefer larvae that produce less itching.

Variations in skin response between larvae from different sources can be due to the effects of one or more of four factors.

:1. '''Incubation temperature'''. Larvae incubated at higher temperatures develop more quickly but remain viable for a shorter period of time.

:2. '''Age'''. The viability of NA larvae has been shown to decrease rapidly over time from a mean of 85% to < 70% within 14 days. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9264692/]

:3. '''Natural variation'''. There can be considerable variation between batches of hookworm larvae, even between batches grown side-by-side by the same producer on the same day using the same stool sample with identical materials and procedures. This is due to the fact that hookworms are living creatures, so completely different from pills produced by a machine. Some incubations can even occasionally fail to yield any larvae at all, and this happens to growers who have been incubating for many years as well as novices, and to commercial providers as well as private growers. Even within a single batch, there can be dead or decaying larvae side-by-side with healthy ones, and, even though it is always the latter that providers select for supply to their customers, there can still be hidden variations between healthy larvae.

:4. '''Cleaning'''. Providers clean their larvae before shipping for the protection of customers, but this process reduces the worms' shelf life. Variation between the cleaning protocols used by different providers results in differing lengths of shelf life. For example, one hookworm provider ([https://web.archive.org/web/20221209070413/http://wormswell.com/ Wormswell] [2014-2018]) said that their larvae had a shelf life of 3 to 4 weeks after rinsing, whereas those from a different provider (Worm Therapy) only have a stated shelf life of 2 weeks.

:One supplier has been reported anonymously in a [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/a/ad/Socio-medical_studies_of_individuals_self-treating_with_helminths_provide_insight_into_clinical_trial_design_for_assessing_helminth_therapy.pdf socio-medical study] to have claimed that extensive washing of NA can reduce its effectiveness, but there is no evidence for this. The claim may have been based on the testimony of self-treaters who had observed a less robust skin response following inoculation with washed larvae, and who had assumed, incorrectly, that this would indicate a likely reduction in therapeutic effect, unaware that there is no correlation between the strength of skin response and eventual therapeutic benefit. However, anyone with a preference for unwashed larvae can purchase their first dose from a provider, then [[Helminth incubation#Hookworm incubation | grow their own supply]] from this colony and use them unwashed.

Concern is sometimes expressed about the possibility that the hookworm larvae available from the suppliers may have become weakened as a result of a genetic bottleneck in the domesticated hookworm stock. However, this is extremely unlikely and there is no evidence that this might be the case. See: [[Self-treating with NA#Is there genetic degradation in laboratory-reared hookworms? | '''Is there genetic degradation in laboratory-reared hookworms?''']]

==Comparing the available helminth species==

Details about the different species, and how they compare, can be found on the following page.

* [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Selecting a therapeutic helminth | '''Selecting a therapeutic helminth''']]

==Predicting the long-term cost==

In the case of helminths that are sold by the dose, the actual cost is dependent on the number and size of doses that may be required to achieve and maintain disease remission. TSO need to be taken even 2 or 3 weeks, at least for a few months (see [[Self-treating with TSO | '''Self-treating with TSO''']] and this [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#TSO (Trichuris suis ova)| page section]]) and HDC also need to be taken every 2 or 3 weeks (occasionally weekly or monthly), usually indefinitely (see [[Self-treating with HDC | '''Self-treating with HDC''']]). Small doses of TTO may be taken regularly, but larger doses can be taken less frequently (see [[Self-treating with TTO | '''Self-treating with TTO''']]). Some users of NA might only require a single dose every few years, while others may need supplementary doses every few months, indefinitely, due to a higher rate of attrition, which varies greatly between individuals (see [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']]). Replacement hookworm doses would also be needed following any accidental losses due to the use of certain substances, all of which are detailed in the [[Human helminth care manual | '''Human helminth care manual''']].

== Minimising the cost ==

The cost of helminthic therapy varies considerably between the providers and the different worm species, all of which is explained in the [[Helminth providers#Providers | '''Provider details''']] section above.

A number of factors need to be taken into account when looking at the cost of helminthic therapy.

* [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Considering the cost of helminthic therapy | '''Considering the cost of helminthic therapy''']]

Possible options for minimising the costs are as follows.

=== Discounts and payment plans ===

In cases of genuine financial hardship, some providers may be willing to help customers by offering a discount or arranging a payment plan.

=== Don't let cost influence dosing decisions ===

Some providers of NA charge by the dose, whatever number of larvae a dose contains. Some hookworm self-treaters can't resist trying to maximise the value of their purchases from these companies by ordering more larvae than they need, but inoculating with a larger number can result in excessive side effects.

{{Quote|indent}}The provider I use charges per dose, no matter if I want 2 worms or 30. So I tried to push it, and learned my lesson! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1983242591731686/?comment_id=1984166848305927&reply_comment_id=1985439641511981&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Purchasing helminths from doctors ===

Physicians invariably charge far more for helminths than the online providers listed above, and the organisms supplied by doctors are in no way superior, whatever they may claim. See [[Helminth providers#Doctors as providers | '''Doctors as providers''']] above.

=== Hookworm donation ===

In the case of NA, it may be possible to obtain a donation of hookworm larvae from a fellow self-treater who grows their own supply, although very few people are actually willing to provide this service, and there are risks attached to accepting larvae from a private grower. For more about these risks, see the following page sub-sections.

* [[Helminth incubation#Infection risk | '''Infection risk''']]

* [[Helminth incubation#Legal risks | '''Legal risks''']]

=== DIY helminth incubation ===

NA and HDC are relatively easy to culture at home after purchasing a microscope, an initial dose of worms and a few other sundries. The incubation of TTO is also possible but more challenging. For more about helminth incubation, see the following page.

* [[Helminth incubation | '''Helminth incubation''']]

==Using Bitcoin==

Commercial helminth providers don't have a clear green light to ship their products to all destinations, so some of them need to remain anonymous in order to protect both themselves and the supply. Since the maintenance of anonymity must also extend to methods of payment, some providers only accept payment in Bitcoin.

The use of this cryptocurrency can appear daunting to those who are new to it, but most people find that Bitcoin is easy to use, once they get into it.

{{Quote|indent}}I been paying with btc for NA since 2016 (i.e., for 7 years) and find [https://www.bitcoin.com bitcoin.com app] to be the easiest and fastest. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6652735928115639/?comment_id=6652888008100431]{{Quote|/indent}}

====Coinbase====

Watch the video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0b8vaN9ujxE Helminthic Therapy User's Guide To Bitcoin - Full Coinbase Tutorial]

{{Quote|indent}}Coinbase streamlines the process for you, but they charge a fee for their service. It was around 3% of the transaction by memory. It was worth it to me. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1830892493633364/?comment_id=1830940486961898&reply_comment_id=1830945646961382&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I was very concerned about the bitcoin process and security… it seems a bit dodgy for newbies, but I have had no issues, and no one that I have heard on this forum has had issues. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1583377658384850/?comment_id=1598050406917575&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I just had to wrap my mind around it. Now, it's easy. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1467952616594022/?comment_id=1468002149922402&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The ordering experience was very easy, and I'm new to bitcoin. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1470903532965597/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I felt comfortable with Coinbase. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1470319949690622/?comment_id=1470616372994313&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I use coinbase. It is not hard. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1467952616594022/?comment_id=1467953929927224&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Coinbase is easy. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1467952616594022/?comment_id=1467953929927224&reply_comment_id=1468256369896980&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Once you have a [https://www.coinbase.com Coinbase] account, you will also be able to use [https://pro.coinbase.com Coinbase Pro], which offers the ability to trade a variety of digital assets on a secure, insurance-backed platform.

Although Coinbase Pro is an advanced trading platform aimed at serious traders, the fact that it is owned by the same company as Coinbase means that, once you have a Coinbase account, you can use the same details to log in to Coinbase Pro. You may then need to provide some further details, and you may have to move funds from one wallet to the other, but this should be easy.

===Help with using Bitcoin===

Those helminth providers who request payment in bitcoins include detailed Bitcoin guides on their websites to help their customers, and they will assist personally with the process, if asked.

For those who prefer not to get involved with Bitcoin themselves, there are trustworthy members of the Helminthic Therapy Support group who will exchange PayPal payments or bank wires for bitcoins, which they will then send directly to the appropriate provider on behalf of the customer. For further details, see the posts at the following links.

* For [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1479835298739087 PayPal payments]
* For [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3309194392469826?comment_id=3309197035802895 PayPal payments or bank wires]

==Routing shipments via a different country==

If you are unable to have your selected helminths delivered direct to your home, you could have them shipped to another country and either travel there to collect these yourself, or arrange for someone who lives there to receive and re-ship them to you. However, a potential problem with traveling to collect hookworm larvae is that these can succumb to freezing during transit, including while in the cargo hold of a plane, so doses may be dead on arrival at their destination. This can result in a wasted journey for the person collecting them.

==Losses during shipping==

The vast majority of helminth deliveries arrive safely at their destination containing viable organisms. However, since helminths are living creatures, they are susceptible to extremes of heat and cold, both of which may be encountered during shipping. NA larvae are the most at risk because they have a very limited temperature tolerance range and will die if exposed to very low or very high temperatures.

There is no universally applied temperature for the cargo hold on commercial passenger planes, but they are typically heated by the warm air exiting the main cabin, so should, in theory, remain above freezing for the duration of each flight. However, planes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, different companies apply different practices, and different types of flights have their own protocols, so temperatures do vary, and, in practice, can range from 7°C (45°F) to 13°C (55°F), with bulk areas (where animals are carried) sometimes reaching more than 18°C (64°F).

There can be further variation in temperature throughout a cargo hold depending on placement, location, time at altitude, and the duration of the flight. Data loggers used to record temperatures have found that they can reach as low as ''minus'' 7°C (19°F) during international flights above the ocean, where the outside temperature at 30,000 feet can average ''minus'' 44.6°C (minus 48°F).

The greatest vulnerability to temperature extremes occurs on the airport tarmac, where goods may be left for extended periods during loading and unloading. This can result in hookworm larvae dying from the cold during the winter months, or from excessive heat in the summer, when the walls of aircraft containers can increase by more than 20°C (68°F) above the ambient air temperature due to exposure to solar radiation during ramp transfers.

Outside post boxes are another potential death trap for NA larvae, so, if you have one of these, arrange for winter shipments to be delivered to an alternative, heated location, or temporarily rent a PO Box.

Providers will usually make good any losses incurred during shipping.

See also.

* [[Self-treating with NA#Hookworm larvae storage and survival | '''Hookworm larvae storage and survival''']] (For details about the temperature tolerance of hookworms).

* [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#Shelf life | '''The shelf life of helminths''']]

==Further advice==

Additional advice is available from naturopathic physicians, a medical doctor, a specialist nurse, a counsellor and a health coach, all of whom have extensive experience with helminthic therapy.

* [[Helminthic therapy practitioners | '''Helminthic therapy practitioners''']]

Terminology

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== Abbreviations ==

;AD
:Ancylostoma duodenale. A species of roundworm, aka the Old World Hookworm, that is not ideal for general therapeutic use. See [[Ancylostoma duodenale | '''Ancylostoma duodenale''']].
;ASD
:Autism spectrum disorder.
;CD:Crohn's disease, also known as regional enteritis, is an inflammatory disease of the intestines that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, causing a wide variety of symptoms. It primarily causes abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may be bloody if inflammation is at its worst), vomiting, or weight loss, but may also cause complications outside the gastrointestinal tract such as skin rashes, arthritis, inflammation of the eye, tiredness, and lack of concentration.
;CRP
:C-reactive protein is an inflammation marker but is not a reliable indicator of inflammation, especially in chronic inflammatory disorders.
;EE
;EoE
:Eosinophilic esophagitis is an allergic inflammatory condition of the esophagus. Symptoms are difficulty swallowing, food impaction and heartburn. The disease was first described in children but also occurs in adults. It is not well understood, but food allergy may play a significant role.
;EV
:Enterobius vermicularis. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Enterobius_vermicularis Enterobius vermicularis]
;FMT: Fecal Microbiota Transplant. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fecal_microbiota_transplant Wikipedia:Fecal microbiota transplant]
;GI:Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine concerned with disorders of the digestive system which includes all the organs of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (alimentary canal) from mouth to anus. Physicians practicing in this field of medicine are called gastroenterologists or GI specialists.
;HINT:Helminth-Induced Immunomodulation Therapy. This term was adopted by researchers investigating the effects of TSO in patients with MS. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29064315/]
;HD:Hymenolepis diminuta, a murine (rat) tapeworm.
;HDC
;HDCs: Hymenolepis diminuta cysticercoids (Hi-men-o-lep'is dim-a-nu-ta sis-ti-sur-koid) - the larval cysts of the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta
;HK:hookworm, usually referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus
;HT:helminthic therapy
;HW
;HWs
;hw
;hws:hookworm, usually referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus
;IBD:Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of conditions affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly the colon and small intestine. The major types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC).
;IBS:Irritable bowel syndrome is a widespread condition involving recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhoea or constipation. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irritable_Bowel_Syndrome Wikipedia:Irritable Bowel Syndrome]
;LDN:low-dose naltrexone. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low-dose_naltrexone Wikipedia:Low-dose naltrexone]
;MCAD: Mast cell activation disorder, also known as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). An immunological condition. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mast_cell_activation_syndrome Wikipedia:Mast cell activation syndrome]
;MCAS: Mast cell activation syndrome, also referred to as mast cell activation disorder (MCAD). An immunological condition. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mast_cell_activation_syndrome Wikipedia:Mast cell activation syndrome]
;MCS:Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is a chronic physical illness affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It involves allergic-type reactions to very low levels of chemicals in everyday products and often also sensitivity to food, medicines, moulds and electromagnetic fields. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1241652/ A review of a two-phase population study of multiple chemical sensitivities]
;MD:Doctor of Medicine (MD, from the Latin Medicinæ Doctor meaning "Teacher of Medicine").
;MS:Multiple sclerosis (also known as disseminated sclerosis) is a chronic, typically progressive disease involving damage to the sheaths of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, whose symptoms may include numbness, impairment of speech and of muscular coordination, blurred vision and severe fatigue.
;NA:the human hookworm, Necator americanus
;TS:the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis
;TSO:the ova (eggs) of the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis
;TT:the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura
;TTO:the ova (eggs) of the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura
;UC:Ulcerative colitis (Colitis ulcerosa, UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which specifically affects the large intestine, or colon, causing characteristic ulcers, or open sores. The main symptom of active disease is constant diarrhea mixed with blood, of gradual onset.
;WW:whipworm, referring either to the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura, or the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis

== Common Terms ==

;Ancylostoma duodenale:A species of roundworm, aka the Old World hookworm, that is "not" used in helminthic therapy. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancylostoma_duodenale Wikipedia:Ancylostoma duodenale]
;Anthelmintic
;anthelmintic
;Anthelmintics
;anthelmintics
;Anthelminthic
;anthelminthic
;Anthelminthics
;anthelminthics
;Antihelmintic
;antihelmintic
;Antihelmintics
;antihelmintics
;Antihelminthic
;antihelminthic
;Antihelminthics
;antihelminthics
:A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.
;Ascaris: A species of helminth that is unsuitable for helminthic therapy, e.g., [[Ascaris lumbricoides | Ascaris lumbricoides]].
;Biome Reconstitution
;Biome reconstitution
;biome reconstitution
:An alternative term for helminthic therapy taken from a seminal publication by Prof William Parker [http://evmedreview.com/?p=457] and used as the title of a citizen science Facebook group for discussion of issues relating to the epidemic of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases afflicting humans in the late 20th and 21st centuries. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/BiomeReconstitution/]
;Biome Restoration
;Biome restoration
;biome restoration.
:An alternative term for helminthic therapy that has been adopted by one helminth provider as the name of their business. [https://biomerestoration.com]
;Commensals
;commensals
;Commensal
;commensal
;Commensalism
;commensalism
:Commensalism is a relationship between two organisms where one benefits from the other without affecting it.
;Crohn's disease:Also known as regional enteritis, this is an inflammatory disease of the intestines that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, causing a wide variety of symptoms. It primarily causes abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may be bloody if inflammation is severe), vomiting or weight loss, but may also cause complications outside the gastrointestinal tract such as skin rashes, arthritis, inflammation of the eye, tiredness and lack of concentration.
;cysticerci
:The larval (immature) stage of a tapeworm.
;Dyspepsia:Also known as upset stomach or indigestion, refers to a condition of impaired digestion. It is characterized by chronic or recurrent pain in the upper abdomen, upper abdominal fullness and feeling full earlier than expected when eating. It can be accompanied by bloating, belching, nausea, or heartburn.
;effect
:a change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause.
;effectiveness
:the degree to which something is successful in producing a desired result; success.
;efficacy
:the ability to produce a desired or intended result.
;Endoscopy
;endoscopy
:Examination using an endoscope - an instrument used to view the interior of a hollow organ or cavity within the body.
;Enterobius
;Enterobius vermicularis
;E. vermicularis
:A human helminth known as 'pinworm' in the US, and 'threadworm' in the UK.
;Eosinophils
;eosinophils
;Eosinophil
;eosinophil
:Eosinophils are a specialised type of white blood cell with a variety of both harmful and beneficial functions. Their numbers rise temporarily following inoculation with helminths.
;Exudate
;exudate
:Cells and fluid that seep out of blood vessels during inflammation.
;Helminths
;helminths
;Helminth
;helminth:An intestinal worm which grows large enough to be seen with the naked eye when mature but which is microscopic when administered in helminthic therapy. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helminths Wikipedia:Helminths]
;Helminth Replacement Therapy
;Helminth replacement therapy
;helminth replacement therapy
:An alternative term for helminthic therapy, emphasising its role in correcting the loss of beneficial species caused by modern hygiene practices.
;Helminthic Therapy
;Helminthic therapy
;helminthic therapy
;Helminth Therapy
;Helminth therapy
;helminth therapy
:The reintroduction to the digestive tract of a controlled number of specially domesticated, mutualistic helminths (intestinal worms) in the form of microscopic eggs or larvae to reconstitute a depleted biome to treat or prevent chronic inflammation, autoimmune disease and other immune-related disorders, including allergy.
;Holobiome
;holobiome
:A broad term referring to the hundreds of trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds and protozoa that live in, on and around the human body. It's also the name adopted by a biotech research company. [https://holobiome.org]
;Hookworms
;hookworms
;Hookworm
;hookworm
:A helminth that lives in the small intestine. Necator americanus (NA) is the only hookworm species used in helminthic therapy. Its microscopic larvae are applied periodically to the skin.
;Hymenolepis diminuta
;H. diminuta
:A murine (rat) tapeworm used in helminthic therapy that generally does not mature in humans and is taken as cysticerci (HDC) in a drink every 2 or 3 weeks.
;Hymenolepis nana
;H. nana
:A species of murine (rat) tapeworm closely related to Hymenolepis diminuta but not suitable for use in therapy because it can reproduce within a host and spread person-to-person. Also known as Dwarf tapeworm.
;inoculation:The introduction of an infectious agent into an organism. [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_inoculation Helminth inoculation]
;larvae
;larva
:The active immature form of an insect, or an animal such as a helminth, which develops from an egg and eventually transforms again into its adult state.
;macrobiome
:All the macroorganisms living in and on the body, or the genome of these macroorganisms. "Macrobiota" refers to the specific population of macroorganisms living in a certain part of the body, such as the gut. These two terms are often used interchangeably.
;macrobiota
:The specific population of macroorganisms living in a certain part of the body, such as the gut. "Macrobiome" refers to all the macroorganisms living in and on the body, or the genome of these macroorganisms. These two terms are often used interchangeably.
;Macroorganisms
;macroorganisms
;Macroorganism
;macroorganism
:An organism that can be seen by the naked eye, e.g., a mature helminth.
;McMaster egg count
:A method of counting parasite eggs in a faecal sample.
;Microbes
;microbes
;Microbe
;microbe
:A microorganism, especially a bacterium that causes disease or fermentation.
;microbiome
:All the microorganisms living in and on the body, or the genome of these microorganisms. "Microbiota" refers to the specific population of microorganisms living in a certain part of the body, such as the gut. These two terms are often used interchangeably.
;microbiota
:The specific population of microorganisms living in a certain part of the body, such as the gut. "Microbiome" refers to all the microorganisms living in and on the body, or the genome of these microorganisms. These two terms are often used interchangeably.
;Microorganisms
;microorganisms
;Microorganism
;microorganism
:A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium, virus or fungus.
;Mutualists
;mutualists
;Mutualist
;mutualist
;Mutualistic
;mutualistic
;Mutualism
;mutualism
:Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.
;Necator americanus
;necator americanus
:The species of human hookworm used in helminthic therapy. Its microscopic larvae are applied periodically to the skin.
;Nematoda
;nematoda
;Nematode
;nematode
;Nematodes
;nematodes
:A category of worms with slender, unsegmented, cylindrical bodies that include roundworms and threadworms.
;O&P Test
:"Ova and Parasites" or "Ova, cysts, and Parasites" are typical names for a pathology test of faeces (stool) that can reveal the presence of parasites, including hookworms and whipworms. To be accurate, this needs to be carried out by someone with experience of looking for the eggs of these species, preferably at a School of Tropical Medicine. See: [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Stool_testing_(egg_counting) Stool testing (egg counting)]
;Paracetamol
;paracetamol
:Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
;Parasite
;parasite
;Parasites
;parasites
;Parasitic
;parasitic
:An organism that lives in or on another organism (its host) and benefits at the host’s expense. (The organisms used in helminthic therapy are, strictly speaking, not parasites, but mutualists, because they have a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship with their hosts.)
;Pasteurian
;Pasteurians
;Pasteurianism
;Post-Pasteurian
;Post-Pasteurians
;Post-Pasteurianism
;post-Pasteurian
;post-Pasteurians
;post-Pasteurianism
:According to Paxson [https://www.ucpress.edu/book/9780520270183/the-life-of-cheese], Pasteurians and post-Pasteurians both appreciate hygiene, but Pasteurians are hyper-hygienic and view the natural world as dangerously unruly and in need of human control. Post-Pasteurians are more discriminating, insisting that not all bugs are bad and that many can actually enhance human life.
;Pinworm
;pinworm
:Refers to Enterobius vermicularis in the US, and to Strongyloides stercoralis in the UK.
;Probiotic
;probiotic
;Probiotics
;probiotics
:Microorganisms that are believed to provide health benefits when consumed.
;re-worming
;reworming
:Reintroducing worms to a helminth-deficient biome.
;Self-treatment
;self-treatment
:Medication or treatment of one's own disease or condition without medical assistance.
;Self-treater
;self-treater
:Someone who treats their own disease or condition without medical assistance.
;Serous drainage
;serous drainage
:Clear, thin, watery plasma released during the inflammatory stage of wound healing.
;Side effect
;side effect
:a secondary, typically undesirable, effect of a drug or medical treatment.
;Strobila
;strobila
;Strobilae
;strobilae
:The segmented part of the body of a tapeworm that consists of a long chain of proglottids.
;Strongyloides stercoralis
;S. stercoralis
:The roundworm that causes strongyloidiasis and is known as 'pinworm' in the UK and 'threadworm' in the US. Infection with S. stercoralis [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30898993 can be fatal].
;Suppuration
;suppuration
:Puss formed as a result of bacterial infection.
;Symbionts
;symbionts
;Symbiont
;symbiont
;Symbiosis
;symbiosis
;Symbiotic
;symbiotic
;Obligatory symbionts
;obligatory symbionts
;Obligatory symbiont
;obligatory symbiont
;Obligatory symbiosis
;obligatory symbiosis
;Ectosymbionts
;ectosymbionts
;Ectosymbiont
;ectosymbiont
;Ectosymbiosis
;ectosymbiosis
:Symbiosis is a close, long-term relationship between organisms of different species. Helminths are obligatory symbionts because they depend entirely on their host for survival, and they are also ectosymbionts because they live on their host’s body surface, albeit the inner surface of the digestive tract. The species used in helminthic therapy are also mutualists.
;Tapeworms
;tapeworms
;Tapeworm
;tapeworm
:A helminth with a flat, ribbon-like, segmented body. Only the murine (rat) tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta, is used in helminthic therapy and this generally does not reach adulthood in humans so requires regular dosing of HDC.
;Threadworm
;threadworm
:Refers to Strongyloides stercoralis in the US, and to Enterobius vermicularis in the UK.
;Trichuris trichiura
:The human whipworm used in helminthic therapy and taken periodically as microscopic eggs (TTO) in a drink.
;Trichuris suis
:The porcine (pig) whipworm used in helminthic therapy and taken as microscopic eggs (TSO) in a drink every two weeks.
;Ulcerative colitis
;ulcerative colitis
:Ulcerative colitis (Colitis ulcerosa, UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which specifically affects the large intestine, or colon, causing characteristic ulcers, or open sores. The main symptom of active disease is constant diarrhea mixed with blood, of gradual onset.
;vermifuge
:A substance used to to expel worms or other animal parasites from the intestines.
;vermicide
:A substance used to kill worms, especially parasitic intestinal worms.
;Whipworms
;whipworms
;Whipworm
;whipworm
:A helminth with a tapering whiplike body that lives in the colon. In helminthic therapy, the microscopic eggs of either the human Trichuris trichiura (TTO) or pig Trichuris suis (TSO) are taken in a drink.
;Worm-flu
;worm-flu
;Worm flu
;worm flu
:The term commonly used to describe the set of symptoms sometimes experienced initially after inoculation with helminths (especially the hookworm, NA). Some of these symptoms mirror those caused by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Influenza influenza] - fever, cough, respiratory symptoms, chills, muscle or joint ache, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.
;Worm therapy
;worm therapy
:The reintroduction to the digestive tract of a controlled number of specially domesticated, mutualistic helminths (intestinal worms) in the form of microscopic eggs or larvae to reconstitute a depleted biome to treat and prevent chronic inflammation, autoimmune disease and other immunological disorders including allergy.

== General Terms ==

;DIY:Do-It-Yourself. Literally to bypass the professional and do it yourself.

Hookworm timeline

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{{Breadcrumb|[[Using_helminths|Using helminths]]}}
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|description=What to expect in the days, weeks and months after self-inoculation with the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA).
|keywords=hookworm timeline, hookworm experience, hookworm side effects, NA timeline, NA side effects
|og:image=[[file:Eosinophil_count.gif]]}}This page is a general guide to what might be expected after inoculation with NA, and should be read in conjunction with the page, [[Hookworm side effects | '''Hookworm side effects''']], and the page section, [[Hookworm dosing and response#Therapeutic response | '''Therapeutic response''']].

Individual experience can vary considerably.
{{Quote|indent}}I had all side effects described in the timeline but they all came 1-2 days earlier than described. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/917407071648582/?comment_id=919509684771654&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}My body never followed that timeline. I get bounce first day, next 3-5 days chaos and after 1 week normalcy and relief. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1315817605140858/?comment_id=1316008798455072&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}} 
== Timeline overview ==
{{Columns|2}}

'''Day 1'''

Localised skin reaction may occur, and can continue, often intermittently, for a number of weeks. For more detail, see [[The hookworm inoculation rash | '''The hookworm inoculation rash''']].

'''Days 2-5'''

The larvae travel, via the lungs and oesophagus, to the intestines. [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Necator_americanus#The_developmental_stages.2C_migration_and_diet_of_Necator_americanus] [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Necator_americanus#Where_hookworms_live] Side effects can occur on or after day 2 and may include respiratory symptoms, fatigue, diarrhoea, cramping, gas, nausea and vomiting, collectively referred to as [[Worm flu | '''"worm flu"''']]. Symptoms of the disease being treated may also flare. The severity of side effects is dose-dependent, varies widely between individuals and is to some extent determined by the subject’s disease. Side effects are not a reliable indication of a successful outcome from the therapy. See [[Hookworm side effects | '''Hookworm side effects''']].

'''Days 6-14'''

The worms mature in the intestines, and this may cause a 'bounce' - a sudden improvement in symptoms, causing subjects to feel unusually well. Starting about three or four days after infection with hookworms, and lasting for up to two weeks, there may be a profound remission of symptoms (Crohn's, allergies, etc.) and also an experience of a strong sense of calm, focus, happiness and lightheartedness (see [[The helminthic therapy bounce | '''The helminthic therapy bounce''']]). However, not everyone experiences a 'bounce', and it doesn't last very long anyway, so don’t stop taking any medications at this point! (See [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Combining helminthic therapy with drug treatments | '''Combining helminthic therapy with drug treatments''']].)

'''Weeks 3-11'''

The worms complete their maturation by 21-22 days and start to attach to the inner wall of the intestine for the first time from day 21. There may be fatigue and gastrointestinal symptoms [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1542865659102717/] continuing - often intermittently - from 29-70 days. Due to an increased inflammatory reaction, allergies may get somewhat worse in the first 4-5 weeks, before improving. The worms begin producing eggs between weeks 6 and 8, and some hosts have reported that they experienced the start of long-lasting improvement at 7 or 8 weeks.

'''Months 3-6'''

The worms only really begin to 'work', and the reduction in symptoms begins to become consistent, at around 12 weeks. Allergies and asthma, in particular, generally (but not always) resolve between the 11th and 13th weeks. By week 20, the worms are usually in their stride. Where required, a supplementary dose may be added between weeks 12 and 20, but not before week 12.

'''Months 6-12'''

By now, the immune system has adjusted to the presence of the hookworms to the point where the good that they do may diminish somewhat, an effect that is usually offset by the addition of supplementary doses.

'''Months 12-24'''

A few may not see any benefit until after 12 months, or even as late as 2 years, and there is always a possibility of encountering minor setbacks until 2 years.

'''Year 2 and beyond'''

As long as a hookworm colony is maintained, benefits may continue to develop beyond two years, although to an increasingly lesser extent.
{{Columns}}

== The timeline in detail ==

For details of the developmental stages and migration of NA, see the following page section.

* [[Self-treating with NA#The developmental stages, migration and diet of Necator americanus | '''The developmental stages, migration and diet of Necator americanus''']]

===Day 1: Inoculation===

For information about the inoculation process, see the following page.

* [[Helminth inoculation#Inoculation with NA| '''Inoculation with NA''']]

Some people experience an itch and/or a pink rash that can be raised but is limited to the site of inoculation. For more detail about this and how to treat the itch, see the following page.

* [[The hookworm inoculation rash | '''The hookworm inoculation rash''']]

In a few cases, a lack of any skin response during the first 3 days may indicate that the larvae failed to survive the rigours of the journey, particularly if exposed to extreme cold which is always possible during even a short period at altitude during flight. In this event, the host should contact their provider.

When trying helminthic therapy for the first time, it is easy to obsess about the process, to wonder whether the treatment has 'taken', and to ascribe every tick and sniffle that develops in the first few days, post inoculation, to the helminths. This obsession is natural, but it is important to remember that one's body continues to operate largely as usual in the early stages of a helminthic infection. One still gets colds and food poisoning, etc., and any physical changes experienced by new helminth hosts are far more likely to be manifestations of normal bodily functions than the action of the helminths. The latter follow a natural progression determined by evolution over millions of years, which is largely hidden from immediate experience.

===Days 2-5: Migration===

During the first two days, the larvae migrate from the skin, via the bloodstream, to the lungs, and, once they are in the bloodstream, they commence feeding on protein within the blood. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1682302251825723/?comment_id=1682333608489254&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29566094].

The still-invisible larvae then burrow through the lining of the lungs to join all the particulate matter - dust, smoke particles, pollen, etc. - being swept up along the 'escalator' of hairs that lines the inside surface of the lungs. This ciliary conveyor belt eventually transports the larvae to the throat, where they transfer from the airway to the gullet before continuing on their journey down to the stomach and on to the small intestine, where they will spend the remainder of their lives. (See [[Self-treating with NA#Hookworm lifespan | '''Hookworm lifespan'''.]])

[[File:Screen_Shot_-_Hookworm_migration_via_the_throat.png]]

Coughing up phlegm and spitting this out should be resisted from days 2-5 (day 2 beginning 24 hours after inoculation) to avoid expelling larvae that might be passing through the throat at the time. The transfer from airway to oesophagus/esophagus occurs quite low in the throat (beneath the epiglottis) so, while coughing up phlegm from the throat might cause a loss of larvae, blowing one's nose or sneezing should not. However, using a neti pot for nasal irrigation may wash away larvae if this is done by drawing saline in through a nostril and expelling it from the mouth. A more worm-friendly method for use in the first few days after inoculation is to draw in saline through one nostril and immediately expel this via the other nostril without it entering the throat. To further reduce the risk of inadvertently irrigating the throat and consequently losing larvae, the head can be tipped forward to a horizontal position. If any of the rinse solution 'escapes' and starts to trickle down the throat, this should be swallowed rather than being spat out. If this water had gathered up any larvae, swallowing it will just help them on their journey to the stomach.

Common side effects at this stage are, in descending order of occurrence: a flare of the skin rash at the site of inoculation, fatigue, diarrhoea, cramping and gas, nausea and vomiting.

{{Quote|indent}}I must say the 1st week was hard. (Reported after taking a dose of 5 NA.) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/SclerodermaFM/permalink/3073307496077674/?comment_id=3073854619356295&reply_comment_id=3076031772471913]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had severe side effects the two first days with 3 NA and had to stay in bed because of high fever and nausea. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4644202185635700/?comment_id=4646180948771157]{{Quote|/indent}}

For more detail about the side effects, see [[Hookworm side effects | '''Hookworm side effects''']].

Children may display behavioral changes akin to those seen in a child with flu or allergies - lethargy, crankiness, etc. Symptoms of the disease being treated may flare, and there may be a recapitulation of long-forgotten injuries and illnesses. (See: [[Hookworm side effects#Recapitulation of old injuries, illnesses | '''Recapitulation of old injuries, illnesses''']].)

===Days 6-14: The 'bounce'===

Typically, not much happens during this period, unless it is a continuation of symptoms that started within the first few days, although a few may see symptoms begin at this point.

{{Quote|indent}}I had a very strong reaction that started 7 days in and lasted for 6 days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2712232735499331/?comment_id=2712346102154661]{{Quote|/indent}}

The most noteworthy development at this stage is the possible experience of a 'bounce', which is a fairly unusual phenomenon observed in some self-treaters but not described in the scientific literature.

The ‘bounce’ is a period in which all the subject's usual symptoms (Crohn's, asthma, allergies, etc.) disappear, sometimes completely. It typically occurs around the end of week one, perhaps as early as day five and even as late as week two. It can last about a week, but may appear for only 3-4 days, or, rarely, last for almost two weeks. Often this cessation of symptoms is accompanied by a wonderful feeling of calm, serenity, well-being and happiness.

It is easy to take a ‘bounce’ as evidence that the worms have 'worked' and that all will be well form this point on. Unfortunately, the ‘bounce’ never lasts, so one should not suddenly abandon whatever medications one is taking, or the diet one is following! This phenomenon is only temporary and not an indication that one has achieved remission in record time.

The appearance of a ‘bounce’ may be due to the fact that the body suddenly finds it has an appropriate target at which to aim its immune artillery. Alternatively, it may be due to something that the larvae are doing that elicits a strong response that quells inflammation. Either way, the 'bounce' is something to be enjoyed... while it lasts.

For more detail, see the following page.
* [[The helminthic therapy bounce | '''The helminthic therapy bounce''']].

===Weeks 3-11: Side effects===

If side effects are going to be experienced, this is the most likely period for them to appear.

{{Quote|indent}}Two weeks after inoculation i had just over a week of a really gurgly gut and diarrhoea. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2259829034073039/?comment_id=2261265423929400&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

After reaching the small intestine, the larvae moult, complete their maturation by 21-22 days and start to attach to the inner wall of the intestine for the first time from day 21. Initially, the hookworms distribute themselves along the length of the jejunum, unless this has been surgically removed or an individual has hundreds of worms.

There may be fatigue and gastrointestinal symptoms [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1542865659102717/] continuing - often intermittently - from 29-70 days. These side effects correlate with the period of elevated eosinophil counts (see the graph below) which can result in eosinophilic gastroenteritis. The side effects peak at about 50 days, before gradually diminishing and returning to baseline at approximately 100 days, although this period can be further prolonged for some, for example to 130 days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2382065598516048/]

[[file:Eosinophil_count.gif]]

Graphic taken from: [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6674179_Dose-ranging_study_for_trials_of_therapeutic_infection_with_necator_Americanus_in_humans Dose-ranging study for trials of therapeutic infection with Necator americanus in humans]

Side effects at this stage can include, in order of occurrence: fatigue, cramping, bloating, gas, epigastric pain (stomach ache all over the abdomen) or sometimes pain concentrated on the left side, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1026654354057186/] diarrhoea, nausea, and a recurrence of the skin rash, especially on day twenty-one when the worms begin to attach to the intestines. A few people have reported the appearance of constipation between the 3rd and 10th weeks, and some have noticed a [[Hookworm side effects#Sense of smell, enhancement of | '''heightened sense of smell''']] from around 5 or 6 weeks. While the latter change is usually welcome, it was linked with nausea in one case. Very rarely, someone may report feeling temporarily depressed.

For those individuals who get gastrointestinal side effects, these are most likely to occur around day 21, as a result of the body's attempt to expel the worms by deploying eosinophils - white blood cells that attack helminths - to cause eosinophilic enteritis. However, some only see the start of gastrointestinal symptoms from day 30 onwards.

{{Quote|indent}}Other than the initial rash and a flareup of the inoculation site again on day 12, I had no other signs until about day 31 or 32 when I began with gastroenteritis symptoms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/935270803195542/?comment_id=935491066506849&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

In most people, this inflammatory response translates to a few days of loose bowel movements or diarrhoea, perhaps accompanied by fatigue. However, a few people may get prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms continuing for many weeks, even beyond week 20, and they may occasionally only start between 10 and 12 weeks.

{{Quote|indent}}I am just at the end of my 10th week and there has been a massive increase in diarrhoea. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1890842694305010/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I often see my worst digestive upset starting as late as 12 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1890842694305010/?comment_id=1891141374275142&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

These side effects always resolve eventually, without treatment.

The severity of the side effects varies enormously from person to person and is dose-dependent. Only a small percentage experience stronger side effects, including pronounced diarrhoea and cramping due to gas, which can be spectacularly bad and has been described as 'toxic', 'industrial' or 'otherworldly'.

{{Quote|indent}}She had some pretty noxious-smelling emanations about the three week mark. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1365075206881764/?comment_id=1409357702453514&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R4%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Rarer still are fever, night sweats and joint pain. For those suffering the worst side effects, even if it is only a few percent of those who try the therapy, the effect is such that study or work would be very difficult. Therefore care should be taken in optimising dosing, right from the outset. For guidance on this, see the [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']] page.

All the side effects except the skin rash normally reduce sequentially with successive doses. One individual, who had many weeks of diarrhoea following the first hookworm dose, found his symptoms greatly reduced the second time around and, after the third dose, there was no liquid diarrhoea at all during the side effect period, just very soft stools with a 'cow pat' consistency. After the fourth dose, his stools were virtually as normal, but remained slightly softer than they had been prior to infection.

The skin rash at the inoculation site may also recur during the gastrointestinal side effect phase, perhaps because the worms shed cells and debris from their skin as they migrate through the host's skin, and, when the worms attach and put the same kind of material (their skin) into contact with the host's immune system in the intestines, the host's immune system releases antibodies to those types of cells or proteins wherever they occur, whether in the intestine or in the skin.

Apart from the skin rash, which tends to ease after a few days, all the other side effects typically come and go, and the experience can be very much like riding a roller-coaster.

{{Quote|indent}}I experienced about a week of near total remission of psoriasis, followed by the worst flare of my life. 46 days in and I'm nearly clear again. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1520163894706227/?comment_id=1520189584703658&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

There is also enormous variation between individuals, with some people getting no symptoms at all, and others - especially those using higher doses - experiencing relentless fatigue, disabling abdominal pain and geysers of diarrhoea.

It is also worth bearing in mind that hosting worms does not stop one succumbing to all the usual infections, stomach upsets, etc., to which man is heir, nor prevent adverse reactions to toxic substances or other treatments. So symptoms that emerge following inoculation with helminths may not necessarily be due to the worms, although they can often get the blame simply because they are a new factor.

{{Quote|indent}}I killed the worms, thinking it was all them, but it was not until I stopped the LDN that the nighttime retching and daytime nausea went away. Only a very small amount of people taking LDN get gut issues, so I was in denial that it could be that. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2980446142011321/?comment_id=2980523308670271&reply_comment_id=2980535385335730]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The sleep disturbances I thought were from NA were actually from vitamin D megadoses and klonopin, both of which I took to *prevent* side effects. (whoops!) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1715076141881667/?comment_id=2995809023808366]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I got rid of my NA... to see if they were contributing to a sudden and consistent drop in energy I've been experiencing. (Yes, this was misguided. Yes, I regret doing this... I was desperate to feel better and this was the nearest thing I had control over.) I find that I am more depressed without them... More NA on the way to restock. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1715076141881667/?comment_id=3042523755803559]{{Quote|/indent}}

For more detail about some of the possible side effects and how to treat them, see the following page.

* [[Hookworm side effects | '''Hookworm side effects''']]

===Months 3-6: Maturity===

The worms usually start to work - if they are going to work at all - between week 12 and 20, although this varies between individuals and depends on the disease being treated. By week 20, the worms are usually in their stride and, where required, a supplementary dose may be added between weeks 12 and 20, but not before week 12. See [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']].

===Months 6-12===

Between six and twelve months, the immune system adjusts to the presence of the hookworms to the point where the good they do may diminish somewhat. For some people, this means that they may fall out of full remission or require continued medication to maintain it, albeit at a lower level than pre-hookworms. The addition of supplementary doses will usually reverse this trend.

Beyond this period of possible drop-off, things get better again, until a final equilibrium is achieved. For some, this may be reached at 11 months, while, for a few, it may take longer.

===Months 12-24===

A few may not see any benefit until after 12 months, or even as late as 2 years, and those who have seen earlier benefits should continue to note gradual improvement beyond 12 months, while still possibly encountering minor setbacks until 2 years.

===Year 2 and beyond===

As long as a hookworm colony is maintained, benefits may continue to develop beyond two years, although to an increasingly lesser extent.

Eventually, efficacy will decline as the worms age. This may not be for 3, 4, 5, or even more years, (see [[Self-treating with NA#Hookworm lifespan | '''Hookworm lifespan''']]) but it is possible for efficacy to decline earlier than this, especially in a small sub-group of individuals with Crohn's disease or one of a few other specific conditions. For these few, efficacy can decline as early as three months, while, for others, it may happen when the egg output of their hookworms declines substantially at about the 12-month mark. Whenever there is a loss of benefit, subjects should immediately arrange to receive a supplementary dose, which will usually quickly restore efficacy.

A few people may continue to experience side effects following supplementary doses. See the following page section.

* [[Hookworm side effects#Side effects following supplementary doses | '''Side effects following supplementary doses''']]

==See also==

* [[Hookworm side effects | '''Hookworm side effects''']]
* [[Hookworm side effects#Treating the side effects | '''Treating hookworm side effects''']]
* [[The hookworm inoculation rash | '''The hookworm inoculation rash''']]
* [[Self-treating with NA | '''Self-treating with NA''']]
* [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']]

Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohns disease

2024-09-04T03:18:59Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb|[[Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories|Personal stories]]|[[Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories#Detailed stories|Detailed stories]]}}
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===My story so far===

For my story up until this point, see: [https://www.foodsmatter.com/allergy_intolerance/total_food_intolerance/articles/tfa.html Total Food Intolerance - A Medical Black Hole].

===A glimpse of possibilities===

Taking part in the short [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/appetite_worms.html Hookworms for Crohn's Disease trial] at Nottingham University in 2007 had provided me with a brief but tantalising glimpse of how my health might be improved by hosting a small colony of benign intestinal worms, and I was determined to acquire a long-term infection as soon as possible.

To this end, I had secured the agreement of my gastroenterologist, who referred me back to the trial team for reinfection. However, in spite of an earlier indication that they would be willing to provide me with a further dose of hookworms, the trial coordinator then told me that this would not be possible until the study was complete.

This was a considerable disappointment because the trial was taking an inordinately long time - probably due to difficulty finding sufficient volunteers willing to host a small worm colony - and it became clear that the trial would not be complete until the middle of 2009.

In the meantime, I had required further bowel surgery, to repair yet more Crohn's-related intestinal strictures, and I was still unable to eat any normal foods due to multiple allergies and overwhelming food intolerance, not to mention having a number of other long-term health problems, including M.E.

I was becoming impatient, not least because the only food that I was able to tolerate was a solitary hypoallergenic formula prescribed by my GP, and I realised that, were I to lose my tolerance to this also, I might well follow in the footsteps of those, such as [http://www.foodsmatter.com/allergy_intolerance/total_food_intolerance/articles/annabel_senior.html Annabel Senior], who have lost their lives as a result of medicine's failure to engage with total food intolerance.

Even if this particular aspect of my health proved not to be amenable to the help of a group of helminthic [http://evmedreview.com/?p=103 'old friends’], there was considerable evidence suggesting that I should at least benefit from a reduction in allergic symptoms, and an attenuation, or perhaps even cessation, of the development of intestinal strictures.

===As one door closes…===

It was extremely frustrating to know that a possible solution to at least some of my health problems was wriggling in a laboratory at Nottingham University, just a few miles down the road from where I live, and that I was being denied access to them. What I needed was a source that would deliver worms direct to my home, and I knew of only one such supplier, a company called Ovamed (since replaced by [http://www.tanawisa.com Tanawisa]) who sold pig whipworm eggs, but at a price that was beyond my reach.

More out of desperation than hope, I turned once more to the internet, where, miraculously, I found that there are [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers companies that sell the hookworm, Necator americanus (NA)] - the worm that was used in the Nottingham trials - and at a much more realistic price than the porcine product.

I soon discovered that there was already a small community of helminthic therapy self-treaters with far more knowledge about the therapeutic use of helminths than I had been able to glean from talking to the researchers who are working with the worms in the clinical trial.

The Nottingham scientists had only looked at the safety aspects of using ten worms in patients with only a couple of diseases, and the trials had been too short to assess efficacy in either case. In contrast, the members of the online helminthic therapy community were using worms to treat a wide range of autoimmune conditions, and a growing body of knowledge was building as a result.

Unfortunately, understanding about how best to dose with hookworms was still in its infancy at that time, and the company I purchased from recommended I start with 35 NA. This was far more than are needed, and I would subsequently have to deal with prolonged gastrointestinal side effects as a result of this excessive dose.

===The experiment begins===

My new team of little wrigglers arrived at my home in two tiny vials, each containing only a couple of millilitres of clear, colourless liquid. These few precious drops held the microscopic hookworm larvae which, after being carefully dispensed onto a dressing and placed on my arm, began the synchronised burrowing that would commence the journey which I hoped would ultimately bring me so much relief.

On the second day after my new gut buddies moved in, their ministrations brought significant relief from the nasal congestion that I had had, on and off, for most of my life. The only relief that I had been able to obtain previously had come from taking drugs, but all of these had presented unpleasant side effects, such as the migraine headaches that invariably followed the use of steroid nasal sprays.

An itchy rash, which had developed rapidly at the site on my arm where my invisible friends had entered their new home, began to reduce somewhat in intensity on the third day. Tiny bright red dots then became visible within the main central area and the itch continued with a vengeance, though, fortunately, this responded well to generous applications of Benadryl cream.

The bright red dots intensified on the 4th day and became quite raised, remaining till the seventh day, after which the redness, bumpiness and itching all began to subside. By the second week, the rash was flat, fading and no longer itchy.

Towards the end of the second week, my nose became clearer than ever, and the third week brought a distinct sense of perkiness - a quality that had been sadly missing from my life for many years, buried deep beneath the thick blanket of M.E.

Both the clearer nose and the perkiness continued for another three days, until I was eventually plunged back into the much more familiar continuous exhaustion, beginning a see-saw fluctuation in symptoms that would continue for the next few months.

===Ups and downs===

At the start of week four, I had a day without any headache - a departure that was extremely rare for me - and my nose was so clear that I began to find myself breathing through both nostrils at once. Again, this was something quite new - something I hadn't done much since I was a child.

Such was the depth of exhaustion to which I had grown accustomed, it would normally take an inordinate act of will in order for me to initiate any movement at the start of each new day. However, on the fourth day of the fourth week, I woke to find myself raring to go! For the first time in many, many moons, I couldn't wait to get up and greet the day.

As it happened, I was to have visitors that day - something that would usually wipe me out for several days at least, yet, on this occasion, I not only survived the visit unscathed, but actually had moments during the day that brought back distant memories of what it felt like to be well.

I began the next day by celebrating a distinctly less severe level of exhaustion than I would have expected to experience after a visit, but, then, I noticed a change in my bowel habit. My normal, single daily defecation was replaced by several smaller ones, and the warning sensations before these were more like those I associate with impending diarrhoea.

This gastrointestinal sea change continued with a sudden increase in gas production, and was accompanied by periods of queasiness and even a couple of unexpected spells of sweating.

In spite of having Crohn's disease and, over time, developing strictures that have required surgery, I had been spared the worst gastrointestinal symptoms, so these new digestive developments were obviously due to the presence of my little friends.

The diarrhoea began at the end of week four, accompanied by nausea, more gas and sweats - no doubt all due to my body's attempt to rid itself of what it perceived to be 'invaders'. But, undaunted by the onslaught against them, my already highly treasured companions continued their ministrations and, at the start of week five, delivered another headache-free day.

===Chilling out===

One of several weird symptoms that have manifested as part of my experience of M.E. is poor temperature control, and this had been a problem for me for many years. During this time, I had to carefully control the temperature of my environment in order to remain comfortable, and, in spite of installing numerous thermostatic heating controls, it had still been necessary to resort to frequent adjustments to clothing during the day, and to bed clothes at night, in order to maintain comfort.

Half way through week five, I began to realise that I was able to tolerate a slightly lower ambient temperature, and found that I could keep the temperature in both my lounge and bedroom half a degree Celsius lower than I would have needed previously - an insignificant change for a healthy person, but a major improvement for me. And whereas, previously, it would have taken me over an hour to cool down sufficiently after a shower to be able to put my usual clothes back on, I was now able to get fully dressed less than half an hour after showering.

Having been unable to eat normal food for many years, it was fortunate that, during most of this time, I was not really interested in normal food. I could inhale the aroma of other people's cooking, but not feel any desire to eat what was being cooked. Now, at almost the sixth week since inoculation, I found myself suddenly taking an interest in any cooking smells that assailed my nostrils, and I began to have yearnings to eat whatever foods were being prepared - my first experience of real hunger in years.

Then, just as I was beginning to adjust my thinking towards the possibility of maybe trying some normal food again, I began to get stronger abdominal cramps and more diarrhoea as week six began.

From then on, diarrhoea, gut ache, nausea and intestinal rumblings began to be the norm on about three days out of every seven, interrupted only by occasional constipation, and accompanied by increased fatigue. The latter, however, was not so much my usual ‘weary-but-wired’ fatigue as an almost pleasant, very relaxed, languorous state, and I was actually feeling quite perky again in spite of this. And my headaches were also now significantly less severe than hitherto, so there was plenty to feel grateful for while sitting on the loo!

===Profound change===

Early in week six, I began to feel pleasurably better than I had for a very long time, with a new buoyancy and optimism. I also realised that the eczema in my ears, which used to itch more or less constantly, unless regularly creamed, was now somewhat less itchy than it had been for many years, having been improving gradually for the previous couple of weeks.

During week seven, it dawned on me that I was no longer being woken during the night by the intractable catarrhal throat irritation that had dogged my nights for countless years. What an absolute joy it was, finally to be free of that particular symptom!

Week eight brought another headache-free day and, in week nine, I had a truly remarkable encounter with my osteopath.

He and I had often discussed M.E. while he worked on my back and, having told me that M.E. is a condition that he sees in a significant number of patients, he had explained that he doesn't need a patient to tell him that they have this illness because its presence is clearly revealed by the quality of their tissues.

On this particular occasion, which was prior to me telling him about my hookworm experiment, he said that not only was there a marked improvement in the longstanding problem with over-tight ligaments in my lower back, but the quality of my tissues was now also quite different, and no longer what he would expect to find in someone with M.E!

Then, I was promptly brought back down to earth by several days of feeling quite lousy, as if I had an infection. Yet I recognised this as potentially another positive development, because an absence of infections had long been a feature of my condition. Others around me would drop like ninepins when bugs were going around, but never me! My immune system was apparently in permanent overdrive.

If the sudden light-headedness, weakness, runny nose and sore throat that I now had were indeed the symptoms of an infection, then perhaps this was evidence that my immune system was at last being brought back into line by my accomplished companions.

For the following few weeks, the gut symptoms held sway and I continued to experience frequent nausea, general abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea and increased fatigue. All of this could have been reduced, or even avoided entirely, had I introduced my 35 little wrigglers in stages, rather than all at once.

Even though I was now on a roller coaster that would one day lift me to the heights and then, the next, plunge me back towards the depths, there was already SO much to be grateful for, and I had absolutely no regrets. I knew that the gastrointestinal upheaval would eventually be over and my carefully chosen companions would re-establish their ancient role and keep their covenant with my species. So I dug in and looked forward to that day.

===Not just a dream===

I don't normally remember dreams but, eleven weeks and five days after my new 'old friends' moved in, I woke suddenly in the night with an extremely vivid recollection of a dream.

I was in an oriental take-away (not my usual haunt, of course!) trying to decide what, if anything, I could safely eat, when I became aware of someone telling me that I could have rice, meat and vegetables.

Could this, I wondered, be a message from my little hookies that they had subdued my immune system sufficiently for me to resume eating these normal foods?

Bizarre though the idea might be, this dream did appear at just the time when allergies typically begin to respond to helminthic therapy, so, over the next few days, I began, very gingerly at first, to try a little chicken and, as that was OK, some rice, and then potato. That I coped with all of this without any adverse reaction was utterly amazing after so many years of overwhelming food allergy and food intolerance.

As I experimented, I found a few foods that brought on some of the old symptoms, although not so much the abdominal pain, which had been the worst feature of my reactions to food, and I eventually established a list of foods that I could tolerate, including a good selection of proteins (white fish, goat's milk products and eggs); starches (rice, potatoes, buckwheat and polenta); root vegetables (carrot, parsnip and sweet potato) and several fruits (apple, pear, peach and raspberries). And chocolate, which I just HAD to try and, to my delight, found I could also now tolerate!

From week 13 onwards, I began to feel generally rather good and, by 18 weeks, my boon companions were treating me to meals consisting of gradually increasing portions of a variety of normal foods, along with a correspondingly reduced quantity of my formula feed. At week 20, I counted 45 foods that I could tolerate and, by week 24, I was meeting half my nutritional needs with normal food.

At week 26, I had my first meal in 16 years without any of the special feed, and, the following week, had three entirely normal meals in a row, although this revealed that, while I was able to tolerate the food, my gut was not coping as well as it might with the additional bulk, having only had to deal with a highly refined, low-residue diet for so many years.

===So much to celebrate!===

The diarrhoea, which had continued as an intermittent backdrop to all the other developments, finally petered out at week 24, at which point I calculated that I had had a total of 47 days of diarrhoea during 19 weeks. As this was the only major 'side effect' I had experienced, it seemed a very small price to pay when viewed alongside all the benefits that were now evident.

As well as the really quite astonishing fact that, after such a short space of time, I was now able to eat a sufficiently large range of foods to be able to enjoy what was beginning to look like a normal diet, there had also been several other improvements, as a result of the considerable control that my resident technicians were exerting over my longtime errant immune system.

As I took stock of the events of these momentous months and reviewed the detailed diary I had kept, it became clear that, during the time between starting to eat normal foods again and finally waving goodbye to the diarrhoea, several additional aspects of my health had gradually been improving, in many cases imperceptibly.

I had recently felt able to trim the small hedge at the front of my house - something I had had to get others to do for me for such a long time - and, although exhausted afterwards, I didn't need several days in bed to recover, as I would have done in the past. Admittedly, I was weak and wobbly the next day, but I felt remarkably well at the same time, and exhilarated that I had achieved so much.

Whereas exhaustion had previously encompassed and pervaded every aspect of my life and been inescapable, it was, by now, far less extensive and much more clearly defined. It would still come and go, but now started from a higher base line, so I actually got to have moments without it, and it was easier to manage with judicious resting.

I found that I no longer needed to go back to bed for a couple of hours in the middle of the day in order to prevent myself from sinking into extreme exhaustion, and a brief rest in a chair was now all that was required to recharge my battery. Perhaps this was related to the positive changes in my tissues detected by the osteopath, and which he has since confirmed are continuing, towards normality.

After years without a single headache-free day, I was now enjoying periods of up to nine days in a row without this affliction, in addition to the greatly improved temperature control, and the generally much clearer nose.

Even the Restless Legs Syndrome that would often interrupt my rest, meditation and sleep, had ceased to be a problem. Also, the excruciating itches that would frequently develop on my hands, feet and back without any obvious sign on my skin, and which, in spite of treatment, would persist for two or three days, had almost disappeared.

===Looking forward===

There were still fluctuations in my health, foods that I couldn't yet eat, and the M.E. was still evident, although improved, but it was also still quite early in the long process of readjustment between my new companions and my immune system.

Based on the available information, I didn't expect a final equilibrium to be reached until my helminthic helpers and I had been together for approaching a year, and the experience of the few others who had trodden this path before me suggested that the beneficial changes could even continue to accrue beyond that point. Obviously, the magnitude of any additional benefits would gradually reduce as time passed, but it was clearly not unrealistic to hope for yet further improvement.

My situation at this point had become very similar to what it had been 20 years previously, when I had been forced to take very early retirement due to the M.E. and had already lost a number of foods from my diet as a result of the encroaching food allergy and food intolerance. Now, however, thanks to just 35 tiny worms, I was moving in the opposite direction - a truly incredible result!

One of the developments that I consider most significant was my regained tolerance for herbs and food supplements. After having been unable to tolerate any supplements for a number of years, I was already reintroducing several, and looking forward to once again being able to use food-derived 'medicines' to treat any illnesses that I might develop in the future. I hoped that I would also be able to more effectively treat whatever degree of M.E. I might be left with when my wonderful companions had done as much as they could to restore my health.

Looking back eight months, to when I decided to take the plunge and acquire some health-promoting helpmates, I remember feeling a surprisingly strong sense of urgency that drove me to make the final decision quite quickly, in spite of the cost involved.

I am '''''so''''' pleased that I responded positively to this urgent prompting, because the particular hypoallergenic feed that was the only form of food I could tolerate for several years, had recently been discontinued, and I was coming to the end of my remaining stock of this lifeline.

Had I not decided to employ a team of time-served technicians to tinker continuously with my immune system, there would eventually have been no food left that I could eat, and my survival would clearly have been in doubt. As things had turned out, however, I could now look forward to the future with considerable confidence and optimism.

===Seventeen month review===

Seventeen months after I acquired a small team of tiny hookworms to keep my errant immune system in check, I am still 'over the moon' with the results - very much enjoying having more energy and being able to eat many normal foods again.

Although my food sensitivity had become global by the time I got the worms, the range of foods that I can eat has continued to increase since getting them. I was able to begin eating normal food again at 11 weeks post inoculation with the first 35 hookworms. At 20 weeks, I could tolerate 45 foods, and, at 30 weeks, about 63 foods. I then added a further 10 hookworms at 53 weeks, and yet another 10 at 67 weeks. At 70 weeks, there are only a few foods left that I can’t tolerate.

I am eating a full range of foods again and really loving it. As I type this update, I am munching my way through a turkey salad containing cucumber, parsley, lettuce, fresh garden peas, spring onions and home-grown mung bean sprouts, all doused in olive oil. I'm also drinking a pint of fresh raw veg juice (carrot, parsnip, beetroot, broccoli and kale) - not bad for a guy who hasn't been able to eat any fruit or veg for about 20 years!

In addition to the miraculous reversal of the food intolerance, my 'true', IgE-mediated allergies have all disappeared as well, so that I can now spend all day outdoors, when the pollen count is at its height, without even the slightest hint of a sniffle. The rhinitis has completely gone and the sinusitis is gradually diminishing, along with the eczema. The antihistamine/nasal spray routine has become a thing of the past!

My headaches are hugely reduced, both in frequency and severity, and my dodgy temperature control has completely normalised. I am now actually enjoying the hot weather for the first time in many years. I had had to have air conditioning installed years previously because I wasn't able to cope with the heat in summer, but I’ve rarely had it on in months at this point.

Although the results have been truly spectacular, the remedy was of course not really a 'remedy' at all, in the normal sense of the word, but simply a return to sharing life with a few symbiotic microorganisms that mankind has travelled with for many millions of years, until Western man summarily dismissed them when he adopted modern hygienic practices.

The 'illness' that I’d had for the previous thirty years (with so many manifestations that doctors couldn't get their heads around them, and preferred to dismiss as psychosomatic) was probably not really 'allergies', food intolerance', 'MCS', 'migraine', 'M.E.' or 'Crohn's disease', etc., at all, but simply Helminth Deficiency Syndrome - an as yet undiscovered reality on a par with vitamin deficiency.

On the strength of my experience thus far, others with similar problems have begun to take the plunge and get 'hooked' themselves. A very good friend who has the same extreme degree of food intolerance, as well as MS, has also inoculated with hookworms and, after a rather rough ride with the temporary gastric symptoms that occur in the first few weeks after inoculation with this species, she was already feeling better than she had for many years and had already been able to resume eating normal foods again. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Travels_with_10_hookworms._Treating_total_food_intolerance,_food_allergy_and_MS]

What amazed me, when she and I compared notes, was how uncannily similar her progress had been to my own, with milestones being passed in the same sequence, and at very close to the same timing.

I began to experience a sense of well-being for the first time at about 30 days post inoculation with hookworms, my friend at 43 days. I began suddenly and unexpectedly to take an interest in cooking smells for the first time in many years at day 39, and she observed herself responding unusually positively to seeing food on the TV at 47 days. I experienced real hunger for the first time at 43 days, and she reported feeling the first pangs of hunger at 60 days - and described herself as 'ravenous'! It’s the same pattern, just delayed by a couple of weeks in her case, and she later also said that her temperature control has been a lot better since week 6, and that she no longer needs as much sleep, which, again, mirrors my own experience.

===Loss of worms at 3 years===

In December, 2011, almost three years after I first adopted hookworms, I saw some sauerkraut for sale. Never having had this before and looking to benefit from the bacterial "old friends" that this fermented form of cabbage offers, I bought a jar of the stuff.

I cautiously ate a very small amount on each of the next two days, and found I very much enjoyed the taste. As I didn't notice any untoward effect, I then ate a rather large amount late in the evening on the third day, following which my stomach began to feel decidedly uncomfortable.

The gut discomfort continued throughout the night and the following day, until the evening, when I began passing copious quantities of bloody diarrhoea - and I'm not swearing! Even though I have Crohn's disease, I've never seen so much blood as there was in the toilet that night! Black, tarry stools had been the hallmark of my Crohn's when it was at its worst, in the days before I discovered helminths, but fresh, bright red blood was something I don't remember ever passing before, at any time in my life.

The episode was so violent that I couldn't leave the bathroom and was so distracted that I didn't even think about taking loperamide, or rehydrating myself, with the result that I lost consciousness several times.

As I gradually recovered over the next couple of days, I wondered if I'd lost any of my worms, but I didn't have any return of symptoms, initially, so assumed that there must be sufficient worms left to maintain my remission.

However, I gradually began to notice increased brain fog, my lips became drier than usual and my skin slightly more itchy. Then, at around three weeks after the sauerkraut incident, I began to experience a return of nasal congestion, forcing me to reinstate daily nasal irrigations in order to have a clear nose during the night.

Daily headaches also returned around this time, my appetite was non-existent, and food tolerance was about 50% worse than it had been before I ate the sauerkraut. I could still tolerate all fruits and vegetables, meats and all food supplements, but tolerance to dairy was poor, with milk products worsening my nasal congestion and my favourite Stilton blue cheese causing migraines.

My concentration got worse and I was needing more sleep again, up to 10 hours where I would normally be fine with only 8. Then, I noticed definite hints of Restless Leg Syndrome when I took a nap, and my gut began to become sore after eating.

Maybe the very slow return of symptoms was due to my having had worms for nearly three years, but, when I realised that I was now in a worse state than when I had originally had just 10 worms on the Nottingham Crohn's trial, I knew that I needed to take action, so quickly requisitioned a fresh dose.

Luckily, my stamina didn't suffer too badly after the loss of my worms, and I was able to continue to use my exercise bike every day, something I would never have been able to do before I first got worms.

Almost two weeks after a new team of hookworms went in, I was again enjoying a degree of relief, though I still had some way to go before I was back to my usual wormy bliss. I was still getting a little nasal congestion, some brain fog and a lot of headaches, but I was once again free from the Restless Leg Syndrome.

I wondered whether my new worms would cause any diarrhoea, as this was a marked feature of my first encounter with a therapeutic dose of hookworms. Back then, the gastric upheaval and diarrhoea had begun on the 5th day of the 4th week and, demonstrating remarkable punctuality, my new worms triggered diarrhoea at the very same time - week 4, day 5! I then had some semi-diarrhoea and other mild gastrointestinal symptoms in the following couple of weeks.

The last symptom to go was nasal congestion, which continued to be a problem until 12 weeks, when it became significantly easier (and I added another dose of hookworms), though it didn't go completely until almost week 20, at which point I was pretty much back to how I had been before the sauerkraut incident.

===Thirteen year review===

At thirteen years since all this began, I continue to maintain my hookworm colony and I’m still enjoying the benefits reported above. However, now that I’ve reached my eighth decade of life, age is beginning to take its toll. I’m no longer as sprightly as I once was, and the acuity of some of my senses is diminishing somewhat. Nevertheless, I can still eat everything I want to, and my Crohn’s disease, allergies, sinusitis, chemical sensitivity and [[Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms | '''Restless Legs Syndrome''']] are all still in remission.

 By [[John Scott and helminthic therapy | '''John Scott''']]. (Some of the above was originally published in November 2009 on the Foods Matter website. [https://www.foodsmatter.com/allergy_intolerance/food_intolerance/articles/worms_for_food_intolerance.html])

=== See also ===

Here are a few of John’s more detailed articles about specific aspects of his helminthic therapy experience.

* [[Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho | '''Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho''']]

* [[Nasal allergies nuked by worms | '''Nasal allergies nuked by worms''']]

* [[Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms | '''Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms''']]

Hookworm dosing and response

2024-09-04T03:18:59Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

{{Breadcrumb|[[Using_helminths|Using helminths]]}}
{{SEO 
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|description=A guide to the therapeutic use of the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA). How to minimise initial side effects and maximise long-term benefits.
|keywords=
|og:image=}}
This page discusses the therapeutic use of the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necator_americanus].
The other species of human hookworm, [[Ancylostoma duodenale | '''Ancylostoma duodenale''']] is not suitable for general therapeutic use because it takes an estimated nine times more blood than Necator, can infect a foetus by crossing the placenta, and is able to migrate via breast milk.

== Therapeutic response ==

=== The success of hookworm therapy cannot be predicted ===

At the present time, it is not possible to predict who will benefit from hookworm therapy, nor to what extent a condition might respond, but factors that favour a better outcome include:

* being young
* having been ill for a shorter period of time
* having a less severe form of a disease

The severity of skin response to the initial inoculation is not a reliable guide to the likely extent of success with the therapy.
{{Quote|indent}}My first dose I had quite a severe reaction at the site, blisters & marks that lasted for ever (but, in three years) I have had no benefits to my allergies at all. [https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/helminthictherapy/conversations/topics/9666] {{Quote|/indent}}

=== Early benefits are possible but not common, and they may fluctuate ===

A few people may begin to see benefits at an early stage, but these don't become consistent until at least 12 weeks.

{{Quote|indent}}… within less than a day, I felt almost giddy and stronger and was breathing so much better. I started eating foods that I had so sorely missed and had very minimal reactions. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Treating_SIBO_and_metal_allergy_with_helminthic_therapy]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I had significant relief from chronic nasal congestion on the day after I first inoculated with NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2132622226793721/?comment_id=2133017796754164&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I felt incredible the first days, like I didn't in years. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2132622226793721/?comment_id=2133006080088669&reply_comment_id=2133531650036112&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}At 19 days it was like a miracle for me. I felt better than I had in years. But it took a lot longer (and additional inoculations) before I got to 95% better.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1018040368251918/?comment_id=1018165394906082&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Six weeks for me. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1797195290336418/?comment_id=1798066173582663&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I saw results for asthma relief at 8 weeks after my first dose of NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1784511358271478/?comment_id=1785730818149532&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I started getting improvement at around 8 - 10 weeks.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/898919560164000/?comment_id=899034503485839&offset=0&total_comments=8&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Disease symptoms may worsen before improving ===

Disease symptoms frequently worsen during the first few months before beginning to improve. One individual, who had had daily headaches and frequent migraines for many years, saw his symptoms worsen slightly in the first 4
months after his first dose. [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/headache_migraine.html]

=== Consistent improvement can begin anytime from 3 to 24 months ===

For the majority of those who do eventually respond, significant benefits do not usually materialise until at least 3 months after the first inoculation, with most people only seeing improvement in their condition between 3 and 6 months.

{{Quote|indent}}I had no benefit at all until about 14 or 15 weeks, and it took until 23 weeks for anything significant to improve. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1130105977045356/?comment_id=1130218810367406&reply_comment_id=1130309123691708&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I had chronic idiopathic urticaria and it took 5 and a half months from first NA dose until I was able to come off all meds. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/878299078892715/?comment_id=878319992223957&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

'''Some only start to improve between 6 and 12 months.'''

{{Quote|indent}}It took nine months before I saw improvement of my eczema. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2069397123116232/?comment_id=2069688246420453&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have food intolerances IBS and Graves' disease. Inoculated 9 months ago and am now starting to see an improvement with IBS and food intolerance. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Did not see positive results until 9th or 10th month. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2192416407480969/?comment_id=2193017184087558&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My daughter was under a year when we started and it took 10 months to see consistent results. In between that there were improvements on and off. Though it felt like forever at the time, the 10 months really isn’t much time for the amazing quality of her life now. 2½ years later, she improves more and more. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2305032642886011/?comment_id=2305581779497764&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

'''Others have to wait for more than a year.'''

{{Quote|indent}}It definitely takes a while! I'm in month 14 and I had my fair share of doubt and periods that felt quite bad. But things have been incredibly stable and calm for long periods of time and I can now safely say that I'm seeing amazing benefits. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2726061500783121?comment_id=3922843074438285]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}At 16½ months, I think my hookworms and whipworms are really starting to work! Since (two weeks ago), I have had only 3 loose stools… I have more periods of relief than periods of exacerbation from my nasal inflammation and asthma. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1211935162195770/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It took a good 12-18 months to be able to say, yep, **definitely** much better and staying better. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1273694002686552/?comment_id=1273850562670896&reply_comment_id=1274363265952959&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}18 month update. After hitting the one year mark with no improvement I was starting to get discouraged… Finally, a couple weeks ago, everything changed. I was able to eat regular foods again. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1035915279797760/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I was about 20 months into treatment before seeing really significant gains. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1215678598488093/?comment_id=1215696118486341&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R4%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

'''In a few cases, the wait has stretched to around 2 years.'''

{{Quote|indent}}I was a year and a half into HT and flaring. My GI wouldn't do my colonoscopy because I was so inflamed he thought I would perf. He thought I should be admitted for IV steroids and started on Remicade. But (at almost 2 years) I have been in complete remission for the past two months and have never felt as good. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/855123671210256/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I was close to giving up on my little worms, since I saw no discernible improvement for a year and a half (but) I’m glad I stuck with it. One of my most burdensome allergies was oral allergy syndrome and (at nearly 2 years) I can now eat raw food with NO reaction! Blueberries, strawberries, spinach, broccoli... Delicious! I'm the healthiest I've ever been. (A private message, Sept 2013.){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It took my (NA) colony a couple of years before feeling my new normal! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5592069827515593/?comment_id=5593646684024574&reply_comment_id=5598549840200925]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I got improvement in about 3 months but my eczema wasn't gone until I'd had NA for a couple years or so. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3576993069023289/?comment_id=3577189242337005&reply_comment_id=3577828172273112]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I was diagnosed with a scorching case of ankylosing spondylitis. The therapy (NA) cleared up my allergies and asthma quickly but I felt like it would never remedy my extreme soreness that I felt daily. I almost gave up at one point but then, about two years in, I just couldn’t believe it but I started feeling better and better, and ever since then the soreness hasn’t returned. Now I just take low doses of NA for maintenance. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7144790215576872?comment_id=7147425841979976]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Diseases may continue to flare occasionally up to 18 months ===

Even when benefits appear early in the process, diseases can continue to flare periodically for no apparent reason until around 18 months.

=== The emergence of benefits can be a gradual process ===

The appearance of benefits can be a very gradual process in some people, and follows a natural progression in which '''the amount of time that worms have been hosted can be more important than the number of worms inoculated'''.

{{Quote|indent}}It happened slowly (from 3-6 months post inoculation) and just kind of snuck up on her. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1562209463835003/?comment_id=1562214417167841&reply_comment_id=1562215200501096&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have Hashimoto’s… My thyroid antibodies started slowly decreasing two years ago, when I started HT, first with TSO and then about a year ago with NA. Every time I measured, they were lower. Today for the first time, they are normal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1569946083061341/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It was like day by day I felt better and stopped even thinking about it. Later I looked back and couldn't remember feeling sick. It was just being normal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1421002861288998/?comment_id=1421480264574591&reply_comment_id=2013439808711964&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R3%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

In another example, someone who had been unable to eat any normal foods for more than a decade began to tolerate a few foods for the first time at 12 weeks, but tolerance to other foods was only regained very gradually, over a period of 18 months. [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Wriggling_out_of_total_food_intolerance,_M.E._and_Crohns_disease]

Provided that the colony is regularly refreshed, improvements often continue to appear into the third year, and even beyond that, albeit at a gradually slowing rate. The first comment below was written by someone with MS and food sensitivities after hosting hookworms for over 2½ years.

{{Quote|indent}}Of all my food sensitivities, the loss of butter in my life was the most difficult. The last time I tried it was about 6 months ago, and within an hour had a crushing headache, brain fog and fatigue. But last night while I was baking for my dad I just couldn't resist and tried a little butter. And... I was fine! So I tried some more - still ok! And a bit more at breakfast - still no reaction! Yay!!! It looks like butter is back on the menu! In the past few months I was also able to start eating eggs again, and I finally am noticing diminished nerve pain in my fingers - there's still some, but it's noticeably better. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1522943511094932/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1522943511094932/?comment_id=1522960744426542&reply_comment_id=1522964277759522&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It took 2.5 years before I could eat eggs (which I’d been sensitive to before hookworms). (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I've recently seen improvements in my reaction to gluten almost 3 years since my first dose of NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1550071498382133/?comment_id=1550216811700935&reply_comment_id=1550949181627698&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1541212462601370/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I am in 3rd year of therapy now … the improvements are still adding on in terms of overall benefits. (A patient with Crohn's disease.){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I’m over 3 years in & I still am able to observe small changes over time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5375412745847970/?comment_id=5375578435831401]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have been using NA for 6 years and have noticed greater benefits in the last 2 years. I haven't even had a cold in 2 years and my grass allergy has been cured 100%. I have had no allergy symptoms this year, previously the results were around 80%. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7858221117567108/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have been on NA for 6 years now and feel I get better all the time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7858221117567108?comment_id=7858913214164565]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Different conditions in the same host may respond at different times ===

Where someone has more than one condition, these may take different lengths of time to respond. One subject experienced an unusually early response when his nasal congestion began to ease on the day after his first inoculation, but his Restless Leg Syndrome only began to reduce during week 5, and took 19 weeks to resolve completely. And, while a few of his food intolerances began to ease at 12 weeks, it was 18 months before he was able to eat all foods again.

A child with “terrible contact dermatitis and severe eczema from multiple food allergies” had mostly clear skin by 9 months after her first inoculation with hookworms, but her food allergies only began to disappear at 19 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2253235874732355/]

=== People with several conditions may not see improvement in all of them ===

{{Quote|indent}}I do HT for severe food intolerance and I achieved almost full remission, although it didn't do anything for my runny nose and only a little for the CFS. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/795036227219001/?comment_id=799437026778921&offset=0&total_comments=41] {{Quote|/indent}}

=== Response may vary from one inoculation to another ===

{{Quote|indent}}I have found my response to each inoculation to be different. Some caused few symptoms, some caused a complete melt down. And some resulted in little or no improvement, some brought immediate improvement, some brought very slow incremental change. I’m on my 9th dose and it’s been rough, while the 8th was easy. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1915345108521435/?comment_id=1915353551853924&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

The self-treater who reported this, added that, in her case, new symptoms which appear after an inoculation can last anywhere from a couple of days to 6 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1915345108521435/?comment_id=1915353551853924&reply_comment_id=1915361221853157&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

=== For benefits to last, a hookworm colony needs regular maintenance ===

Although it appears that a few individuals may be able to enjoy a continuation of some benefits after hookworms are lost, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1083130855076202/] benefits will only continue in the vast majority of cases for as long as the colony is actively maintained by adding periodic top-up doses.

{{Quote|indent}}Needing to stay topped up with the worms is a lesson I have had to learn the hard way… I had taken 3 doses over a period of 9 months. Then no new worms for 5-6 months… Nearly all of my old symptoms have returned fairly quickly. At first, I thought I had killed them off. But they are aging. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1475611862494764/?comment_id=1475874509135166&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== See also ===

For more detail about what to expect at each stage of hookworm therapy, see the following page.

* [[Hookworm_timeline|'''Hookworm Timeline''']]

== Introduction to hookworm dosing ==

Hookworm dosing cannot be reduced to a formula because everyone is different in how they respond to helminths.

It is not necessary to use the large doses that were advocated by the early pioneers of this therapy, typically starting with a dose of 25 or 35 hookworm larvae, followed in some cases by even larger supplementary doses.

'''A dose of 5 larvae has proved to be an effective introduction, and this number minimises the side effects that are a common feature of the early experience of hookworm therapy.'''

For more detail about the possible side effects, see the following page.

* [[Hookworm side effects|'''Hookworm side effects''']].

If starting with 5 larvae, most hookworm hosts should be free from side effects by 12 weeks, so would be able to add a further dose at this point. However, more worms should not be added until all the side effects caused by the first dose have completely subsided, along with any exacerbation of symptoms of the disease being treated. Otherwise, there could be an aggregation, or "stacking", of side effects from both doses. Apart from the host having to endure these side effects, along with any disease exacerbations caused by the introduction of hookworms, the increased inflammation caused by adding too many worms too quickly may be sufficient to prevent at least some of the new worms from attaching to the gut lining.

For someone who is very sick, it can be tempting to try to speed up the therapy process in the early stages by adding more worms as quickly as possible, but this can be counterproductive, possibly causing such severe side effects that it would be necessary to terminate the colony and start over.

'''Disease remission is brought about not so much by the number of worms being hosted as by the length of time that worms have been present. There is nothing to be gained by attempting to reach a notional maximum number of worms in any particular time frame. All that is required is that the colony is refreshed by periodic top-ups.'''

{{Quote|indent}}Time is your best friend when it comes to autoimmune disease and HT. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/333269553395673/?comment_id=1569246259797990&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Once disease remission is achieved, the size and frequency of doses can be determined more accurately by observing how long it takes for signs of one’s disease to return after a dose, and using this information to establish a dosing regimen that will maintain uninterrupted remission. A period of experimentation is usually required, and '''hookworm hosts should keep a record of the size and dates of all their doses'''.

{{Quote|indent}}I now realise that the dosage, intervals and maintenance of HT is ongoing and requires lots of attention, which if I’m being honest I wasn’t expecting.{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I've been doing it for 5 years and still learning and trying to figure out my dosing. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4558046087584644/?comment_id=4558173157571937&reply_comment_id=4561086870613899]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I'm still figuring out the number of worms best for me, 5 years into this. For some of us, it's much more complicated than ‘take worms, get better'.{{Quote|/indent}}
<div style="background-color:#FFF5FA; border:1px solid #F2CEDD; padding:8px; padding-left:8px; margin-bottom:12px;">

== '''Hookworm dosing in a nutshell''' ==

1. Start with between 3 and 5 NA larvae. (For children, see [[Hookworm dosing and response#Hookworm dosing in children | '''Hookworm dosing in children''']] below.)
:Anyone who is hypersensitive or has one of [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''several particular conditions''']], should start with between 1 and 3 larvae.

:Doses larger than these are not necessary and may cause undue [[Hookworm side effects | '''side effects''']], or may result in the flaring of symptoms of an existing disease, either of which might require termination of the colony and a fresh start. Too many larvae may even cause [[Hookworm dosing and response#Excessive hookworm doses have caused long-term harm in a few cases | '''long-term harm''']].

2. Supplementary doses can be added at intervals of no less than 12 weeks, but not until all side effects from the previous dose have resolved.

:It can be tempting to quickly increase the number of hookworms being hosted by escalating the number in each dose, but [[Hookworm dosing and response#Just 3-5 larvae can be surprisingly effective | '''doses of 5 NA will do everything that is needed''']] in the first 6 months, and [[Hookworm dosing and response#Some people need to restrict supplementary doses to 5 larvae or less | '''10 can be too many for some people''']].

:Once small doses are well tolerated, the number of larvae in subsequent doses can, if necessary, be increased '''''gradually''''' while being careful to avoid overdosing, which can cause side effects.

:There is [[Hookworm dosing and response#Colony size | '''no need to aim for any particular colony size''']]. All that is necessary is to regularly add fresh doses to ensure that there are always vibrant young adult worms present in the gut.

3. Once benefits have appeared ([[Hookworm dosing and response#Consistent improvement can begin anytime from 3 to 24 months|'''between 3 and 24 months''']]), experiment to find the number of worms per dose, and the interval between doses, that will [[Hookworm dosing and response#Long-term dosing is based on individual user experience | '''optimise those benefits''']].

:The ideal long-term dose size and frequency [[Hookworm dosing and response#Long-term dosing in practice | '''vary between self-treaters by a factor of 10''']].

4. Keep dosing under review indefinitely because the need for worms can change over time, requiring [[Hookworm dosing and response#Dose size and frequency may need adjustment over time | '''re-optimisation of the dosing regimen''']].

5. It is essential to continue to maintain a colony indefinitely, without breaks, because hookworms can only provide health benefits while they are present in the gut.

'''See the rest of this page for full details about each of the above steps'''.

</div>

== The evolution of hookworm dosing ==

'''The early providers had limited evidence on which to base dosing'''

When the first company to sell hookworms online was established in 2007, researchers working with hookworms were still at the stage of carrying out preliminary experiments, including on themselves, in an attempt to establish what number of NA larvae might be suitable for use in reintroducing this species into helminth-naive subjects for experimental purposes. Their preliminary research had established that introductory doses of 50 NA were too much for the recipients, [http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-434226/Madman-hero-The-medical-maverick-let-50-hookworms-burrow-arm.html] but found that 10 larvae were well tolerated and elicited a modest host eosinophil response. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17123987] Beyond these experiments, there was little information to help the commercial hookworm providers in deciding what doses they should recommend to their customers.

The two individuals behind the first online hookworm vendor separated early in their association to form two separate companies - Autoimmune Therapies (AIT) and Worm Therapy - which recommended different doses for those commencing hookworm therapy. In the case of AIT, a first dose of 35 larvae was followed by two doses of 50 larvae at 12 week intervals. Worm Therapy started their new clients with a dose of 25 larvae, and based the size and timing of subsequent doses on the recipient’s response to their first dose.

Numerous early hookworm self-treaters who used these two regimens reported significant side effects from the doses they were supplied, especially clients of AIT. One self-treater had to contend with 19 weeks of intermittent diarrhoea from weeks 5 to 24 following an initial dose of 35 larvae, and someone who used AIT’s full 35/50/50 sequence was hospitalised with organ damage that required medical treatment. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/8/85/Symptomatic_hypereosinophilia_associated_with_Necator_americanus_self-inoculation.pdf]

For the first few years after hookworms became available commercially, the only online discussion about helminthic therapy was in a Yahoo forum created and run by AIT, where this company’s approach to dosing was accepted, largely without question.

'''The online community refined dosing based on collective experience'''

After the creation, in 2012, of the independent [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group] on Facebook, reports began to emerge of members who appeared to have inoculated with too many hookworms, causing a loss of benefits and a decline in health that necessitated termination of their hookworm colonies. In some cases, the resulting destabilisation of health caused ramifications that lasted for many months, and even several years for a few individuals. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworm_dosing_and_response#Excessive_hookworm_doses_have_caused_long-term_harm_in_a_few_cases]

As more reports began to emerge of adverse side effects following the dosing protocols that were still in use, particularly by AIT, warnings were issued to Support group members about the risks of inoculating with too many hookworms, especially for those who have one of the conditions that are now listed as [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''requiring a modified approach to helminth dosing''']].

When this Helminthic Therapy Wiki was founded, in January 2017, this Hookworm Dosing and Response page became the repository for all the details about hookworm dosing that had been collected from posts to the Support group and elsewhere. This material showed very clearly that the previous approach to hookworm dosing had been flawed, and that not only are much smaller introductory doses preferable from the point of view minimising side effects, but that they can often produce the same level of efficacy as larger introductory doses, and provide a solid foundation for longterm dosing which might, for some self-treaters, eventually include much larger supplementary doses.

'''New providers embraced the new approach to dosing'''

In 2014, a new breed of hookworm provider began to emerge, beginning with Wormswell (2014-2018), and followed by Symmbio (2016), YourSymbionts (2018) and Au NAturel (2019). These companies not only introduced a more user-friendly, pay-per-dose business model, but also worked more closely with the online community of helminth self-treaters than previous companies had done.

Once this wiki was available, the newer providers all recognised the site as the definitive database of information about all aspects of helminthic therapy, and contributed to the site's development. As the knowledge about hookworm dosing evolved, these companies adopted an increasingly more conservative approach in line with the evidence presented on this page.

AIT continued to apply their introductory 35/50/50 dosing protocol until 2017, except in the case of clients with fibromyalgia, whom they had come to realise require much lower doses. After the company’s attention was drawn to this page, they adopted a new dosing regimen and, by late 2017, had begun to introduce newcomers to the therapy with a dose sequence of 5/5/10/10/20/20 larvae. Worm Therapy, meanwhile, continued to start most of their new clients on a dose of 25 larvae, and persisted with this practice into at least the early part of 2019, even after their attention had been drawn to the data on this page, which they dismissed as being "merely anecdotal". The Llamas Clinic, which was closely associated with Worm Therapy between 2008 and 2018, also prefers to supply doses of 25 NA, and has refused to provide some clients with smaller numbers. In one case, the clinic did agree to send a client a dose of 3 NA, after initially being reluctant to do this, but then [[Helminth provider reviews#The Llamas Clinic | actually shipped a dose of 10]].

Reports received by this wiki in 2020 and 2021 revealed that AIT had by that time reverted to recommending, and routinely supplying, doses of up to 50 NA larvae, even though dosing at this level had previously put at least one of their clients in hospital [[media:Symptomatic hypereosinophilia associated with Necator americanus self-inoculation.pdf | with potentially fatal side effects]]. AIT have apparently even suggested that some of their clients should take supplementary doses of up to 100 larvae if they have failed to achieve the results they had hoped for. Usually, in this situation, most providers of NA will recommend the addition of a different species - typically either TSO or HDC - rather than the use of an excessive number of hookworms, but AIT only sells NA, and appear to rely on this species alone rather than suggesting the use of any other.

'''Obsolete dosing practice is perpetuated outside the online community'''

Medical practitioners with an interest in helminthic therapy who follow the conversation in the Helminthic Therapy Support group had mostly modified their approach to hookworm dosing by the start of 2019, and the majority were starting new patients on a dose of 5 larvae. A few, however, continued to operate in isolation from the online community, and were not keeping up to date via this wiki. Consequently unaware of the reports of severe side effects experienced by some self-treaters, these doctors continued to use a variety of idiosyncratic dosing protocols that often involved excessively large doses, for example, introducing new patients to the therapy with between one and three doses of 25 larvae.

In late 2018, one naturopathic doctor was still starting most of his patients on an initial dose of 25-35 larvae, followed by 2 or 3 doses of 20 larvae at three month intervals and then 5-10 larvae at 2 month intervals, a schedule that is diametrically opposed to what is suggested by user experience, as reported on this page.

In late 2020, another naturopathic doctor who was obviously aware of the need to start with much smaller doses, was nevertheless introducing too many doses in the first 12 weeks. Starting her patients with a single larva, she was adding a second one a week later, then following these with a further 5 larvae every two weeks until a colony of 20 was reached in the tenth week.

There are some self-treaters who are not working with a doctor and who fail to find, or decide to overlook, the advice available on this page, and turn instead to obsolete information found on assorted sites across the internet, which leads them to seek larger hookworm doses than are advisable. Unfortunately, these individuals sometimes even turn a deaf ear to attempts by providers to encourage them to be more conservative in their dosing choices.

'''Hookworm dosing in research centres'''

The hookworm self-treaters who are members of the online community far outnumber the subjects who have taken part in the few formal clinical trials that have been mounted to investigate the therapeutic potential of hookworms, and the researchers involved in these studies have consequently had access to far less data to inform their understanding of the effects of different dose sizes.

Prior to 2006, researchers at Nottingham University had carried out a small dose-ranging study to identify a suitable dose size for their trials of therapeutic infection with NA in humans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17123987] They concluded from this study that a dose of 10 NA larvae is well tolerated, elicits a modest eosinophilic and antibody response, and was potentially suitable for use in preliminary clinical therapeutic trials. However, after trials using single doses of 10 NA, the team at Nottingham then employed a single dose of 25 NA in their Worms in Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (WiRMS) trial that ran from 2011 to 2016. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32539079/] Other centres investigating the therapeutic effects of hookworms have used doses ranging from 10 to 40 larvae. [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00671138] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01661933] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02754609]

The information on this page, condensed from the experience of thousands of citizen scientists in the online community, could be invaluable to medical researchers, if they chose to utilise it. For example, they would come to appreciate the need for implementation of a dose-finding scheme to establish the ideal dose for each individual trial subject, and they would discover the importance of maintaining a hookworm colony by continuing to add supplementary doses at appropriate intervals. Unfortunately, however, medical research has largely ignored the experience of helminth self-treaters and the data presented here.

'''Socio-medical research confirms established best dosing practice'''

Socio-medical research first published in 2020 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737071] confirmed what had been learned by self-treaters over the previous decade, viz., that there is such wide variation between individuals in their ability to tolerate helminths, as well as in their therapeutic response to them, that the use of individualised dosing is essential. By 2020, this was already appreciated by the majority of helminth suppliers and those physicians who provide information to self-treaters, and the use of an initial dose-finding approach was being widely recommended and practised in preference to attempting therapy with a standard dose applied to all individuals.

As is explained in detail on the rest of this page, the dose-finding approach used initially in hookworm-naive individuals entails starting with a dose of 3-5 NA larvae and then ''gradually'' working up to higher doses until either symptoms are relieved or adverse side effects indicate a need to reduce dosage. Failure to start with low exposure levels of NA was described by one of the physicians interviewed by the researchers as being irresponsible and fraught with problems.

If future clinical trials are to effectively test the potential of helminthic therapy, they must address the challenge of implementing dose-finding schemes in their subject cohorts. And, if self-treaters are to be guided towards reaping the greatest benefits from this therapy without incurring undue side effects, all helminth providers and advising physicians must also adopt the dose-finding approach.

== The perils of excessive hookworm dosing ==

===Those who began with a dose of 50 or more NA have usually regretted it!===

Early pioneers who inoculated with 50 larvae eventually wished they hadn’t! Prof David Pritchard of Nottingham University School of Pharmacy could not cope with a single inoculation of 50 hookworm larvae, [http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-434226/Madman-hero-The-medical-maverick-let-50-hookworms-burrow-arm.html] and Dr James Logan from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, who inoculated with 50 hookworm larvae for a UK TV documentary, had to abort the experiment after 60 days, saying, "I just can't live with the symptoms and the stomach pains.” [https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2013/dec/01/extreme-science-hookworms-james-logan]

Others have expressed similar sentiments.

{{Quote|indent}}I let myself be convinced, without doing my homework, it was OK to inoculate 50 NA at first dose... At 5½ weeks, the asthma-like symptoms and cough are going away, but to be replaced by a dull but unrelenting belly pain and diarrhea that get pretty bad for a while after meals, and waves of mild nausea and unbelievable gas. Day 45, about 6½ weeks... belly ache is nearly gone, but the diarrhea and gas remain... uncomfortable and embarrassing (I can't remember smelling such awful gas or soiling underpants three times in a week before). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930067010382588/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930067010382588/?comment_id=932748006781155&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R2%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930067010382588/?comment_id=936308153091807&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I inoculated with 50 NA 15 weeks ago. Side effects have been really rough... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1176957935693493/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I did 50 my first dose too. Not the smartest thing I've ever done... Gut pain until around 12 weeks... ended up killing off my colony and starting over. I did 6, then 6 more after 18 weeks. I'm doing much better now... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930067010382588/?comment_id=936369313085691&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930067010382588/?comment_id=936376339751655&reply_comment_id=936397679749521&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R4%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}They give me migraines for two weeks at a full 50, but a quarter of that is far better for me. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5264181010304478/?comment_id=5265729790149600]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started with 70, and that was a big mistake. Had to take steroids for 2 months just to tolerate the epigastric pain and increase in immune response. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/840032952719328/?comment_id=840049002717723&offset=0&total_comments=43&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Doses of 30 or 35 larvae can cause severe side effects ===

{{Quote|indent}}After inoculation (with 30 HW), the joint pain worsened so severely that at some points I could hardly walk or move.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/884562471599709/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I started with an initial dose of 30, which gave me horrible side effects and put me out of commission for 3 months. Would not recommend. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2160599497329327/?comment_id=2162083133847630&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I had to kill my first dose of 35 HW because the GI symptoms were unbearable.{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I received a dose of 35 HW about 3 weeks ago and last night I awoke gasping for air because my throat had closed up. It was a harrowing experience that lasted about a minute as I was unable to breathe.” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/884562471599709/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I am 6 weeks post first inoculation (with 35 hookworms) and experiencing extreme exacerbation of my RA symptoms. It's hard to deal with while wondering if this will actually be worth it. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/884794694909820/?comment_id=885183704870919&offset=0&total_comments=9&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Inoculated with (35) HW 6 weeks ago... I've been getting my ass kicked by worm flu! Week 4 assorted gastric issues, week 5- radical nausea, stomach aches & fatigue. My naturopath prescribed me prednisone (10 days reducing), 3 days left. Not getting better…
(Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

=== Doses of 20 or 25 larvae can cause very unpleasant effects ===

{{Quote|indent}}I inoculated myself 2 months ago with 25 NA... I am having serious side effect since 2 weeks. Mainly stomach/upper belly pain to the point I am barely able to work. Today I bought mebendazole as I am considering terminating my NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1057160664339888/?comment_id=1058018160920805&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I dosed with 25 NA. I only had a reaction for about 24 hours. Then at 3-4 weeks all hell broke loose and it was horrible for the next 10-12 weeks. I reacted to almost all food. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1123870124335608/?comment_id=1123955960993691&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I was out of work - unpaid - for 3 weeks (after a dose of 25 NA) because of unbearable agonising stomach pains... I was taking them for allergies, and am otherwise quite healthy (no IBD or anything), so I wasn't expecting serious side effects... As it was I nearly had to terminate them. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1103921262997161/?comment_id=1104315352957752&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R7%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1103921262997161/?comment_id=1104319082957379&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R5%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}My husband is on day 63 with 25 NA. For the last two weeks he's had intermittent achy body/joint pain, daily diarrhea with stomach pain and last night a low grade fever. It has been getting progressively worse. This morning, for the first time, he said that he was close to his breaking point. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1179342208788399/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Exactly 5 days post inoculation (with 25 NA), I awoke in the middle of the night thinking someone was choking me. My throat was burning and closing up fast, causing my breath to rasp in my chest. [http://www.thewayofalpha.com/blog-1/2017/10/10/hook-me-up-treating-autoimmune-disease-with-hookworm-inoculation]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I inoculated with 20 NA (to treat seasonal allergies) and found weeks 5-12 incredibly hard. The stomach pain never resolved itself. I had to up my Prednisone dose and take it almost every day. It's hard to function with that pain. I finally had to take Albenazole (and) my body is now pain free again. I will start again w 5 and go from there… [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1347249521997666/?comment_id=1350891278300157&reply_comment_id=1382441121811839&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1347249521997666/?comment_id=1350030368386248&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}My colony was about 30. Then I did 25 thinking I would be fine. Well not the case. I went down hill very fast and eventually had to terminate. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2074731292582815/?comment_id=2076379749084636&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Too many hookworms may cause Löffler’s (Loeffler's) syndrome ===
The side effects caused by large hookworm doses mostly affect the gastrointestinal tract, causing the typical diarrhoea, cramping and gas, etc., but, sometimes, they may involve the chest, and possibly result in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%C3%B6ffler's_syndrome Löffler’s (Loeffler's) syndrome], a type of eosinophilic pneumonia (inflammation of the lung) that is caused by the immune system attacking the larvae during their transit through the lungs. This reaction is similar to those that occur at the site of inoculation on the skin, and in the gut.

Löffler’s Syndrome is most likely to be seen in those with a history of asthma or allergy, and it can manifest as a productive cough and shortness of breath, but possibly also as sinus and other upper respiratory issues. These may last for several weeks, but not necessarily continuously, and, while they do not usually require treatment, they can be very unpleasant. It may therefore be wise to avoid the use of doses of 35 larvae or more in order to obviate the risk of inducing Löffler’s Syndrome.

{{Quote|indent}}I have asthma, and my first inoculation (10 HW) went fine. I inoculated a second time with 35 and kicked off Loffler's Syndrome - the worst bout of respiratory distress I've ever had. My difficulty breathing began around 2 weeks after inoculation, and continued for about 8 weeks. It then subsided, and recently came back again. I have been using inhaled steroids twice a day for the last few months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1854741221248491/?comment_id=1855736474482299&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

It is also possible to experience Loffler’s syndrome following inoculation with much smaller doses of NA, especially in those with certain pre-existing conditions - particularly those affecting the lungs - or with certain genetic profiles.

Someone with pulmonary hypertension and interstitial lung disease associated with scleroderma, in addition to a pre-existing [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strongyloides_stercoralis Strongyloides] infection, developed Loffler’s syndrome after taking a dose of 15 NA following previous doses of 5 and 10, both of which had been side effect-free and produced some improvements in health. All three doses were taken at 12 week intervals. Following the third dose, this individual became so ill that she was hospitalised and required high dose prednisone, even after termination of her NA colony. [https://www.facebook.com/michael.mcevoy.3557/posts/10158246226984281?comment_id=10158427499019281] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3004108712978397/?comment_id=3004549139601021&reply_comment_id=3005815739474361]

Someone else who developed Loffler’s syndrome following inoculation with NA subsequently discovered, as a result of extensive genetic testing, that she is essentially defenceless against most parasites, so needs to restrict the number of helminths she hosts. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2657062394399361/?comment_id=2657069104398690&reply_comment_id=2657219631050304] (Amongst other genetic anomalies, she has an adverse variation of the LTF gene [https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=LTF&keywords=LTF]. Her testing was carried out by GeneSavvy and reviewed by a doctor experienced in interpreting such tests.)

The latter individual was unaware of her genetic predisposition when she began helminthic therapy, and there will inevitably be others with similar genetic variations who may face severe effects from adding just a few too many NA. Her case is further evidence for why everyone who starts therapy with hookworms should commence with no more than the recommended 3-5 larvae, and should proceed thereafter with caution, only increasing the size of supplementary doses ''very gradually''.

=== Excessive hookworm doses have caused long-term harm in a few cases ===

{{Quote|indent}}As a survivor of the old days when large hookworm doses were common, I STRONGLY recommend starting with small doses. If the recipient has no adverse reaction, it’s easy to increase the next dose. But recovering from doses that are too large is not as simple as just taking some albendazole. I never fully recovered from the effects of my overdoses.

I had undiagnosed MCAS, which was quite mild when I started with NA. My first dose was supposed to be 35, but the provider (AIT) accidentally sent me 50. I was desperate to start because I didn’t want further permanent damage from my MS, so I inoculated with them.

It was a very rough ride, with zero benefits. I added a second dose of 40 on schedule at 12 weeks and all hell broke loose. But… about 11 weeks after that dose I started to see a glimmer of improvement. I wanted to just stick with that for awhile, but my provider insisted I needed my third dose on schedule.

So I took 35 more, and my health went downhill within hours. And I never fully recovered. I ended up with severe eosinophilic pneumonia, a terrible exacerbation of my MS, and MCAS that, to this day, is very difficult to control.

I took albendazole and wiped them all out, with zero improvement. I re-dosed with 6 and started a little recovery, but after a few more small doses, all of the overdose symptoms returned, and I again had to wipe them all out.

I definitely had more benefits from a larger colony, but now my immune system can’t tolerate more than 10-12 NA on board at any one time. I’m 7 years into this therapy, so my acquired hypersensitivity to NA appears to be permanent. I’m quite confident that if I’d taken smaller doses to start with, I could have gotten all the benefits of this therapy without the permanent damage. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5070971286292119?comment_id=5073216279400953&reply_comment_id=5073891886000059]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started helminthic therapy with hookworms for severe food intolerance. When I began, there were about 10 foods I could more or less tolerate. After 6 months (and with only 10 worms on board) I was back to 40 foods and at the end of the year I could eat 75 foods (and stopped counting). I then had 2 wonderful years eating virtually everything I wanted, but when I again began to experience reactions to foods, and turned to my provider (AIT) for a supplementary dose, they advised me to take 25 hookworms. 10 days after inoculating with them, I crashed. I became very ill and every attempt to eat went wrong. It has taken several years since then for me to be able to tolerate even a very small number of hookworms and I am still far from well. (Via email){{Quote|/indent}}

=== Larger doses may potentially cause organ damage in rare cases ===

There has been one report in the scientific literature of a case of reversible damage to the heart myocardium (in addition to Loeffler’s syndrome affecting the lungs) as a result of hypereosinophilia following inoculation over 7 months with three large doses (35/50/50) of NA.
* [[media:Symptomatic_hypereosinophilia_associated_with_Necator_americanus_self-inoculation.pdf | Symptomatic hypereosinophilia associated with Necator americanus self-inoculation]]

===Prolonged side effects can mask other developing conditions===
Apart from having to cope with the side effects of larger doses of hookworms, there is also a risk that these symptoms could mask other conditions that might develop during a prolonged side effect period, as happened in the following case.
{{Quote|indent}}... the eosinophilia from the worms totally masked my diabetes symptoms for 6 months and would have done so for much longer if i had not aborted them. The extreme thirst, pain in the muscles of the lower leg and lower arm, malaise, overheating, brain fog, etc., are all symptoms of both conditions. Aborting the hookworms got rid of about 80% of the symptoms and I was just about to take a second dose of worming tablets because i thought the remaining symptoms were due to some survivors, when in fact this is what the diabetes was causing. There was no way i could have noticed the diabetes while suffering the extreme reaction I had from HWs.{{Quote|/indent}}

== The first dose ==

===The first dose of NA is best restricted to a maximum of 5 larvae ===

In the first decade of self-treatment with hookworms (2007-2017), introductory doses of up to 35 larvae were recommended by helminth providers, but this quantity often causes severe side effects. Even a dose of 5 NA can produce some side effects, but these are usually manageable at this dosage.

{{Quote|indent}}After my initial dose of 10 Na, I suffered severe UC symptoms. I almost terminated but grunted through. It was tough!! Gut pain and issues were weeks 6-13... After the symptoms subsided, I lowered subsequent dose to 5 then two doses of 10 all about 6 months apart. I had no further negative symptoms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/1650792824976666?comment_id=5171609132895000]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Started with 8 - too many for my system. Should have gone with the recommended 5! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4945535888835660?comment_id=4946346215421294&reply_comment_id=4947381861984396]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I chose to start low and slow, with two doses of 5 NA three months apart (and) I’m so glad I did, because even a small number of NA have caused quite a bit of discomfort, mainly a worsening of autoimmune symptoms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2070557689666842/?comment_id=2070606102995334&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Not only do very small doses keep any side effects to a minimum, but 5, or even 3, NA, are also effective, and start the process of bringing the host's immune system back into balance.

=== Patients with some conditions need to start with 3 larvae or less ===

Anyone with an increased level of sensitivity should start with no more than 3 larvae, especially if they have one of the conditions listed in the following page section.

* [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing''']]

Here are just two examples of the difficulties experienced by people with hypersensitivities who inoculate with too many hookworms.

Someone with mastocytosis who inoculated with 30 NA ended up in hospital after increasingly high doses of prednisone failed to relieve muscle spasms that were so severe and constant she was literally screaming. She could not even roll over in bed. [https://www.evernote.com/client/snv?noteGuid=43d1c690-4e17-4c43-a29e-6b84dc2df540&noteKey=ba2b70313f14c4003e2645ecfc4b7f0d&sn=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evernote.com%2Fshard%2Fs229%2Fsh%2F43d1c690-4e17-4c43-a29e-6b84dc2df540%2Fba2b70313f14c4003e2645ecfc4b7f0d&title=Helminthic%2Btherapy%2Bfor%2Bmasto]

And someone with narcolepsy reported as follows.

{{Quote|indent}}I had 10 HW to start and thought I was going to die. But I could do 3. And then another 3. And then I could stand 5.{{Quote|/indent}}

One therapist who works with hypersensitive patients has reported that a dose of 2 larvae appears to give the same benefit as 3, but that this even smaller number produces less of an initial dip in the individual's overall condition before they start to improve. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5798710370184870?comment_id=5842642902458283&reply_comment_id=5846637452058828] The effect of using doses of just 1 larva have been reported to be more "hit and miss". [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5798710370184870/?comment_id=5842642902458283&reply_comment_id=5850357621686811]

=== Even 3-5 larvae can cause significant side effects in some people ===

A first dose of 5 larvae can cause significant transient side effects in some people, and not only those who are hypersensitive.

{{Quote|indent}}I had huge side effects from my first dose of 5 NA. I had to take a few days off at the worst moment... I don't have CFS, but I have fatigue and I tire easily. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1121353877920566/?comment_id=1121581877897766&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Horrible fatigue today after inoculation for CFS. (At 2 days with 5 NA) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2092455257477085/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}On the evening of day 3 post inoculation with 5 NA (my first) i started feeling a bit of a headache as I went to bed. I woke up after sleeping about 2 hours with a searing headache and growing nausea. This lasted all night and all the next day. It was very intense and I couldn’t function all day. Around 8pm, however, the headache and nausea suddenly subsided and I was able to eat again and feel pretty normal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1694070157315599/?comment_id=1694175967305018&reply_comment_id=1695252557197359&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started with a five hw dose four days ago. Wasn't sure about starting that low… But joint pain and muscle fatigue started to kick in yesterday and then today with a vengeance… I'm so glad now it was just five I started
with. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/646383922084233/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}After 3 weeks of 5 NA I had an intense reaction. My depression flared, got really sick, had a huge rash break out on my face, lost my appetite and developed hypersomnia. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3478972928825304/?comment_id=3488684371187493&reply_comment_id=3488858387836758]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had quite a lot of difficult symptoms from weeks 3-10 post inoculation (with 5 NA): stomach pain, bloating, feeling feverish & really tired. I got through it just, but since I was ill anyway, holding down a job with all that was hard. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1765694283486519/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Currently at week four with 5NA. Woah, finding the side effects difficult. Joint and muscle stiffness and pain, exhaustion, sore chest and cough, and I think poor mood. Symptoms come and go in severity. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4691024117620173/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I inoculated about 4 weeks ago with 5 NA. The last ten days have been rough. I've been experiencing cold/flu symptoms for the past ten days that started to clear up and then came back with a vengeance, plus some other symptoms more in line with a flare. Fatigue, deep and persistent coughing, insomnia, post nasal drip, congestion, constant acid reflux, random itching all over my body/skin sensitivity, swelling, worsening of my existing skin problems, trouble regulating my body temperature, neuropathy in hands, and food cravings. I also had a migraine last week for the first time since I started treating my autoimmune disease with plaquenil. I'm going to a clinic tomorrow to ask for prednisone. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I also took 5 NA and started getting HORRIBLE stomach pains at Day 28. Like my insides were shredding. I am at Day 41 now, still having intense pain, but taking Benadryl (antihistamine in US) has helped a lot... [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1381206295268655/?comment_id=1381812371874714&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Too much fatigue, can't stand any more. This is simply unbearable… I should have taken just 3... (Reported at 4.5 weeks) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2135581166497827/?comment_id=2135584446497499&reply_comment_id=2135609303161680&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2135581166497827/?comment_id=2135691013153509&reply_comment_id=2135695096486434&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] (Reported by a patient with CFS/ME, after inoculating with 5 NA.){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had side effects with my first 5 NA, feeling pain and a sense of unwellness for a week or two a few weeks in. Given the pain I had from my first 5, I'm very glad I didn't start with more. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4764851116904139?comment_id=4765652516823999]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Since week five (with 5 NA) I've had some pretty rough side effects. Constant fatigue, brain fog, and some depression... I can't eat much of anything right now. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1412378752151409/?comment_id=1448660711856546&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I'm 5 weeks in (with 3 - 5 NA) and having an explosion of eczema around my swollen, sore eyes. I am determined to hang in but holy heck, it's not much fun! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4691024117620173/?comment_id=4752490558140195&reply_comment_id=4760223237366927]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had painful tingling in my fingers, legs, arms and feet (almost like thousands of piranha’s nibbling under my skin.) I also noted "a jumpiness that feels cellular". Along with... severe joint pain. Lower back, ankles, neck and one knee. The worst of all of this started around week 8 after my first ever inoculation with 5 NA.[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1207083356014284/?comment_id=1209858305736789&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}This is Day 61 (with 5 NA). Having a hard time with the stomach pains, nausea, and now very strong muscle pains. All of my muscles are so tight. Feels like EVERY single muscle. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1335248503197768/?comment_id=1388003157922302&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Day 70 post first inoculation (with 5 NA). I have intestinal cramps, huge diarrhoea again, anxiety. It fits with the timeline but NA is clearly not a cakewalk. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4381230565266198/?comment_id=4603801953009057]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}After my first dose of 5HW I experienced extreme fatigue. It wasn't until my third dose that things began to make a big shift. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/856163037772986/?comment_id=856646297724660&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Even a first dose of 3 NA can be a challenge for a few self-treaters, including some who are not on the hypersensitive spectrum.

{{Quote|indent}}I am treating mainly neuropsychiatric issues, but 3NA was almost unbearable at points, in the mental effects it had. There was about a week and a half where I was so depressed it was hard to function. I think even 5 would have been too much for me! (Link expired.){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I am very thankful that I only had 3 NA For my first dose. I am almost done with the week five and the anxiety I am feeling is truly challenging me. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5073693309353250]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I'm glad I only took 3 NA because the fatigue from the eosinophils is no joke. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6542392999149933/?comment_id=6851277161594847]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Just 3-5 larvae can be surprisingly effective ===

It can be difficult to imagine that very small numbers of tiny hookworms would be capable of producing much benefit in a host many times their size, but it is clear that they are.

{{Quote|indent}}3 little (hook)worms can have a huge impact on a 91kg guy! I used only 3 HW end 2015 and again 3 a month ago (Feb 2017). I can tell you that they can have incredible impact on me. Both times I had a [[The helminthic therapy bounce | bounce]]. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1258218517567434/?comment_id=1259170570805562&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}At 10 weeks post inoculation with 5 NA for CFS/ME and chronic migraine, in the past two days I suddenly have many times more energy than usual for winter. Vastly more. Last winter a weekly trip to the grocery store would wipe me out to the point of being able to do NOTHING (no work, no housework, no cooking, nothing but resting) the entire rest of the week and I struggled to stay awake past 7 pm no matter how much I rested during the day. Yesterday, I cleaned the kitchen, batch cooked for half of the day, vacuumed, changed the bed linens and stayed up until 10 pm. Today I'm mopping, cleaning the bathrooms, doing laundry and cooking a bit more. This energy is in addition to the early improvements I've had in brain fog, joint pain, plantar fasciitis and increased tolerance to high FODMAP foods. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1040952539294034/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My 11 year old son developed a bad dog dander allergy - he couldn’t be near our dogs without wheezing and getting skin blotches. He was inoculated with 5 HW. He is now (6 months later) free from his allergy, he can roll around with the dogs and rub his face on them with no issues!! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1025648674157754/?comment_id=1025956247460330&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started using hookworm in 2011 (for Rheumatoid Arthritis). I only had one dose of 5. I was symptom free within 4 months and stayed symptom free for 5 years. (Edited from two posts in this [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1025648674157754/ thread].){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My daughter (age 16) suffers from terrible allergies. She gets asthmatic symptoms and needs an inhaler. Eight weeks ago she inoculated with 5NA. She is at this time much relieved. I would estimate by about 70% or more. She has a clear nose and has not needed her inhaler for over a month. Last night she spent the night at a friends house who had a cat. She was fine. I am surprised that only 5 seemed to provide such relief. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1710428945679720/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started my first dose of 5 NA 5 weeks ago (and) I've had great improvement in severe allergy symptoms (rhinitis, plugged ears, itchy throat, asthma and eczema) while landscaping outdoors. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5277962722259640/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started NA for Crohn’s disease and Sweet syndrome. I was not in a good way. I was told I was going to die due to inflammation in my bowel, and I was in hospital 4 times, each for 2-3 weeks and tried every medicine available… I’ve taken doses of 3, 3 and 5 hookworms so far, at around 10 weeks between each dose. I had a specialist appointment on Friday and, for the first time in 20 years, my blood work is fabulous. My CRP is 7 and my cal protectin is 50. My CRP has never been below 280 and my cal protectin was normally around 6000. So I have no signs of disease in my blood and I'm no longer an extreme surgical case. I'm not even sick as far as doctors are concerned. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5137991819590065]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My first dose was only 11 weeks ago with 5 HW. Even though it is very early in my HW treatment I have had great success. Right now I have only a few patches of eczema, which is a vast improvement. The psoriasis around my ankles is slowly clearing up. Who knew 5 worms could do so much?! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/757508230971801/?comment_id=757654774290480&offset=0&total_comments=29]{{Quote|/indent}}

:This last individual then increased the size of her next two doses, but this brought no additional benefit.
:{{Quote|indent}}I did fine at 5HWs so went to 10 and then 25. My best benefit was at 5 so went back down. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1252173938171892/?comment_id=1252311141491505&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== The absence of a rash may not indicate a failed inoculation ===

For full details, see the following page.

* [[The hookworm inoculation rash | '''The hookworm inoculation rash''']]

===Other helminth species should not be added alongside a ''first'' dose of NA===

Beginning helminthic therapy with more than one species of worm presents an increased challenge to the host’s immune system, resulting in a greater risk of side effects.
* [[Helminth inoculation#The first inoculation should be with a single species | '''The first inoculation should be with a single species''']]

Once a host's immune system has become accustomed to the presence of one species, the addition of further species may provide extra benefits.
* [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth#Hosting multiple worm species | '''Hosting multiple worm species''']]

== Supplementary doses ==

Helminthic therapy is not a one-dose fix. To reap the benefits offered by helminths, self-treaters need to maintain exposure to them indefinitely. The first dose is just the starter.

A supplementary dose can usually be added 12 weeks after the first dose, but only if all side effects from the first dose have ceased. In a few cases, side effects can persist beyond 12 weeks.

{{Quote|indent}}Took my initial dose of 5 NA near six months to fully settle, pretty sure I'd have had to terminate if I’d introduced another 5 after 3 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2455345161188091/?comment_id=2461065180616089]{{Quote|/indent}}

Once side effects have settled, and the first cohort of worms has been in place for at least 12 weeks, these mature worms will help to modulate the immune system’s response to the second dose. This will result in less side effects unless there is a large increase in the size of the second dose which would make side effects more likely, in a dose-dependent manner. It is therefore recommended that all self-treaters who are using NA should proceed cautiously and only increase the size of supplementary doses gradually, selecting the number of larvae in each new dose based on their experience with the previous dose.

'''If the first dose was 5, and side effects were absent or minimal during the first 12 weeks, the second dose might be 10. However, if a first dose of 5 larvae causes significant side effects, this should be followed by a further dose of 5, and this should only be added once the side effects from the first dose have subsided. The response to the second dose should then be assessed during the following 12 weeks before deciding on the size of the third dose, and so on until side effects are no longer being experienced.'''

'''The amount of time that worms have been hosted is more important for the treatment than the number of worms that have been inoculated, and there is therefore no urgency to reach any particular total number.'''

After a few doses have been added, side effects should cease to appear altogether, if they have appeared at all beyond the first dose. However, supplementary doses may occasionally continue to trigger a recurrence of the disease being treated, as happened in the following case after each of the first four doses.
{{Quote|indent}}Whenever I add more NA, my asthma comes back... not as bad as before I started NA. But then after 8 weeks, the asthma goes away entirely. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1526717137384236/?comment_id=1529107580478525&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1526717137384236/?comment_id=1529174360471847&reply_comment_id=1529193553803261&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Once supplementary doses are no longer causing side effects or exacerbating the disease being treated, the size of doses can be '''''gradually'' and ''cautiously''''' increased, while remaining vigilant for any return of adverse effects.

===A ''few'' NA hosts may ''eventually'' tolerate doses of between 35 and 50 larvae===

After the first few doses, a '''''few''''' hosts do best with larger supplementary doses in the long term, and tolerate them well.

{{Quote|indent}}I've done 35 with no issues multiple times. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1667035473352401/?comment_id=1667459139976701&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I am now certain that a smaller dose does nothing for my SIBO. The effect of dosing with 40 HW... is so remarkable and so quick that my friends and family are quick to tell me that my worms are alive. lol. I take 40 NA every 3 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1640500539339228/?comment_id=1645532662169349&reply_comment_id=1646337038755578&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R9%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1422151061174178/?comment_id=1422155307840420&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I need to take 50 every 6 months.{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Supplementary doses of 35 or more larvae may cause side effects ===
Even subjects who have been hosting hookworms for many years may continue to experience significant and quite long-lasting side effects following supplementary doses of 35 or more larvae.
{{Quote|indent}}I find that every time I inoculate (always with 35 HW) I get a bad round of gas. This normally starts around 2 weeks after inoculating, but it settles down after a while if I don't reinoculate, and is gone by around 4½ months. (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/885486351507321/?comment_id=886095694779720&offset=0&total_comments=12&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/885486351507321/?comment_id=886527388069884&offset=0&total_comments=14&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]){{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}My reaction to HW is about the same now as it was when I began. Hookworms, in my case, cause a strong, long lasting negative response once I inoculate (with doses of between 35 and 50). I don't get the “bounce.” My mood plummets, brain fog occurs, my IBD related arthritis flares and I have general tiredness. I need to get sleep. Smaller dosing lessen my response. This lasts for 4 to 6 weeks then I start feeling better. (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/898417033547586/?comment_id=898558830200073&offset=0&total_comments=7&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D][https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/898417033547586/?comment_id=898604600195496&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]){{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I give myself 50 once a year and have some mild side effects. These are actually worse than my initial dose gave me.{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I had diarrhoea for 2.5 months once when my dose was too high. Didn't realise what it was until it cleared up almost exactly 3 months after inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/861747150547908/?comment_id=861782887211001&offset=0&total_comments=6&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R4%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Supplementary doses may be best kept under 20 or 25 ===
For most of those who are not in the [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''higher risk category''']], keeping supplementary doses below 25 larvae will reduce the risk of significant side effects.
{{Quote|indent}}Started with 25 HW, then 50 for the next batch which sent my immune system mad, needed prednisone...{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Anything more than 25 (hookworms) and I suffer from brain fog and lethargy, achy joints that could last a few weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/915314868524469/?comment_id=915320581857231&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}In my experience, taking larger doses (over 25 hookworms) can cause symptoms (similar to those) of an anaphylactic reaction. Scratchy itchy throat, sensation of tingling of mouth and tongue, effort to swallow. From armpit to elbow was very swollen and hot (around the inoculation site), more so than any other previous inoculation. Also, I can't prove this, but my shingles began following this bad reaction to 25 hookworms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1663305817058700/?comment_id=1663640043691944&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1663305817058700/?comment_id=1663685477020734&reply_comment_id=1663689400353675&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R4%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Started with 15, then 30, then 30, and most recently 20 because I experienced symptoms that were too much to handle. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1016630521726236/?comment_id=1016974145025207&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}In my experience, taking smaller doses (under 20) of hookworm is best. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/916465445076078/?comment_id=916755838380372&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I dropped from 25 to 15 worms and the side effects were significantly less! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1558504957538787/?comment_id=1558579560864660&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I used to top up with 25-30 NA's but my provider suggested topping up with fewer. I used around 10 on my last 2 dosing and it worked great! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1978467308875881/?comment_id=1978498922206053&reply_comment_id=1979702842085661&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I can never tolerate more than 10-15 at a time and I mitigated one dose of 20 (bad decision) with low dose prednisone.[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1868023383253608/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I've inoculated with doses of 5, 5, 10, 25, and then a final 25 about 9 weeks ago, with each dose at least 12 weeks apart. The last two doses of 25 each have caused significant side effects without much added benefit. And the benefit I did get from the 25 was no greater than that of the dose of 5 or 10. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2000592956663316/]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Some people need to restrict supplementary doses to 5 larvae or less===

Some self-treaters have found that they need to continue to use very small doses, and that these provide them with all the benefits they require. This is particularly true for those on the hypersensitivity spectrum, who should continue to inoculate with very low numbers for at least the first few doses, and possibly indefinitely. It is also true for a small number of individuals who are helminth permissive, so have a reduced ability to control helminths, probably due to their genetic profile. Often unaware that they have this characteristic, they accumulate worms rather than losing them to the attrition that limits worm numbers in most people.

{{Quote|indent}}I did 5 and did well for 5 months then did 10 and caused massive CFS/ME flare. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1286104968112122/?comment_id=1286147761441176&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had 3 inoculations - 5/15/10. All was well after the first 2, then all hell broke loose after the third one. It has been 9 weeks now and there is no reprieve. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started with 3 then 5 but when the time came for my 3rd dose I was incubating my own so, based on my belief I had had no negative side effects, decided to dose 8. Now I wish I hadn't as I then started to develop symptoms that I had not experienced before. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5162192033836710?comment_id=5162552833800630]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I started out with a dose of 5 HWS, then went to 10, a couple dose of 25, then back down to 10 before realizing the optimal dose is only 5. At the higher doses I actually had an increase of some symptoms for a while. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1149149175141036/?comment_id=1149171338472153&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Going from 5-10 caused a HOST of problems including an extreme sensitivity to just about every food imaginable. It’s been a few years and the effects did eventually go away, but definitely always dose with the lowest dose possible. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2639527966103142/?comment_id=2639795659409706&reply_comment_id=2640762222646383]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}5 or less will be my go-to dose from now on. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1583270575062225/?comment_id=1583328135056469&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I decided to ignore the advice that my next dose should be back to 5, and not to increase it to 10, so, after twelve weeks, I applied 10 larvae as my 4th dose. Everything went fine into week 6 or 7 when my face caught fire!!! I developed painful inflamed red itchy scaly patches under my eyes, either side of my nose, above my eyebrows, down the groove either side of my cheeks. I was a mess… 14 weeks after that 4th inoculation, my face is back to normal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4983577991698116?comment_id=5293029117419667]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I’m on my second dose (5/10 NA). No side effects last time, so I thought I’d be fine, but apparently not. Diarrhoea started in week 2. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5318514761537769?comment_id=5318565791532666&reply_comment_id=5319561001433145] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5318514761537769/?comment_id=5318565791532666]{{Quote|/indent}}

===A few people may need to pause treatment after just one or two doses===

People with a helminth-permissive immune system do not need to add a supplementary dose routinely every 12 weeks.

{{Quote|indent}}I've got my second dose of 10 NA after 5 yrs. Mainly because the symptoms started to come back gently, after long years of total remission. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7815523915170162/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Dosing every 12 weeks can be counter-productive for some hypersensitive, as well as helminth-permissive, individuals.

{{Quote|indent}}I did three NA and did relatively ok. After three months, I did three more, but this second dose made my symptoms about 10 times worse. I was sicker then ever before, with even more symptoms that I’d never had previously. So I terminated. (Via private message.){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}After the first inoculation with 5 NA, my 18 year-old with IBS and M.E. started feeling better at around the 3-month mark so we inoculated again with another 5NA. Now I wish we had just done 1 or 2 NA. His fatigue has been very bad and now he is having a great deal of trouble sleeping as well as being a bit constipated. He hasn't slept at all for the last 48 hours or longer. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5459362024119708/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had 3 inoculations - 5/15/10. All was well after the first 2, then all hell broke loose after the third one. It has been 9 weeks now and there is no reprieve. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My body seems extraordinarily sensitive to hw, so it’s very easy for me to overdose... When I started over (after termination) it was with doses of mostly 5-6 at a time, usually 6 months apart. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2599777423411530/?comment_id=2599896376732968] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2599777423411530/?comment_id=2599896376732968&reply_comment_id=2600025980053341]{{Quote|/indent}}

== Dosing in the long term ==

===Hookworm survival===

The length of time that hookworm hosts can go between doses in the long term depends on three factors.

# The rate of attrition, which is dependent on the strength of the host’s unique immune response to helminths. This is greatest in people with IBD and other intestinal disorders involving inflammation, and is partly determined by host genetics. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25858116] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11921085]. (The authors of one very small study that was reported in 2001 hypothesised that the longevity of adult hookworms is probably determined more by parasite genetics than by host immunity. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11585781] However, this opinion was based on research carried out in a ''far'' smaller sample than that available in the helminthic therapy community, where many hundreds of NA self-treaters have inoculated with larvae from the same stock, but reported losing their worms after widely differing lengths of time. This strongly suggests that host immunity is the major determinant of hookworm longevity.)
# The extent of any use of substances that impact the health of the worms. For details of these, see the [[Human helminth care manual | '''Human helminth care manual''']].
# The number of hookworms that were previously inoculated may also affect the length of time before symptoms begin to return.

Hookworms are reported to survive for 3-10 years [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/627275] but to be capable of living for up to 15 years, [http://www.parasitesinhumans.org/hookworms.html] and possibly even 18 years. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3189697] A ''few'' hookworm self-treaters have been able to enjoy remission from their diseases for more than 5 years after a single inoculation.

{{Quote|indent}}I started using hookworm in 2011. I only had one dose of 5. I was symptom free within 4 months and stayed symptom free for 5 years. (Edited from two posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1025648674157754/?comment_id=1025781867477768&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1025648674157754/?comment_id=1025781867477768&reply_comment_id=1025790644143557&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]){{Quote|/indent}}

However, the experience of most self-treaters suggests that hookworms typically only survive for between 1 and 3 years.

{{Quote|indent}}I inoculated with 10 NA a year and a half ago and had about 14 months of amazing relief. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2057412794314665/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Some hosts, especially those with digestive diseases, can lose their hookworms in as little as 2 or 3 months.

===Long-term dosing is based on individual user experience===

The frequency with which NA hosts need to reinoculate varies widely between individuals.

{{Quote|indent}}It appears I lose my worms every three months. My relative went about five months before her symptoms returned. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1550216578367625/?comment_id=1550314855024464&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

The size of doses required also varies considerably between individual users.

'''In order for hookworm hosts to establish the ideal dose size and dosing frequency for them, they should keep a record of the size and dates of all their doses while they are gradually introducing larvae within their individual tolerance. Once they have achieved remission, they should pause dosing and note the length of time that it takes between their last inoculation and the reappearance of symptoms of their disease. This will provide the best guide to the frequency with which they will need to re-inoculate in the long term in order to maintain uninterrupted remission.'''

{{Quote|indent}}I can tell when the NA die off and I need to take another dose because my gluten sensitivity flares up, my headaches are worse and my aches and pains are worse. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2490868600969080/?comment_id=2491288504260423]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}My previous dose (10 NA) was 5.5 months ago, and some of the baseline symptoms of my so-far "benign MS" were reoccurring… [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1484899438232673/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}One of the symptoms we watch to tell us when the colony is not working at 100% is arthritic knees. Another is dry eye. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/976957299026892/?comment_id=977770718945550&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}… one of the first ways I knew my old colony was dying off was that I was having stomach issues on Monday mornings, after we had our usual Sunday roast dinner and wine etc. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1276571042398848/?comment_id=1604202039635745&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

People who have several conditions may find that, when their colony begins to need reinforcements, symptoms of these conditions may begin to return at different stages. As soon as there is an indication that one condition is returning, and it is clear that the symptoms are not being caused by something else, a top-up dose is likely to be required.
{{Quote|indent}}I know my body well and now know the subtle symptoms of my autoimmunity. When this happens I need to top-up on helminths because my colony is too small to suppress my autoimmune response. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/793033264085964/?comment_id=807794845943139&offset=0&total_comments=10]{{Quote|/indent}}

Waiting until disease symptoms begin to return is not usually a problem with hookworms because attrition is a gradual process, and a proportion of the colony should still be alive when symptoms begin to reappear. These existing residents will usually maintain a degree of immune modulation while a new cohort becomes established, and will themselves be perked up by the arrival of the newcomers, with the result that most people see a fairly rapid return of full benefits.

Once it has been established how long a dose will last (this may vary somewhat according to the size of the dose), future top-up doses should be added in time to prevent a recurrence of symptoms, and a reminder to do this should be set in a diary or phone. Otherwise, mild symptoms may not be recognised as an indication of the need to top up one's colony and could be overlooked, with the result that the self-treater might find themselves in desperate need of a dose.

{{Quote|indent}}The benefits wore off exactly 12 months after first inoculation. I panicked because flare ups came back stronger than ever. Talked to her doctor and we decided to innoculate 20 more immediately, 3 months later she was back to base, we needed azithro during those months to protect her until the helminths were able to kick back in. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1068326963223258/?comment_id=1763994130323201&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Long-term dosing in practice ===

'''After a period of personal experimentation, the majority of hookworm hosts settle on a long-term re-inoculation rate ''equivalent'' to 1 or 2 larvae per week, added at intervals ranging from weekly to twice each year, e.g., 1 or 2 weekly, 2-4 fortnightly, 4-8 monthly, 12-25 quarterly, or 25-50 every six months. A few outliers at either end of the spectrum find that they need to add the ''equivalent'' of only 1 larva every 2 weeks, or as many as 5 larvae each week, but with a maximum of 50 larvae per dose.'''

The following comments illustrate the range of dose sizes and dosing frequency being used, and show that many self-treaters top up at least every 3-6 months.

<blockquote>
'''12 months'''
{{Quote|indent}}Unless I take something that kills them, I probably only need 3 or so, once a year. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3077027792353155/?comment_id=3077049905684277&reply_comment_id=3077177339004867]{{Quote|/indent}}

'''5-6 months'''
{{Quote|indent}}I inoculate with 15 each 5 months, because I swear my baseline symptoms start to return at about 6 months post-inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1990194231036522/?comment_id=1990736610982284&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I need to re-dose every 20 weeks. If I wait longer, symptoms return and I go through worm flu again (though diminished). If I re-dose every 20 weeks, results are more consistent. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1784511358271478/?comment_id=1784929798229634&reply_comment_id=1785466151509332&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I need 25 every six months.{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I inoculate with 30 about every 6 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1019138634808758/?comment_id=1019147878141167&reply_comment_id=1019335101455778&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I need to take 50 every 6 months.{{Quote|/indent}}

'''3-4 months'''
{{Quote|indent}}I find 1-3 NA ok. Five is ok if (my colony is) low. But more than that I have symptoms... I will probably do 2 every 3 months as a topup. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1783444368378177/?comment_id=1783972631658684&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I now take about 7-10 hookworms every 3-4 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1868023383253608/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I dose 20 NA at about 3 month Intervals. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1355341874521764/?comment_id=1358034104252541&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I need 25 every 3 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1422151061174178/?comment_id=1422180437837907&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R3%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I have to redose every three months also. 35 is my magic number. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1422151061174178/?comment_id=1422278597828091&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I take 40 NA every 3 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1422151061174178/?comment_id=1422155307840420&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

'''2-3 months'''
{{Quote|indent}}I do best at 2-3 month redoses. If I wait longer, I wish I hadn't. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1550216578367625/?comment_id=1550226671699949&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I tried 20 NA every 3 months - it gave me worm flu. Now i've gone to 10 NA every 2 months, and it seems to work better for me personally. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3345728918816373/?comment_id=3347513468637918]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I need 40 NA every 8 weeks, for now. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2547577475347854/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I now dose with 40 every 2.5 months. I need a frequent high dose to keep my Crohn's under control. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

'''1-2 months'''
{{Quote|indent}}My brother is now doing 3 NA every 4 weeks and that seems to be good for him as at 10-12 weeks he has return of symptoms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1818402868215660/?comment_id=2078031412252803&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I have to dose with 5 NA per month to stay healthy. I kill them off quicker than most people. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3810264849029442?comment_id=3810326995689894]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I switched to a monthly dosage of 15 NA and that seems to solve the problems. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/helminthes/posts/271247065154284/?comment_id=508584721420516]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I take 5-10 NA every 7-8 weeks. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Migraine,_depression_and_autoimmunity_relieved_by_TSO_and_NA]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I do 5 NA every 7 weeks. If I do it more often, I feel sick and flared up. If I space it out more, my autoimmune symptoms return. I listen to my body and this is what it needs at this point. I journal my symptoms so I’m able to see the patterns. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3271274592928473?comment_id=3272967132759219]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I’m having good results so far with 1 hookworm every 8 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5389503087772269?comment_id=5390808964308348]{{Quote|/indent}}

'''1-2 weeks'''

Several people who began to increase the frequency of doses, while reducing the number of larvae in each dose, have continued this process until they were dosing every one or two weeks.

Someone who is treating ankylosing spondylitis went first from dosing quarterly to adding 10-15 NA every other month. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1150956801626940/?comment_id=1152010544854899&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D] Then, finally, she changed to adding 6 NA every two weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2033965626659382/?comment_id=2034247119964566&reply_comment_id=2034346819954596&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

Someone who had begun inoculating with 30 NA roughly every 6 months, eventually tried adding 5 every month.

{{Quote|indent}}I've recently experimented with 5 every month. I've found that this new schedule is much better at keeping my sinuses clear. I'm beginning to think that the number of larva is much less important than the frequency of inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1258218517567434/]{{Quote|/indent}}

After noting the improvements gained from more frequent dosing, he adopted a fortnightly regimen.

{{Quote|indent}}I've recently started 2-3 hookworm every 2 weeks and am getting much better results than I did with 30 every 6 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1355341874521764/?comment_id=1357764114279540&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1422151061174178/?comment_id=1423257967730154&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

And he has since changed to weekly dosing with just one larva.

'''The additional exposure to migrating larvae facilitated by more frequent inoculations may provide increased immune stimulation.'''

{{Quote|indent}}… the larval phase of infection rather than the persisting egg-laying adult worms may be largely responsible for the cytokine production and so responders may be the more frequently/more recently exposed individuals. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16232230]{{Quote|/indent}}
</blockquote>

=== Trickle dosing, and sensitisation to NA ===

In his book, [http://www.amazon.com/Epidemic-Absence-Understanding-Allergies-Autoimmune/dp/1439199396/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425239128&sr=8-1&keywords=An+Epidemic+of+Absence An Epidemic of Absence], Moises Velasquez-Manoff mentions that light, transitory, hookworm infections may prime allergic disease, and some other commentators have suggested that trickle dosing with hookworms (adding one or two larvae every week or fortnight) could present a potential risk of increased sensitisation to them, perhaps reducing the maximum number that can successfully colonise. However, feedback from self-treaters suggests that regular trickle dosing does not cause sensitisation in someoe with an established colony, but that the addition of too many worms too quickly can do, especially in hypersensitive individuals when first hosting NA or when re-stocking after a colony collapse.

{{Quote|indent}}My immune system has become extremely sensitive to NA. I can’t tolerate taking even 3 to 5 NA. My guess this has happened because I took large doses of them when I began… in the early days (12 years ago) when helminthic therapy was new. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}(After starting hookworm therapy with doses of 50, 40 and 35 NA) my immune system now can’t tolerate more than 10-12 NA on board at any one time. I’m 7 years into this therapy, so my acquired hypersensitivity to NA appears to be permanent. I’m quite confident that if I’d taken smaller doses to start with, I could have gotten all the benefits of this therapy without the permanent damage. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5070971286292119?comment_id=5073216279400953&reply_comment_id=5073891886000059]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My wife lost her colony due to an 8 days treatment of antibiotics. As we were in a hurry to replenish her colony, and so inoculating 20 every 20 days, she became sensitized to them. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/795036227219001/?comment_id=796617140394243&offset=0&total_comments=17]{{Quote|/indent}}

The individual whose experience is described in this last quote found that, in her case, re-inoculating with 8-10 NA larvae every 6-8 weeks following the loss of her colony also resulted in sensitisation to the worms. Foods then began to cause the symptoms that she experienced prior to first using NA, and which she associates with allergy: brain fog, blurry vision, tiredness, grumpiness and lack of motivation.

The risk of sensitisation to hookworms as a result of introducing too many larve too soon, either when first commencing the treatment or following a colony collapse is likely to be highest in hypersensitive subjects and those with allergies, and this is one of the reasons why it is important to start hookworm therapy with no more than 5 larvae (just 3, or less, for the hypersensitive and those with [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''certain other conditions''']]), and then only to increase the size of supplementary doses very gradually so that any side effects that do develop will appear at a manageable rate rather than become suddenly so severe that termination is needed.

Trickle dosing can work well for those who built their colonies gradually, either in the beginning or after a colony collapse.

{{Quote|indent}}I’m having good results so far with 1 hookworm every 8 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5389503087772269?comment_id=5390808964308348]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Trickle dosing seems very effective for many, even just 2 or 3 NA but taken every week. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6780353308687233?comment_id=6785745858147978]{{Quote|/indent}}

It might be assumed that those who choose to dose every week or fortnight would have an almost continuous rash, but the rash caused by 1-3 larvae is usually minimal. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1355341874521764/?comment_id=1357807520941866&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

{{Quote|indent}}I currently inoculate with 1 hookworm larva every week, so my initial itch is muted enough that it doesn't tell me for sure if the larva made it. But the [[The helminthic therapy bounce | bounce]] that night does. And I get a small itchy rash a couple days later that confirms it. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1465250213530929/?comment_id=1465263893529561&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===Dose size and frequency may need adjustment over time===

Response to helminths may change over time, requiring some adjustment to dosing.
{{Quote|indent}}After 10 years of using helminths my body has changed and reactions to helminths have changed. I find hookworms cause more symptoms at smaller doses (so) my treatment requires tweaking of dosage, timing,
amounts. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/977396905649598/?comment_id=977549362301019&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I’ve been using hookworms for 7 years, mostly for MS, with overall good success. I found I did well with VERY low doses, sometimes adding only 3 in a year. Then, two years ago, I got a back injury that wouldn’t heal, and finally decided the back pain may be autoimmune. With a section of my lumbar spine trying to fuse, I’m going with ankylosing spondylitis, and I’m now finding that I need to dose more frequently. Still experimenting, but it’s looking like 1 or 2 new hookworms every 8 weeks might be my new dosing schedule. I’m getting 80-90% improvements in back pain within 24 hours after a dose, but the effects fade in 8-9 weeks, even though I have a colony that seems healthy and is producing plenty of larvae. (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5345265455529366?comment_id=5346763752046203 this post].){{Quote|/indent}}

Some people may even experience seasonal changes in their response that also require adjustments to dosing.
{{Quote|indent}}Time of year also makes a difference for me. My autoimmunity is stronger in the winter months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/977396905649598/?comment_id=977549362301019&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

== Colony size ==

It is impossible to determine how many hookworms are being hosted at any given time because there is no reliable test for this. Neither can the size of a colony be ascertained by adding up the doses that have been inoculated previously, because attrition is constantly taking its toll on intestinal worms, killing them at widely varying rates in different individuals. '''So, rather than aiming for any notional colony size, the best approach is for individuals to observe their response to each of the doses they add over time and to use this knowledge to determine what size and frequency of top-up doses will enable them to keep their disease in remission'''.

{{Quote|indent}}Don't worry too much about colony size. I take 10 NA every 3 to 4 months and TTO every 2 weeks. The first year, my symptoms returned after I waited too long to take more NA, so I think the key is to just get that regular influx every few months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2058945780828033/?comment_id=2060499587339319&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The regularity by which I inoculate is more important than the exact figure, and the once a month suits me much better. It might be the process the body undergoes when newly infected, or young NA may ooze different molecules, I don’t know, but I find there is something to that, rather than making sure I have an established colony of x amount of NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3697257550330173/?comment_id=4769197606469490&reply_comment_id=4770227353033182&notif_id=1645266893425480&ref=notif&notif_t=group_threaded_same_level_comment_reply]{{Quote|/indent}}

Since a few hookworm hosts may not achieve remission for up to 2 years, it may not be possible for them to see any obvious connection during this time between the number of worms inoculated and their effects, so a lack of benefits within this period may not necessarily indicate a need to add more worms. However, people with a higher attrition rate may lose their worms long before they reach 2 years, so it is essential during this period to maintain the colony by adding supplementary doses as discussed above.

Some people do extremely well with a relatively small number of hookworms.
{{Quote|indent}}For the last 2 weeks my son has been able to stroke and even hug the dogs without getting a severe allergic reaction. Plus he hasn’t needed to use anti-histamines for weeks now - by just hosting 5 hookworms!! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/922126054510017/?comment_id=962841063771849&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R5%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I took one batch of 25 NA last year because I was experiencing pain and swelling every day from Graves and Hashimoto's diseases. I had a dramatic reduction in swelling and pain (and) lost about 15lbs of water weight. A few months later, I got pregnant, and did not have a miscarriage (I had 3 earlier that might have had something to do with the thyroid diseases). My TSH, T3 & T4 levels stabilized right before the pregnancy, they followed the "textbook" levels through the pregnancy and stabilized right after as well. My antibody levels for both diseases dropped. My Endo ... said - ‘the improvements are real - and they are unexpected.’ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912545925468030/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I am 7 months in to treatment for dermatomyositis and other autoimmune problems. I have 35 hookworms and have recovered almost completely. I had sun sensitivity, food allergies and skin problems which are all gone. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/994309130625042/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Others have claimed they needed to establish a colony of between 100 and 150, and even as many as 200 hookworms. However, since there is no reliable way to establish how many worms are being hosted, and since attrition rates very widely between individuals, it cannot be assumed that someone who has inoculated with 4 doses of 25 NA over a year will have a colony of 100 at the end of that period. Any improvement in such cases is much more likely to have been the result of the length of time that these individuals had been hosting worms, rather than the number inoculated. The benefits of hosting hookworms can continue to accrue gradually during the first two years, whatever dosing schedule has been employed.

===Overdosing on hookworms===

There is a risk that attempting to increase the size of a colony without an obvious need to do so may cause a loss of benefits.
{{Quote|indent}}I tried NA for many years but after initial success I crashed completely due to overdosing and never got back on track. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2166466753409268/?comment_id=2166516453404298&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I dosed up to around 100 hookworms (for total food intolerance) and lost all my tolerance to foods again. We killed the hookworms off and I've had 3 new doses so I now have 35 hookworms. It took a while but I am back to eating a lot broader range of foods. So when it comes to hookworm dosing, It seems (for me anyway) that a smaller amount of worms works better. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/915392701850019/?comment_id=1558513684204581&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have lost 80% of benefits in the 14 weeks since (my third) dose. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/951907411531881/?comment_id=954799641242658&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

This loss of benefits as a result of exceeding a personal dosing limit is seen particularly, but not exclusively, in those on the hypersensitivity spectrum.
{{Quote|indent}}For me too many worms causes exactly the same symptoms as no worms at all! After being able to eat everything I wanted for 2 amazing years, cracks started to appear and eventually I crashed and was back to just 10 foods. It took a long time to work out that this was the result of too many worms rather than too few. After killing my previous colony I started afresh. About 4 weeks after the second inoculation I could again eat everything I wanted! (Post now deleted.){{Quote|/indent}}

In addition to a loss of benefits caused by overdosing on hookworms, there can also be excessive side effects.

{{Quote|indent}}I definitely had an aggravation from too many hookworms (at six months into my treatment, and after a dose of 50) and I think that I may have been able to get into a much better place by knocking the hookworms back. I had felt so good on them at their best I was very hesitant to eliminate them. I did the abendazole 100mg caps twice per day for three days but doubt I killed them all… now my aggravation symptoms (anxiety and diarrhea) are greatly diminished. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/986981108024511/?comment_id=986992398023382&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

In some cases, side effects - especially diarrhoea - can persist for some time after a colony has been terminated.

===Reducing the size of a hookworm colony===

If too many worms have been added, resulting in unmanageable side effects, it may not be necessary to terminate the entire colony. Carrying out a partial cull should reduce the severity of the side effects while leaving some worms to continue the therapy.

A partial cull can be achieved by using any of the substances categorised in the [[Human helminth care manual | '''Human helminth care manual''']] as being potentially lethal to human helminths (marked with an ❌), although the effects of these substances will not be as predictable as those of an anthelmintic drug. The details on the [[Terminating a helminth infection | '''Terminating a helminth infection''']] page can be used to tailor a cull to meet the individual self-treater’s particular needs. For example, a single 500mg dose of mebendazole may kill approximately 30% of a colony of NA and, if this doesn't provide sufficient relief from the side effects, further doses of the drug can be taken as required.

===Is there a constitutive limit on colony size?===

Croese, et al., observed that the size of hookworm colony returned to the pre-inoculation level by week 21 and, even though this study using capsule endoscopy had involved only two subjects, it’s authors opined that there is a colony size status quo that is constitutively set by the host.

* [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16890593 Allergy controls the population density of Necator americanus in the small intestine]

This assertion by Croese, et al., appears to be contradicted by the findings of a more recent study in which a colony of NA observed in a patient was described as "massive".

* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25926209 Obscure overt gastrointestinal bleeding due to Necator americanus diagnosed by double-balloon enteroscopy]

There may also be different degrees of predisposition to hookworm infection in different groups, e.g., young/old, male/female, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29382360] and other influences on colony size may include blood group. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23286203]

Before these more recent studies were published, the earlier paper by Croese, et al., had prompted the following discussion in the Helminthic Therapy Support group on Facebook.
{{Expando|Read the full discussion...}}
'''DD'''
{{Quote|indent}}It has recently come to my attention that two Australian researchers, Drs Croese and Speare, inoculated with hookworm and then did capsule endoscopy (swallowed a pill camera). It seems that no matter how many they inoculated with (50-100), Dr. Croese always ended up with 6-9 living adult worms and Dr. Speare always ended up with about 16.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''TC'''
{{Quote|indent}}this doesn't quite made sense to me. we already know many people in countries where hookworm are endemic have too many of them, to the point of becoming anemic.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''LE'''
{{Quote|indent}}It doesn't really make sense to me either, but OTOH, anecdotally, I've read similar things, that maybe the established worms have a way of preventing new ones from doing well. There is a lot of contradictory information. The other issue is that people in the developing world can be getting inoculated on a daily basis. It doesn't seem to me that a pill camera would necessarily image every square millimeter of intestine, though.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''DD'''
{{Quote|indent}}I understand that most people 'in the wild' have a small number too. It is only a few who can't seem to control the number and have enough for anemia. This could also explain why nobody is reporting anemia among us users even though several have inoculated with relatively large doses. I agree LE, that perhaps some could be missed by pill cam. But I wouldn't think it would be many.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''LE'''
{{Quote|indent}}Then the issue, too, if you start out low and slow is what is the carrying capacity going to be? If you only got 7, maybe your carrying capacity is 15. Or is it going to lock at 7 because that's what you started with? My daughter definitely seems better after a significant top off, the rest of us, it's hard to see much difference yet.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''DD'''
{{Quote|indent}}I suspect that if your carrying capacity was 15 then it wouldn't change if you started with 7. I imagine it could change though based on other factors. For instance, I suspect it might grow with age as our immune systems become less robust.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''KK'''
{{Quote|indent}}since it was only two guys who did the pill cam, that is not a very big representation of any population. u all have seen so many variables amongst us all, and wherein, for example, some seem to only be able to carry their worms for a relatively short time period and then they die, repeatedly, that this could just be an individual thing that these two men happened to share.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''BS'''
{{Quote|indent}}It is a fascinating thing to speculate on how many we actually have and whether our immune systems or the worms themselves regulate our worm carrying capacity.

If this is the rule for hookworm, though, such that a dose of 15 or 50 or 100 or repeated top up doses all result in the same worm load, I wonder how to account for a few things from the historical record.

1) The Italians building the Gotthard tunnel in the late 19th century - they not only got very sick, but many of them died of congestive heart failure. If the worm load is independent of repeated doses and only depends on the individual's predetermined load based on genetics or whatever, what would explain such an epidemic? The tunnel workers likely mostly already had hookworm (how else would it have got into the tunnel in the first place?), so if repeated doses did not increase their loads, why did they go from asymptomatic as a group to sick enough to lead to the discovery of AD?

2) I have the same question for the history of the southern US and NA. Hookworm overloading due to repeated dosing was supposed to be significant enough to cause anemia in enough people to decimate the economy and motivate founding of the rockefeller commission to combat it. Moreover, if repeated dosing does not increase the worm load for most of the population, why was the rockefeller solution, which primarily involved latrines to limit re-infection, so effective that the whole economy was successfully recovered. They did not give everyone multiple doses of mebendazole, so it's not like hookworm was being eliminated. The effect could only be due to reduced worm loads. If the ultimate equilibrium load is not affected by repeated dosing, how can it then go down so profoundly merely be stopping the repeat dosing?

If either hookworm species really behaves in such a benign way, it would also be unique among parasitic eukaryotes.

I suppose it's also possible that even if the adult equilibrium population is independent of dosing magnitude and frequency, that the therapeutic effect may still depend more on how many helminths you are dosed with than how many survive.

Then the situation with NA would be more analogous to TSO - in TSO it the immune response to the attempted infestation that must be doing the trick as there is no persistent infection with adult TS? The effects we get with NA may be similarly be related to the transit of larvae

So it does not follow that even if equilibrium worm load remains the same that it is useless to top up or that larger doses are not more effective.

But I still am skeptical that worm load is a zero order function with respect to dose magnitude and frequency. I'm sure it's not perfectly linear, but there is no other way to account for populations being devastated by poor sanitation than that there is some increase in load with increasing area under the curve for dose....

There is a way that I might trust to actually count worms and it would not be that hard to do. One could make a monoclonal antibody to NA and then bind it to radioactive technetium. Lay down under a gamma camera and you might be able to resolve the number of worms if they were somewhat spread out.

I am a bit skeptical that a pill cam will see them all, given the size of colonic lesions I've seen missed by colonoscopy.

And then there is the Pritchard dose ranging study. Although the numbers were small, the people getting larger doses were pretty reliably sicker and had larger immune responses to match. One would have to believe that the worms were having attrition well after the establishment of enteritis-causing adults in the gut - an attrition that is proportional to the initial dose. More than proportional to the initial dose, actually.

IOW, the immune response is more than proportional to the initial dose, but does not prevent adults attaching to the mucosa long enough to cause eosinophilic enteritis.

And then one would have to further believe that most of the adults attached to the mucosa are then later successfully eliminated, and that the higher the initial dose, the higher fraction of worms are killed by the immune system. Otherwise, the higher the initial dose, the higher the ultimate worm load and we are back to square one.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''JL'''
{{Quote|indent}}Whether new worms displace old ones has been documented in those with Crohn's taking very large doses (50 at a shot), but I doubt it occurs in anyone without either Crohn's, Coeliac or UC. Or intestinal allergies and perhaps IBS, too.{{Quote|/indent}}
'''MD'''
{{Quote|indent}}I did read the Croese paper quite a long time ago but really did not take much notice of it for the following reasons. I can not see how HW could pose any sort of risk to health in environments where infection is uncontrolled if there were some mechanism which allowed the body to keep numbers so low.

So if we are capable of limiting HW number it is clear that even in someone who was malnourished the presence of approx 20 HW is going to have almost no effect, therefore either the observation that HW have historically been a major cause of morbidity and mortality is incorrect, and people were developing anaemia and other health problems attributed to HW but actually due to other causes.

Or final HW numbers are a direct result of the number of exposures and there is no limiting factor to the final population, allowing numbers that are large enough to cause or contribute to pathology. If this is the case, which I believe it is, there must simply be some factor or variable in Croese's experiments that resulted in numbers being limited. Just because something gets into print does not mean that it is not open to mistakes (experimental) and misinterpretation of experimental data.{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Expando}}

== Colony collapse ==

Occasionally, hookworm hosts may experience the total loss of their colony, possibly as a result of taking certain antibiotics or consuming one of the other substances that are capable of harming hookworms. (For more details, see the [[Human helminth care manual | '''Human Helminth Care Manual''']].) Colony collapse is uncommon, as is the need to deliberately terminate a colony and start over, but, if it does occur, disease symptoms may return rapidly.

{{Quote|indent}}When I took antibiotics, my symptoms returned within 2 days. It was incredibly eye opening and scary. I forgot how much they were helping. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3098056870250247/?comment_id=3109154112473856]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}When I lost mine, it was apparent the next day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1003791383010150/] I felt as though I had been hit by a truck ... and it didn't go away. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1003791383010150/?comment_id=1003868963002392&reply_comment_id=1003870503002238&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R5%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}When they (NA) died off, and I didn’t reinoculate for a month because the shipment was late, I completely relapsed. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3028113193911282/?comment_id=3029321047123830&reply_comment_id=3029767700412498]{{Quote|/indent}}

Some subjects have reported a more gradual loss of benefits after a colony collapse, this difference perhaps being due to these individuals having hosted worms for a longer period.
{{Quote|indent}}During about 5 weeks after the Albendazole, she felt OK but little by little allergy symptoms started to appear. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1005760636146558/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I gradually began to notice increased brain fog, my lips became drier than usual and my skin slightly more itchy. Then, at around three weeks after the severe diarrhoea (induced by excessive binging on sauerkraut), I began to experience a return of nasal congestion... Daily headaches also returned around this time, my appetite was non-existent, and food tolerance was somewhat reduced... My concentration got worse and I was needing more sleep again... Then, I noticed definite hints of Restless Leg Syndrome when I took a nap, and my gut began to become sore after eating. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/385931704796124/?comment_id=386773128045315&offset=0&total_comments=27]{{Quote|/indent}}

When a colony is lost before any benefits have been experienced, the host may not know that their worms have succumbed. This is one reason why it's important to continue to add supplementary doses at 12 week intervals until benefits have become obvious.

=== Restocking after a loss of hookworms ===

In the absence of any existing worms to modulate the immune response to a replacement dose following a colony collapse, this dose should be of an appropriately limited size, perhaps similar to the dose that was used at the very beginning of treatment, if this proved to be effective without causing undue side effects.

A full return of benefits may take a while, and the length of time varies between individuals.

{{Quote|indent}}I killed off my colony with 5 days at albendazole. I inoculated with 20 about a week later and got results in 6-7 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4777138182342099?comment_id=4777576998964884]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It’s now 10 weeks after my new colony was started and my legs (Restless Legs syndrome) have been mostly calm for about 2 weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2691889877533617/?comment_id=2692808750775063&reply_comment_id=2693035944085677]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The benefits returned 12 weeks after my first inoculation after this (colony collapse) happened, even though it took about 8 months to get benefits the first time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2526516047404335/?comment_id=2526543394068267]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It took a solid 20 weeks to recover and see most of the symptoms go away, and another 4-8 weeks after that to eat some gluten and nightshades. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3028113193911282/?comment_id=3029321047123830&reply_comment_id=3029767700412498]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It has taken easily 6 months to get back to where I was. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3098056870250247/?comment_id=3109154112473856]{{Quote|/indent}}

Some benefits may return more quickly than others.

{{Quote|indent}}I experienced small but noticeable benefit within 10 days. However it took another year to approach the benefits that I had just begun to experience before my third dose. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2599777423411530/?comment_id=2599896376732968]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Almost two weeks after the new team of worms went in, I was again enjoying a degree of relief, though I still had some way to go before I was back to my usual wormy bliss. I was still getting a little nasal congestion, some brain fog and a lot of headaches, but I was once again free from the Restless Leg Syndrome. The last symptom to go was nasal congestion, which continued to be a problem until 12 weeks, when it became significantly easier, though it didn't go completely until almost week 20, at which point I was pretty much back to how I had been before the explosive diarrhoea (induced by excessive binging on sauerkraut) that had flushed out my worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/385931704796124/?comment_id=386773128045315&offset=0&total_comments=27]{{Quote|/indent}}

==Hookworm dosing in children==

Children are usually introduced to hookworms with a first dose of 3, or possibly 5, larvae, but no more than 3 if they have one of the [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing''']].

{{Quote|indent}}My son was born with severe allergies to cows milk protein (bleeding rectally at 4 months) and developed really horrible eczema. First dose I gave him was 3 HW and it got rid of his eczema. Second dose was at age 4, 3rd at age 5. Up until the age of 5 he was given no more than 3hw at a time once a year and it worked. As he grew older, he needed more. At age 5, I gave him 5 worms, if i recall correctly, and dosed 2x a year. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3764345383621389/?comment_id=3765533550169239]{{Quote|/indent}}

Based on the child’s experience with the first dose, subsequent doses can be increased gradually, if required, using the approach described above in the [[Hookworm dosing and response#Supplementary doses | '''Supplementary doses''']] section.

Some children ''may'' eventually be able to tolerate doses of up to 25 larvae, and might benefit from being given these larger numbers, once they have an established hookworm colony.

{{Quote|indent}}We gave him 5, 5, 10, and 25, over 18 months. He would flare up after a while so we always figured the worms had stopped working. And sure enough once he’d had another dose, three months later he’d be perfect skin again. So the final dose of 25 has lasted us much longer and seems like he just needed higher numbers. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1992070807515531/?comment_id=2002078103181468&reply_comment_id=2005571822832096&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Also see the following page.

* [[Helminthic therapy and children | '''Helminthic therapy and children''']]

==See also==

* [[Hookworm timeline | '''Hookworm timeline''']]
* [[Hookworm side effects | '''Hookworm side effects''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy FAQ#How long does helminthic therapy take to effect a cure? | '''How long does helminthic therapy take to effect a cure?''']]

Helminthic therapy research

2024-09-04T03:18:58Z

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This page lists almost 900 papers and reports of scientific studies relating to helminthic therapy and closely associated topics such as the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygiene_hypothesis Hygiene Hypothesis], the [http://evmedreview.com/?p=103 Old Friends' Hypothesis], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mismatch_theory Evolutionary Mismatch Theory] and [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21741180 Biome Depletion Theory] / [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29133248 Biota Alteration Theory].

There are four organisms being used currently in helminthic therapy.

* Human hookworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necator_americanus Necator americanus] (NA)
* Human whipworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichuris_trichiura Trichuris trichiura] (TTO)
* Pig whipworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichuris_suis Trichuris suis] (TSO)
* Rat tapeworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hymenolepis_diminuta Hymenolepis diminuta] (HDC)

Some of the reports and papers listed below have focussed on the effects of other species of helminth, or molecules derived from them, but all are nevertheless valuable for the insights they provide about the therapeutic and prophylactic effects of helminths.

<div class="toclimit-2">__TOC__</div>

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<div style="border:1px solid #BFA3AF;background-color:#F2CEDD;padding-left:8px;"><h2 style = "margin-top:10px;border:0px solid #CEDFF2;">What researchers say about helminthic therapy</h2></div>

The following quotes illustrate the thinking among researchers who have investigated the therapeutic use of living helminths.

{{Quote|indent}}Although some helminths are known to cause disease and have been labeled parasites, it is now clear that some exposure to this class of organisms is necessary for human health. (Bono-Lunn et al) [https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10601333.2016.1210159]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The results strongly support previous indications that helminth therapy can effectively treat a wide range of allergies, autoimmune conditions and neuropsychiatric disorders. (Liu et al) [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27240605/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}What was a costly and sometimes risky venture into the unknown, undertaken by only a few 10 years ago, is rapidly becoming a readily available and well-established resource currently used by thousands of individuals. (Cheng et al, 2015) [[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf | (PDF)]]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Although self-treatment with helminths cannot be recommended by medical professionals due to a lack of blinded, placebo controlled trials, neither should it be discouraged since the available evidence suggests that it is beneficial in most cases when practiced by knowledgeable individuals. (Parker and Morey) [https://evmedreview.com/progress-on-reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}In developed countries, where we are well nourished, worms are potentially good. If I had Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or multiple sclerosis, I would infect myself without hesitation. (Prof Alex Loukas, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine) [http://lifeonus.vhx.tv]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Some patients with milder disease or more inclined for natural treatments may consider this as an option. (Prof Constantinescu, Nottingham University, commenting about Multiple Sclerosis.) [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200618150223.htm]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}All immunocompetent humans need regular exposure to helminths in order to maintain optimal immune function and avoid risk for inflammation-associated disease… access to helminths is a basic human need. (Smyth et al) [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29064448]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}We need to embrace the view that helminths are a necessary component of the ecosystem of a healthy body, and that helminths should be cultivated for population-wide biota restoration. (Villeneuve et al) [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1286457917301855?via%3Dihub]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Biome reconstitution… holds a promise for exposure of all individuals to naturally occurring organisms or selected variants of those organisms in a way that is required for human health. Such exposure must be considered a fundamental human right worthy of government support rather than an option for pharmaceutical development. (Parker and Ollerton) [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24481190]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}In some not too distant futurity, there may come a day when we all take ‘helminth supplements’ along with our Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins, and whatever else goes to make up a modern balanced diet. (Zaccone et al) [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16965287]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Twenty years from now everybody is going to have a helminth, and no insurance company will begin to cover you if you don’t have your helminths. We’re very confident in the science, that every single human being needs a helminth. It’s part of our biology. (Prof William Parker, Duke University, 2016) [https://web.archive.org/web/20221227042743/https://centerforhealthjournalism.org/fellowships/projects/hooked-hookworms-and-other-parasites]{{Quote|/indent}}
</div>

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<div style="border:1px solid #A3B0BF;background-color:#CEDFF2;padding-left:8px;"><h2 style = "margin-top:10px;border:0px solid #CEDFF2;">Reading packet</h2></div>
These selected papers provide a good overview of the potential of helminthic therapy and would be suitable resources to include in a reading packet to be given to a doctor or other medical professional, or to someone who is unaware of the evidence and rationale for helminthic therapy. The first three papers provide validation for the practice of self-treatment with helminths.

* [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383576921002063?via%3Dihub Socio-medical studies of individuals self-treating with helminths provide insight into clinical trial design for assessing helminth therapy] (2022) This study's findings suggested that information gathered by the helminthic therapy self-treatment community may be critical for public health in offering a solution to the helminth deficiency that is a fundamental cause of disease in Western society.

* [[media:Practices_and_outcomes_of_self-treatment_with_helminths_based_on_physicians_observations.pdf | Practices and outcomes of self-treatment with helminths based on physicians' observations]] (PDF) (2016) The first study to examine, through the eyes of their physicians, the practices and experiences of individuals who are self-treating with helminths.

* [[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf | Overcoming Evolutionary Mismatch by Self-Treatment with Helminths: Current Practices and Experience]] (PDF) (2015) This study probes the methods and outcomes reported by individuals who are self-treating with helminths and is an ideal basis for discussion between patients and their physicians.

* [http://www.yourwildlife.org/2015/05/ecological-medicine-can-parasitic-worms-cure-us-of-our-modern-pandemics/ Ecological Medicine: Can intestinal worms cure us of our modern pandemics?] (2015) An excellent article in its own right, this is also a good introduction to the paper immediately above.

* [http://jeffollerton.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/parker-and-ollerton-2013-biome-reonstitution-emph.pdf Evolutionary biology and anthropology suggest biome reconstitution as a necessary approach toward dealing with immune disorders] (2013) Explains how the modern pandemics of autoimmune, inflammatory and allergic diseases are due to the loss of species - especially helminths - from the human ecosystem.

* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744090/?report=classic Helminth–host immunological interactions: prevention and control of immune-mediated diseases] (2012) Summarises the science underpinning helminthic therapy.

* [http://evmedreview.com/reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/ Reconstituting the depleted biome to prevent immune disorders] (2010) Explains why replacing absent "old friends" may be the only reasonable therapy for a wide range of immune-associated disorders, including allergy, autoimmunity and autism.
</div>

== Problems with clinical trials using live helminths ==

Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) are considered to be the "gold standard" experimental method for researching medical treatments, but the evidence produced by RCTs that have looked at the efficacy of helminthic therapy has been starkly at odds with the many independent lines of evidence that have converged to demonstrate the significant health benefits of hosting helminths.

An extensive body of data from epidemiologic studies, clinical observations, and investigations using animal models, has pointed very clearly to the idea that humans need exposure to helminths in order to enjoy optimal immune function, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Introduction_to_helminthic_therapy#Humans_need_helminths] and many hundreds of reports by helminthic therapy self-treaters that are featured in this wiki and elsewhere attest to the therapeutic benefits of re-worming. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories]

So why is there such a chasmic divergence between the results from the majority of RCTs and the evidence from other sources of data? One explanation has been put forward by a team of socio-medical researchers.

{{Quote|indent}}Unfortunately, for a variety of economic, regulatory, and practical issues surrounding the conduct of clinical trials, mainstream trials have thus far been unable to accommodate the nuances of helminth therapy. Foremost among the issues that clinical trials must address before they can effectively test the potential for helminth therapy are (a) details in formulation of the helminth product that affect efficacy, and (b) the very wide range of doses typically needed within a cohort of individuals. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737071/]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Trials of pig whipworm ova (TSO) ===

 The first helminth to be systematically investigated by researchers was TSO, the ova of the pig whipworm, Trichuris suis, and results from early trials of TSO carried out in the first few years of the 21st century were very encouraging. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14499784/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15591509/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15825065/] But a raft of twelve trials carried out by a different research team between 2008 and 2017, to investigate the effect of TSO in five different diseases, produced such universally lacklustre results that all but three of them were discontinued prematurely. [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00645749] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25698173/] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01040221] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01279577] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01413243] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01433471] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01836939] [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01948271] [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01953354] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27707789/] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02140112] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33572978/]

The researchers involved in this unprecedented project made two critical errors in their study design, the first of which was to use a trial length of only 12 weeks. While this is the standard trial period used in pharmaceutical research, it is not appropriate for studies of live helminths such as TSO, which typically only begins to deliver benefits after 8 weeks, and remission only after 20 weeks, with even longer waits experienced by some patients with severe or chronic disease.

Arguably the most critical mistake was to insist on the use of a novel TSO formulation with a pH of 5.0, even though the investigators were advised against this by the product’s manufacturer, who knew from his own product development work that TSO is most effective when formulated with a pH of 2.4, the formulation used in the earlier, more successful trials. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28720335/] (No abstract | [[media:Not_infection_with_parasitic_worms_but_rather_colonization_with_therapeutic_helminths.pdf | Full text PDF]])

Other significant errors in the design of these trials included the use of a single dose size for all participants, when it is known that the helminth dosage requirements of individuals can vary by as much as a factor of 10. Poor subject selection was also revealed by the high rate of improvement in the placebo group in some trials.

With so few clinical trials of helminthic therapy having been carried out previously, the sheer number of these “failed” studies overwhelmed the existing helminthic therapy research base to deliver a body blow to the therapy’s reputation that has set back progress by at least 20 years.

Other researchers began referencing these trials in support of assertions that TSO is ineffective. For example, four of these trials were included in a meta-analysis of six studies which concluded that TSO therapy showed no statistical benefit for IBD patients. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30142867/] Apart from the issues with the product's pH, only one of the trials reviewed in this analysis had lasted for longer than 12 weeks, and the remit of that particular study was only to assess the safety and tolerability (not efficacy) of a '''''single''''' dose of TSO.   

=== Trialing the human hookworm (NA) ===

TSO is not the only living helminth to have failed to impress when tested using methods that were developed to assess the efficacy of pharmaceutical products.

In 2007, Correale and Farez had revealed that patients with multiple sclerosis who were hosting a variety of helminths, including hookworms, experienced a reduced number of disease exacerbations compared with patients who were helminth-free. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/e/ec/Association_Between_Parasite_Infection_and_Immune_Responses_in_Multiple_Sclerosis_.pdf] And socio-medical research has shown that NA is extremely effective in the treatment of MS, with a success rate of approximately 50% for the progressive form of the disease and more than 90% for relapsing-remitting MS. [[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf|(PDF)]]

However, when researchers at Nottingham University carried out a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial in which patients with RRMS were experimentally colonised by the hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), they concluded that this helminth appeared to be ineffective against this disease because the particular statistical endpoint determined for the trial had not been reached, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32539079/] even though the data revealed that more than half the patients given NA had not developed any new lesions. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200618150223.htm]

In order to avoid repeating the design errors made by the teams responsible for previous trials, future studies exploring the therapeutic potential of NA need to take into account the following issues.

:1. For any form of helminthic therapy to be effective, it is essential to maintain ''continuing'' exposure to the selected organism. Unfortunately, the period of survival of a helminth varies considerably between individual hosts, and the experience of self-treaters has shown that, in the case of NA, survival of the organism ranges from several years to as little as two months. (See [[Self-treating with NA#Hookworm lifespan |'''Hookworm lifespan''']].)

:2. There is more than a 10-fold difference in the level of helminth dosing required to achieve disease remission in different human hosts. Until such time as there are tests capable of providing guidance about the extent of dosing that might be required by each individual, determination of the optimum dosing regimen (the number of larvae in, and the intervals between, each dose) will require the employment by each self-treater of an individualised dose-finding protocol, which can be a lengthy process in the case of NA. (See [[Hookworm dosing and response#Long-term dosing is based on individual user experience | '''Long-term dosing is based on individual user experience''']].)

:3. The benefits derived from hosting NA can take a long time to develop in some cases. While some benefits may appear within weeks, these do not become consistent until at least 12 weeks, and more typically only appear between 3 and 6 months after the initial inoculation. In a few cases, benefits can take up to two years before making their first appearance, and there have even been rare cases in which clear benefits only appeared during the third year. (See [[Hookworm dosing and response#Consistent improvement can begin anytime from 3 to 24 months | '''Consistent improvement can begin anytime from 3 to 24 months''']].)

: How the above three factors relate to the therapeutic use of NA is explained in detail on the [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']] page of this wiki.

:4. A further factor that can limit the extent of any therapeutic benefit produced by NA is the potential for certain substances to adversely affect, or even kill, this organism in some individuals. Exactly how it is affected in this way is explained in the [[Human helminth care manual |'''Human helminth care manual''']].

:To take the example of oregano, some NA hosts who ingest this herb may experience reduced benefit from their helminths, possibly even losing their entire colony if they eat a sufficiently large quantity of the plant, consume a concentrated extract or tincture of oregano, or take an oregano oil supplement.

:A more complex situation is found with coconut products, some of which are harmless to NA, while others have been reported to have caused varying levels of harm up to, and including, the total eradication of entire colonies.

:Beyond being dependent on the form in which the substance is encountered, and the dose level, the adverse effect of such substances differs widely between hosts. Users of NA are therefore advised to avoid these, and a few other substances, until they are seeing clear and consistent benefits from the therapy, and then to begin gradually to reintroduce them to assess any effects. This way, the hookworm self-treater is able to learn which, if any, of the potentially risky foods, drugs and other substances they might need to avoid in the long term.

:5. The viability of NA larvae has been shown to decrease rapidly over time from a mean of 85% to < 70% within 14 days. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9264692/] Larval age is therefore another crucial variable that needs to be taken into consideration in future clinical trials, and may perhaps explain some of the inconsistencies in previously reported studies.

=== Citizen scientists lead the way ===

Unless the scientists conducting trials to investigate the effects of hosting helminths are able to devise methods to assess them as living organisms rather than as pharmaceutical products, and to take into account the unique and dynamic nature of each individual helminth / host relationship, it is likely that clinical trials will continue to fail to reflect the reality regarding the health benefits of re-worming.

Until this reality is understood, accepted and acted upon by researchers, the best evidence for the benefits of helminth replacement will continue to come from the collated experience of self-treaters.

{{Quote|indent}}… at the present time, systematic data gathering from individuals self-treating may be the most practical and effective means of evaluating the effects of helminth therapy. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737071/]{{Quote|/indent}}

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<div style="border:1px solid #BFA3AF;background-color:#F2CEDD;padding-left:8px;"><h2 style = "margin-top:10px;border:0px solid #CEDFF2;">Tips for searching the list of papers and articles</h2></div>

Symbols used in the list of documents:
* ✅ - A key paper/report in the development of the therapeutic use of helminths
* ⚡ - A good place to start if you are new to helminthic therapy, or if you are looking for resources that would help someone else to understand the therapy.

If you are interested in helminthic therapy in relation to a particular medical condition, use your device’s search
function (the 'Command' and 'F' keys on a desktop or laptop, or 'Find in page' in the drop-down menu from the three dots icon on a mobile) to locate the items that are relevant to that disease. Several conditions will require the use of more than
one search term, for example:
{{Columns|3}}
* '''Allergies''' - search for “allerg”, “atopy” and “anaphylaxis”
* '''Anemia''' - search for “anemia” and “anaemia”
* '''Arthritis''' - search for ”arthrit” and “joint”
* '''Asthma''' - search for “asthma”, “airway” and “wheeze”
* '''Autism''' - search for “autism” and “ASD”
* '''Celiac disease''' - search for “celiac” and “coeliac”
* '''Crohn’s disease''' - search for “Crohn”, “bowel” and “IBD”
* '''Diabetes''' - search for “diabet”, “insulin”, “glucose” and “metabolic”
* '''Heart disease''' - search for “cardio” and “atherosclerosis”
* '''Inflammation''' - search for “inflam”
* '''Leaky gut''' - search for “barrier”
* '''Multiple sclerosis''' - search for “multiple sclerosis” rather than “MS”
* '''Obesity''' - search for “obes” and “adipose”
* '''Pregnancy''' - search for “preg” and “mater”
* '''Ulcerative colitis''' - search for “colitis”, “bowel” and “IBD”
{{Columns}}
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<div style="border:1px solid #A3B0BF;background-color:#CEDFF2;padding-left:8px;"><h2 style = "margin-top:10px;border:0px solid #CEDFF2;">Obtaining copies of scientific papers</h2></div>
Unless otherwise stated, the main links presented below are to PubMed abstracts, with additional links being provided to any full text and PDF copies that were available at the time these were added to our list. (Some full text copies are embargoed for a period of time by their publishers.)

Where full text copies are not available from PubMed, they might be available from [https://www.researchgate.net/search ResearchGate], and many papers can also usually be obtained instantly, free of charge, from Sci-Hub. The availability of this pirate domain fluctuates as a result of continuing legal action by publishers, [https://www.vice.com/en/article/gy7d7j/sci-hub-and-lib-gen-continue-to-get-attacked-around-the-world] but its founder, [https://sci-hub.ru/alexandra Alexandra Elbakyan], constantly provides new site links, the latest of which can usually be found on the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sci-Hub Sci-Hub Wikipedia page]. (See "URL" in the text box under the black bird.)

Recently active Sci-Hub links include the following.

https://sci-hub.ru 
https://sci-hub.sidesgame.com 
https://sci-hub.shop

If you find that Sci-Hub is blocked in your area, try accessing it using a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_private_network virtual private network] (VPN). There should always be several countries that allow access to Sci-Hub's website.

To get a paper from Sci-Hub, copy/paste the title, or preferably the DOI number, of the paper you want into Sci-Hub’s search box. Then hit Return.

If the paper you want is not yet available from Sci-Hub, you will be able to get it free of charge from the Facebook group, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/655550701282346/ Get Your Papers], or from the [http://www.wosonhj.com Mutual Aid-Science Community].

</div>

== '''Research papers & articles''' ==

===2024===

* 2024 Aug 23 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39179288/ Helminth protein enhances wound healing by inhibiting fibrosis and promoting tissue regeneration] (Wound healing)

* 2024 Jul 16 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39013877/ Controlled human hookworm infection remodels plasmacytoid dendritic cells and regulatory T cells towards profiles seen in natural infections in endemic areas] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11252261/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11252261/pdf/41467_2024_Article_50313.pdf PDF]

* ✅ 2024 Jun 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38947109/ Reevaluating Biota Alteration: Reframing Environmental Influences on Chronic Immune Disorders and Exploring Novel Therapeutic Opportunities] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11202117/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11202117/pdf/yjbm_97_2_253.pdf PDF]

* 2024 Jun 21 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39065669/ Pharmaceutical Potential of Remedial Plants and Helminths for Treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11279646// Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11279646/pdf/pharmaceuticals-17-00819.pdf PDF]

* 2024 Apr [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38648862/ Modulation of intestinal epithelial permeability by chronic small intestinal helminth infections] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/imcb.12749 Full text]

* 2024 Mar 22 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38517214/ Association between helminth infection and allergic disorders among children in Batu, Ethiopia] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10959016/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10959016/pdf/IID3-12-e1222.pdf PDF]

* 2024 Jan 31 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38500783/ The parasitic worm product ES-62 protects against collagen-induced arthritis by resetting the gut-bone marrow axis in a microbiome-dependent manner] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7615750/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7615750/pdf/EMS194623.pdf PDF]

===2023===

* 2023 Nov 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38016013/ Immunosuppressive ability of Trichinella spiralis adults can ameliorate type 2 inflammation in a murine allergy model]

* 2023 Sept 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37762428/ The Impact of Intestinal Inflammation on Nematode's Excretory-Secretory Proteome] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10531923/ Full Text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10531923/pdf/ijms-24-14127.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Sept 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37760328/ Severely Asthmatic Horses Residing in a Mediterranean Climate Shed a Significantly Lower Number of Parasite Eggs Compared to Healthy Farm Mates] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10525552/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10525552/pdf/animals-13-02928.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Aug 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37745942/ Hookworm infection induces glycometabolic modulation in South Indian individuals with type 2 diabetes] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10514067/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10514067/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Aug 21 [https://www.labonline.com.au/content/life-scientist/article/hookworms-could-offer-protection-from-severe-covid-1149206477 Hookworms could offer protection from severe COVID]

* 2023 Aug 16 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37585413/ The gut microbiota contributes to changes in the host immune response induced by Trichinella spiralis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10431649/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10431649/pdf/pntd.0011479.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Aug 14 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37580819/ Inhibition of GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis triggered by Trichinella spiralis intervention contributes to the alleviation of DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10424392/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10424392/pdf/13071_2023_Article_5857.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Aug 12 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37579625/ A target-based discovery from a parasitic helminth as a novel therapeutic approach for autoimmune diseases] -- [https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(23)00316-X/fulltext Full text]

* 2023 Aug 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37566678/ Exposure to lung-migrating helminth protects against murine SARS-CoV-2 infection through macrophage-dependent T cell activation]

* 2023 Jul 26 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37495576/ Effect of experimental hookworm infection on insulin resistance in people at risk of type 2 diabetes] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10372076/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10372076/pdf PDF]

* 2023 Jun 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37355675/ Interaction between tissue-dwelling helminth and the gut microbiota drives mucosal immunoregulation] -- [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41522-023-00410-7 Full text]

* 2023 Jun 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37383608/ The Potential Nexus between Helminths and SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Literature Review] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10299886/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10299886/pdf/JIR2023-5544819.pdf PDF]

* 2023 June 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37318363/ Controlled Hookworm Infection for Medication-free Maintenance in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: A Pilot, Double-blind, Randomized Control Trial] -- [https://academic.oup.com/ibdjournal/advance-article/doi/10.1093/ibd/izad110/7198522?login=false Full Text]

* 2023 Apr 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37119907/ Helminth-derived biomacromolecules as therapeutic agents for treating inflammatory and infectious diseases: What lessons do we get from recent findings?]

* 2023 Apr 18 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37189818/ Helminth Lessons in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10135676/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10135676/pdf/biomedicines-11-01200.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Apr [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36848791/ The Trichinella spiralis-derived antigens alleviate HFD-induced obesity and inflammation in mice]

* 2023 Feb 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36827239/ Effects of helminths and anthelmintic treatment on cardiometabolic diseases and risk factors: A systematic review] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9956023/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9956023/pdf/pntd.0011022.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Feb 14 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36788341/ Maternal helminth infection protects offspring from high-fat-diet-induced obesity through altered microbiota and SCFAs]

* 2023 Feb 13 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36780522/ Helminth egg derivatives as proregenerative immunotherapies]

* 2023 Feb 9 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36785786/ COVID-19 morbidity in lower versus higher income populations underscores the need to restore lost biodiversity of eukaryotic symbionts] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9908430/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Jan 25 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36761766/ The helminth derived peptide FhHDM-1 redirects macrophage metabolism towards glutaminolysis to regulate the pro-inflammatory response] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9905698/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9905698/pdf/fimmu-14-1018076.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Jan 18 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36855464/ Protection from T cell-dependent colitis by the helminth-derived immunomodulatory mimic of transforming growth factor-β, Hp-TGM] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9958376/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9958376/pdf/kyad001.pdf PDF]

* 2023 Jan 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36641059/ Heat shock protein 60 in parasitic helminths: a role in immune responses and therapeutic applications]

===2022===

* 2022 Dec 19 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36601618/ Does the trained immune system play an important role in the extreme longevity that is seen in the Sardinian blue zone?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9806115/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9806115/pdf/fragi-03-1069415.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Dec 9 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36569142/ The impact of Helicobacter pylori and intestinal helminth infections on gastric adenocarcinoma and inflammatory bowel disease in Sub-Saharan Africa] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9780450/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9780450/pdf/fmed-09-1013779.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Dec 7 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36476263/ Gut microbiome of helminth-infected indigenous Malaysians is context dependent] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9727879/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9727879/pdf/40168_2022_Article_1385.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Nov 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36558772/ The Tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta as an Important Model Organism in the Experimental Parasitology of the 21st Century] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9784563/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9784563/pdf/pathogens-11-01439.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Nov 10 [https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.11.09.515832v1 Helminth exposure protects against murine SARS-CoV-2 infection through macrophage dependent T cell activation] -- [https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.11.09.515832v1.full Full text] | [https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.11.09.515832v1.full.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Nov 1 [https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/21/13358 Helminths and Bacterial Microbiota: The Interactions of Two of Humans’ “Old Friends”] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/21/13358/htm Full text]

* 2022 Oct 27 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36289514/ Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto and antigen B may decrease inflammatory bowel disease through regulation of M1/2 polarization] -- [https://parasitesandvectors.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13071-022-05498-y Full text]

* 2022 Oct 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36297265/ Inhibition Effects of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and Its Derivatives against Atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- Mice through Anti-Inflammatory Response] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/11/10/1208/htm Full text]

* 2022 Oct 3 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36263053/ Helminth infection and helminth-derived products: A novel therapeutic option for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9573989/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9573989/pdf/fimmu-13-999412.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Sept 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36175934/ Whipworm secretions and their roles in host-parasite interactions] -- [https://parasitesandvectors.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13071-022-05483-5 Full text]

*2022 Sept 9 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36084127/ Cysteine protease of Clonorchis sinensis alleviates DSS-induced colitis in mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9491586/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9491586/pdf/pntd.0010774.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Sept [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35712983/ The effect of helminth infection on vaccine responses in humans and animal models: A systematic review and meta-analysis] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/pim.12939 Full text] | [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/pim.12939 PDF]

* 2022 Aug 31 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36045216/ Food for thought - ILC metabolism in the context of helminth infections] -- [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41385-022-00559-y Full text]

* 2022 Aug 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36105811/ The parasitic worm product ES-62 protects the osteoimmunology axis in a mouse model of obesity-accelerated ageing] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9465317/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9465317/pdf/fimmu-13-953053.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Aug 19 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36116939/ Role of alternative activation of macrophages in hookworm therapy for inflammatory diseases: a review]

* 2022 Aug 13 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35964125/ Immunotherapy for type 1 diabetes mellitus by adjuvant-free Schistosoma japonicum-egg tip-loaded asymmetric microneedle patch (STAMP)] -- [https://jnanobiotechnology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12951-022-01581-9 Full text]

* 2022 Aug 12 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36040420/ Early life mebendazole exposure increases the risk of adult-onset ulcerative colitis: a population-based cohort study]

* 2022 Aug 8 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35955110/ Hymenolepis diminuta Infection Affects Apoptosis in the Small and Large Intestine] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9368115/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9368115/pdf/ijerph-19-09753.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Aug 3 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36045216/ Food for thought - ILC metabolism in the context of helminth infections] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9705246/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9705246/pdf/41385_2022_Article_559.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Aug 1 [https://www.mdpi.com/2076-393X/10/8/1235?fbclid=IwAR2Y4zm19t6UklmkK0WiNZEJyzDWZpqYKNYygzA1UkEFoaMUt9djgtn0vHk Harnessing Immune Evasion Strategy of Lymphatic Filariae: A Therapeutic Approach against Inflammatory and Infective Pathology] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2076-393X/10/8/1235/htm Full text]

* 2022 Jul 8 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35804460/ The production of Necator americanus larvae for use in experimental human infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9264692/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9264692/pdf/13071_2022_Article_5371.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Jun 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35764965/ Helminth antigens differentially modulate the activation of CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes of convalescent COVID-19 patients in vitro] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9241220/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9241220/pdf/12916_2022_Article_2441.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Jun 27 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35758054/ Suppression of airway allergic eosinophilia by Hp-TGM, a helminth mimic of TGF-β]

* 2022 Jun 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35748460/ "Out of the box" new therapeutic strategies for Crohn’s disease: moving beyond biologics] | [https://online.reed.es/DOI/PDF/ArticuloDOI_9010.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Jun 22 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35732819/ Effects of helminths on the human immune response and the microbiome] -- [https://www.mucosalimmunology.org/article/S1933-0219(22)01749-4/fulltext Full text] | [https://www.mucosalimmunology.org/action/showPdf?pii=S1933-0219%2822%2901749-4 PDF]

* 2022 Jun 13 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35747061/ Multiple sclerosis and the microbiota: Progress in understanding the contribution of the gut microbiome to disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9211007/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9211007/pdf/eoac009.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Jun 8 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35675339/ Clinical helminth infections alter host gut and saliva microbiota] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9212162/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9212162/pdf/pntd.0010491.pdf PDF]

* 2022 May 16 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35615625/ Trichinella-induced immunomodulation: Another tale of helminth success] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9125654/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9125654/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

* 2022 May 2 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35499991/ Helminth infection modulates number and function of adipose tissue Tregs in high fat diet-induced obesity] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9098094/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9098094/pdf/pntd.0010105.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Mar 31 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35357756/ A Good Day for Helminths: how parasite-derived GDH suppresses inflammatory responses] -- [https://www.embopress.org/doi/full/10.15252/embr.202255054 Full text]

* 2022 Mar 30 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35353624/ Ascarosides from helminths pack a punch against allergy] -- [https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2202250119 Full text] | [https://www.pnas.org/doi/epdf/10.1073/pnas.2202250119 PDF]

* 2022 Mar 21 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35386686/ Parasitomimetics: Can We Utilize Parasite-Derived Immunomodulatory Molecules for Interventions to Immunological Disorders?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8977410/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8977410/pdf/fimmu-13-824695.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Mar 14 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35286352/ Infection with intestinal helminth (Hymenolepis diminuta) impacts exploratory behavior and cognitive processes in rats by changing the central level of neurotransmitters] -- [https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1010330 Full text]

* 2022 Mar 10 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35359963/ Not All Worms Were Created Equal] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8960138/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8960138/pdf/fimmu-13-877707.pdf PDF] (NB. This paper does not include all the facts that are pertinent to the case discussed. For additional important details, see: [[Helminthic therapy safety#Do hookworms pose a threat to patients with respiratory disease? | Do hookworms pose a threat to patients with respiratory disease?]])

* 2022 Mar 1 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35435987/ Review of the role of parasitic nematode excretory/secretory proteins in host immunomodulation]

* 2022 Mar [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34861106/ Immunomodulation of COVID-19 severity by helminth co-infection: Implications for COVID-19 vaccine efficacy] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/iid3.573 Full text] | [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/iid3.573 PDF]

* 2022 Feb 25 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35281054/ Helminth and Host Crosstalk: New Insight Into Treatment of Obesity and Its Associated Metabolic Syndromes] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8913526/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8913526/pdf/fimmu-13-827486.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Feb 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35281745/ Bone erosion in inflammatory arthritis is attenuated by Trichinella spiralis through inhibiting M1 monocyte/macrophage polarization] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8914552/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8914552/pdf/main.pdf PDF]]

* 2022 Feb 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35202548/ Helminth products modulate innate immune recognition of nucleic acids in systemic lupus erythematosus]

* 2022 Feb 21 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35188279/ Concurrent allergy and helminthiasis in underprivileged urban South African adults previously residing in rural areas] (NB. Ascarids are known to be associated with asthma, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16778161/] [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25702830] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17698018] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30249744] unlike the species used in helminthic therapy.)

* 2022 Feb 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35222441/ The Fight Against Severe COVID-19: Can Parasitic Worms Contribute?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8874793/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8874793/pdf/fimmu-13-849465.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Jan-Mar [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36046565/ Anti-Tumor Effect of Marshallagia marshalli Somatic Antigen on Inhibition Cell Growth of K562] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9375725/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9375725/pdf/IJPA-17-28.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Jan 19 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35115243/ Helminths and COVID-19 susceptibility, disease progression, and vaccination efficacy] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1471492222000083 Full text]

* 2022 Jan 21 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35087284/ Helminth Therapy for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases: Current and Future Perspectives] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8789313/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8789313/pdf/jir-15-475.pdf PDF]

* 2022 Jan 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35031905/ Na-AIP-1 secreted by human hookworms suppresses collagen-induced arthritis]

* 2022 Jan [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0014489421001260 Potential of human helminth therapy for resolution of inflammatory bowel disease: The future ahead]

===2021===

* 2021 Dec 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34930198/ Rapidly progressive respiratory failure after helminth larvae ingestion] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8686539/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8686539/pdf/12890_2021_Article_1788.pdf PDF] (NB. This report omits important facts about the case described, and includes incorrect and misleading details. For a more accurate account, see, [[Helminthic therapy safety#Do hookworms pose a threat to patients with respiratory disease? | Do hookworms pose a threat to patients with respiratory disease?]])

* 2021 Dec 14 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35046625/ Recombinant protein Schistosoma japonicum-derived molecule attenuates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis by inhibiting miRNA-217-5p to alleviate apoptosis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8678816/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8678816/pdf/WJG-27-7982.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Dec 9 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34882670/Experimental human hookworm infection: a narrative historical review] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8659326/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8659326/pdf/pntd.0009908.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Dec 6 [https://evmedreview.com/evolutionary-medicine-helps-explain-pandemic-dynamics-predictions-regarding-clinical-impact-of-covid-19-borne-out/ Evolutionary medicine helps explain pandemic dynamics: Predictions regarding clinical impact of COVID-19 borne out]

* 2021 Dec 1 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34863801/ Helminth-induced CD9 + B-cell subset alleviates obesity-associated inflammation via IL-10 production]

* 2021 Dec Treatment of Refractory Chronic Migraine with Worm Eggs: A Therapy Rooted in Evolution (no abstract) | [[media:Treatment_of_Refractory_Chronic_Migraine_with_Worm_Eggs.pdf |PDF]] (TSO)

* 2021 Nov 8 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34748611/ Suppression of inflammatory arthritis by the parasitic worm product ES-62 is associated with epigenetic changes in synovial fibroblasts] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8601611/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8601611/pdf/ppat.1010069.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Nov 5 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34735226/ Small proline-rich protein 2A is a gut bactericidal protein deployed during helminth infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8977106/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8977106/pdf/nihms-1788060.pdf PDF]

* ✅ 2021 Nov [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737071/ Socio-medical studies of individuals self-treating with helminths provide insight into clinical trial design for assessing helminth therapy] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383576921002063 Full text] | [[media:Socio-medical_studies_of_individuals_self-treating_with_helminths_provide_insight_into_clinical_trial_design_for_assessing_helminth_therapy.pdf | PDF]]

* 2021 Nov [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34197631/ Interleukin-35 is a critical regulator of immunity during helminth infections associated with multiple sclerosis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8517594/ Full text]

* 2021 Oct 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34717799/ Enteric pathogens induce tissue tolerance and prevent neuronal loss from subsequent infections]

* 2021 Oct 27 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737582/ The Influence of Helminth Immune Regulation on COVID-19 Clinical Outcomes: Is it Beneficial or Detrimental?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558425/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558425/pdf/idr-14-4421.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Oct 26 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34868595/ Helminth infection is associated with dampened cytokine responses to viral and bacterial stimulations in Tsimane forager-horticulturalists] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634526/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634526/pdf/eoab035.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Oct 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34745091/ Parasite-Derived Excretory-Secretory Products Alleviate Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and Improve Cognitive Impairment Induced by a High-Fat Diet] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8564115/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8564115/pdf/fimmu-12-710513.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Oct 18 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34733292/ Emerging Role of Eosinophils in Resolution of Arthritis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558534/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558534/pdf/fimmu-12-764825.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Sept 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34579797/ The use of helminth therapy for management of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease: a systematic review]

* 2021 Sept 25 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34583903/ Commandeering the mammalian Ago2 miRNA network: a newly discovered mechanism of helminth immunomodulation]

* 2021 Sept 13 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34517928/ Cooperation between host immunity and the gut bacteria is essential for helminth-evoked suppression of colitis] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354561896 Full text]

* 2021 Sept 6 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34488863/ Schistosoma japonicum peptide SJMHE1 inhibits acute and chronic colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium in mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8422783/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8422783/pdf/13071_2021_Article_4977.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Sept [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34368662/ Effect of co-infection with intestinal parasites on COVID-19 severity: A prospective observational cohort study] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8324426/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8324426/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Aug 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34425258/ Safety and tolerability of medicinal parasite ova (Trichuris suis) in healthy Japanese volunteers: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial]

* 2021 Aug 18 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34406855/ Exposure to Parasitic Protists and Helminths Changes the Intestinal Community Structure of Bacterial Communities in a Cohort of Mother-Child Binomials from a Semirural Setting in Mexico] -- [https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/mSphere.00083-21 Full text] | [https://journals.asm.org/doi/epub/10.1128/mSphere.00083-21 PDF]

* 2021 Aug 17 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34433129/ Infection by Strongyloides venezuelensis attenuates chronic colitis induced by Dextran Sodium Sulfate ingestion in BALB/c mice]

* 2021 Aug 14 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34445445/ Lectin-Mediated Bacterial Modulation by the Intestinal Nematode Ascaris suum] — [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353903554 Full text]

* 2021 Aug 12 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34456879/ The Impact of Helminth Infection on the Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8397462/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8397462/pdf/fendo-12-728396.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Aug 6 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34451458/ Infection with Hymenolepis diminuta Blocks Colitis and Hastens Recovery While Colitis Has Minimal Impact on Expulsion of the Cestode from the Mouse Host] — [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353740657 Full text]

* 2021 Aug 3 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34413850/ Mycobacterium-Induced Th1, Helminths-Induced Th2 Cells and the Potential Vaccine Candidates for Allergic Asthma: Imitation of Natural Infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8369065/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8369065/pdf/fimmu-12-696734.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Jun 18 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34154932/ Gut-microbiota-derived extracellular vesicles: Overlooked mediators in host-helminth interactions?]

* 2021 Jun 16 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34135384/ Helminth derived factors inhibit neutrophil extracellular trap formation and inflammation in bacterial peritonitis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8209178/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8209178/pdf/41598_2021_Article_92001.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Jun 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34171587/ SARS-CoV-2 and helminth co-infections, and environmental pollution exposure: An epidemiological and immunological perspective] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8205275/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8205275/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Jun 10 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34111180/ Hookworm treatment induces a decrease of suppressive regulatory T cell associated with a Th2 inflammatory response] -- [https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0252921 Full text] Allergic sensitisation increased following treatment with albendazole.

* 2021 Jun 7 [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/11/2533 The New Status of Parasitic Diseases in the COVID-19 Pandemic—Risk Factors or Protective Agents?] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/11/2533/htm Full text] (Review)

* 2021 May 26 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34051231/ Synthetic hookworm-derived peptides are potent modulators of primary human immune cell function that protect against experimental colitis in vivo] -- [https://www.jbc.org/article/S0021-9258(21)00632-3/fulltext Full text] | [https://www.jbc.org/action/showPdf?pii=S0021-9258%2821%2900632-3 PDF]

* 2021 May 26 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34051352/ Emerging issues in COVID-19 vaccination in Tropical Areas: Impact of the Immune Response against Helminths in Endemic Areas]

* 2021 May 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34029332/ COVID-19 and helminth infection: Beyond the Th1/Th2 paradigm] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8143422/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8143422/pdf/pntd.0009402.pdf PDF]

* 2021 May 19 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34017599/ Extreme lifespan extension in tapeworm-infected ant workers] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8131941/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8131941/pdf/rsos.202118.pdf PDF]

* 2021 May 18 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34002262/ The effects of helminth infections against type 2 diabetes]

* 2021 Apr 22 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33895144/ Immunoprotective inference of experimental chronic Trichinella spiralis infection on house dust mites induced allergic airway remodeling]

* 2021 Apr 16 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33935986/ Interrogating the Impact of Intestinal Parasite-Microbiome on Pathogenesis of COVID-19 in Sub-Saharan Africa] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8086792/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8086792/pdf/fmicb-12-614522.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Apr 14 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33853585/ Experimental infection with the hookworm, Necator americanus, is associated with stable gut microbial diversity in human volunteers with relapsing multiple sclerosis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8048248/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8048248/pdf/12915_2021_Article_1003.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Apr 1 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33579723/ Helminth Imprinting of Hematopoietic Stem Cells Sustains Anti-Inflammatory Trained Innate Immunity That Attenuates Autoimmune Disease]

* 2021 Mar 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33842398/ Therapeutic Efficacy of Excretory-Secretory Products of Trichinella spiralis Adult Worms on Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury in a Mouse Model] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8024484/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8024484/pdf/fcimb-11-653843.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Mar 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33760829/ Trichuris trichiura egg extract proteome reveals potential diagnostic targets and immunomodulators] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8021180/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8021180/pdf/pntd.0009221.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Mar 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33841657/ Schistosoma japonicum-derived peptide SJMHE1 promotes peripheral nerve repair through a macrophage-dependent mechanism] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8014408/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8014408/pdf/ajtr0013-1290.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Mar 1 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33732246/ Understanding Asthma and Allergies by the Lens of Biodiversity and Epigenetic Changes] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7957070/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7957070/pdf/fimmu-12-623737.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Mar 1 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33646858/ Immune System Investigation Using Parasitic Helminths]

* 2021 Feb 25 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33717104/ Clonorchis sinensis-Derived Protein Attenuates Inflammation and New Bone Formation in Ankylosing Spondylitis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7947613/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7947613/pdf/fimmu-12-615369.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Feb 22 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33692793/ Schistosome Infection and Schistosome-Derived Products as Modulators for the Prevention and Alleviation of Immunological Disorders] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7937812/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7937812/pdf/fimmu-12-619776.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Feb 12 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33732461/ Between a hygiene rock and a hygienic hard place: Avoiding SARS-CoV-2 while needing environmental exposures for immunity] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7928958/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7928958/pdf/eoab006.pdf PDF]

:* 2021 Apr [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34168878/ Comment on Parker et al. (Evolution, Medicine and Public Health 2021;9:120–30.)] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8219121/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8219121/pdf/eoab011.pdf PDF]

:* 2021 Apr [https://academic.oup.com/emph/article/9/1/206/6220325 Authors’ response to Graham Rook’s commentary]

* 2021 Feb 12 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33738103/ Hymenolepis diminuta-based helminth therapy in C3(1)-TAg mice does not alter breast tumor onset or progression] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7953836/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7953836/pdf/eoab007.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Feb 5 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33613446/ Gastrointestinal Helminth Infection Improves Insulin Sensitivity, Decreases Systemic Inflammation, and Alters the Composition of Gut Microbiota in Distinct Mouse Models of Type 2 Diabetes] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7892786/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7892786/pdf/fendo-11-606530.pdf PDF]

* 2021 Feb 2 [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.02.02.21250995v1 Effect of co-infection with parasites on severity of COVID-19] -- [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.02.02.21250995v1.full.pdf PDF] (medRxiv preprints) (Also reported by NewsMedical. [https://www.news-medical.net/news/20210204/Research-shows-intestinal-parasite-infestations-reduce-COVID-19-severity.aspx])

* 2021 Feb 2 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526169/ Gross ways to live long: Parasitic worms as an anti-inflammaging therapy?] -- [https://elifesciences.org/articles/65180 Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7853715/pdf/elife-65180.pdf PDF] (Also reported by EurekAlert. [https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-02/e-cph020221.php])

* 2021 Jan 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33572978/ The Worm-Specific Immune Response in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Receiving Controlled Trichuris suis Ova Immunotherapy] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/11/2/101/htm Full text] (MS)

* 2021 Jan 22 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33499240/ Helminth Interactions with Bacteria in the Host Gut Are Essential for Its Immunomodulatory Effect] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/9/2/226/htm Full text]

* 2021 Jan 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33552447/ Evolution of bacteria in the human gut in response to changing environments: An invisible player in the game of health] — [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7829112/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7829112/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

===2020===

* 2020 Dec [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33512796/ Randomized, Placebo Controlled Trial of Experimental Hookworm Infection for Improving Gluten Tolerance in Celiac Disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7678792/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7678792/pdf/ct9-11-e00274.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Oct 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33678958/ Historical analysis of inverse correlation between soil-transmitted helminthiasis and pancreatic cancer] — [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7901387/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7901387/pdf/UBMC_34_1836712.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Oct 22 [https://sci-hub.se/10.3390/ijms21217845 Gastrointestinal Nematode-Derived Antigens Alter Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation and Migration through Regulation of Cell Cycle and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Proteins]

* 2020 Oct 20 [https://academic.oup.com/emph/advance-article/doi/10.1093/emph/eoaa037/5930904 Old Friends Meet a New Foe -- A potential role for immune-priming parasites in mitigating COVID-19 morbidity and mortality] Includes link to PDF.

*2020 Oct 7 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33116652/ Helminth Induced Immunoregulation and Novel Therapeutic Avenue of Allergy] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7548329/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7548329/pdf/jaa-13-439.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Oct 4 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33012113/ Immunopathology and modulation induced by hookworms: from understanding to intervention]

* 2020 Oct 2 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33117347/ Excretory/Secretory Products From Trichinella spiralis Adult Worms Attenuated DSS-Induced Colitis in Mice by Driving PD-1-Mediated M2 Macrophage Polarization] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7575908/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7575908/pdf/fimmu-11-563784.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Oct [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32653475/ Does the hygiene hypothesis apply to COVID-19 susceptibility?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7347347/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7347347/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Sept 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33117327/ The Helminth Parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus Attenuates EAE in an IL-4Rα-Dependent Manner] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7552805/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7552805/pdf/fimmu-11-01830.pdf PDF] (MS)

* 2020 Sept 21 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32951619/ Trichinella spiralis: inflammation modulator]

* 2020 Sept 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33013887/ What Can Parasites Tell Us About the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Asthma and Allergic Diseases] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7516051/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7516051/pdf/fimmu-11-02106.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Sept 8 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32901341/ Immunomodulatory action of excretory-secretory products of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in a mouse tumour model] (Cancer)

* 2020 Sept 2 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32983184/ Fasciola hepatica-Derived Molecules as Regulators of the Host Immune Response] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7492538/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7492538/pdf/fimmu-11-02182.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Aug 31 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32984066/ Helminth Mediated Attenuation of Systemic Inflammation and Microbial Translocation in Helminth-Diabetes Comorbidity] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7488178/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7488178/pdf/fcimb-10-00431.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Aug 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32872342/ An Absence of Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation and Associations with Disease Activity in People with Multiple Sclerosis Undergoing Therapeutic Hookworm Vaccination] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2076-393X/8/3/487/htm Full text]

* 2020 Aug 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32828819/ Succinate Produced by Intestinal Microbes Promotes Specification of Tuft Cells to Suppress Ileal Inflammation] (IBD)

* 2020 Aug 17 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32804930/ Helminth coinfection and COVID-19: An alternate hypothesis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7430705/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7430705/pdf/pntd.0008628.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Aug 13 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32903582/ Clinical Use of Schistosoma mansoni Antigens as Novel Immunotherapies for Autoimmune Disorders] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7438586/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7438586/pdf/fimmu-11-01821.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Aug 7 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32849543/ Effectiveness of Helminth Therapy in the Prevention of Allograft Rejection: A Systematic Review of Allogeneic Transplantation] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7426368/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7426368/pdf/fimmu-11-01604.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Aug [https://sci-hub.se/10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.07.002 Helminth extracellular vesicles: great balls of wonder]

* 2020 Jul [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32153025/ Regulatory T‐cells in helminth infection: induction, function and therapeutic potential] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7341546/?fbclid=IwAR27hCP5tDaVkO0KnyBMdlH7O4tzzcE0YfKWqFy_Xgy46l18amE1t1ET2dY Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7341546/pdf/IMM-160-248.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Jul 3 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32629118/ Helminth-induced and Th2-dependent Alterations of the Gut Microbiota Attenuate Obesity Caused by High Fat Diet] -- [https://www.cmghjournal.org/article/S2352-345X(20)30105-3/pdf PDF]

* 2020 Jul 2 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32614822/ Schistosoma haematobium infection is associated with lower serum cholesterol levels and improved lipid profile in overweight/obese individuals]

* 2020 Jun 23 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32655568/ Immunity to Soil-Transmitted Helminths: Evidence From the Field and Laboratory Models] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7324686/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7324686/pdf/fimmu-11-01286.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Jun 19 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32570037/ Effect of Recombinant Serine Protease From Adult Stage of Trichinella Spiralis on TNBS-induced Experimental Colitis in Mice]

* ✅ 2020 Jun 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32539079/ Hookworm Treatment for Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Trial] -- [https://sci-hub.se/10.1001/jamaneurol.2020.1118# Full text] (While the primary statistical endpoint of this trial - the cumulative number of new/enlarging T2 and new enhancing T1 lesions at month 9 - was not significantly different between the hookworm group (154) and the placebo group (164), a closer examination of the data reveals that '''more than half the patients given hookworms did not have any new lesions'''. “The findings of the research… show that infecting MS patients with a safe dose of… Necator americanus induces immunoregulatory responses and boosts the number of cells which help keep the immune system under control.” [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/06/200618150223.htm] The trial’s lead researcher concluded, “I think there would be a niche for this approach - for individuals with mild disease who don't want to take immunomodulating drugs for life and would prefer a more natural approach.” [https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/932593])

* 2020 Jun 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32595641/ Extracellular Vesicles Derived From Trichinella spiralis Muscle Larvae Ameliorate TNBS-Induced Colitis in Mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7300183/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7300183/pdf/fimmu-11-01174.pdf PDF]

* 2020 May 29 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32480001/ Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, the Hygiene Hypothesis and the Other Side of the Microbiota: Parasites and Fungi]

* 2020 May 28 [https://www.qeios.com/read/IWKQH9.2 The global helminth belt and Covid-19: the new eosinophilic link]

* 2020 May 26 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32453752/ Comprehensive analysis of the secreted proteome of adult Necator americanus hookworms] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7274458/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7274458/pdf/pntd.0008237.pdf PDF]

* 2020 May 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32436176/ Changes in the Severity of Gastric Mucosal Inflammation Associated With Helicobacter Pylori in Humans Coinfected With Intestinal Helminths]

* 2020 May 19 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32508831/ The Gastrointestinal Helminth Heligmosomoides bakeri Suppresses Inflammation in a Model of Contact Hypersensitivity] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7249854/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7249854/pdf/fimmu-11-00950.pdf PDF]

* 2020 May 18 [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.05.11.20098053v1.full.pdf Parasites and their protection against COVID-19 - Ecology or Immunology?] (PDF)

* 2020 May 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33623561/ Immunity, parasites, genetics and sex hormones: contributors to mild inflammatory responses in COVID-19?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7875730/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7875730/pdf/PAMJ-SUPP-35-2-36.pdf PDF]

* 2020 May 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32407385 Harnessing helminth-driven immunoregulation in the search for novel therapeutic modalities] -- [https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1008508 Full text] | [https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1008508&type=printable PDF]

* 2020 May 7 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32448639/ Microbes, Helminths, and Rheumatic Diseases]

* 2020 May 5 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32372471 Systematic review: gastrointestinal infection and incident inflammatory bowel disease] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/apt.15770 Full text] (IBD)

* 2020 May 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32367051 Heterogeneity in the initiation, development and function of type 2 immunity]

* 2020 May 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32358579 Will helminth co-infection modulate COVID-19 severity in endemic regions?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7193760/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7193760/pdf/41577_2020_Article_330.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Apr 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32341115 The Potential Role of Schistosome-Associated Factors as Therapeutic Modulators of the Immune System]

* 2020 Apr 27 [https://www.qeios.com/read/5IY4IF Asthma and COVID-19: The Eosinophilic Link]

* 2020 Apr 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32321922 CD8+ regulatory T cells are critical in prevention of autoimmune-mediated diabetes]

* 2020 Apr 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32321863 An anti-inflammatory eicosanoid switch mediates the suppression of type-2 inflammation by helminth larval products] (TSO)

* 2020 Apr [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30230399/ Randomized crossover feasibility trial of helminthic Trichuris suis ova versus placebo for repetitive behaviors in adult autism spectrum disorder] (TSO)

* 2020 Mar 18 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32200170 Effects of the dietary fibre inulin and Trichuris suis products on inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages] (TSO)

* 2020 Mar 14 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32171305/ Twenty-five-year research progress in hookworm excretory/secretory products] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071665/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071665/pdf/13071_2020_Article_4010.pdf PDF] (NA)

* 2020 Mar 10 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32153025/ Regulatory T-cells in helminth infection: induction, function and therapeutic potential] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7341546/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7341546/pdf/IMM-160-248.pdf PDF]

* 2020 Mar 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32194529 Dietary Inulin and Trichuris suis Infection Promote Beneficial Bacteria Throughout the Porcine Gut] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7064446/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7064446/pdf/fmicb-11-00312.pdf PDF] (TSO)

* 2020 Mar 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32126084 Helminth infection modulates systemic pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines implicated in type 2 diabetes mellitus pathogenesis] -- [https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0008101 Full text]

* 2020 Mar 2 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32135180 Helminths, polyparasitism, and the gut microbiome in the Philippines]

* 2020 Feb 6 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32027755 IL-33 is essential to prevent high fat diet-induced obesity in mice infected with an intestinal helminth]

* 2020 Jan-Feb [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32123528 Perspectives of People with Multiple Sclerosis About Helminth Immunotherapy] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7041615 Full text]

* 2020 Jan 31 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32005978 The gut microbiota response to helminth infection depends on host sex and genotype]

* 2020 Jan 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31976564 Wuchereria bancrofti macrophage migration inhibitory factor-2 (rWbaMIF-2) ameliorates experimental colitis]

* 2020 Jan 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31971074 A critical analysis of helminth immunotherapy in multiple sclerosis]

* 2020 Jan 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31954872 Suppression of systemic lupus erythematosus in NZBWF1 mice infected with Hymenolepis microstoma]

* 2020 Jan 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31894102 Helminth infections drive heterogeneity in human type 2 and regulatory cells]

* 2020 Jan [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31914677 Fasciola helminth defense molecule-1 protects against experimental arthritis by inhibiting osteoclast formation and function without modulating the systemic immune response]

===2019===

* 2019 Dec 26 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31888063 Immunomodulation of Murine Chronic DSS-Induced Colitis by Tuftsin-Phosphorylcholine] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/9/1/65/htm Full text]

* 2019 Dec 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31878146 Safety of P28GST, a Protein Derived from a Schistosome Helminth Parasite, in Patients with Crohn's Disease: A Pilot Study (ACROHNEM)] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/9/1/41/htm Full text]

* 2019 Dec 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31885223 Toxicity of parasites and their unconventional use in medicine]

* 2019 Dec 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31845020 Amelioration of type 1 diabetes by recombinant fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase and cystatin derived from Schistosoma japonicum in a murine model]

* 2019 Dec 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31836772 Immunomodulatory effect of Syphacia obvelata in treatment of experimental DSS-induced colitis in mouse model]

* 2019 Dec 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31834940 Chronic infection with a tissue invasive helminth attenuates sublethal anaphylaxis and reduces granularity and number of mast cells]

* 2019 Dec 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31829172 Safety and tolerability of experimental hookworm infection in humans with metabolic disease: study protocol for a phase 1b randomised controlled clinical trial]

* 2019 Nov 6 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31781154 The Effect of Gut Microbiome Composition on Human Immune Responses: An Exploration of Interference by Helminth Infections] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6856646/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6856646/pdf/fgene-10-01028.pdf PDF]

* 2019 Nov 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31719981 The interplay of type 2 immunity, helminth infection and the microbiota in regulating metabolism] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6837856/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6837856/pdf/CTI2-8-e01089.pdf PDF]

* 2019 Oct 31 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31673002 Intestinal helminth infection enhances bacteria-induced recruitment of neutrophils to the airspace]

* 2019 Oct 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31683117 Tuftsin-phosphorylcholine attenuate experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis] (MS)

* 2019 Oct 12 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31605645 Th2 signals are not essential for the anti-arthritic effects of Trichinella spiralis in mice]

* 2019 Sept 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31649786 Therapeutic applicability of helminths in autoimmune diseases - literature overview] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6807663/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6807663/pdf/PG-14-37798.pdf PDF]

* 2019 Sept 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31611876 Ascaris lumbricoides Cystatin Prevents Development of Allergic Airway Inflammation in a Mouse Model] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6777510/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6777510/pdf/fimmu-10-02280.pdf PDF] (But also see the details [[Ascaris lumbricoides | '''here''']] regarding the potentially adverse effects of infection with ascaris lumbricoides.)

* 2019 Sept 18 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31541662 Helminth-microbiota cross-talk - a journey through the vertebrate digestive system]

* 2019 Sept 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31508807 Public health deworming programmes for soil-transmitted helminths in children living in endemic areas]

* 2019 Sept 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31496071 Schistosoma japonicum peptide SJMHE1 suppresses airway inflammation of allergic asthma in mice] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jcmm.14661 Full text] | [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/jcmm.14661 PDF]

* 2019 Sept 5 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31487324 Schistosoma mansoni soluble egg antigen (SEA) and recombinant Omega-1 modulate induced CD4+ T-lymphocyte responses and HIV-1 infection in vitro] -- [https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1007924 Full text] | [https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1007924&type=printable PDF] (Also reported by Healio. [https://www.healio.com/infectious-disease/hiv-aids/news/online/%7Bafe40491-17f2-456b-b151-8cf73288c38b%7D/helminth-infection-may-reduce-hiv-transmission-disease])

* 2019 Sept 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31492623 Immune Regulation of Metabolic Homeostasis by Helminths and Their Molecules]

* 2019 Aug 30 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31504336 The effect of helminth infections and their treatment on metabolic outcomes: results of a cluster-randomised trial]

* 2019 Aug 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31407335 Helminth-derived molecules inhibit colitis-associated colon cancer development through NF-kB and STAT3 regulation]

* 2019 Aug 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31397879 Critical roles of regulatory B and T cells in helminth parasite-induced protection against allergic airway inflammation]

* 2019 Aug [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31284930/ Helminths and asthma: Risk and protection]

* 2019 Jul 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31352539 Potential application of helminth therapy for resolution of neuroinflammation in neuropsychiatric disorders]

* 2019 Jul 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31299381 The helminth-derived peptide GK-1 induces an anti-tumoral CD8 T cell response associated with downregulation of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway] (Cancer)

* 2019 Jul 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31260090 Soil-transmitted helminth infection and intestinal inflammation among the Shuar of Amazonian Ecuador] (TTO)

* 2019 Jul-Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31579670 The endosymbiotic role of intestinal helminths in multiple sclerosis: Promising probiotic hypothesis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6767793/ Full text]

* 2019 Jun 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31253164 Preventive and therapeutic effects of Trichinella spiralis adult extracts on allergic inflammation in an experimental asthma mouse model] -- [https://parasitesandvectors.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13071-019-3561-1 Full text]

* 2019 Jun 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31255915 The immune response to Hymenolepis nana in mice decreases tumorigenesis induced by 7,12 dimethylbenz-anthracene] (For a very readable commentary on this paper, see, [https://biomebuzz.com/2019/07/09/more-on-helminths-and-the-prevention-of-cancer/ More on Helminths and the Prevention of Cancer].)

* 2019 Jun 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31209366 Helminths and microbiota — partners in arthritis prevention?]

* 2019 Jun 12 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31212833 Contribution of the Gut Microbiota in P28GST-Mediated Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Experimental and Clinical Insights] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/8/6/577/htm Full text]

* 2019 Jun 12 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31187881 Regulation of Immunity and Allergy by Helminth Parasites]

* 2019 Jun [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30716463 An advanced protocol for the purification of whipworm eggs from feces for use as therapeutic agents]

* 2019 May 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31236458 Pre-conception maternal helminth infection transfers via nursing long-lasting cellular immunity against helminths to offspring] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6587632/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6587632/pdf/aav3058.pdf PDF]

* 2019 May 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31153721 Helminth Therapy – From the Parasite Perspective] | [[media:Helminth_Therapy_–_From_the_Parasite_Perspective.pdf | PDF]]

* 2019 May 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31138616 Schistosoma mansoni worm infection regulates the intestinal microbiota and susceptibility to colitis]

* 2019 May 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31205419 Inverse Associations of Schistosoma mansoni Infection and Metabolic Syndromes in Humans: A Cross-Sectional Study in Northeast Ethiopia] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6537292/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6537292/pdf/10.1177_1178636119849934.pdf PDF]

* 2019 May 21 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31178861 Anti-inflammatory Trained Immunity Mediated by Helminth Products Attenuates the Induction of T Cell-Mediated Autoimmune Disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6537856/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6537856/pdf/fimmu-10-01109.pdf PDF]

* 2019 May [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30986403 Removal of adult cyathostomins alters faecal microbiota and promotes an inflammatory phenotype in horses] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0020751919300815?via%3Dihub Full text]

* 2019 Apr 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31016721 Helminths products directly modulate T cells that mediate experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis]

* 2019 Apr 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31004803 Cytokine production in allergic and Trichuris trichiura-infected children from an urban region of the Brazilian northeast] (TTO)

* 2019 Apr 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30991712 Characterization of Tapeworm Metabolites and Their Reported Biological Activities] — [https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/24/8/1480/htm Full text]

* 2019 Apr 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30980897 Genetic diversity of the potentially therapeutic tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta (Cestoda: Cyclophyllidea)] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383576918302800?fbclid=IwAR37HAgKvovhcjr5FkSQAK3NVpoW_7_n79WOyeqKBgCbJHtHaByAC6tRzlc Full text]

* 2019 Apr 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30962398 Suppression of obesity by an intestinal helminth through interactions with intestinal microbiota] -- [https://iai.asm.org/content/iai/early/2019/03/19/IAI.00042-19.full.pdf PDF] (Also reported by EurekAlert. [https://eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-04/asfm-ihb040819.php])

* 2019 Apr 5 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30952846 The parasitic worm product ES-62 normalises the gut microbiota bone marrow axis in inflammatory arthritis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451002/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451002/pdf/41467_2019_Article_9361.pdf PDF]

* 2019 Apr [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30902137 Helminth therapy for autism under gut-brain axis- hypothesis] -- [https://tanawisa.com/downloads/Helminth_therapy_for%20autism_under_gut-brain%20axis-_hypothesis.pdf PDF] (TSO)

* 2019 Mar 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30879759 Therapeutic Potential of Helminths and Helminth-Derived Antigens for Resolution of Inflammation in Inflammatory Bowel Disease] (IBD)

* 2019 Mar 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31016928 Progress of research on the interplay between helminth and intestinal protozoa and gut microbiota]

* 2019 Mar 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30852293 Dendritic cells treated by Trichinella spiralis muscle larval excretory/secretory products alleviate TNBS-induced colitis in mice]

* 2019 Mar [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30905098 Helminth-Related Tuftsin-Phosphorylcholine Compound and its Interplay with Autoimmune Diseases] -- [https://www.ima.org.il/FilesUpload/IMAJ/0/344/172407.pdf PDF]

* 2019 Feb 26 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30807258 Filarial extract of Litomosoides sigmodontis induces a type 2 immune response and attenuates plaque development in hyperlipidemic ApoE-knockout mice]

* 2019 Feb 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30801028 Helminth-Based Product and the Microbiome of Mice with Lupus] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6381224/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6381224/pdf/mSystems.00160-18.pdf PDF]

* 2019 Feb 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30758662 Helminths protect against type 1 diabetes: effects and mechanisms]

* 2019 Feb [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30623233 Chinese liver fluke Clonorchis sinensis infection changes the gut microbiome and increases probiotic Lactobacillus in mice]

* 2019 Jan 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30670631 Role of mast cells in the generation of a T-helper type 2 dominated anti-helminthic immune response] (HDC)

* 2019 Jan 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30668930 Macrophages treated with antigen from the tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta condition CD25+ T cells to suppress colitis] (HDC)

* 2019 Jan 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30626617 Cross-Domain and Viral Interactions in the Microbiome] (Includes a 10-page section on microbiota/helminth interactions and their effects on immune function.)

* 2019 Jan 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30640950 Exclusive dependence of IL-10Rα signalling on intestinal microbiota homeostasis and control of whipworm infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6347331/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6347331/pdf/ppat.1007265.pdf PDF] (This study contributes to understanding of the actions of TSO and TTO on diseases such as IBD.)

* 2019 Jan [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30413272 Effect of Trichinella spiralis intervention on TNBS-induced experimental colitis in mice]

* 2019 [http://www.jneuropsychiatry.org/peer-review/parasitic-worms-for-the-treatment-of-neurodegeneration-12989.html Parasitic Worms for the Treatment of Neurodegeneration] -- [http://www.jneuropsychiatry.org/peer-review/parasitic-worms-for-the-treatment-of-neurodegeneration.pdf PDF]

===2018===

* 2018 Dec 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30592734 Treatment with P28GST, a schistosome-derived enzyme, after acute colitis induction in mice: Decrease of intestinal inflammation associated with a down regulation of Th1/Th17 responses]
* 2018 Dec 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30554380 Tuftsin phosphorylcholine-a novel compound harnessing helminths to fight autoimmunity]
* 2018 Dec 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30619265 Human Hookworm Infection Enhances Mycobacterial Growth Inhibition and Associates With Reduced Risk of Tuberculosis Infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6302045/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6302045/pdf/fimmu-09-02893.pdf PDF] (NA)
* 2018 Dec 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30292284 The Schistosoma mansoni lipidome: Leads for immunomodulation] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003267017313363 Full text] | [https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/S0003267017313363?token=BE837298629AA0AF5C0E7F7891E97CA7FBF2194B7348A12FD0CCFD79C45F12DF3E6C69079090C901826FD2CA09ADDD16 PDF]
* 2018 Dec 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30638679 Modulation of autoimmune arthritis by environmental 'hygiene' and commensal microbiota]
* 2018 Dec 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30529501 Helminth-based therapies for rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis]
* 2018 Dec 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30517865 B Cells Produce the Tissue-Protective Protein RELMa during Helminth Infection, which Inhibits IL-17 Expression and Limits Emphysema] -- [https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(18)31801-1 Full text] (Wound healing)
* 2018 Dec 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30517697 The double burden of diabetes and global infection in low and middle-income countries]
* 2018 Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30567900 Fh15 Blocks the Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Cytokine Storm While Modulating Peritoneal Macrophage Migration and CD38 Expression within Spleen Macrophages in a Mouse Model of Septic Shock] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6300687/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6300687/pdf/mSphere.00548-18.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Nov 20 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30462997 Modulation of Host Immunity by Helminths: The Expanding Repertoire of Parasite Effector Molecules]
* 2018 Nov 12 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30483256 Schistosoma mansoni Infection-Induced Transcriptional Changes in Hepatic Macrophage Metabolism Correlate With an Athero-Protective Phenotype] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6240656/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6240656/pdf/fimmu-09-02580.pdf PDF] (Metabolic syndrome)
* 2018 Nov 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30473696 Mucosal Barrier and Th2 Immune Responses Are Enhanced by Dietary Inulin in Pigs Infected With Trichuris suis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6237860/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6237860/pdf/fimmu-09-02557.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2018 Nov 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30407548 Metabolic consequences of concomitant Strongyloides stercoralis infection in Type 2 diabetes mellitus]
* 2018 Nov 6 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30401814 Intestinal helminth infection promotes IL-5- and CD4+ T cell-dependent immunity in the lung against migrating parasites]
* 2018 Oct 31 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30379806 The Foxp3+ regulatory T-cell population requires IL-4Rα signaling to control inflammation during helminth infections]
* 2018 Oct 30 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30375396 Helminth-induced IL-4 expands bystander memory CD8+ T cells for early control of viral infection]
* 2018 Oct 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30372527 Maternal helminth infections and the shaping of offspring immunity]
* 2018 Oct 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30374177 Analysis of the Trichuris suis excretory/secretory proteins as a function of life cycle stage and their immunomodulatory properties] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6206011/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6206011/pdf/41598_2018_Article_34174.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2018 Oct 25 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30361537 Virtual memory CD8 T cells expanded by helminth infection confer broad protection against bacterial infection]
* 2018 Oct 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30416709 Helminth parasites and immune regulation] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6206608/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6206608/pdf/f1000research-7-17014.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Oct 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30353019 A comprehensive analysis of the faecal microbiome and metabolome of Strongyloides stercoralis infected volunteers from a non-endemic area] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6199319/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6199319/pdf/41598_2018_Article_33937.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Oct 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30341242 Mast Cell Deficiency in Mice Results in Biomass Overgrowth and Delayed Expulsion of the Rat Tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta] (HDC)
* 2018 Oct 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30336585 Failure of the Anti-Inflammatory Parasitic Worm Product ES-62 to Provide Protection in Mouse Models of Type I Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease] -- [https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/23/10/2669/htm Full text]
* 2018 Oct 16 [https://www.arc.gov.au/news-publications/media/feature-articles/combatting-autoimmune-diseases-humble-hookworm?fbclid=IwAR0DxQ-uGjksCaC1gkCgpXhw2_ImRwgswkbyTukwHbLY2ZbNbWQD53KlXvc Combatting autoimmune diseases with the humble hookworm]
* 2018 Oct 12 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30369927 Immunomodulation by Helminths: Intracellular Pathways and Extracellular Vesicles] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6194161/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6194161/pdf/fimmu-09-02349.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Oct 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30316775 Immunomodulatory effects of Trichinella spiralis excretory-secretory antigens on macrophages]
* 2018 Oct 5 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291167 Helminth-Induced Production of TGF-β and Suppression of Graft-versus-Host Disease Is Dependent on IL-4 Production by Host Cells]
* 2018 Sept 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30266743 Parasites as negative regulators of cancer] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6200699/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6200699/pdf/bsr-38-bsr20180935.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Sept 25 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30319571 The Gut Microbiota in the Pathogenesis and Therapeutics of Inflammatory Bowel Disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6167487/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6167487/pdf/fmicb-09-02247.pdf PDF] (IBD)
* 2018 Sept 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30229947 Soil-transmitted helminth parasites and allergy: observations from Ecuador]
* 2018 Sept 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30230399 Randomized Crossover Feasibility Trial of Helminthic Trichuris Suis Ova vs. Placebo for Repetitive Behaviors in Adult Autism Spectrum Disorder] (TSO) This research used a novel TSO formulation at pH 5 that is known to be less effective than the original formulation at pH 2.4. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28720335]
* 2018 Sept 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30216486 Parasites and allergy: observations from Africa]
* 2018 Sept 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30205385 A Trypsin-Sensitive Proteoglycan from the Tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta Inhibits Murine Neutrophil Chemotaxis in vitro by Suppressing p38 MAP Kinase Activation] (HDC)
* 2018 Sept 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30194773 STAT6 & IL-10 are required for the anti-arthritic effects of Schistosoma mansoni via different mechanisms]
* 2018 Sept 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30177522 Modulation of the immune response by helminths: a role for serotonin?]
* 2018 Aug 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30165069 The hygiene hypothesis at a glance: early exposures, immune mechanism and novel therapies]
* 2018 Aug 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30121255 Helminth Antigen-Conditioned Dendritic Cells Generate Anti-Inflammatory CD4 T Cells Independent of Antigen Presentation via MHC II] (HDC) (Colitis)
* 2018 Aug 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30113218 Interactions of helminths with macrophages: therapeutic potential for inflammatory intestinal disease]
* 2018 Aug 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30118915 Acute infection with Strongyloides venezuelensis increases intestine production IL-10, reduces Th1/Th2/Th17 induction in colon and attenuates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-induced colitis in BALB/c mice]
* 2018 Aug 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30107039 Isolated Schistosoma mansoni eggs prevent allergic airway inflammation] (Allergic asthma)
* 2018 Aug 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30104215 Host and helminth-derived endocannabinoids are generated during infection with effects on host immunity] (Also reported by EurekAlert. [https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-08/uoc--gho082218.php])
* 2018 Aug 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30089122 Helminths-based bi-functional molecule, tuftsin-phosphorylcholine (TPC), ameliorates an established murine arthritis] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0200615 Full text] | [http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0200615&type=printable PDF]
* 2018 Aug 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30131945 The Intestinal Roundworm Ascaris suum Releases Antimicrobial Factors Which Interfere With Bacterial Growth and Biofilm Formation] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6090379/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6090379/pdf/fcimb-08-00271.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Aug 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30069018 Hookworm exposure decreases human papillomavirus uptake and cervical cancer cell migration through systemic regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition marker expression] -- [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-30058-9 Full text] | [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-30058-9.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Aug [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30142867 Trichuris suis ova therapy in inflammatory bowel disease: A meta-analysis] -- [https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2018/08240/Trichuris_suis_ova_therapy_in_inflammatory_bowel.119.aspx Full text] (IBD) The 6 papers analysed in this study all have significant design flaws. All but one had a treatment period of only 12 weeks, which is inadequate when assessing the efficacy of helminths, and the only study with a longer treatment period was designed to assess the safety and tolerability, and not the efficacy, of a ''single'' dose of TSO. Four of the six studies selected had also used a novel TSO formulation with a pH of 5, when it is known that storage of TSO at a pH above 4 may impede its therapeutic effect in humans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28720335] The conclusions drawn by the authors of this study are therefore not reliable.
* 2018 Jul 31 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30108588 A Role for Epitope Networking in Immunomodulation by Helminths] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6079203/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6079203/pdf/fimmu-09-01763.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Jul 26 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30093899 Trichinella spiralis Infection Mitigates Collagen-Induced Arthritis via Programmed Death 1-Mediated Immunomodulation] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6070611/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6070611/pdf/fimmu-09-01566.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Jul 25 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30043455 Worms: Pernicious Parasites or Allies Against Allergies?]
* 2018 Jul 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30021142 Getting a Taste for Parasites in the Gut]
* 2018 Jul 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30061834 Influence of NOD2 Variants on Trichuris suis ova Treatment Outcome in Crohn's Disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6054957/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6054957/pdf/fphar-09-00764.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Jul 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30003599 Hookworms Make Us Human: The Microbiome, Eco-immunology, and a Probiotic Turn in Western Health Care] | [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/2/2d/Hookworms_Make_Us_Human-_The_Microbiome%2C_Eco-immunology%2C_and_a_Probiotic_Turn_in_Western_Health_Care.pdf PDF] (NA)
* 2018 Jul 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29992625 Hematopoietic cell-derived RELMα regulates hookworm immunity through effects on macrophages] (Also reported by Science Daily. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/08/180806145207.htm])
* 2018 Jul 2 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30057915 Macrophage Activation and Functions during Helminth Infection: Recent Advances from the Laboratory Mouse] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6051086/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6051086/pdf/JIR2018-2790627.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Jul [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30072827 SXP-RAL Family Filarial Protein, rWbL2, Prevents Development of DSS-Induced Acute Ulcerative Colitis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6052733/ Full text]
* 2018 Jun 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29915224 Characteristics of the bacterial microbiome in association with common intestinal parasites in irritable bowel syndrome] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6006308/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6006308/pdf/41424_2018_Article_27.pdf PDF] (IBS)
* 2018 Jun 18 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29909781 The benign helminth Hymenolepis diminuta ameliorates chemically induced colitis in a rat model system] (HDC)
* 2018 Jun 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29796663 The therapeutic prospect of crosstalk between prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms in the human gut]
* 2018 May 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29808496 Immunobiology of parasitic worm extracellular vesicles]
* 2018 May 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29852470 Helminth-induced regulatory T cells and suppression of allergic responses]
* 2018 May 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29875750 Extracellular Vesicles From the Helminth Fasciola hepatica Prevent DSS-Induced Acute Ulcerative Colitis in a T-Lymphocyte Independent Mode] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5974114/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5974114/pdf/fmicb-09-01036.pdf PDF]
* 2018 May 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29867986 Protection Against Arthritis by the Parasitic Worm Product ES-62, and Its Drug-Like Small Molecule Analogues, Is Associated With Inhibition of Osteoclastogenesis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5967578/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5967578/pdf/fimmu-09-01016 PDF]
* 2018 May 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29867790 Parasite-Microbiota Interactions With the Vertebrate Gut: Synthesis Through an Ecological Lens] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5960673/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5960673/pdf/fmicb-09-00843.pdf PDF]
* 2018 May 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29746467 Disentangling complex parasite interactions: Protection against cerebral malaria by one helminth species is jeopardized by co-infection with another] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5963812/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5963812/pdf/pntd.0006483.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Apr 30 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29760697 Hookworm Secreted Extracellular Vesicles Interact With Host Cells and Prevent Inducible Colitis in Mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5936971/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5936971/pdf/fimmu-09-00850.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Apr 26 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29698559 Tuftsin-phosphorylcholine (TPC) equally effective to methylprednisolone in ameliorating lupus nephritis in a mice model] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6046477/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6046477/pdf/CEI-193-160.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Apr 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29653264 Helminth infection in mice improves insulin sensitivity via modulation of gut microbiota and fatty acid metabolism]
* 2018 Apr 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29670630 Helminth Infections: Recognition and Modulation of the Immune Response by Innate Immune Cells] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5893867/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5893867/pdf/fimmu-09-00664.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Apr [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29623983 Symptomatic hypereosinophilia associated with Necator americanus self-inoculation] (NA)
* 2018 Apr [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29355990 A sticky end for gastrointestinal helminths; the role of the mucus barrier] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5900928/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5900928/pdf/PIM-40-na.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Mar 25 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29574798 Modulation of human dendritic cell activity by Giardia and helminth antigens]
* 2018 Mar 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29569735 Anisakis pegreffii impacts differentiation and function of human dendritic cells]
* 2018 Mar 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29567298 Associations between Gut Microbiota and Common Luminal Intestinal Parasites]
* 2018 Mar 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29545532 Helminth infection protects against high fat diet-induced obesity via induction of alternatively activated macrophages] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5854586/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5854586/pdf/41598_2018_Article_22920.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Mar 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29546242 Manipulation of host and parasite microbiotas: Survival strategies during chronic nematode infection] -- [http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/4/3/eaap7399.full Full text] | [http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/4/3/eaap7399/tab-pdf PDF]
* 2018 Feb 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29486796 Differential human gut microbiome assemblages during soil-transmitted helminth infections in Indonesia and Liberia] -- [https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-018-0416-5 Full text]
* 2018 Feb 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29486173 Soil-transmitted helminth infections and intestinal and systemic inflammation in schoolchildren] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0001706X1830233X?via%3Dihub Full text] | [https://ac.els-cdn.com/S0001706X1830233X/1-s2.0-S0001706X1830233X-main.pdf?_tid=40509b04-c3e5-4baf-9f89-dfd29ef353d6&acdnat=1520445863_d2042c3fffa57972d2a29a072cebca94 PDF]
* 2018 Feb 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29453411 The impact of a helminth-modified microbiome on host immunity]
* 2018 Feb 2 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29402395 Intestinal worms eating neuropsychiatric disorders? Apparently so] | [[media:Intestinal_worms_eating_neuropsychiatric_disorders%3F_Apparently_so.pdf | PDF]]
* 2018 Jan 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31662622 Helminth Therapy: Advances in the use of Parasitic Worms Against Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and its Challenges] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6799527/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6799527/pdf/helm-55-001.pdf PDF]
* 2018 Jan 18 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29355617 Serine protease inhibitors containing a Kunitz domain: their role in modulation of host inflammatory responses and parasite survival]
* 2018 Jan 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29346656 Host responses to intestinal nematodes]
* 2018 Jan 12 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29339033 Helminth Modulation of Lung Inflammation] (Asthma)
* 2018 Jan 4 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29351392/ Young mice expel the tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta and are protected from colitis by triggering a memory response with worm antigen] -- [http://www.physiology.org/doi/pdf/10.1152/ajpgi.00295.2017 PDF] (HDC)
* 2018 Jan 4 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29300114 The tropics, helminth infections and hygiene hypotheses]
* 2018 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29956141 Production of Hymenolepis diminuta in the Laboratory: An Old Research Tool with New Clinical Applications] | [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/5/5c/Production_of_Hymenolepis_diminuta_in_the_Laboratory-_An_Old_Research_Tool_with_New_Clinical_Applications.pdf PDF]] (HDC)

=== 2017 ===

* 2017 Winter [https://pdxscholar.library.pdx.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1430&context=honorstheses A Critical View of Helminthic Therapy: Is It a Viable Form of Treatment for Immune Disorders Under the Category of Inflammatory Bowel Disease?] Alyssa Murphy, undergraduate thesis
* 2017 Dec 30 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29491533 Tuftsin-phosphorylcholine treatment of autoimmune diseases – a benefit and a message from helminths?] (No abstract) -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5825963/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5825963/pdf/RU-55-31448.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Dec 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29312343 Review: Impact of Helminth Infection on Antimycobacterial Immunity - A Focus on the Macrophage] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5743664/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5743664/pdf/fimmu-08-01864.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Dec 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29262347 Recent Advances in Type-2-Cell-Mediated Immunity: Insights from Helminth Infection]
* 2017 Dec 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29224909 Hygiene Hypothesis in Asthma Development: Is Hygiene to Blame?]
* 2017 Nov 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29238348 The Mannose Receptor in Regulation of Helminth-Mediated Host Immunity] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5712593/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5712593/pdf/fimmu-08-01677.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Nov 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29184071 Preventive Trichuris suis ova (TSO) treatment protects immunocompetent rabbits from DSS colitis but may be detrimental under conditions of immunosuppression] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5705695/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5705695/pdf/41598_2017_Article_16287.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Nov 24 [https://medicalxpress.com/news/2017-11-discovery-potent-parasite-protein-therapeutic.html Discovery of potent parasite protein may lead to new therapeutic options for inflammatory bowel conditions] Medical News Today (IBD)
* 2017 Nov 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29171863 Schistosoma mansoni-specific immune responses and allergy in Uganda]
* 2017 Nov 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29170498 A structurally distinct TGF-β mimic from an intestinal helminth parasite potently induces regulatory T cells] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5701006/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5701006/pdf/41467_2017_Article_1886.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Nov 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29162324 Modulation of human macrophage activity by Ascaris antigens is dependent on macrophage polarization state]
* 2017 Nov 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29133417 Human resistin protects against endotoxic shock by blocking LPS-TLR4 interaction] (For media comment on this study linking helminths with potential sepsis treatment, see [https://highlandernews.org/31486/ucr-researchers-discovered-effective-treatment-sepsis/ here].)
* ✅ 2017 Nov 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29133248 Evolution of the hygiene hypothesis into biota alteration theory: What are the paradigms and where are the clinical applications?] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1286457917301855?via%3Dihub Full text] | [[media:Evolution_of_the_hygiene_hypothesis_into_biota_alteration_theory-_what_are_the_paradigms_and_where_are_the_clinical_applications%3F.pdf | PDF]]
* 2017 Nov 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29249872 Taenia crassiceps Antigens Control Experimental Type 1 Diabetes by Inducing Alternatively Activated Macrophages] — [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5698814/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5698814/pdf/MI2017-8074329.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Nov 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29163443 Parasite-Derived Proteins for the Treatment of Allergies and Autoimmune Diseases] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5682104/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5682104/pdf/fmicb-08-02164.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Nov 4 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29115241/ Diet, atherosclerosis, and helmintic infection in Tsimane] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6042967/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6042967/pdf/nihms976321.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Nov 2 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29095820 "Omic" investigations of protozoa and worms for a deeper understanding of the human gut "parasitome"] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0005916 Full text]
* 2017 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28546083 Mechanisms of tolerance and potential therapeutic interventions in Alopecia Areata] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0163725817301274 Full text] (See section 4: Gut microbiota and helminths, autoimmunity and tolerance.)
* 2017 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29108604 Global issues in allergy and immunology: Parasitic infections and allergy]
* 2017 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29068485 Is the hygiene hypothesis relevant for the risk of multiple sclerosis?]
* 2017 Oct 30 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29141759 Cell Type-Specific Immunomodulation Induced by Helminthes: Effect on Metainflammation, Insulin Resistance and Type-2 Diabetes] (Metabolic syndrome)
* 2017 Oct 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29109850 Liver cystic echinococcosis and human host immune and autoimmune follow-up: A review] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5666304/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5666304/pdf/WJH-9-1176.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Oct 26 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29073139 Composition of the Schistosoma mansoni worm secretome: Identification of immune modulatory Cyclophilin A] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0006012 Full text]
* 2017 Oct 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29064448 Production and Use of Hymenolepis diminuta Cysticercoids as Anti-Inflammatory Therapeutics] -- [http://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/6/10/98/htm Full text] (HDC)
* 2017 Oct 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29045903 HpARI Protein Secreted by a Helminth Parasite Suppresses Interleukin-33] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655542/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655542/pdf/main.pdf PDF] (Allergy, asthma)
* 2017 Oct 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29034905 The hygiene hypothesis in autoimmunity: the role of pathogens and commensals]
* 2017 Oct 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29036211 Orally administered Taenia solium Calreticulin prevents experimental intestinal inflammation and is associated with a type 2 immune response] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5643116/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5643116/pdf/pone.0186510.pdf PDF] (Colitis)
*2017 Oct 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29027962 Novel Therapeutics for Multiple Sclerosis Designed by Parasitic Worms] -- [http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/18/10/2141/htm Full text]
* 2017 Oct 6 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29114386 Suppression of inflammation and tissue damage by a hookworm recombinant protein in experimental colitis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5671989/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5671989/pdf/cti201742a.pdf PDF] (NA)
* 2017 Oct 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28975357 The Effects of Intestinal Nematode L4 Stage on Mouse Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis] (Multiple sclerosis)
* 2017 Oct 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29064315 Safety and efficacy of helminth treatment in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: Results of the HINT 2 clinical trial] -- [http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1352458517736377 PDF] This trial employed a novel TSO formulation with a pH of 5, when it is known that storage of TSO at a pH above 4 may impede its therapeutic effect in humans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28720335] The conclusions drawn by the authors of this study about the efficacy of TSO are therefore not reliable.
* 2017 Oct [https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/governing-medical-knowledge-commons/chronic-disease-new-thinking-and-outlaw-innovation-patients-on-the-edge-in-the-knowledge-commons/8105C66FEBA55446E15538FD4B164005/core-reader# Chronic Disease, New Thinking, and Outlaw Innovation: Patients on the Edge in the Knowledge Commons] (Chapter 14 of the book, [https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/governing-medical-knowledge-commons/C4CAF56DF197BA93E850E65509EB36E8 Governing Medical Knowledge Commons], Cambridge University Press.)
* 2017 Oct [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28779539 Effect of ES products from Anisakis (Nematoda: Anisakidae) on experimentally induced colitis in adult zebrafish]
* 2017 Oct [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28970236 Cardioprotective manifestations of chronic helminth infections: new aspects of an old disease]
* 2017 Oct [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28196762/ Enteric helminth-induced type I interferon signaling protects against pulmonary virus infection through interaction with the microbiota] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6485385/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6485385/pdf/emss-79828.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Fall [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28948806 Toxocara spp. seronegativity in Czech patients with early form of multiple sclerosis - clinically isolated syndrome]
* 2017 Sep 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28960280 Functional specialization of intestinal dendritic cell subsets during Th2 helminth infection in mice]
* 2017 Sep 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28970717 Helminths as an alternative therapy for intestinal diseases] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5597493/ Full text] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5597493/pdf/WJG-23-6009.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Sep 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28892562 Triggering immunological memory against the tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta to protect against colitis] (HDC)
* 2017 Sep 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28892494 Infections by human gastrointestinal helminths are associated with changes in faecal microbiota diversity and composition] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5593201/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5593201/pdf/pone.0184719.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Aug 21 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28883695 Schistosoma japonicum attenuates dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in mice via reduction of endoplasmic reticulum stress] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569284/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569284/pdf/WJG-23-5700.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Aug 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28815724 Secreted products of Fasciola hepatica inhibit the induction of T cell responses that mediate allergy]
* 2017 Aug 5 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28779539 Effect of ES-products from Anisakis (Nematoda: Anisakidae) on experimentally induced colitis in adult zebrafish]
* 2017 Aug 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28771620 A benign helminth alters the host immune system and the gut microbiota in a rat model system] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5542714/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5542714/pdf/pone.0182205.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2017 Aug [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28877578 Syphacia obvelata: A New Hope to Induction of Intestinal Immunological Tolerance in C57BL/6 Mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5594727/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5594727/pdf/kjp-55-4-439.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jul 24 [http://trjfas.org/uploads/pdf_1183.pdf Role of Parasitic Helminths in Bioremediating Some Heavy Metal Accumulation in the Tissues of Lethrinus mahsena]
* ⚡ 2017 Jul 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28720335 Not infection with parasitic worms, but rather colonization with therapeutic helminths] | [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/1/10/Not_infection_with_parasitic_worms_but_rather_colonization_with_therapeutic_helminths.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jul 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28703913 A. suum infection modulates inflammation: implication of CD4+CD25hi Foxp3+ T cells and IL-10]
* 2017 Jul 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28689246 Parasites and asthma]
* 2017 Jun 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28659212 Helminth-induced apoptosis: a silent strategy for immunosuppression]
* 2017 Jun 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28664463 Therapeutic potential of helminths in autoimmune diseases: helminth-derived immune-regulators and immune balance]
* 2017 Jun 28 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28744067 Helminth Products Potently Modulate Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Downregulating Neuroinflammation and Promoting a Suppressive Microenvironment] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5506484/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5506484/pdf/MI2017-8494572.pdf PDF] (Multiple Sclerosis)
* 2017 Jun 20 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28676845 Th2/1 Hybrid Cells Occurring in Murine and Human Strongyloidiasis Share Effector Functions of Th1 Cells] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5476698/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5476698/pdf/fcimb-07-00261.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jun 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28614408 Schistosoma japonicum infection downregulates house dust mite-induced allergic airway inflammation in mice] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0179565 Full text] | [http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0179565&type=printable PDF] (Asthma)
* 2017 Jun 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28638627 Environmental factors influencing multiple sclerosis in Latin America] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5472234/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5472234/pdf/10.1177_2055217317715049.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jun 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28606411 Can Parasitic Worms Cure the Modern World's Ills?]
* 2017 Jun 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28602842 Immune responses and parasitological observations induced during probiotic treatment with medicinal Trichuris suis ova in a healthy volunteer] (TSO)
* 2017 Jun 5 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28492420 Helminthic Therapy: A New Era in Immune-Mediated Diseases] -- [http://journals.lww.com/jclinrheum/Citation/2017/06000/Helminthic_Therapy__A_New_Era_in_Immune_Mediated.19.aspx Full text] (Mixed connective tissue disease/MCTD, Raynaud phenomenon)
* 2017 May 16 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28526605 Microevolutionary response of a gut nematode to intestinal inflammation]
* 2017 May 12 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28494800 Somatic extracts of Marshallagia marshalli downregulate the Th2 associated immune responses in ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation in BALB/c mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5427607/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5427607/pdf/13071_2017_Article_2159.pdf PDF] (Asthma)
* 2017 May 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28482922 Therapeutic effect of Schistosoma japonicum cystatin on bacterial sepsis in mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5422996/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5422996/pdf/13071_2017_Article_2162.pdf PDF]
* 2017 May 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28472383 Effect of Anthelmintic Treatment on Insulin Resistance: A Cluster-Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial in Indonesia] (Diabetes)
* 2017 Apr 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476343 Immune responses to fungal aeroallergen in Heligmosomoides polygyrus infected-mice vary by age]
* 2017 Apr 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28484453 Helminth Immunomodulation in Autoimmune Disease] -- [http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fimmu.2017.00453/full Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5401880/pdf/fimmu-08-00453.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Apr 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28450853 Micromanagement of Immune System: Role of miRNAs in Helminthic Infections] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5390025/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5390025/pdf/fmicb-08-00586.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Apr 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28390393 Regulatory monocytes in helminth infections: insights from the modulation during human hookworm infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5385058/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5385058/pdf/12879_2017_Article_2366.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Apr 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28385494 Schistosome-induced pulmonary B cells inhibit allergic airway inflammation and display a reduced Th2-driving function]
* 2017 Apr 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28204053 Whipping Crohn's With Helminth Therapies? Not Yet]
* 2017 Apr [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28031319 Apolipoprotein E4 is associated with improved cognitive function in Amazonian forager-horticulturalists with a high parasite burden] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5349792/ Full text]
* 2017 Mar 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28342137 Skewed Exposure to Environmental Antigens Complements Hygiene Hypothesis in Explaining the Rise of Allergy] -- [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10441-017-9306-7 Full text] | [http://download.springer.com/static/pdf/689/art%253A10.1007%252Fs10441-017-9306-7.pdf?originUrl=http%3A%2F%2Flink.springer.com%2Farticle%2F10.1007%2Fs10441-017-9306-7&token2=exp=1490739158~acl=%2Fstatic%2Fpdf%2F689%2Fart%25253A10.1007%25252Fs10441-017-9306-7.pdf%3ForiginUrl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Flink.springer.com%252Farticle%252F10.1007%252Fs10441-017-9306-7*~hmac=9a64ec6d20433c8458c2148266ee7c346fa819eaa97422b8a79fccc79d005885 PDF]
* 2017 Mar 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28342825 Association between parasitic infections and tuberculin skin test results in refugees] (Tuberculosis)
* 2017 Mar 18 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28340138 A life without worms] -- [https://academic.oup.com/trstmh/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/trstmh/trx010 Full text]
* 2017 Mar 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28302598 Helminths in the gastrointestinal tract as modulators of immunity and pathology] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5495915/ Full text]
* 2017 Mar 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28295446 A recombinant cystatin from Ascaris lumbricoides attenuates inflammation of DSS-induced colitis]
* 2017 Mar 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28284979 Effect of polymorphisms on TGFB1 on allergic asthma and helminth infection in an African admixed population]
* 2017 Mar 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28271497 Chronic schistosomiasis during pregnancy epigenetically reprograms T cell differentiation in offspring of infected mothers] (Allergy)
* 2017 Mar [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28030334 Trichuris suis secrete products that reduce disease severity in a multiple sclerosis model] (TSO)
* 2017 Feb 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28235148 Parasites, nutrition, immune responses, and biology of metabolic tissues]
* 2017 Feb 23 [[media:Parasites, ghosts and mutualists- a relational geography of microbes for global health.pdf | Parasites, ghosts and mutualists - a relational geography of microbes for global health]] (PDF) -- Jamie Lorimer, Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers, Royal Geographical Society.
* 2017 Feb 21 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28224678 Microbiome, autoimmunity, allergy, and helminth infection: The importance of the pregnancy period]
* 2017 Feb 20 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28265273 New Data on Human Macrophages Polarization by Hymenolepis diminuta Tapeworm - An In Vitro Study] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5316519/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5316519/pdf/fimmu-08-00148.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2017 Feb 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28201853 Antigenic cross-reactivity between Schistosoma mansoni and peanut: a role for cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs) and implications for the hygiene hypothesis] (Allergy)
* 2017 Feb 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28192437 Species dependent impact of helminth-derived antigens on human macrophages infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis: Direct effect on the innate anti-mycobacterial response] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0005390 Full text] | [http://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0005390&type=printable PDF]
* 2017 Feb 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28191818 Changes in protein expression after treatment with Ancylostoma caninum excretory/secretory products in a mouse model of colitis] -- [http://www.nature.com/articles/srep41883 Full text] | [http://www.readcube.com/articles/10.1038/srep41883 PDF]
* 2017 Feb 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28196762 Enteric helminth-induced type-I interferon signalling protects against pulmonary virus infection through interaction with the microbiota]
* 2017 Feb 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28178298 The impact of prenatal exposure to parasitic infections and to anthelmintic treatment on antibody responses to routine immunisations given in infancy: Secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0005213 Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5298230/pdf/pntd.0005213.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jan 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28094319 Helminth-induced Ly6Chi monocyte-derived alternatively activated macrophages suppress experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis] -- [http://www.nature.com/articles/srep40814 Full text] | [http://www.readcube.com/articles/10.1038/srep40814 PDF]
* 2017 Jan 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28094779 Suppression of colitis by adoptive transfer of helminth antigen-treated dendritic cells requires interleukin-4 receptor-α signaling] -- [http://www.nature.com/articles/srep40631 Full text] | [http://readcube.com/view/10.1038/srep40631 PDF]
* 2017 Jan 13 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28084120 Inflammatory arthritis and systemic bone loss are attenuated by gastrointestinal helminth parasites]
* 2017 Jan 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27665994 Regulation of type 2 diabetes by helminth-induced Th2 immune response] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5240765/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5240765/pdf/jvms-77-1855.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jan 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28073356 Gut microbiota disturbance during helminth infection: can it affect cognition and behaviour of children?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5225537/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5225537/pdf/12879_2016_Article_2146.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jan 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28066896 Parasite excretory-secretory products and their effects on metabolic syndrome]
* 2017 Jan 2 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28452686 Helminths and intestinal barrier function] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5362995/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5362995/pdf/ktib-05-01-1283385.pdf PDF]
* 2017 Jan [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25919312 Downregulation of immune responses in asthmatic humans by ES products of Marshallagia marshalli]

=== 2016 ===

* 2016 Dec 23 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28009488 Chronic infections with viruses or parasites: breaking bad to make good]
* 2016 Dec 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27977856 Nematodes and human therapeutic trials for inflammatory disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5580940/ Full text]
* 2016 Dec 14 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27978433 Exploiting Old Pathogens to Create New Therapeutics]
* 2016 Dec 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27929101 Hookworm infection] -- [https://lookaside.fbsbx.com/file/Hookworm.pdf?token=AWzMLBAlpXkIHpPpw3EdbRqiiT4JSi4ZoDqfcymC1Alc7o-QnI_R551leXxADrssmY6JUD-rmWi1TBK-U-oWnp-fb1Ykc7iXN1_ipiK-ZV-rkifcTolyviSZEt9QY13wjPqx_rtLRXrUUawrv52tyE5l PDF]
* 2016 Dec 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27925245 Helminths, hygiene hypothesis and type 2 diabetes]
* 2016 Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28087937 Myeloid Cell Phenotypes in Susceptibility and Resistance to Helminth Parasite Infections]
* 2016 Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30144791 Effect of Helminthic Infection on the Prevention and Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and the Mechanisms] (IBD)
* 2016 Nov 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27883079 A parasite-derived 68-mer peptide ameliorates autoimmune disease in murine models of Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis] -- [http://www.nature.com/articles/srep37789 Full text] | [http://www.readcube.com/articles/10.1038/srep37789 PDF]
* 2016 Nov 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27872476 New insights into the immunopathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus] -- [https://sci-hub.wf/10.1038/nrrheum.2016.186 Full text]
* 2016 Nov 18 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27672083 Treatment with Cestode Parasite Antigens Results in Recruitment of CCR2+ Myeloid Cells, the Adoptive Transfer of Which Ameliorates Colitis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5116724/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5116724/pdf/zii3471.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2016 Nov 11 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27956844 Helminth infection during pregnancy: insights from evolutionary ecology]
* 2016 Nov 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27861815 Intestinal helminth infection induces highly functional resident memory CD4+ T cells in mice]
* 2016 Nov 10 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27862000 Immunomodulation by helminths: similar impact on type 1 and type 2 diabetes?]
* 2016 Nov 9 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27827438 Changes in duodenal tissue-associated microbiota following hookworm infection and consecutive gluten challenges in humans with coeliac disease] -- [http://www.nature.com/articles/srep36797 Full text] | [http://www.readcube.com/articles/10.1038/srep36797 PDF]
* 2016 Nov 7 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27905107 Co-operative suppression of inflammatory responses in human dendritic cells by plant proanthocyanidins and products from the parasitic nematode Trichuris suis] (TSO)
* 2016 Nov 2 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27806992 The whipworm (Trichuris suis) secretes prostaglandin E2 to suppress proinflammatory properties in human dendritic cells] (TSO)
* 2016 Nov 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27802332 Anti-Arthritic Activity of Schistosoma mansoni and Trichinella spiralis Derived-Antigens in Adjuvant Arthritis in Rats: Role of FOXP3+ Treg Cells] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5089557/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5089557/pdf/pone.0165916.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27548652 Aberrant immune response with consequent vascular and connective tissue remodeling - causal to scleroderma and associated syndromes such as Raynaud phenomenon and other fibrosing syndromes?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5114306/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5114306/pdf/nihms821879.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Oct 27 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27983971 Immune-protective effect of echinococcosis on colitis experimental model is dependent of down regulation of TNF-α and NO production]
* 2016 Oct 26 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27797959 Hookworm recombinant protein promotes regulatory T cell responses that suppress experimental asthma]
* 2016 Oct 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27791067 Community deworming alleviates geohelminth-induced immune hyporesponsiveness]
* 2016 Oct 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27743501 Mucosal and systemic immune modulation by Trichuris trichiura in a self-infected individual] -- [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/6/6a/Mucosal_and_systemic_immune_modulation_by_Trichuris_trichiura_in_a_self-infected_individual.pdf PDF] (TTO)
* 2016 Oct 6 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27863931 The Multibiome: The Intestinal Ecosystem's Influence on Immune Homeostasis, Health, and Disease] -- [http://www.ebiomedicine.com/article/S2352-3964(16)30462-5/fulltext Full text] | [http://www.ebiomedicine.com/article/S2352-3964(16)30462-5/pdf PDF]
* 2016 Oct 5 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27707789 A Randomised, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial of Trichuris suis ova in Active Crohn's disease] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5881737/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5881737/pdf/jjw184.pdf PDF] This trial employed a novel TSO formulation with a pH of 5, when it is known that storage of TSO at a pH above 4 may impede its therapeutic effect in humans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28720335] The conclusions drawn by the authors of this study about the efficacy of TSO are therefore not reliable.
* 2016 Oct-Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28127363 Anti-inflammatory Potentials of Excretory/Secretory (ES) and Somatic Products of Marshallagia marshalli on Allergic Airway Inflammation in BALB/c Mice] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5251180/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5251180/pdf/IJPA-11-515.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Sept 25 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27666719 Cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in evolutionary perspective: a critical role for helminths] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5101910/ Full text] | [http://emph.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2016/09/24/emph.eow028.full.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Sept 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27587063 Dendritic cells and parasites: from recognition and activation to immune response instruction]
* 2016 Aug 29 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27573628 Human Helminths and Allergic Disease: The Hygiene Hypothesis and Beyond]
* 2016 Aug 26 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27575495 Helminth Regulation of Immunity: A Three-pronged Approach to Treat Colitis] -- [https://tanawisa.com/publications/Helminth_Regulation_of_Immunity.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2016 Aug 25 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27596058 Do worms protect against the metabolic syndrome? A systematic review and meta-analysis] -- [http://www.diabetesresearchclinicalpractice.com/article/S0168-8227(16)30437-5/fulltext Full text] [http://www.diabetesresearchclinicalpractice.com/article/S0168-8227(16)30437-5/pdf PDF] (Diabetes)
* 2016 Aug 25 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27560829 The Helminth-Derived Immunomodulator AvCystatin Reduces Virus Enhanced Inflammation by Induction of Regulatory IL-10+ T Cells] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4999285/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4999285/pdf/pone.0161885.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Aug 24 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27559049 Downregulation of the Syk Signaling Pathway in Intestinal Dendritic Cells Is Sufficient To Induce Dendritic Cells That Inhibit Colitis]
* 2016 Aug 20 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27544668 Filarial Infection or Antigen Administration Improves Glucose Tolerance in Diet-Induced Obese Mice]
* 2016 Aug 12 [https://www.dovepress.com/experimental-human-hookworm-infection-therapeutic-potential-peer-reviewed-article-RIP Experimental human hookworm infection: therapeutic potential] -- [https://www.dovepress.com/experimental-human-hookworm-infection-therapeutic-potential-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-RIP?utm_content=bufferc5704&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer Full text] | [https://www.dovepress.com/getfile.php?fileID=31876 PDF](download)
* 2016 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27563682 3 Effects of Invariant NKT Cells on Parasite Infections and Hygiene Hypothesis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4987483/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4987483/pdf/JIR2016-2395645.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27116368 Macrobiota - helminths as active participants and partners of the microbiota in host intestinal homeostasis]
* 2016 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27480900 Role in Allergic Diseases of Immunological Cross-Reactivity between Allergens and Homologues of Parasite Proteins]
* 2016 Jul 28 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27476889 Regulation of the host immune system by helminth parasites] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5010150/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5010150/pdf/main.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27215921 Opening (and Swallowing) A Can of Worms to Treat My Crohn's Disease]
* 2016 Jun 27 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27348757 Molecular events by which dendritic cells promote Th2 immune protection in helminth infection]
* 2016 Jun 26 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27424065 Intestinal parasites infection: protective effect in rheumatoid arthritis?] -- [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2255502116300426 Full text] | [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2255502116300426/pdfft?md5=4749d7bd9eac36329b3f1e5412ef2a28&pid=1-s2.0-S2255502116300426-main.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jun 25 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27344656 How the tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta affects zinc and cadmium accumulation in a host fed a hyperaccumulating plant (Arabidopsis halleri)] (HDC)
* 2016 Jun 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26908751 Maternal Helminth Infection Is Associated With Higher Infant Immunoglobulin A Titers to Antigen in Orally Administered Vaccines]
* 2016 Jun 14 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27297236 Intimate gut interactions: helminths and the microbiota]
* 2016 Jun 10 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27297184 Host parasite communications-Messages from helminths for the immune system]
* 2016 Jun 9 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27278123 Experimental arthritis: Helminth infection ameliorates arthritis] (No abstract)
* 2016 Jun 8 [http://medicalxpress.com/news/2016-06-mice-infected-parasite-symptoms-rheumatoid.html Mice infected with a parasite show reduced symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis] -- Bob Yirka, Medical Xpress
* 2016 Jun 7 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27273006 Th2 and eosinophil responses suppress inflammatory arthritis] -- [http://www.nature.com/ncomms/2016/160607/ncomms11596/full/ncomms11596.html Full text] | [http://www.nature.com/ncomms/2016/160607/ncomms11596/pdf/ncomms11596.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jun 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27183598 Myeloid-Restricted AMPKα1 Promotes Host Immunity and Protects against IL-12/23p40-Dependent Lung Injury during Hookworm Infection]
* 2016 Jun [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27403907 Hygienic hypothesis in immunopathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease] (IBD)
* ✅ ⚡ 2016 May 31 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27240605 Practices and outcomes of self-treatment with helminths based on physicians' observations] -- [[media:Practices_and_outcomes_of_self-treatment_with_helminths_based_on_physicians_observations.pdf | PDF]]. The first study to probe, through the eyes of their physicians, the practices and experiences of those who are self-treating with helminths.
* 2016 May 24 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27234811 Helminths and Intestinal Flora Team Up to Improve Gut Health]
* 2016 May 19 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27194189 The relationship between helminth infections and low haemoglobin levels in Ethiopian children with blood type A]
* 2016 May 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27160906 Lymphotoxin-Dependent B Cell-FRC Crosstalk Promotes De Novo Follicle Formation and Antibody Production following Intestinal Helminth Infection] -- [http://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(16)30436-3 Full text] | [http://www.cell.com/cell-reports/pdf/S2211-1247(16)30436-3.pdf PDF]
* 2016 May 9 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27172808 Parasitic helminth infections and the control of human allergic and autoimmune disorders]
* 2016 May 5 [http://actu.epfl.ch/news/intestinal-worms-boost-immune-system-in-a-surprisi/ Intestinal worms boost immune system in a surprising way] -- Nik Papageorgiou, Mediacom
* 2016 May 1 [[media:Gut Buddies - Multispecies Studies and the Microbiome.pdf | Gut Buddies - Multispecies Studies and the Microbiome’]] (PDF) -- Jamie Lorimer, Duke University Press
* 2016 Apr 27 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27120222 Interaction between Helminths and Toll-Like Receptors: Possibilities and Potentials for Asthma Therapy]
* 2016 Apr 23 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27116368 Macrobiota - helminths as active participants and partners of the microbiota in host intestinal homeostasis]
* 2016 Apr 21 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27101372 Diplomatic Assistance: Can Helminth-Modulated Macrophages Act as Treatment for Inflammatory Disease?] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1005480 Full text] | [http://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article/asset?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1005480.PDF PDF]
* 2016 Apr 19 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27095802 Treatment with Trichuris suis soluble products during monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation reduces inflammatory responses through epigenetic remodeling] (TSO)
* 2016 Apr 14 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27080105 Helminth infection promotes colonization resistance via type 2 immunity] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4905769/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4905769/pdf/nihms790698.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Apr 14 [http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2016/04/parasitic-worms-may-prevent-crohn-s-disease-altering-bacterial-balance Parasitic worms may prevent Crohn’s disease by altering bacterial balance] -- Mitch Leslie, Science. (Also reported by Science Daily. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/04/160414145513.htm])
* 2016 Apr 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27058578 Comprehensive Transcriptome Meta-analysis to Characterize Host Immune Responses in Helminth Infections] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0004624 Full text]
* 2016 Apr 7 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27062712 Cellular gene expression induced by parasite antigens and allergens in neonates from parasite-infected mothers]
* 2016 Mar 29 [https://ucrtoday.ucr.edu/36044 To Keep or Not to Keep a Hookworm] -- Iqbal Pittalwala, UCR Today
* 2016 Mar 10 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26965184 Immune-regulatory mechanisms of classical and experimental multiple sclerosis drugs: a special focus on helminth-derived treatments]
* 2016 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26947981 Microbes and asthma: Opportunities for intervention]
* 2016 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27228627 Are Helminths to be Trusted as Allies in the War against Autoimmunity and Chronic Inflammation?] -- [http://www.ima.org.il/FilesUpload/IMAJ/0/193/96901.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26174763 The schistosome glutathione S-transferase P28GST, a unique helminth protein, prevents intestinal inflammation in experimental colitis through a Th2-type response with mucosal eosinophils] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4801903/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4801903/pdf/mi201562a.pdf PDF]
* 2016 (Mar?) [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28008805 Eosinophils in Homeostasis and Their Contrasting Roles during Inflammation and Helminth Infections]
* 2016 Feb 6 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26852392 Malaria, helminths, co-infection and anaemia in a cohort of children from Mutengene, south western Cameroon] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4744422/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4744422/pdf/12936_2016_Article_1111.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jan 21 [http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10601333.2016.1210159 Policy and regulations in light of the human body as a ‘superorganism’ containing multiple, intertwined symbiotic relationships] | [[media:Policy and regulations in light of the human body as a ‘superorganism’ containing multiple, intertwined symbiotic relationships.pdf | PDF]]
* 2016 Jan 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26816384 Transkingdom control of viral infection and immunity in the mammalian intestine] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4751997/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4751997/pdf/nihms757312.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jan 14 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26763929 The parasitic worm-derived immunomodulator, ES-62 and its drug-like small molecule analogues exhibit therapeutic potential in a model of chronic asthma] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4725896/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4725896/pdf/srep19224.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jan 11 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26752538 The Role of Helminth Infection and Environment in the Development of Allergy: A Prospective Study of Newly-Arrived Ethiopian Immigrants in Israel] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0004208 Full text]
* 2016 Jan 4 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26728323 Therapeutic potential of recombinant cystatin from Schistosoma japonicum in TNBS-induced experimental colitis of mice] - [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4700642/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4700642/pdf/13071_2015_Article_1288.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26345715 Interactions between the intestinal microbiome and helminth parasites] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5019230/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5019230/pdf/PIM-38-5.pdf PDF]
* 2016 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26577605 Mast cells: new therapeutic target in helminth immune modulation] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pim.12295/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pim.12295/epdf PDF]
* 2016 Jan [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26650734 Sweet secrets of a therapeutic worm: mass-spectrometric N-glycomic analysis of Trichuris suis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4712359/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4712359/pdf/emss-66410.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2016 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27592717 Enteric Ecosystem Disruption in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Can the Microbiota and Macrobiota be Restored?]
* 2016 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27088850 A Helminth Protease Inhibitor Modulates the Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Proinflammatory Phenotype of Microglia in vitro]

=== 2015 ===
* 2015 Dec 16 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26673140 Helminth Products Protect against Autoimmunity via Innate Type 2 Cytokines IL-5 and IL-33, Which Promote Eosinophilia]
* 2015 Dec 7 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26644379 Low-Dose Intestinal Trichuris muris Infection Alters the Lung Immune Microenvironment and Can Suppress Allergic Airway Inflammation] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4730564/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4730564/pdf/zii491.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26571397 Helminth-induced arginase-1 exacerbates lung inflammation and disease severity in tuberculosis]
* 2015 Nov 17 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26588776 Worming Their Way into the Picture: Microbiota Help Helminths Modulate Host Immunity]
* 2015 Nov 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26477048 Cohabitation in the Intestine: Interactions among Helminth Parasites, Bacterial Microbiota, and Host Immunity]
* 2015 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26604162 Can Helminth Infection Reverse Microbial Dysbiosis?]
* 2015 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26085597 Drug-like analogues of the parasitic worm-derived immunomodulator ES-62 are therapeutic in the MRL/Lpr model of systemic lupus erythematosus] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4616909/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4616909/pdf/10.1177_0961203315591031.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25698173 Trichuris suis ova therapy in relapsing multiple sclerosis is safe but without signals of beneficial effect] This study used a treatment period of only 12 weeks, which is inadequate when assessing the efficacy of helminths, and it also used a novel TSO formulation with a pH of 5, when it is known that storage of TSO at a pH above 4 may impede its therapeutic effect in humans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28720335] The conclusions drawn by the authors of this study about the efficacy of TSO are therefore not reliable.
* 2015 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26586763 Helminth infection, fecundity, and age of first pregnancy in women] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5953513/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5953513/pdf/nihms961168.pdf PDF] (Also see [[Helminthic therapy and fertility | '''Helminthic therapy and fertility''']].)
* 2015 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26332354 Adoptive transfer of helminth antigen-pulsed dendritic cells protects against the development of experimental colitis in mice] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/eji.201545579 Full text] | [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/eji.201545579 PDF] (HDC)
* 2015 Oct 27 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26522986 The Intestinal Microbiota Contributes to the Ability of Helminths to Modulate Allergic Inflammation] -- [http://www.cell.com/immunity/fulltext/S1074-7613(15)00397-0 Full text] | [http://www.cell.com/immunity/pdf/S1074-7613(15)00397-0.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Oct 19 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25326880 Do We Need Worms to Promote Immune Health?]
* 2015 Sept 18 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26381211 Experimental hookworm infection and escalating gluten challenges are associated with increased microbial richness in celiac subjects] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4585380/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4585380/pdf/srep13797.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Sep 17 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26377648 Type 2 immunity-dependent reduction of segmented filamentous bacteria in mice infected with the helminthic parasite Nippostrongylus brasiliensis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4574229/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4574229/pdf/40168_2015_Article_103.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Sept 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26345715 The interaction of commensal intestinal bacteria with helminth parasites]
* 2015 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26093162 Effect of different helminth extracts on the development of asthma in mice: The influence of early-life exposure and the role of IL-10 response]
* 2015 Aug 19 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26150661 Interactions between multiple helminths and the gut microbiota in wild rodents] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4528493/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4528493/pdf/rstb20140295.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Aug 13 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26270819 Are Human Intestinal Eukaryotes Beneficial or Commensals?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4536199/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4536199/pdf/ppat.1005039.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Aug 6 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26248316 Asymptomatic Helminth Infection in Active Tuberculosis Is Associated with Increased Regulatory and Th-2 Responses and a Lower Sputum Smear Positivity] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4527760/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4527760/pdf/pntd.0003994.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Aug 5 [http://news.sciencemag.org/biology/2015/08/tapeworms-may-be-good-your-brain Tapeworms may be good for your brain] Hanae Armitage, Science
* 2015 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26672222 The Role of Adoptive Transfer of Immune Cells in Helminth- induced Regulation of Allergy and Autoimmune Diseases]
* 2015 Jul 27 The hygiene hypothesis: current perspectives and future therapies -- [https://www.dovepress.com/the-hygiene-hypothesis-current-perspectives-and-future-therapies-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-ITT Full text] has a PDF download link.
* 2015 Jul 25 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26205402 Trichuris suis induces human non-classical patrolling monocytes via the mannose receptor and PKC: implications for multiple sclerosis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4513676/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4513676/pdf/40478_2015_Article_223.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2015 Jul 20 [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/07/150720145207.htm Gut worms protect babies' brains from inflammation] Science Daily
* 2015 Jul 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26188364 Enteric nematodes and the path to up-regulation of type 2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-13] (Includes mention of increased cell turnover to maintain an effective gut barrier in the presence of helminths.)
* 2015 Jul 7 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26162711 Got Worms? Perinatal Exposure to Helminths Prevents Persistent Immune Sensitization and Cognitive Dysfunction Induced by Early-Life Infection]
* 2015 Jul 6 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26148848 Epigenetic Modulation of Microglial Inflammatory Gene Loci in Helminth-Induced Immune Suppression: Implications for Immune Regulation in Neurocysticercosis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4552224/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4552224/pdf/10.1177_1759091415592126.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Jul 6 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26150662 Suppression of inflammation by helminths: a role for the gut microbiota?] -- [http://rstb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/370/1675/20140296 Full text] | [http://rstb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/royptb/370/1675/20140296.full.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Jul 3 [http://evmedreview.com/?p=2767%23_ENREF_4 Progress on reconstituting the depleted biome to prevent immune disorders] Parker and Morey, The Evolution and Medicine Review
* 2015 Jul 3 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26207885 Helminth therapy for organic diseases?]
* 2015 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26380461 Of worms and men - administration of helminth products as an innovative approach to treatment of autoimmune diseases]
* 2015 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26393130 Significance of Diagnosing Parasitic Infestation in Evaluation of Unexplained Eosinophilia] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4572961/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4572961/pdf/jcdr-9-DC22.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=25852044 Chronic helminth infection and helminth-derived egg antigens promote adipose tissue M2 macrophages and improve insulin sensitivity in obese mice]
* 2015 Jul [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25809087 The potential long-term effect of previous schistosome infection reduces the risk of metabolic syndrome among Chinese men]
* 2015 Jul [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26145982 The allergy epidemics: 1870-2010] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4617537/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4617537/pdf/nihms697397.pdf PDF] This historical analysis of the allergy epidemic highlights the role of helminth control as one of the explanations for the trends from 1870 to 2010.
* 2015 Jun 27 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26139475 Atopy and Asthma in Migrants: The Function of Parasites]
* 2015 Jun 25 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26119261 Parasitic helminths and their beneficial impact on type 1 and type 2 diabetes]
* 2015 Jun 22 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26098783 Prevention of Type 1 diabetes through parasite infection]
* 2015 Jun 10 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26061042 Infection with Soil-Transmitted Helminths Is Associated with Increased Insulin Sensitivity] -- [http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0127746 Full text] | [http://www.plosone.org/article/fetchObject.action?uri=info:doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0127746&representation=PDF PDF]
* 2015 Jun 3 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26142923 The gut microbiome in the helminth infected host]
* 2015 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25600983 Clinical trials of helminth therapy in autoimmune diseases: rationale and findings]
* 2015 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25975491 Prophylactic and therapeutic treatment with a synthetic analogue of a parasitic worm product prevents experimental arthritis and inhibits IL-1β production via NRF2-mediated counter-regulation of the inflammasome] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4459730/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4459730/pdf/main.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25854639 Identifying the immunomodulatory components of helminths]
* 2015 Jun [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25869420 Helminths and the microbiota: parts of the hygiene hypothesis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4428757/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4428757/pdf/nihms684423.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Jun [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26057788 The structure of hookworm platelet inhibitor (HPI), a CAP superfamily member from Ancylostoma caninum] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4461323/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4461323/pdf/f-71-00643.pdf PDF]
* 2015 May 21 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25996526 Trichuris suis soluble products induce Rab7b expression and limit TLR4 responses in human dendritic cells] (TSO)
* 2015 May 20 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25989836 Immune responses in children infected with the pinworm Enterobius vermicularis in central Greece]
* 2015 May 16 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25991556 A worm of one's own: how helminths modulate host adipose tissue function and metabolism] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4567404/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4567404/pdf/nihms684209.pdf PDF]
* 2015 May 11 [https://www.facebook.com/tanawisa/posts/746878402097165 Comments on TSO for Autism from a European Biomedical Center for Autism Research]
* 2015 May 7 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25403350 Not all parasites are protective] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pim.12160/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pim.12160/epdf PDF]
* 2015 May 7 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25956237 Approaches to studying and manipulating the enteric microbiome to improve autism symptoms] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4425814/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4425814/pdf/MEHD-26-26878.pdf PDF]
* 2015 May 5 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25942385 Alteration of the rat cecal microbiome during colonization with the helminth Hymenolepis dimunita] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4615828/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4615828/pdf/kgmi-06-03-1047128.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2015 May 4 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25938477 Chronic Trichuris muris Infection in C57BL/6 Mice Causes Significant Changes in Host Microbiota and Metabolome: Effects Reversed by Pathogen Clearance] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4418675/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4418675/pdf/pone.0125945.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Apr 28 [http://www.nature.com/nrendo/journal/v11/n6/full/nrendo.2015.68.html Helminths improve insulin sensitivity and enhance M2 macrophage numbers in WAT of obese mice] (No abstract)
* 2015 Apr 19 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25941654 Type 1 diabetes pathogenesis - Prevention???] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4413393/ Full text]
* ✅⚡2015 Apr 18 [[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf | Overcoming Evolutionary Mismatch by Self-Treatment with Helminths: Current Practices and Experience]] (PDF) This was the first study to probe the methods and outcomes reported by individuals self-treating with helminths.
* 2015 Apr 17 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26040054 Helminths and autoimmunity: the good, the bad and the ugly] -- [https://www.ima.org.il/FilesUpload/IMAJ/0/142/71371.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Apr 13 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25879741 Unraveling the Hygiene Hypothesis of helminthes and autoimmunity: origins, pathophysiology, and clinical applications] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4396177/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4396177/pdf/12916_2015_Article_306.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Apr 13 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25869420 Helminths and the microbiota: parts of the hygiene hypothesis] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Png_Loke/publication/274965905_Helminths_and_the_microbiota_parts_of_the_hygiene_hypothesis/links/55898a6308ae9076016f9ad9.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Apr 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25853852 Increased Biodiversity in the Environment Improves the Humoral Response of Rats] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4390306/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4390306/pdf/pone.0120255.pdf PDF] (Also reported by Science Daily. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/04/150408145242.htm])
* 2015 Apr 6 The Hygiene Hypothesis - Redefine, Rename, or Just Clean It Up? -- [http://www.paediatrix.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/The-Hygiene-Hypothesis-Redefine-Rename-or-Just-Clean-It-Up.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Apr [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25665856/ Biome depletion in conjunction with evolutionary mismatches could play a role in the etiology of neurofibromatosis 1]
* 2015 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25546822 The parasitic worm product ES-62 targets myeloid differentiation factor 88-dependent effector mechanisms to suppress antinuclear antibody production and proteinuria in MRL/lpr mice] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4409857/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4409857/pdf/art0067-1023.pdf PDF] (A worm-derived immunomodulator protects against kidney damage in lupus/SLE)
* 2015 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25712154 Exosome-transported microRNAs of helminth origin: new tools for allergic and autoimmune diseases therapy?]
* 2015 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25801883 From the worm to the pill, the parasitic worm product ES-62 raises new horizons in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis] -- [http://lup.sagepub.com/content/24/4-5/400.full Full text] | [http://lup.sagepub.com/content/24/4-5/400.full.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Apr [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25683374 Potential long-term effects of previous schistosome infection may reduce the atherogenic index of plasma in Chinese men]
* 2015 Mar 26 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25884706 Human helminth therapy to treat inflammatory disorders - where do we stand?] -- [http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2172/16/12 Full text] | [http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/s12865-015-0074-3.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Mar 25 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25806513 Immune Antibodies and Helminth Products Drive CXCR2-Dependent Macrophage-Myofibroblast Crosstalk to Promote Intestinal Repair] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4373753/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4373753/pdf/ppat.1004778.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25624401 Epidemiological study of the association between malaria and helminth infections in Nigeria] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4350553/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4350553/pdf/tropmed-92-578.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25656764 Does Strongyloides stercoralis infection protect against type 2 diabetes in humans? Evidence from Australian Aboriginal adults]
* 2015 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25666929 The immunomodulatory parasitic worm product ES-62 reduces lupus-associated accelerated atherosclerosis in a mouse model] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4355381/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4355381/pdf/nihms662074.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Spring. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25926937 The relationship between intestinal parasites and some immune-mediated intestinal conditions] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4403024/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4403024/pdf/GHFBB-8-123.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Feb 26 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26312872 A role for helminth parasites in achieving immunological tolerance in transplantation]
* 2015 Feb 24 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25888525 Helminth infections and type 2 diabetes: a cluster-randomized placebo controlled SUGARSPIN trial in Nangapanda, Flores, Indonesia] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4389675/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4389675/pdf/12879_2015_Article_873.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Feb 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25589067 A novel regulatory macrophage induced by a helminth molecule protects against mucosal inflammation and mitigates allergic airway inflammation and colitis in mice]
* 2015 Feb 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25589067 A novel regulatory macrophage induced by a helminth molecule instructs IL-10 in CD4+ T cells and protects against mucosal inflammation] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/194/4/1555.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/194/4/1555.full.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Feb 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25527786 Intestinal helminths regulate lethal acute graft-versus-host disease and preserve the graft-versustumor effect in mice] (Helminths improve the outcome of bone marrow transplantation in mice)
* 2015 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25547076 Helminthes and insects: maladies or therapies]
* 2015 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25248819 Experimental hookworm infection and gluten microchallenge promote tolerance in celiac disease] -- [http://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(14)01010-0/fulltext Full text] | [http://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(14)01010-0/pdf PDF] (Also reported by EurekAlert [https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-09/jcu-aws092414.php] and ABC Austrailia. [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-09-25/hookworms-coeliac-disease-research/5768732])
* 2015 Feb [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25174866 Worms as therapeutic agents for allergy and asthma: understanding why benefits in animal studies have not translated into clinical success] -- [https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749%2814%2900960-9/fulltext Full text] | [https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(14)00960-9/pdf PDF]
* 2015 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25459578 Potential Treatments for Food Allergy]
* 2015 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25449677 The mechanisms behind helminth's immunomodulation in autoimmunity]
* 2015 Jan 28 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25634608 A model for the induction of autism in the ecosystem of the human body: the anatomy of a modern pandemic?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4310853/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4310853/pdf/MEHD-26-26253.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Jan 22 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25611587 Chronic filarial infection provides protection against bacterial sepsis by functionally reprogramming macrophages] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4303312/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4303312/pdf/ppat.1004616.pdf PDF]
* 2015 Jan 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25452561 Splenic B cells from Hymenolepis diminuta-infected mice ameliorate colitis independent of T cells and via cooperation with macrophages] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/194/1/364.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/jimmunol/194/1/364.full.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2015 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25437821 Treatment with egg antigens of Schistosoma mansoni ameliorates experimental colitis in mice through a colonic T-cell-dependent mechanism]
* 2015 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26046559 Multiple sclerosis and environmental factors: the role of vitamin D, parasites, and Epstein-Barr virus infection]
* 2015 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25942385 Alteration of the rat cecal microbiome during colonization with the helminth Hymenolepis diminuta] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4615828/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4615828/pdf/kgmi-06-03-1047128.pdf PDF] (HDC)

=== 2014 ===
* 2014 Dec 4 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25472634 Helminth Therapy for MS] (multiple sclerosis)
* 2014 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24975567 Reduced asthma morbidity in endemic areas for helminth infections: a longitudinal ecological study in Brazil]
* 2014 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25441298 In utero priming by worms protects against respiratory allergies]
* 2014 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25554978 The emerging role of helminths in treatment of the inflammatory bowel disorders] -- [http://www.jpp.krakow.pl/journal/archive/12_14/pdf/741_12_14_article.pdf PDF] (IBD)
* 2014 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25042744 Maternal immune response to helminth infection during pregnancy determines offspring susceptibility to allergic airway inflammation]
* 2014 Winter [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25436093 Potential treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: a review of helminths therapy] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017549/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017549/pdf/GHFBB-7-009.pdf PDF] (IBD)
* 2014 Nov 6 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25375117 Coincident helminth infection modulates systemic inflammation and immune activation in active pulmonary tuberculosis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4222842/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4222842/pdf/pntd.0003289.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Nov 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24795483 Impact of experimental hookworm infection on the human gut microbiota] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4195438/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4195438/pdf/jiu256.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25069662?dopt=Abstract Therapeutic potential of larval excretory/secretory proteins of the pig whipworm Trichuris suis in allergic disease] (TSO)
* 2014 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24981042 Helminth therapy or elimination: epidemiological, immunological, and clinical considerations]
* 2014 Oct 20 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25368615 Priming dendritic cells for th2 polarization: lessons learned from helminths and implications for metabolic disorders] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4202775/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4202775/pdf/fimmu-05-00499.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Oct 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24782451 Suppression of basophil histamine release and other IgE-dependent responses in childhood Schistosoma mansoni/hookworm coinfection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4176447/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4176447/pdf/jiu234.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Oct 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25240019 Helminth infections decrease host susceptibility to immune-mediated diseases] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4244645/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4244645/pdf/nihms616872.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Oct Treating Inflammatory Bowel disease: from Helminths to ova -- [http://www.ima.org.il/FilesUpload/IMAJ/0/95/47594.pdf PDF] (IBD)
* 2014 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25281198 Allergy and worms: let's bring back old friends]
* 2014 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24901211 The microbiota and helminths: sharing the same niche in the human host]
* 2014 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25201407 Mucosal immune responses following intestinal nematode infection] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4312905/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4312905/pdf/pim0036-0439.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24891519 Kv1.3 channel-blocking immunomodulatory peptides from parasitic worms: implications for autoimmune diseases] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4139903/ Full text] | [http://www.fasebj.org/content/28/9/3952.full.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24496315 Blockade of IL-33 release and suppression of type 2 innate lymphoid cell responses by helminth secreted products in airway allergy] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4016792/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4016792/pdf/mi2013123a.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Aug 28 Parasitic infection and immunomodulation: A possible explanation for the hygiene hypothesis in autoimmune and allergic disease -- [http://www.slideshare.net/Apollo_Hospitals/final-8-38449965 Full text]
* 2014 Aug 26 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25161287 The "hygiene hypothesis" for allergic disease is a misnomer] (No abstract)
* 2014 Aug 24 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25210492 Extraintestinal helminth infection reduces the development of colitis-associated tumorigenesis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4159685/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4159685/pdf/ijbsv10p0948.pdf PDF] (IBD) (Cancer)
* 2014 Aug [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25171741 Maternal hookworm modifies risk factors for childhood eczema: results from a birth cohort in Uganda] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4312885/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4312885/pdf/pai0025-0481.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24471654 Pregnancy and helminth infections] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4260141/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4260141/pdf/pim0036-0328.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25033775 (Self-) infections with parasites: re-interpretations for the present] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/263892316_Self-_infections_with_parasites_Re-interpretations_for_the_present Full text]
* 2014 Jul 3 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24992724 Helminth infections, type-2 immune response, and metabolic syndrome] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4081794/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4081794/pdf/ppat.1004140.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24666108 Lessons from helminth infections: ES-62 highlights new interventional approaches in rheumatoid arthritis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4089150/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4089150/pdf/cei0177-0013.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24736234 Systemic impact of intestinal helminth infections] -- [http://www.nature.com/mi/journal/v7/n4/pdf/mi201423a.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24749722 Helminths in the hygiene hypothesis: sooner or later?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4089153/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4089153/pdf/cei0177-0038.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24401109 Microbial 'old friends', immunoregulation and socioeconomic status] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4089149/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4089149/pdf/cei0177-0001.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24704440 Secretory products of helminth parasites as immunomodulators]
* 2014 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24497523 ES-62 protects against collagen-induced arthritis by resetting interleukin-22 toward resolution of inflammation in the joints] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4737104/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4737104/pdf/ART-66-1492.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24744099 Helminth/Parasite treatment of multiple sclerosis]
* 2014 May 22 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24851867 Helminth colonization is associated with increased diversity of the gut microbiota] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4031128/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4031128/pdf/pntd.0002880.pdf PDF]
* 2014 May 8 [http://uknowledge.uky.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1028&context=geography_etds The human–hookworm assemblage: contingency and the practice of helminthic therapy] Sophia Ann Strosberg, PhD thesis
* 2014 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24712468 Induction of regulatory cells by helminth parasites: exploitation for the treatment of inflammatory diseases]
* 2014 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24325393 Parasitic worms and allergies in childhood: insights from population studies 2008-2013]
* 2014 Apr 29 [http://www.neurology.org/content/82/10_Supplement/P3.149 Clinical Trial of Helminth-induced Immunomodulatory Therapy (HINT 2) in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (P3.149)] (TSO)
* 2014 Mar [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24441737 Genome of the human hookworm Necator americanus] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3978129/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3978129/pdf/nihms-551116.pdf PDF] (NA)
* 2014 Mar [http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=43790 Intestinal Helminthic Infection Increases Serum Levels of IL-2 and Decreases Serum TGF-Beta Levels in Nigerian Asthmatic Patients] -- [http://file.scirp.org/Html/1-1410098_43790.htm Full text] | [http://file.scirp.org/pdf/OJI_2014031415322712.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Feb 14 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24592267 Helminth Allergens, Parasite-Specific IgE, and Its Protective Role in Human Immunity] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3924148/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3924148/pdf/fimmu-05-00061.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Feb [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24355423 A multimodal Darwinian strategy for alleviating the atherosclerosis pandemic]
* 2014 Jan 21 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24466007 Secreted proteins from the helminth Fasciola hepatica inhibit the initiation of autoreactive T cell responses and prevent diabetes in the NOD mouse] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3897667/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3897667/pdf/pone.0086289.pdf PDF]
* 2014 Jan 20 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24442917 Helminth therapy (worms) for induction of remission in inflammatory bowel disease] -- [https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD009400.pub2/full Full text] | [https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD009400.pub2/epdf/full PDF] (IBD)
* 2014 Jan [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24043262 Reprogramming macrophages to an anti-inflammatory phenotype by helminth antigens reduces murine atherosclerosis] -- [http://www.fasebj.org/content/28/1/288.long Full text] | [http://www.fasebj.org/content/28/1/288.full.pdf PDF]
* 2014 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24997041 Microbiota, immunoregulatory old friends and psychiatric disorders]
* 2014 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25654942 Of poops and parasites: unethical FDA overregulation]

=== 2013 ===
* 2013 Dec 19 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24351232 Serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BNDF) in multiple sclerosis patients with Trichuris suis ova therapy] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3866952/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3866952/pdf/parasite-20-55.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2013 Dec 12 [http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2013/12/12/596603/10061345/en/Coronado-Biosciences-Announces-Presentation-of-Interim-Data-From-Autism-Study-at-Neuropsychopharmacology-Meeting.html Presentation of Interim Data From Autism Study at Neuropsychopharmacology Meeting]
* 2013 Nov 12 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24154724 Regulation of the immune system by biodiversity from the natural environment: an ecosystem service essential to health] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3831972/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3831972/pdf/pnas.201313731.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23929557 Helminths and their implication in sepsis - a new branch of their immunomodulatory behaviour?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4285315/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4285315/pdf/fim0069-0127.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Oct 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23975865 Parasite infections in multiple sclerosis modulate immune responses through a retinoic acid-dependent pathway] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/191/7/3827.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/191/7/3827.full.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23325330 The hygiene theory harnessing helminths and their ova to treat autoimmunity]
* 2013 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23968688 Heligmosomoides polygyrus infection reduces severity of type 1 diabetes induced by multiple low-dose streptozotocin in mice via STAT6- and IL-10-independent mechanisms]
* 2013 Sept [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23792298 Chronic Opisthorchis felineus infection attenuates atherosclerosis – an autopsy study]
* 2013 Aug 29 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23985691 Effect of nematode Trichinella infection on glucose tolerance and status of macrophage in obese mice] -- [https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/endocrj/60/11/60_EJ13-0312/_pdf PDF]
* 2013 Aug 29 [http://www.news.ucsb.edu/2013/013611/dueling-infections-one-keeps-other-bay-say-ucsb-anthropologists Dueling Infections: One Keeps the Other at Bay, Say UCSB Anthropologists] Andrea Estrada, The Current, University of California, Santa Barbara
* 2013 Aug 28 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23986108 Antagonism between two intestinal parasites in humans: the importance of co-infection for infection risk and recovery dynamics] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3768312/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3768312/pdf/rspb20131671.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Aug 20 Parasitic Helminths: A Useful Resource for Inflammatory and Autoimmune Disease Therapy -- [http://www.omicsonline.org/parasitic-helminths-a-useful-resource-for-inflammatory-and-autoimmune-disease-therapy-1948-593X.1000084.php?aid=16479 Full text] | [http://www.omicsonline.org/parasitic-helminths-a-useful-resource-for-inflammatory-and-autoimmune-disease-therapy-1948-593X.1000084.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Aug 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23967364 Schistosoma mansoni-mediated suppression of allergic airway inflammation requires patency and Foxp3+ Treg cells] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744427/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744427/pdf/pntd.0002379.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23730956 Randomised clinical trial: the safety and tolerability of Trichuris suis ova in patients with Crohn's disease] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apt.12366/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apt.12366/epdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2013 Aug [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23827958 Type 2 immunity and wound healing: evolutionary refinement of adaptive immunity by helminths] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3789590/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3789590/pdf/nihms516840.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23597946 Possible use of Trichuris suis ova in autism spectrum disorders therapy] (TSO)
* 2013 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23273955 Coassociations between IL10 polymorphisms, IL-10 production, helminth infection, and asthma/ wheeze in an urban tropical population in Brazil]
* 2013 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23545299 Hookworm excretory/secretory products induce interleukin-4 (IL-4)+ IL-10+ CD4+ T cell responses and suppress pathology in a mouse model of colitis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3676036/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3676036/pdf/zii2104.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23509143 Parasitic nematode-induced modulation of body weight and associated metabolic dysfunction in mouse models of obesity] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3676010/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3676010/pdf/zii1905.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23523576 Previous contact with Strongyloides venezuelensis contributed to prevent insulitis in MLD-STZ diabetes] -- [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0014489413000775 Full text] (includes a PDF download link)
* 2013 April 25 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23782752 Trichuris suis ova in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and clinically isolated syndrome (TRIOMS): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3680966/ Full text] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3680966/pdf/1745-6215-14-112.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2013 Apr 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23566643 The development of TH2 responses from infancy to 4 years of age and atopic sensitization in areas endemic for helminth infections] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3635885/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3635885/pdf/1710-1492-9-13.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Mar [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23220043/ Trichuris suis-induced modulation of human dendritic cell function is glycan-mediated] -- [https://tanawisa.com/downloads/Trichuris_suis-induced_modulation_of_human_dendritic_cell_function_is_glycan-mediated.pdf Full text]
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23178750 A role for IL-22 in the relationship between intestinal helminths, gut microbiota and mucosal immunity] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3955947/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3955947/pdf/nihms423088.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23291460 Changed gluten immunity in celiac disease by Necator americanus provides new insights into autoimmunity] (NA)
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23291461 The helminth product, ES-62, protects against airway inflammation by resetting the Th cell phenotype] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3584281/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3584281/pdf/main.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23174104 A nematode immunomodulator suppresses grass pollen-specific allergic responses by controlling excessive Th2 inflammation]
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23298637 Helminth therapy and multiple sclerosis] -- [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0020751912003153 Full text]
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23380935 Childhood helminth exposure is protective against inflammatory bowel disease: a case control study in South Africa] (IBD)
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22806101 Prevention of type 1 diabetes through infection with an intestinal nematode parasite requires IL-10 in the absence of a Th2-type response]
* 2013 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23291464 Helminth mediated modulation of Type 1 diabetes (T1D)]
* 2013 Mar [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23291462/ Prerequisites for the pharmaceutical industry to develop and commercialise helminths and helminth-derived product therapy]
* 2013 Mar [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23178819/ Translatability of helminth therapy in inflammatory bowel diseases] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3683647/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3683647/pdf/nihms423391.pdf PDF]
* 2013 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23275524 Association of previous schistosome infection with diabetes and metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study in rural China]
* 2013 Jan-Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23406942 Evolutionary immune response to conserved domains in parasites and aeroallergens]
* ✅ 2013 Jan 10 [http://www.readcube.com/articles/10.1038/493163c Patients self-treat with parasitic worms] In this letter to the journal, Nature, two researchers called on the scientific community to adopt a different approach to helminth therapeutics that would recognise and utilise the insights and evidence being gained by patients treating themselves with helminths.
* 2013 Jan 8 [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/01/130108112451.htm Parasitic worms may help treat diseases associated with obesity Science Daily]
* 2013 Jan [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23302848 Autoimmune disease: Patients self-treat with parasitic worms] (Comment on [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23135449 Autoimmunity: The worm returns].)
* 2013 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24481186 Microbial 'Old Friends', immunoregulation and stress resilience] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3868387/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3868387/pdf/eot004.pdf PDF]
* ⚡ 2013 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24481190 Evolutionary biology and anthropology suggest biome reconstitution as a necessary approach toward dealing with immune disorders] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3868394/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3868394/pdf/eot008.pdf PDF] This paper explains how the modern pandemics of autoimmune, inflammatory and allergic disease are due to the loss of species, especially helminths, from the human ecosystem.
* 2013 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23278885 Protection against allergic airway inflammation during the chronic and acute phases of Trichinella spiralis infection]
* 2013 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23365679 Relationship between carotid intima media thickness and helminth infections on Flores Island, Indonesia] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3554693/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3554693/pdf/pone.0054855.pdf PDF] (atherosclerosis / cholesterol)
* 2013 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23637593 Immune regulation during helminth infections] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3630086/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3630086/pdf/ppat.1003250.pdf PDF]

=== 2012 ===
* 2012 Winter [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23804266 Helminth infection and type 1 diabetes] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3740696/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3740696/pdf/RevDiabeticStud-09-272.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Dec 5 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23220091 The hookworm pharmacopoeia for inflammatory diseases] -- [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0020751912003062 Full text]
* 2012 Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23593834 Anti-atherogenic effect and its mechanisms of soluble egg antigen of Schistosomia japonicum in ApoE-/- mice (atherosclerosis)]
* 2012 Nov 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23166490 Therapeutic helminth infection of macaques with idiopathic chronic diarrhea alters the inflammatory signature and mucosal microbiota of the colon] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3499566/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3499566/pdf/ppat.1003000.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Nov 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23221477 How helminths use excretory secretory fractions to modulate dendritic cells] [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3545949/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3545949/pdf/viru-3-668.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Nov 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23135449 Autoimmunity: The worm returns] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744107/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744107/pdf/nihms-492926.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Nov 6 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23129304 Helminth infection in populations undergoing epidemiological transition: a friend or foe?] -- [http://staff.ui.ac.id/system/files/users/aprilianto.eddy/publication/wiria2012helminthinpopulationsundergoingepidemiologicaltransition.pdf Author’s personal full text copy]
* 2012 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23079675 Where are we on worms?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744105/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744105/pdf/nihms492925.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Oct [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23034321/ Helminth Infections and Host Immune Regulation] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3485755/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3485755/pdf/zcm585.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22086188 Nematode modulation of inflammatory bowel disease] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3459088/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3459088/pdf/709_2011_Article_342.pdf PDF] (IBD)
* 2012 Oct [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22886766 Worming their way into the pharmacy: use of worms and worm products to treat inflammatory diseases] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/art.34635 PDF]
* 2012 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22898371 Heligmosomoides polygyrus: EAE remission is correlated with different systemic cytokine profiles provoked by L4 and adult nematodes] (Multiple sclerosis)
* 2012 Sept 27 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22729944 The parasitic helminth product ES-62 suppresses pathogenesis in collagen-induced arthritis by targeting the interleukin-17-producing cellular network at multiple sites] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.34581/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.34581/epdf PDF]
* 2012 Sept 21 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23021370 Advances in immunotherapy for food allergy] -- [http://www.discoverymedicine.com/Yamini-V-Virkud/2012/09/21/advances-in-immunotherapy-for-food-allergy/ Full text] Yamini Virkud and Brian Vickery, Discovery Magazine
* 2012 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21838960 Immune monitoring of Trichuris suis egg therapy in multiple sclerosis patients] (TSO in Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS))
* 2012 Sept The Hygiene Hypothesis and its implications for home hygiene, lifestyle and public health -- [http://www.naturaleater.com/science-articles/Hygiene-old-friends-ISFHH-2012.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Aug 24 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22937527 Does helminth activation of toll-like receptors modulate immune response in multiple sclerosis patients?] [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3426839/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3426839/pdf/fcimb-02-00112.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22742834 Trichuris suis ova: testing a helminth-based therapy as an extension of the hygiene hypothesis] -- [https://web.archive.org/web/20210921041516/https://parasitology.cvm.ncsu.edu/vmp930/supplement/trichuris_treatment_allergies.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2012 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22608572 Helminth infection is associated with decreased basophil responsiveness in human beings] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3387338/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3387338/pdf/nihms372243.pdf PDF]
* ⚡ 2012 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22612580 A prescription for clinical immunology: the pills are available and ready for testing. A review] | [[media:A_prescription_for_clinical_immunology-_the_pills_are_available_and_ready_for_testing._A_review.pdf | PDF]]

* 2012 Jun 26 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22928103 Is autism a member of a family of diseases resulting from genetic/cultural mismatches? Implications for treatment and prevention] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3420574/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3420574/pdf/AURT2012-910946.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22482518 Soluble helminth products suppress clinical signs in murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and differentially modulate human dendritic cell activation]
* 2012 May 28 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22464690 Helminthic therapy: improving mucosal barrier function] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4015520/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4015520/pdf/nihms545476.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Apr 18 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22513973 Helminth therapy (worms) for allergic rhinitis] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ashley_Croft/publication/224708548_Helminth_therapy_(worms)_for_allergic_rhinitis/links/09e4150b0b21ddf09b000000.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22168433 Parasitic worm therapy for allergy: is this incongruous or avant-garde medicine?]
* 2012 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22360486 Granulocytes in helminth infection -- who is calling the shots?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3394172/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3394172/pdf/CMC-19-1567.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Mar 6 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22398631 Atopy is inversely related to schistosome infection intensity: a comparative study in Zimbabwean villages with distinct levels of Schistosoma haematobium infection] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3398828/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3398828/pdf/iaa-0158-0288.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22214332 Schistosoma mansoni antigens as modulators of the allergic inflammatory response in asthma]
* 2012 Feb 1 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22566894/ TLRs, Treg, and B Cells, an Interplay of Regulation during Helminth Infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3342019/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3342019/pdf/fimmu-03-00008.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22355800 The hygiene hypothesis: an explanation for the increased frequency of insulin-dependent diabetes] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3281594/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3281594/pdf/cshperspectmed-DIA-a007799.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22346753 Characterising the mucosal and systemic immune responses to experimental human hookworm infection] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3276555/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3276555/pdf/ppat.1002520.pdf PDF]
* 2012 Feb [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22245779 An essential role for the Th2-type response in limiting tissue damage during helminth infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3274634/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3274634/pdf/nihms341991.pdf PDF] (Wound healing)
* ⚡ 2012 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22239614 Helminth-host immunological interactions: prevention and control of immune-mediated diseases] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744090/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744090/pdf/nihms492922.pdf PDF] Summarises the science underpinning helminthic therapy.
* 2012 Jan [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21983081/ Helminth infection does not reduce risk for chronic inflammatory disease in a population-based cohort study] (There are several critical weaknesses in this study, the data from which do not support the authors' broad conclusion that helminthic colonization does not reduce the risk for various immune-mediated diseases. See a rebuttal of this research by the late Joel Weinstock [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4129650/ here].)
* 2012 Jan [http://www.asmscience.org/content/journal/microbe/10.1128/microbe.7.173.1 A Darwinian View of the Hygiene or “Old Friends” Hypothesis] Graham A. W. Rook, Microbe Magazine
* 2012 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22848374 Helminth antigens enable CpG-activated dendritic cells to inhibit the symptoms of collagen-induced arthritis through Foxp3+ regulatory T cells] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3405066/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3405066/pdf/pone.0040356.pdf PDF]
* 2012 [http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/12411/ Asthma and allergic disease: their relation with Necator americanus and other helminth infections] Johanna Feary, PhD Thesis -- [http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/12411/1/JRF_Thesis_appendix_A_removed.pdf PDF] (NA)
* 2012 [https://webshares.northseattle.edu/jgward/Microbe%20paper.pdf A Darwinian View of the Hygiene or “Old Friends” Hypothesis] (PDF)

=== 2011 ===
* 2011 Nov 21 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22147983 Schistosoma japonicum ova maintains epithelial barrier function during experimental colitis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3229631/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3229631/pdf/WJG-17-4810.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21290484 Hookworm products ameliorate dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in BALB/c mice]
* 2011 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21980148 The impact of environmental infections (parasites) on MS activity] (multiple sclerosis)
* 2011 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21741180 Reconstitution of the human biome as the most reasonable solution for epidemics of allergic and autoimmune diseases] | [[media:Reconstitution_of_the_human_biome_as_the_most_reasonable_solution_for_epidemics_of_allergic_and_autoimmune_diseases.pdf | PDF]]
* 2011 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21810307 Treatment with anthelminthics during pregnancy: what gains and what risks for the mother and child?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3178871/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3178871/pdf/S0031182011001053a.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21831135 Effects of Helicobacter pylori, geohelminth infection and selected commensal bacteria on the risk of allergic disease and sensitization in 3-year-old Ethiopian children]
* 2011 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21684587 Regulatory B-cell induction by helminths: implications for allergic disease]
* 2011 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21848628 Exposure to hookworms in patients with Crohn's disease: a case-control study] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2011.04824.x/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2011.04824.x/epdf PDF]
* 2011 Sept 27 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21943110 Toll-like receptor activation by helminths or helminth products to alleviate inflammatory bowel disease] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3199248/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3199248/pdf/1756-3305-4-186.pdf PDF] (IBD)
* 2011 Sept 16 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21949691 Suppression of inflammatory immune responses in celiac disease by experimental hookworm infection] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3174943/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3174943/pdf/pone.0024092.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22072824 Parasitic helminth cystatin inhibits DSS-induced intestinal inflammation via IL-10(+)F4/80(+) macrophage recruitment] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3210841/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3210841/pdf/kjp-49-245.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Aug 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21858123 Impact of Schistosoma japonicum infection on collagen-induced arthritis in DBA/1 mice: a murine model of human rheumatoid arthritis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3152573/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3152573/pdf/pone.0023453.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Aug 2 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21829616 Symptoms after Ingestion of Pig Whipworm Trichuris suis Eggs in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Clinical Trial] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3149054/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3149054/pdf/pone.0022346.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2011 Jul 25 The neuroimmunoendocrine network during worm helminth infections -- [http://www.isj.unimo.it/articoli/ISJ242.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Jul 18 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21785696 Parasites or cohabitants: cruel omnipresent usurpers or creative "éminences grises"?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3140032/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3140032/pdf/JPR2011-214174.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Jun 9 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21772981 Excretory-secretory products from hookworm l(3) and adult worms suppress proinflammatory cytokines in infected individuals] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3135091/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3135091/pdf/JPR2011-512154.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21610741 Diversity and dialogue in immunity to helminths]
* 2011 Jun [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21372112/ Probiotic helminth administration in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a phase 1 study] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3894910/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3894910/pdf/nihms536054.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2011 May 12 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21576944 Atopic dermatitis and the hygiene hypothesis revisited]
* 2011 May 6 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21573157 Schistosome infection intensity is inversely related to auto-reactive antibody levels] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3089602/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3089602/pdf/pone.0019149.pdf PDF]
* 2011 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21255083 Anthelminthic treatment during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of infantile eczema: randomised-controlled trial results] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3130136/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3130136/pdf/pai0022-0305.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21277637 The impact of parasite infections on the course of multiple sclerosis]
* 2011 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21295861 Helminths and multiple sclerosis: will old friends give us new treatments for MS?] (No abstract)
* 2011 Mar 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21408161 Effect of hookworm infection on wheat challenge in celiac disease - a randomised double-blinded placebo controlled trial] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050888/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050888/pdf/pone.0017366.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Mar 3 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21372112 Probiotic helminth administration in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a phase 1 study] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3894910/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3894910/pdf/nihms536054.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2011 Apr 22 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21440530 Clonorchis sinensis-derived total protein attenuates airway inflammation in murine asthma model by inducing regulatory T cells and modulating dendritic cell functions]
* 2011 Apr 18 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21584243 Helminth parasites and the modulation of joint inflammation] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3092582/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3092582/pdf/JPR2011-942616.pdf PDF]
* 2011 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20967852 Infection with an intestinal helminth parasite reduces Freund's complete adjuvant-induced monoarthritis in mice] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.30098/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.30098/epdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2011 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21044628 Trichinella spiralis: infection reduces airway allergic inflammation in mice]
* 2011 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21887281 The transcriptome of Trichuris suis -- first molecular insights into a parasite with curative properties for key immune diseases of humans] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3160910/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3160910/pdf/pone.0023590.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2011 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21858123 Impact of Schistosoma japonicum infection on collagen-induced arthritis in DBA/1 mice: a murine model of human rheumatoid arthritis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3152573/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3152573/pdf/pone.0023453.pdf PDF]

=== 2010 ===
* 2010 Dec 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21123809 IL-22+ CD4+ T cells are associated with therapeutic trichuris trichiura infection in an ulcerative colitis patient] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Png_Loke/publication/49650965_IL-22_CD4_T_Cells_Are_Associated_with_Therapeutic_Trichuris_trichiura_Infection_in_an_Ulcerative_Colitis_Patient/links/00b7d535585b829413000000.pdf PDF] (TTO)
* 2010 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20848461 Alteration of the murine gut microbiota during infection with the parasitic helminth Heligmosomoides polygyrus] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2959136/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2959136/pdf/nihms220920.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21039971 Long-term periodic anthelmintic treatments are associated with increased allergen skin reactivity] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3034193/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3034193/pdf/cea0040-1669.pdf PDF]
* 2010 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21500453 Atopic diseases and intestinal helminth infections]
* ⚡ 2010 Oct 13 [https://evmedreview.com/reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/ Reconstituting the depleted biome to prevent immune disorders] William Parker, Duke University. Explains why replacing absent "old friends" may be the only reasonable therapy for a wide range of immune-associated disorders, including allergy, autoimmunity and autism.
* 2010 Aug 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20067426 Effects of Deworming during Pregnancy on Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes in Entebbe, Uganda: A Randomized Controlled Trial] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2857962/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2857962/pdf/ukmss-29622.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20404082 Chronic intestinal helminth infections are associated with immune hyporesponsiveness and induction of a regulatory network] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2897394/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2897394/pdf/1228-09.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Jun 14 [http://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/how-the-parasitic-worm-has-turned/ How the parasitic worm has turned]
* 2010 Jun 11 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20538949 Exploitation of the intestinal microflora by the parasitic nematode Trichuris muris] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3428897/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3428897/pdf/ukmss-49377.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20306466 Helminth-induced CD19+CD23hi B cells modulate experimental allergic and autoimmune inflammation] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3179601/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3179601/pdf/eji0040-1682.pdf PDF]
* 2010 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20132231 Schistosoma mansoni antigens modulate the allergic response in a murine model of ovalbumininduced airway inflammation] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2857950/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2857950/pdf/cei0160-0266.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20415854 99th Dahlem conference on infection, inflammation and chronic inflammatory disorders: darwinian medicine and the 'hygiene' or 'old friends' hypothesis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2841838/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2841838/pdf/cei0160-0070.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23105895 Immunomodulators of helminthes: Promising therapeutics for autoimmune disorders and allergic diseases] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3453099/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3453099/pdf/12291_2010_Article_21.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20044996 In vitro-derived alternatively activated macrophages reduce colonic inflammation in mice] (Colitis) (HDC)
* 2010 Apr [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20224568 Helminth-derived immunomodulators: can understanding the worm produce the pill?]
* 2010 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20028812 Extracts of the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta, suppress macrophage activation in vitro and alleviate chemically induced colitis in mice] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2825920/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2825920/pdf/1349-08.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2010 Mar [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19691904 The immune response to and immunomodulation by Hymenolepis diminuta] (HDC)
* 2010 Feb 10 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20169100 Parasitic helminths: new weapons against immunological disorders] (Diabetes) -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2821776/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2821776/pdf/JBB2010-743758.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Jan 25 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20101628 Worms to the rescue: can worm glycans protect from autoimmune diseases?] [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/iub.304/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/iub.304/epdf PDF]
* 2010 Jan 4 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20069130 Taenia crassiceps infection attenuates multiple low-dose streptozotocin-induced diabetes] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804118/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804118/pdf/JBB2010-850541.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19800680 Trichuris suis ova therapy for allergic rhinitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Lars_Poulsen/publication/26866959_Trichuris_suis_ova_therapy_for_allergic_rhinitis_a_randomized_double-blind_placebo-controlled_clinical_trial/links/00b4952a7f6c89aaa2000000.pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2010 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19758373 Reduced helminth burden increases allergen skin sensitization but not clinical allergy: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in Vietnam]
* 2010 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19844667 Regulation of type 1 diabetes, tuberculosis, and asthma by parasites] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2863045/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2863045/pdf/nihms182968.pdf PDF]
* 2010 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20042008 Helminth infection inhibits airway allergic reaction and dendritic cells are involved in the modulation process] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1365-3024.2009.01161.x Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-3024.2009.01161.x/epdf PDF]
* 2010 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20425508 Chronic helminth infections protect against allergic diseases by active regulatory processes] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2816799/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2816799/pdf/11882_2009_Article_85.pdf PDF]

* 2010 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20224759 Dendritic cells in the gut: interaction with intestinal helminths] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2836138/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2836138/pdf/JBB2010-250563.pdf PDF]
* 2010 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20069130 Taenia crassiceps infection attenuates multiple low-dose streptozotocin-induced diabetes] [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804118/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804118/pdf/JBB2010-850541.pdf PDF]

=== 2009 ===
* 2009 Dec 16 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20030661 Experimental hookworm infection: a randomized placebo-controlled trial in asthma] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2814083/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2814083/pdf/cea0040-0299.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19752032 Helminth infection can reduce insulitis and type 1 diabetes through CD25- and IL-10-independent mechanisms] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786463/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786463/pdf/1170-08.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19996438 Early helminth infections are inversely related to anemia, malnutrition, and malaria and are not associated with inflammation in 6- to 23-month-old Zanzibari children] -- [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/81/6/1062.long Full text] | [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/81/6/1062.full.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Nov 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19812189 Helminth antigens modulate immune responses in cells from multiple sclerosis patients through TLR2-dependent mechanisms] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/183/9/5999.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/183/9/5999.full.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19861631 Immunologic profiles of persons recruited for a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of hookworm infection] -- [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/81/5/911.long Full text] | [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/81/5/911.full.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19880560 Parasitic infection and autoimmunity] -- [http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0961203309345735 PDF] (Lupus/SLE)
* 2009 Oct 22 [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2009-10-22/worms-linked-to-coeliac-relief/1113232 Worms linked to coeliac relief]
* 2009 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19744885 Survival of the fittest: allergology or parasitology?]
* 2009 Sept 29 [http://www.news-medical.net/news/20090929/Hookworms-can-prevent-asthma.aspx Hookworms can prevent asthma] News Medical
* 2009 Sept 24 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19786773 Prebiotics, probiotics and helminths: the 'natural' solution?]
* 2009 Sept 16 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=20011066 Infection with Hymenolepis diminuta Is More Effective than Daily Corticosteroids in Blocking Chemically Induced Colitis in Mice] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2789531/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2789531/pdf/JBB2010-384523.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2009 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19406170 Helminth immunoregulation: the role of parasite secreted proteins in modulating host immunity] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2706953/ Full text]
* 2009 Aug 1 [Infection with a Helminth Parasite Attenuates Autoimmunity through TGF-β-Mediated Suppression of Th17 and Th1 Responses] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/183/3/1577.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/183/3/1577.full.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Jul [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19400893 Safety of hookworm infection in individuals with measurable airway responsiveness: a randomized placebo-controlled feasibility study] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2728895/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2728895/pdf/cea0039-1060.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19321388 Advances in the pathogenesis and treatment of IBD] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2693446/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2693446/pdf/nihms100270.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Jun 8 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=19468064 Parasites represent a major selective force for interleukin genes and shape the genetic predisposition to autoimmune conditions] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2715056/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2715056/pdf/JEM_20082779.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19223020 Helminths and our immune system: friend or foe?]
* 2009 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19388947 Immune and genetic aspects of asthma, allergy and parasitic worm infections: evolutionary links] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-3024.2009.01104.x/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-3024.2009.01104.x/epdf PDF]
* 2009 Apr 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19370621 Effect of administration of antihelminthics for soil transmitted helminths during pregnancy]
* 2009 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19291704 Schistosoma mansoni egg antigens induce Treg that participate in diabetes prevention in NOD mice] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eji.200838871/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eji.200838871/epdf PDF]
* 2009 Mar 24 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19308259 Necator americanus infection: a possible cause of altered dendritic cell differentiation and eosinophil profile in chronically infected individuals] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2654967/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2654967/pdf/pntd.0000399.pdf PDF] (NA)
* ✅ 2009 Mar 5 [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01470521?term=WIRMS&rank=1 Worms for Immune Regulation of Multiple Sclerosis (WIRMS)] Proposal for the first Phase 2 trial using a controlled number of Necator americanus in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. (Also reported by Science Daily [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090304091818.htm] and the Mail Online. [http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2108228/Parasitic-worms-offer-hope-cure-multiple-sclerosis.html?ito=feeds-newsxml]) (NA)
* 2009 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19167926 The therapeutic helminth?]
* 2009 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18835272 Schistosoma mansoni infection reduces severity of collagen-induced arthritis via down-regulation of pro-inflammatory mediators]
* 2009 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19138565 Can helminths or helminth-derived products be used in humans to prevent or treat allergic diseases?]

* 2009 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19136071 Schistosoma mansoni infection alters co-stimulatory molecule expression and cell activation in asthma]
* 2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18608175 Spontaneous arthritis in MRL/lpr mice is aggravated by Staphylococcus aureus and ameliorated by Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infections]
* 2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19120496 Review series on helminths, immune modulation and the hygiene hypothesis: mechanisms underlying helminth modulation of dendritic cell function] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632707/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632707/pdf/imm0126-0028.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19120493 Review series on helminths, immune modulation and the hygiene hypothesis: the broader implications of the hygiene hypothesis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632706/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632706/pdf/imm0126-0003.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19120495 Review series on helminths, immune modulation and the hygiene hypothesis: immunity against helminths and immunological phenomena in modern human populations: coevolutionary legacies?] [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632709/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632709/pdf/imm0126-0018.pdf PDF]
* 2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19120494 Review series on helminths, immune modulation and the hygiene hypothesis: how might infection modulate the onset of type 1 diabetes?] [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632708/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2632708/pdf/imm0126-0012.pdf PDF]
* ✅⚡2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18680198 Helminths and the IBD hygiene hypothesis] This paper proposed that failure to acquire helminths in early life negatively affects immune development, leading to immunological diseases such as IBD later in life.
* 2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19128351 Do helminth parasites protect against atopy and allergic disease?]
* 2009 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19016806 Helminth antigen-based strategy to ameliorate inflammation in an experimental model of colitis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2665684/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2665684/pdf/cei0155-0088.pdf PDF]
* 2009 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20054982 Helminthic therapy: using worms to treat immune-mediated disease]
* 2009 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19436745 Early exposure of infants to GI nematodes induces Th2 dominant immune responses which are unaffected by periodic anthelminthic treatment] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2677666/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2677666/pdf/pntd.0000433.pdf PDF]

=== 2008 ===
* 2008 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18547322 Early infection with Trichuris trichiura and allergen skin test reactivity in later childhood] (TTO)
* 2008 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18654798 Schistosoma japonicum infection modulates the development of allergen-induced airway inflammation in mice]
* 2008 Sept 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20525133 The changing microbial environment and chronic inflammatory disorders] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2868866/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2868866/pdf/1710-1492-4-3-117.pdf PDF]
* 2008 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18682103 Parasitic nematode modulation of allergic disease]
* 2008 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18655096 Helminth infections associated with multiple sclerosis induce regulatory B cells]
* 2008 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18509678 Decreased basal non-insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by diaphragm in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni]
* 2008 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18578001 The role of regulatory T cells in multiple sclerosis]
* 2008 May 21 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18509490 Worms and the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: are molecules the answer?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2396220/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2396220/pdf/CDI2008-567314.pdf PDF] (IBD)
* 2008 May 4 [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/e/e4/Hookworm.pdf Potential Transmission of Pathogens Between Human Hosts by the Hookworm, Necator Americanus] (PDF)
* 2008 Apr 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18462167 Intensity of intestinal infection with multiple worm species is related to regulatory cytokine output and immune hyporesponsiveness]
* 2008 Mar 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18322239 A helminth immunomodulator reduces allergic and inflammatory responses by induction of IL-10- producing macrophages] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/180/6/4265.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/180/6/4265.full.pdf PDF]
* 2008 Feb 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18209076 Helminth infection with Litomosoides sigmodontis induces regulatory T cells and inhibits allergic sensitization, airway inflammation, and hyperreactivity in a murine asthma model] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/180/3/1792.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/180/3/1792.full.pdf PDF]
* 2008 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18207251 Soluble egg antigen from Schistosoma japonicum modulates the progression of chronic progressive experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis via Th2-shift response]
* 2008 Jan 14 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18186549 Hygiene hypothesis in inflammatory bowel disease: a critical review of the literature] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2675108/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2675108/pdf/WJG-14-165.pdf PDF] (IBD)

=== 2007 ===

* 2007 Dec [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18007680 Protective immune mechanisms in helminth infection] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2258092/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2258092/pdf/nihms40971.pdf PDF]
* 2007 Nov [http://www.nature.com/nm/journal/v13/n11/full/nm1107-1288.html Worms tame mast cells]
* 2007 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17952092 Inhibition of Fc epsilon RI-mediated mast cell responses by ES-62, a product of parasitic filarial nematodes]
* 2007 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17619029 The hygiene hypothesis and the increasing prevalence of chronic inflammatory disorders]
* 2007 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17433300 Schistosoma japonicum eggs modulate the activity of CD4+ CD25+ Tregs and prevent development of colitis in mice]
* 2007 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17576364 Stage-specific immune responses in human Necator americanus infection] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1976388/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1976388/pdf/pim0029-0347.pdf PDF] (NA)
* 2007 May-Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17906796 Interrelationship among asthma, atopy, and helminth infections] -- [http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1806-37132007000300016&lng=en&nrm=iso&tlng=en Full text] | [http://www.scielo.br/pdf/jbpneu/v33n3/en_14.pdf PDF]
* 2007 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17488925 An inverse relationship between autoimmune liver diseases and Strongyloides stercoralis infection] -- [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/76/5/972.long Full text] | [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/76/5/972.full.pdf PDF]
* 2007 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17447233 Helminths, allergic disorders and IgE-mediated immune responses: where do we stand?] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eji.200737314/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eji.200737314/epdf PDF]
* 2007 Apr 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17372014 Infection with a helminth parasite prevents experimental colitis via a macrophage-mediated mechanism] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/178/7/4557.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/178/7/4557.full.pdf PDF]
* 2007 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17206504 The use of Trichuris suis and other helminth therapies to treat Crohn's disease] (TSO)
* 2007 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17313951 Helminths as governors of immune-mediated inflammation]
* 2007 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17504662 Modulation of anaphylaxis by helminth-derived products in animal models]
* 2007 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17408663 Helminth infection enhances disease in a murine TH2 model of colitis]
* 2007 Mar [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17360880 Helicobacter pylori and intestinal parasites are not detrimental to the nutritional status of Amerindians] -- [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6446118_Helicobacter_pylori_and_intestinal_parasites_are_not_detrimental_to_the_nutritional_status_of_Amerindians Full text (PDF)]
* 2007 Feb 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17122383 Helminth-derived products inhibit the development of allergic responses in mice]
* ✅⚡2007 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17230481 Association between parasite infection and immune responses in multiple sclerosis] -- [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/e/ec/Association_Between_Parasite_Infection_and_Immune_Responses_in_Multiple_Sclerosis_.pdf PDF] (Also reported by Science Daily [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/01/070117091058.htm] and the BBC. [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6268585.stm]) This was the first study to explore the effect of helminth infection on immune response and the natural course of Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. It showed that MS progressed much more slowly in patients who hosted intestinal worms.
* 2007 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17284099 Iatrogenic Trichuris suis infection] (TSO)
* 2007 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17043101 Inhibition of autoimmune type 1 diabetes by gastrointestinal helminth infection] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1828378/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1828378/pdf/0664-06.pdf PDF]
* 2007 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17042799 Schistosoma japonicum egg antigens stimulate CD4 CD25 T cells and modulate airway inflammation in a murine model of asthma] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1890919/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1890919/pdf/imm0120-0008.pdf PDF]
* 2007 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17534075 Regulation of the immune system in metazoan parasite infections]
* 2007 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17412520 Autism, asthma, inflammation, and the hygiene hypothesis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2048743/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2048743/pdf/nihms-29963.pdf PDF]

=== 2006 ===
* 2006 Dec 12 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17159130 Multiple sclerosis and the hygiene hypothesis]
* 2006 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17157661 Poor sanitation and helminth infection protect against skin sensitization in Vietnamese children: A cross-sectional study]
* 2006 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17042933 Helminths and HIV infection: epidemiological observations on immunological hypotheses] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1636684/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1636684/pdf/pim0028-0613.pdf PDF]
* ✅ 2006 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17123987 Dose-ranging study for trials of therapeutic infection with Necator americanus in humans] -- [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/75/5/914.long Full text] | [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/75/5/914.full.pdf PDF] This study explored the dose of hookworms that would be required to have a therapeutic effect on asthma. (NA)
* 2006 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17042933 Helminths and HIV infection: epidemiological observations on immunological hypotheses] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1636684/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1636684/pdf/pim0028-0613.pdf PDF]
* 2006 Oct-Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17343086 Intestinal helminths: a clue explaining the low incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases in Subsaharan Africa? Potential benefits and hazards of helminth therapy] (IBD)
* 2006 Oct-Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17343085 The hygiene hypothesis and inflammatory bowel diseases: role of helminths] (IBD)
* 2006 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16965287 Parasitic worms and inflammatory diseases] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1618732/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1618732/pdf/pim0028-0515.pdf PDF]
* 2006 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17068271 What is the origin of ulcerative colitis? Still more questions than answers] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2653902/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2653902/pdf/620.pdf PDF]
* 2006 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16965288 Worms and allergy] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-3024.2006.00894.x/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-3024.2006.00894.x/epdf PDF]
* 2006 Sept 8 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16965284 Immune modulation by helminthic infections: worms and viral infections]
* 2006 Sept 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16778161 Asthma and current intestinal parasite infection: systematic review and meta-analysis]
* 2006 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17308794 Schistosoma mansoni antigen-driven interleukin-10 production in infected asthmatic individuals] -- [https://www.scielo.br/j/mioc/a/LXLmtQzKbnJKMgZTzv7RfdL/?lang=en Full text] | [http://www.scielo.br/pdf/mioc/v101s1/v101s1a55.pdf PDF]
* 2006 Aug 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16849471 Intestinal helminths protect in a murine model of asthma] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/177/3/1628.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/177/3/1628.full.pdf PDF]
* 2006 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16890593 Allergy controls the population density of Necator americanus in the small intestine] (NA)
* 2006 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17057216 Helminths and mucosal immune modulation]
* 2006 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16750534 A time course study of immunological responses in Trichuris suis infected pigs demonstrates induction of a local type 2 response associated with worm burden] (TSO)
* 2006 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16689863 Prevention of psoriasis-like lesions development in fsn/fsn mice by helminth glycans]
* 2006 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16630018 Regulatory T cells in human disease and their potential for therapeutic manipulation] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1782265/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1782265/pdf/imm0118-0001.pdf PDF]
* 2006 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16673007 Mechanisms of disease: the hygiene hypothesis revisited]
* 2006 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16512799 Environmental exposures, genetic predisposition and allergic diseases: one size never fits all] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2006.01104.x/abstract Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2006.01104.x/epdf PDF]
* 2006 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16512800 Helminths can protect themselves against rejection inhibiting hostile respiratory allergy symptoms] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2006.00983.x/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2006.00983.x/epdf PDF]
* 2006 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16384780 The hygiene hypothesis and atopy: bring back the parasites?]
* ✅ 2006 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16344586 A proof of concept study establishing Necator americanus in Crohn's patients and reservoir donors] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1856386/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1856386/pdf/136.pdf PDF] Investigated whether Crohn’s disease patients would tolerate a hookworm infection, and the practical issues associated with establishing reservoir donors for this species. (NA)
* 2006 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16413997 Geohelminth infections: impact on allergic diseases]
* 2006 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16210905 Glycans modulate immune responses in helminth infections and allergy]
* 2006 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16210899 Helminth-induced immunoregulation of an allergic response to food] (food allergy)

=== 2005 ===
* 2005 Nov 7 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16275759 Suppression of allergic airway inflammation by helminth-induced regulatory T cells] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2213237/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2213237/pdf/20042572.pdf PDF]
* 2005 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16232230 Immune responses following experimental human hookworm infection] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1809522/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1809522/pdf/cei0142-0398.pdf PDF]
* ✅ 2005 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16008666 Old friends for breakfast] Suggested that a symbiotic relationship exists between humans and the fauna that have co-evolved in the human GI tract.
* 2005 Jun 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15905584 Neutralizing anti-IL-10 antibody blocks the protective effect of tapeworm infection in a murine model of chemically induced colitis] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/174/11/7368.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/174/11/7368.full.pdf PDF] (HDC)
* 2005 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15825065 Trichuris suis therapy for active ulcerative colitis: a randomized controlled trial] -- [http://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(05)00025-9/pdf PDF] (TSO)
* 2005 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15780835 Parasite role reversal: worms on trial]
* 2005 Mar 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15771680/ The immunoepidemiology of human hookworm infection]
* 2005 Mar [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15730384 Low dose chronic Schistosoma mansoni infection increases susceptibility to Mycobacterium bovis BCG infection in mice] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1809318/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1809318/pdf/cei0139-0398.pdf PDF]
* 2005 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15677912 Gastrointestinal parasites: potential therapy for refractory inflammatory bowel diseases] (IBD)
* ✅ 2005 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15591509 Trichuris suis therapy in Crohn's disease] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774382/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774382/pdf/gut05400087.pdf PDF] TSO is shown to offer a unique, safe and effective alternative treatment for Crohn's disease, and potentially protection against other immunological disorders.
* 2005 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15591496 Will worms really cure Crohn's disease?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774348/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774348/pdf/gut05400006.pdf PDF](see pages 6-8)
* 2005 Jan [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15687885 Helminths and the modulation of mucosal inflammation]
* 2005 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15591883 The hygiene hypothesis and asthma]
* 2005 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15780483 Can worms defend our hearts? Chronic helminthic infections may attenuate the development of cardiovascular diseases]
* 2005 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16249415 Helminth infection during pregnancy and development of infantile eczema]

=== 2004 ===
* 2004 Dec 14 [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/17767.php Parasitic worms may offer effective treatment for Crohn's disease Medical] News Today
* 2004 Dec [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15554921 Parasitic helminths tip the balance: potential anti-inflammatory therapies] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1782598/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1782598/pdf/imm0113-0438.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Nov 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15528374 Helminth infection protects mice from anaphylaxis via IL-10-producing B cells] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/173/10/6346.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/173/10/6346.full.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Oct 13 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15486631 Schistosoma mansoni infection modulates the immune response against allergic and auto-immune diseases] -- [http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0074-02762004000900005&lng=en&nrm=iso&tlng=en Full text] | [http://www.scielo.br/pdf/mioc/v99s1/v99s1a05.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15361235 Helminth parasites--masters of regulation]
* 2004 Aug 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15294988 A Secreted Protein from the Human Hookworm Necator americanus Binds Selectively to NK Cells and Induces IFN-{gamma} Production] -- [https://www.jimmunol.org/content/173/4/2699.long Full text] | [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/8/8a/A_Secreted_Protein.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Aug 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15265954 Schistosoma mansoni and alpha-galactosylceramide: prophylactic effect of Th1 Immune suppression in a mouse model of Graves' hyperthyroidism] -- [https://www.jimmunol.org/content/173/3/2167.long Full text] | [https://www.jimmunol.org/content/jimmunol/173/3/2167.full.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Jul 9 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15247451 Immunotherapy. Can worms tame the immune system?]
* 2004 Jul [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15196202 The increased prevalence of allergy and the hygiene hypothesis: missing immune deviation, reduced immune suppression, or both?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1782506/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1782506/pdf/imm0112-0352.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Jun [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15330453 A review of autism and the immune response] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2270714/pdf/CDI-11-165.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15039389 Helminth infection modulates the development of allergen-induced airway inflammation] -- [http://intimm.oxfordjournals.org/content/16/4/585.long Full text] | [http://intimm.oxfordjournals.org/content/16/4/585.full.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Mar [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15279624 Inhibition of neutrophil recruitment by ES of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.0141-9838.2004.00692.x/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.0141-9838.2004.00692.x/epdf PDF]
* 2004 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14755074 Regulation of allergy and autoimmunity in helminth infection]
* 2004 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14755076 The innate allergenicity of helminth parasites]
* 2004 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15007629 Mycobacteria and other environmental organisms as immunomodulators for immunoregulatory disorders]
* 2004 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14755072 Parasites and the hygiene hypothesis: regulating the immune system?]
* 2004 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14755073 Helminth infections and allergic diseases: from the Th2 paradigm to regulatory networks]
* 2004 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14684583 Concurrent infection with Schistosoma mansoni attenuates inflammation induced changes in colonic morphology, cytokine levels, and smooth muscle contractility of trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid induced colitis in rats] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1773910/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1773910/pdf/gut05300099.pdf PDF]
* 2004 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14723608 Review article: helminths as therapeutic agents for inflammatory bowel disease] (IBD)
* 2004 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14684567 Helminths and harmony] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1773927/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1773927/pdf/gut05300007.pdf PDF](Pages 7-9)

=== 2003 ===
* 2003 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12933842 Schistosomiasis decreases central nervous system inflammation and alters the progression of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC187318/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC187318/pdf/0223.pdf PDF]
* ✅ 2003 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14499784 Trichuris suis seems to be safe and possibly effective in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease] (IBD) This trial showed that pig whipworm ova (TSO) can reduce symptoms of Crohn’s disease without producing side effects.
* 2003 Sept [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12949497 Immune regulation by helminth parasites: cellular and molecular mechanisms]
* 2003 Aug 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12902519 A Novel Therapeutic Approach Targeting Articular Inflammation Using the Filarial Nematode-Derived Phosphorylcholine-Containing Glycoprotein ES-62] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/171/4/2127.long PDF]
* 2003 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12743563 Reduced risk of atopy among school-age children infected with geohelminth parasites in a rural area of the tropics]
* 2003 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12731071 Schistosoma mansoni antigens modulate the activity of the innate immune response and prevent onset of type 1 diabetes] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eji.200323910/full Full text] | [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eji.200323910/epdf PDF]
* 2003 Mar 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12431903 Exposure to schistosome eggs protects mice from TNBS-induced colitis] -- [https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpgi.00049.2002 Full text]
* 2003 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12502726 Immunomodulation of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by helminth ova immunization] -- [http://intimm.oxfordjournals.org/content/15/1/59.long Full text] | [http://intimm.oxfordjournals.org/content/15/1/59.full.pdf PDF]

=== 2002 ===
* ✅ 2002 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12379667 Intestinal nematode infection ameliorates experimental colitis in mice] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC130294/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC130294/pdf/0150.pdf PDF]
* 2002 Nov [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12458825 An anti-atherogenic effect of Schistosoma mansoni infections in mice associated with a parasite-induced lowering of blood total cholesterol] (cardiovascular / cholesterol / atherosclerosis)
* 2002 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12569989 Eosinophilic inflammation and airway hyper-responsiveness are profoundly inhibited by a helminth (Ascaris suum) extract in a murine model of asthma]
* 2002 Sept 19 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12239261 The effect of infections on susceptibility to autoimmune and allergic diseases]
* 2002 Sept 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12218148 An enteric helminth infection protects against an allergic response to dietary antigen] -- [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/169/6/3284.long Full text] | [http://www.jimmunol.org/content/169/6/3284.full.pdf PDF]
* 2002 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12067292 Can intestinal helminth infections (geohelminths) affect the development and expression of asthma and allergic disease?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1906269/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1906269/pdf/cei0128-0398.pdf PDF]
* 2002 Apr 19 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11964470 Allergy, parasites, and the hygiene hypothesis]

=== 2001 ===
* 2001 Nov 3 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11705561 Independent effects of intestinal parasite infection and domestic allergen exposure on risk of wheeze in Ethiopia: a nested case-control study]
* 2001 Nov [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11752881 The prevalence of parasite infestation and house dust mite sensitization in Gabonese schoolchildren]
* 2001 Oct [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11585781 Immune responses in hookworm infections] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC89000/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC89000/pdf/cm0401000689.pdf PDF]
* 2001 Jul [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11429321 Th2 responses without atopy: immunoregulation in chronic helminth infections and reduced allergic disease]
* 2001 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11282505 Is Necator americanus approaching a mutualistic symbiotic relationship with humans?] (NA)

=== 2000 ===
* 2000 Nov 18 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11095260 Decreased atopy in children infected with Schistosoma haematobium: a role for parasite-induced interleukin-10]
* ✅ 2000 Oct 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11032865 Chronic immune activation associated with intestinal helminth infections results in impaired signal transduction and anergy] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC314342/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC314342/pdf/JCI0010182.pdf PDF] This Research found reduced immune responses in patients infected with helminths.
* ✅ 2000 Sept 14 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10973934 Does the failure to acquire helminthic parasites predispose to Crohn's disease?] -- [http://www.fasebj.org/content/14/12/1848.long Full text] | [http://www.fasebj.org/content/14/12/1848.full.pdf PDF] This paper linking a failure to acquire helminths to the prevalence of Crohn’s disease was key in the development of the Hygiene Hypothesis.
* 2000 May [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10784608 Antigen-specific cellular hyporesponsiveness in a chronic human helminth infection is mediated by T(h)3/T(r)1-type cytokines IL-10 and transforming growth factor-beta but not by a T(h)1 to T(h)2 shift] -- [http://intimm.oxfordjournals.org/content/12/5/623.long Full text] | [http://intimm.oxfordjournals.org/content/12/5/623.full.pdf PDF]
* 2000 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2560630/pdf/11143198.pdf Eradication of helminthic infections may be essential for successful vaccination against HIV and tuberculosis]

=== 1999 ===
* 1999 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10320614 Infection with Schistosoma mansoni prevents insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in non-obese diabetic mice] -- [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1046/j.1365-3024.1999.00213.x/epdf PDF]

=== 1998 ===
* 1998 Jun [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9698148/ Epidemiological evidence for a differential effect of hookworm species, Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus, on iron status of children]

=== 1997 ===

* 1997 [https://web.archive.org/web/20210127052808/https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/193176053.pdf The Pro-allergic Influences of Helminth Parasites] (PDF)

=== 1996 ===
* 1996 Aug [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8872184 IgE, allergies and helminth parasites: a new perspective on an old conundrum]
* 1996 Feb [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8565306 Immune dysregulation in Ethiopian immigrants in Israel: relevance to helminth infections?] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2200340/pdf/cei0103-0239.pdf PDF]
* 1996 Jan 27 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8600620 Prolongation of rat kidney allograft survival by nematodes]
* 1996 Jan [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8537675 Impairment of tetanus toxoid-specific Th1-like immune responses in humans infected with Schistosoma mansoni] -- [http://jid.oxfordjournals.org/content/173/1/269.long Full text] | [http://jid.oxfordjournals.org/content/173/1/269.full.pdf PDF]

=== 1995 ===
* 1995 Feb [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7761110/ Immunity in humans to Necator americanus: IgE, parasite weight and fecundity] (... / human observational / NA)

=== 1993 ===
* 1993 Nov 1 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8409444 Modulation of murine cytokine responses to mycobacterial antigens by helminth-induced T helper 2 cell responses]
* 1993 Oct [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8403522/ Ascaris reinfection of slum children: relation with the IgE response] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1534372/pdf/ PDF] (... / Human / AL / Oxantel+Pyrantel)
* 1993 Sept 1 [https://www.discovermagazine.com/health/of-parasites-and-pollens Of Parasites and Pollens] - Peter Radetsky, Discover Magazine
* 1993 Jun [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8361773 Modulation of the allergic reactivity of slum children by helminthic infection]

=== 1992 ===
* 1992 Aug [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1399239 The partial characterization of proteases present in the excretory/secretory products and exsheathing fluid of the infective (L3) larva of Necator americanus] (NA)
* 1992 May 15 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1533656 Infection with Schistosoma mansoni alters Th1/Th2 cytokine responses to a non-parasite antigen]

=== 1991 ===
* 1991 Oct 15 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1680917 Production of IL-10 by CD4+ T lymphocytes correlates with down-regulation of Th1 cytokine synthesis in helminth infection]

=== 1989 ===
* ✅ 1989 Nov 18 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2513902 Hay fever, hygiene, and household size] -- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1838109/ Full text] | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1838109/pdf/bmj00259-0027.pdf PDF] This paper linked exposure to pathogens whilst young to the development of allergic diseases, and was key to the development of the Hygiene Hypothesis.

=== 1987 ===
* 1987 Jul [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3605493/ The clinical and immunologic responses of normal human volunteers to low dose hookworm (Necator americanus) infection] (NA)
* 1987 Jul [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15462956/ Do hookworms elicit protective immunity in man?]

=== 1985 ===
* 1985 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4054238/ Parasites and asthma--predictive or protective?] (A / comparative)

=== 1982 ===
* 1982 Jul Modulation of immune responses by commensal bacteria and intestinal helminth [http://e-collection.library.ethz.ch/eserv/eth:5334/eth-5334-02.pdf PDF]
=== 1979 ===
* ✅ 1979 Apr [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/447497 Epidemiology of chronic intestinal disease in middle Africa] This was one of several papers noting a North-South gradient for many autoimmune diseases, including Crohn’s, a fact that informed later studies on autoimmunity.

=== 1978 ===
* 1978 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/635980 Antibody responses in self-infections with Necator americanus] (NA)

=== 1976 ===
* ✅ 1976 Sept 25 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/60540 Letter: IgE, parasites, and allergy] | [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/f/fd/Letter_-_IgE%2C_parasites%2C_and_allergy_%28Turton%29.pdf PDF] This letter reported the first known successful therapeutic use of the hookworm, Necator americanus, in this case to resolve hay fever. (NA)
* ✅ 1976 Aug [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/987744 Serum IgE levels in white and metis communities in Saskatchewan] This paper's author suggested that atopic disease is the price paid by some members of the white community of northern Saskatchewan for their relative freedom from helminth infestation and viral and bacterial infection.

=== 1970 ===
* 1970 (winter) [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5498517/ The biology of the atopic response] Twelve naval officers suffering from hay-fever “for some years” were free from hay-fever for an average of 2 years following colonisation with the large roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides.

=== 1968 ===
* ✅ 1968 Aug 17 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4174413 Autoimmune disease and parasitic infections in Nigerians] | [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/1/1f/Autoimmune_disease_and_parasitic_infections_in_Nigerians.pdf PDF] The author of this paper suggested a possible relationship between parasitic infections and the reduced incidence of autoimmune disease in parts of tropical Africa.

=== 1948 ===
* ✅ 1948 Apr [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5190334/ The Treatment of Polycythemia by Artificial Infection with Ancylostoma Duodenale] This was the first report of the clinical application of helminthic therapy.

=== 1932 ===
* ✅ 1932 [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10828911 Regional ileitis: a pathologic and clinical entity] Disease characterised by inflammation of the terminal ileum was first described in this paper. This condition was later to become known as Crohn’s disease.

== Further reading ==
These pages contain further research papers and articles relevant to each page title.

* [[Helminths and the gut microbiota | '''Helminths and the gut microbiota''']]
* [[Deworming debunked | '''Deworming debunked''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy for well people | '''Helminthic therapy for well people''']]

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{{Quote|indent}}I am a clinician in the US and I have done lots of searching through the Wiki... Excellent resource btw! I realize you are not a clinician, but you have certainly gained a level of experience and expertise that many doctors etc do not have in this realm.{{Quote|/indent}}

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{{Quote|indent}}Thousands of people have hope of a better life as a consequence of information that is given here.{{Quote|/indent}}

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{{Quote|indent}}Heartfelt thanks to all involved in the Wiki pages - an incredible resource for those of us starting out.{{Quote|/indent}}

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|description=How to care for the two species of human helminth used in helminthic therapy: Necator americanus (NA) and Trichuris trichiura (TT/TTO).
|keywords=worm care, helminth care, Necator americanus, Trichuris trichiura, NA, TT, TTO, caring for my worms
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'''PLEASE READ THIS FIRST''' 
This manual is only concerned with the two '''''human''''' helminths:
* '''Human hookworm - Necator americanus''' (NA) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necator_americanus]
* '''Human whipworm - Trichuris trichiura''' (TT) and its ova (TTO) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichuris_trichiura]
For the care of the non-human helminths, TSO and HDC, see the [[Helminth_care |'''Helminth care''']] page. 
=== Key ===
The following classification codes are intended as a general guide only, because the effects of a substance can vary considerably depending on factors such as quantity, concentration, and, in the case of herbal extracts, the part of the plant used. Even the method of extraction can make a difference, and, in the case of foods, perhaps the method, temperature and duration of any cooking, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6863122353743661?comment_id=6863149840407579&reply_comment_id=6863721660350397] so it's important to read the details for each item.

:❌ Will or may kill, or cause the loss of, human helminths.
:⚡ May cause harm to human helminths in some people.
:➿ May cause a temporary reduction in benefits from human helminths.
:❓Insufficient evidence exists to support a judgement on possible effects.
: ✅ Safe, or likely to be safe, for human helminths.

Note that where an entire section is marked with a ✅, this indicates that all the substances listed within that section are safe unless marked otherwise.

=== Using this manual ===
'''* Bookmark this page to facilitate rapid access whenever it is needed.'''

'''* To find information about a specific substance, don't scan the page visually. Instead, use the search function on your device:''' 

* '''PC''' - Control+F 
* '''Mac''' - Command+F 
* '''Mobile''' - "Find in page" in the drop-down menu from the three dots icon

'''* Anything NOT mentioned in this manual has never been reported as a problem, so is far more likely to be safe than unsafe for therapeutic human helminths.''' 

=== General advice ===
'''NA and TT are relatively robust organisms, and most foods, drugs and other substances are safe for use while hosting them, including normal dietary amounts of most unprocessed foods, spices and herbs. However there are some foods and other substances that may harm a colony, either temporarily stunning them or even killing them.'''

Things that will or may kill, or cause the loss of, human helminths include:

* ❌ Diatomaceous earth. (See [[#Diatomaceous earth|'''full details''']].)
* ❌ Oregano. (See [[#Oregano|'''full details''']].)
* ❌ Sauerkraut. (See [[#Sauerkraut|'''full details''']].)

'''Some foods can cause harm to NA and TT in some people but not others,''' and coconut products are a good example of this. While many hosts of human helminths are able to eat normal dietary amounts of coconut products without affecting their worms, others find that some forms of this food will affect their worms sufficiently to impair their beneficial effects.

The most common food items that may affect helminths in some people but not others are:

* ⚡ Coconut products. (See [[#Coconut|'''full details''']].)
* ⚡ Fatty acids. (See [[#Fatty acids|'''full details''']].)
* ⚡ Ginger. (See [[#Ginger|'''full details''']].)
* ⚡ Honey. (See [[#Honey|'''full details''']].)
* ⚡ Papaya seeds. (See [[#Papaya|'''full details''']].)
* ⚡ Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil. (See [[#Pumpkin|'''full details''']].)
* ⚡ Digestive enzymes. (See [[#Digestive enzymes|'''full details''']].)
* ⚡ Cayenne. (See [[#Cayenne|'''full details''']].)

If hosting NA, it is best to avoid the food substances listed above until the therapy is delivering benefits, at which point their effect on one’s colony can be tested, initially in small, and then in gradually increasing, quantities to assess the level of risk they are likely to present, and how much of each substance might safely be consumed before the worms are affected.

See the rest of this page for other items marked with a ⚡ or ❌.

'''Medicinal quantities of concentrates, extracts or tinctures, especially of certain herbs, are more likely to have an adverse effect on NA and TT than the plants from which they are derived.''' For example, eating normal dietary amounts of ginger is usually fine, as is occasionally taking a ginger supplement (e.g., to treat a migraine), but taking ginger regularly as a supplement or drinking ginger beer every day may adversely affect NA.

Anther example of how the concentrated form of a substance can be harmful to helminths while foods containing the same substances are not are the phytochemical compounds, '''isomyristicin''' and '''bergaptenix'''. While the ''concentrated'' forms of isomyristicin and bergaptenix have shown significant anthelmintic activity against two helminth species, the parent chemicals from which they are derived ('''myristicin''' and '''bergapten''') are both found in several of the fruits, herbs and vegetables consumed by humans on a daily basis, e.g., parsley, celery, lemons, figs, carrots, grape juice, nutmeg and dill, and the risk of an anthelmintic effect from this very limited dietary intake is negligible. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5004179/]

'''People who have a robust immune response to helminths are likely to notice a greater effect on their worms than others.''' These individuals are the ones who need to top up their human helminth colonies more frequently in order to maintain remission from their disease. Typically, they have Crohn's, or one of the other intestinal diseases, but a few in this group have other conditions, such as allergies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/966004180122204/?comment_id=966023830120239&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

'''It is thought to be less likely that anything will harm NA before it attaches to the gut mucosa towards the end of the third week post inoculation''', although, once NA enters the bloodstream, it does begin to feed on proteins in the blood. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1682302251825723/?comment_id=1682333608489254&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29566094]. After it arrives in the small intestine and begins feeding from the gut wall from day 21, NA will always be vulnerable to anything harmful that has entered its host's blood.

'''Substances that are applied to the skin topically in small quantities are unlikely to cause harm to human helminths, even if they are known to be a risk when ingested.'''

'''Due to the way that TT feeds and attaches to the colonic mucosa, it is not as vulnerable as NA''', as is illustrated by the fact that three times more of the anthelmintic drug, mebendazole, may be required to kill TT than to kill NA.

'''Substances listed on the internet as being "antiparasitic" may have no effect whatsoever on NA and TT.''' Helminths are only one of many different types of parasite. Among the other types, there is a wide range of responses to substances claiming to be antiparasitic, and what kills one type of parasite may not even harm another. Even substances that have shown an anthelmintic effect in test tube studies do not necessarily have an adverse affect on worms being hosted by humans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27498843]

'''The effects that foods and other substances have on helminth egg production may not be the same as the effects they have on the prophylactic or therapeutic benefits of adult helminths.''' Consequently, the details on this page may not be relevant to the practice of helminth incubation. A tentative examination of the effect of substances on the production of hookworm eggs and larvae can be found in the page section, [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana#Promotion of egg viability by dietary manipulation | '''Promotion of egg viability by dietary manipulation''']].

The posts in this [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1062770903778864/ support group sub-thread] contain good general advice on how to manage exposure to substances that can harm human helminths.

=== Worm harm denial ===

A few people have difficulty accepting that any of the substances mentioned on this page might harm helminths, with the exception of anthelmintic drugs. They believe that the adverse effects on human helminths that have been reported by self-treaters have alternative explanations, including delusion on the part of the reporting individual. They argue that, were the claims true, there would no longer be large areas of the planet where these worms remain endemic, and that the substances/foods/spices identified by self-treaters as potentially harmful to human helminths would have become folk remedies for helminth infections. However, this position ignores the science (e.g., [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35848982/ Herbal anthelmintic agents: a narrative review]) and the fact that the effect of consuming a food or product with anthelmintic effects will be much less of an issue, if it is even noticed at all, in populations that are continually exposed to helminths and therefore constantly being reinfected.

In the words of one experienced NA self-treater:
{{Quote|indent}}Respect the foods and other items in the care manual that are likely, or potentially, unsafe for helminths. I’ve learned the hard way that coconut oil/milk/flour, raw ginger, curry, etc. are no beuno for my friends on board, and as much as I enjoy those things, they are not worth knocking out my NA for a week or multiple weeks. Everybody’s different here and it’s worth testing in very small amounts. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4395750987147489/]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Updates & disclaimer ===
This manual is updated regularly. See the page history (via the "View history" link at the top of the page) for a list of amendments.

Although the most harmful substances have been identified, this manual continues to be a work in progress so should not be viewed as definitive. Also see the [[Wiki:General_disclaimer|'''General disclaimer''']].

Details in this manual are based on first hand reports posted in the [[Helminthic_therapy_support_groups|'''Helminthic therapy support groups''']]. Additional reports and comments on this topic are welcomed, and should be posted to the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group] on Facebook. 
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== Pharmaceuticals ==


=== Anaesthetics (anesthetics), General [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anesthetic] ===

==== ✅Nitrous oxide (N2O) (E942) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrous_oxide] ====
<blockquote>
Nitrous oxide (aka laughing gas or sweet air) was, at one time, mistakenly thought to kill hookworms. However, when this gas was used by people who wanted to terminate their hookworm colonies, their attempts met with failure. One subject reported inhaling almost a full can of whipped cream at 3 weeks post inoculation in an attempt to resolve severe side effects, but with no obvious effect on his hookworms. In another case, a balloon full of nitrous oxide failed to have any effect on a hookworm colony, which was later confirmed to be viable by a stool test. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/759492150773409/] Then, in 2017, the notion that nitrous oxide harms NA was finally laid to rest by someone who inhaled a large quantity of the gas over the course of an hour. This individual reported that, although he did get a headache and giggled a lot, his worms were not harmed.

✅ The following forms of nitrogen are also unlikely to be a problem for hookworms.
* Nitric oxide (NO) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitric_oxide]
* Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrogen_dioxide]
* Nitrate (NO3) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrate]
* Pure nitrogen (N) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrogen]
* Liquid nitrogen (LN2) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liquid_nitrogen]
</blockquote>

==== Other general anaesthetics ====

<blockquote>
It has been suggested that the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that were used in the early days of anaesthesia might be a risk to hookworms, especially if inhaled in excessive quantity, due to the possibility that they might stun them and cause them to be expelled from the gut before waking up. For example:
* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diethyl_ether diethyl ether]
* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chloroform chloroform]
However, a clinical scientist has reported that, while hosting both NA and TT, he worked around more organic solvents, including dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) and chloroform (CHCl3), than most people are exposed to in a lifetime, and that his hookworms and whipworms continued egg production uninterrupted.

✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propofol Propofol] While propofol has been shown to adversely affect the mitochondria of roundworms in laboratory conditions, it is clear from the experience of hosts of both hookworms and whipworms that propofol does not harm human helminths in the concentrations used during surgery.

✅ [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090804145614.htm Regional nerve blocks] are worm-safe.

</blockquote>



=== Anaesthetics (anesthetics), local [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anaesthetics] ===

==== ➿ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_anaesthetic Local anaesthetics] ====
<blockquote>
Local anaesthetics interfere with the production of white blood cells as well as the functioning of the cells in circulation, but they appear not to affect ova production by helminths and they certainly don't kill them. While local anaesthetics can cause a temporary return of disease symptoms for up to 8 weeks, helminths generally recover after only a few days, although this varies by person, drug and dosage, making it difficult to predict exactly what will happen in any particular situation.

For dental procedures requiring a local anaesthetic, short-acting drugs are less likely to affect helminths, e.g.
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Articaine Articaine] (articadent, astracaine forte, septanest, septocaine, ubistesin forte, ubistesin, ultracaine, zorcaine)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lidocaine Lidocaine] (xylocaine, lignocaine)
These are a better choice than a longer-acting drug, such as
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbocaine Mepivacaine] (carbocaine, polocaine)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bupivacaine Bupivacaine] (Marcaine, Sensorcaine and Vivacaine, etc.)
and one helminth host has reported that the short-acting articaine had no adverse effect on his hookworms.

If a patient explains that they don't want to be numb for several hours, the dentist will usually use one of the short-acting drugs, or one combined with a vasoconstrictor such as epinephrine, which helps to reduce the amount of the drug that reaches the systemic circulation.

If local anaesthetics are used, it can be a good idea to arrange for a small supplementary dose of worms (e.g., 3 or 5 hookworm larvae) to be available for administration the day after exposure to the drug. This small additional inoculation usually helps to reduce the time that established helminths are out of action.
</blockquote>

==== ✅ Alternatives to local anaesthetics ====
<blockquote>
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opioids Opioid] pain killers ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fentanyl fentanyl], etc.)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzodiazepine benzodiazepine] anaesthetics ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Versed versed], etc., routinely used during colonoscopies)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcotic_analgesic narcotic analgesics]
These drugs all appear to be harmless to helminths, so, taken orally at high strength, these may be a suitable substitute for local anaesthetics in many situations. For example, one helminth host has found that 30 mg [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dihydrocodeine dihydrocodeine], taken along with 1,000 mg of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paracetamol paracetamol (acetaminophen)] an hour or two before a dental appointment can be effective in avoiding all but a few brief moments of mild, dull pain, which he
found to be quite manageable while having a tooth drilled. This subject even found that the combination of dihydrocodeine and paracetamol (acetaminophen) provided adequate pain relief when having a tooth sculpted to take a crown. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspirin Aspirin] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ibuprofen ibuprofen] are also harmless to helminths, so, if preferred, these might provide a suitable alternative to paracetamol (acetaminophen).

Another option for completely avoiding any risk to helminths from local anaesthetics was the [https://www.facebook.com/GumEase GumEase] cryoallergenic mouthpiece. This device, which is apparently no longer available to purchase, provided pain relief for up to 20 minutes, and was appropriate for most procedures, including fillings, crowns, extractions and root canals. Previously available from two sources [http://cryodevices.ecrater.com/c/902779/gumease-products], [http://www.dentakit.com/gumease.html] this device unfortunately never caught on with dentists who are firmly wedded to the use of injectable drugs.

Another pain-free alternative is [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcAwKvdqmKI laser dental surgery], which is likely to become increasingly available in the future. If more invasive dental surgery is required - where bone needs to be removed, for example - it may be best to request [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conscious_sedation conscious sedation]. This renders the patient unaware of what is taking place, but is not the same as a general anaesthetic. Conscious sedation might involve a combination of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Versed versed] (a short acting IV [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzodiazepine benzodiazepine]) and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fentanyl fentanyl] (a short acting IV opiate), both of which are perfectly safe for worms.

</blockquote>

=== Anaesthetics (anesthetics), topical [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anaesthetics] ===

<blockquote>
✅ Topical anaesthetics (e.g., lidocaine / lignocaine) that are applied to the skin are unlikely to affect helminths within the digestive tract because not enough of the drug will get into the blood stream to affect the worms. Topical lidocaine used before blood draws, punch biopsies and the fitting of a catheter, or applied to the mucous membranes in the mouth or nose, are therefore worm-safe. However, there is a small possibility that fresh L3 NA larvae, which remain within the skin at the inoculation site for the first 40 hours, '''''may''''' be adversely affected by the use of a topical anaesthetic applied directly to this area following inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6162787843777119/?comment_id=6163364870386083&reply_comment_id=6165161500206420] Further feedback is needed to confirm or dispel this possibility.
</blockquote>

=== Anthelmintics [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthelmintics] ===

==== ❌ Anthelmintic drugs ====
<blockquote>
A number of drugs are used to terminate helminth infections, but the effectiveness of different anthelmintics against a single species [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3250499/?report=classic varies] greatly. In [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3181256/ one study], a triple dose of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albendazole albendazole] (3×400 mg over 3 consecutive days) showed a cure rate against hookworms of 92%, whereas a triple dose of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mebendazole mebendazole] (3×500 mg over 3 consecutive days) only achieved a cure rate of 58%.

Each anthelmintic drug has varying degrees of effectiveness against different helminths. For example, while a triple dose of '''albendazole''' (3×400 mg over 3 consecutive days) showed a cure rate against hookworms of 92%, the same regimen only achieved a 56% cure rate against whipworms [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3181256/] and, in patients with an excessive whipworm infection, '''albendazole''' may need to be taken for 5–7 days. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14754497?dopt=AbstractPlus]

If it becomes necessary to terminate a colony of helminths, a medical doctor should be consulted, and their directions followed. However, under no circumstances should '''mebendazole''' ever be combined with '''metronidazole''' (Flagyl), and this is something about which many doctors and pharmacists may be unaware. There is a risk that this combination may [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1447769/ cause Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis].
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==== List of anthelmintics ====

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abamectin Abamectin]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albendazole Albendazole] (Albenza, Valbazen, Zentel, etc.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aminoacetonitrile Aminoacetonitrile] derivatives

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arecoline Arecoline] (Arecaline, Arecholine, Arecolin, Arecoline base, Arekolin, Methylarecaidin.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisinin Artemisinin] (Artemisinine, qinghaosu)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bephenium_hydroxynaphthoate Bephenium hydroxynaphthoate] (Alcopar, Alcopara, Befenium, Debefenium, Francin, Nemex). This is an anthelmintic agent once used to treat hookworm and roundworm infections.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diethylcarbamazine Diethylcarbamazine] (DEC, Hetrazan, Carbilazine, Caricide, Cypip, Ethodryl, Notézine, Spatonin, Filaribits, Banocide Forte and Eofil)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emodepside Emodepside] (Monepantel)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fenbendazole Fenbendazole]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flubendazole Flubendazole] (Flutelmium, Flubenol, Biovermin, Flumoxal.)

* '''Isomyristicin''' and '''bergaptenix''' are two phytochemical compounds isolated from the Bhutanese medicinal plants, Corydalis crispa and Pleurospermum amabile, which have shown significant anthelmintic activity against the helminths, Schistosoma mansoni and Trichuris muris. In concentrated form, they may therefore be harmful to other whipworms and possibly also hookworms. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27572696] However, it should be noted that myristicin (the parent chemical from which isomyristicin is derived) and bergapten are both found in very small quantities in the vegetables, herbs and fruits consumed by humans on a daily basis, e.g., parsley, celery, lemons, figs, carrots, grape juice, nutmeg and dill, but the risk of an anthelmintic effect from this very limited dietary intake is negligible. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5004179/] These chemicals are also found in ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earl_Grey_tea Earl Grey tea], which is flavoured with bergamot oil, and one hookworm host has reported that she experienced a return of symptoms of her disease (POTS) after drinking this brew. However, there are many other NA hosts who drink this tea without any problem, including someone who drinks multiple cups each day of weak Lady Grey tea (citrus bergamot flavour) and has reported still being able to successfully incubate from her small NA colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5482091725180071/?comment_id=5483270285062215]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivermectin Ivermectin] (Stromectol, Soolantra, Sklice, etc.) Used to treat [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutaneous_larva_migrans cutaneous larva migrans] caused by various zoonotic hookworm species. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11125977/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levamisole?wprov=sfla1 Levamisole] (Decaris, Ergamisol) is an antihelmintic drug approved for use in veterinary medicine in the United States. It was once used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis but proved too dangerous.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mebendazole Mebendazole] (MBZ, Vermox, Ovex)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niclosamide Niclosamide] (Niclocide, Fenasal, Phenasal, etc.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitazoxanide Nitazoxanide] (Alinia, Nitaxide) is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic and broad-spectrum antiviral drug used to treat various helminthic, protozoal and viral infections. It has demonstrated activity against tapeworms, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27751770] so may also have an adverse effect on hookworms and whipworms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odanacatib Odanacatib] (codenamed MK-0822) is an investigational treatment for osteoporosis and bone metastasis developed by Merck & Co., and possibly available for clinical use from 2016. Unfortunately, this drug has been shown to kill the hookworm, Ancylostoma ceylanicum, in hamsters, decreasing worm burdens by 73%. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27751770] Consequently, it is likely to be trialled as a potential alternative to albendazole and may have an adverse effect on the human hookworm as well as other helminths, so should be avoided by helminth self-treaters.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxamniquine Oxamniquine] (e.g., Vansil)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxyclozanide Oxyclozanide]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penicillium_cluniae Penicillium cluniae] (a fungus species of the genus of Penicillium which produces the antinematodal and antiparasitic agents paraherquamide B, paraherquamide C, paraherquamide D, paraherquamide E, paraherquamide F, paraherquamide G, paraherquamide H.)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phenothiazine Phenothiazine (PTZ)] This is considered to be the first modern anthelmintic, introduced for this purpose in 1940.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piperazine Piperazine] (piperazine hydrate and piperazine citrate are anthelmintic drugs that kill 60-70% of adult roundworms) and piperazine's many [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piperazine#Piperazine_derivatives_as_drugs derivatives].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Praziquantel Praziquantel] (Biltricide etc.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrantel Pyrantel pamoate] (Pin-X, Combantrin, etc.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrvinium Pyrvinium] (Vanquin, viprynium). This anthelmintic was previously used to treat pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) infections, but has been largely replaced by other anthelmintics, e.g., mebendazole or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrantel pyrantel pamoate].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salicylanilide Salicylanilide], Spiroindoles (e.g. derquantel)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiabendazole Tiabendazole] (thiabendazole, TBZ, Mintezol, Tresaderm, Arbotect, etc.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triclabendazole Triclabendazole] (Fasinex, Egaten, etc.).
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</blockquote>

==== ❓ Piperazine-derived compounds ====

<blockquote>
There is a whole raft of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piperazine%23Piperazine_derivatives_as_drugs piperazine-derived compounds] some of which '''may potentially''' have anthelmintic effects. However, this does not mean that all piperazine derivatives will kill, or even harm, helminths. For example, ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viagra Viagra] is a piperazine derivative, but does not kill hookworms.

* These include many antidepressants including
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trazodone trazodone] (Depyrel, Desyrel, Molipaxin, Oleptro, Trazodil, Trazorel, Trialodine, Trittico). One self-treater has been reported to take trazodone almost every night, but continues to get "great results" from her NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7313725575350001/?comment_id=7313750828680809&reply_comment_id=7313942228661669]
* antipsychotics such as
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olanzapine olanzapine] (Lanzek, Zypadhera, Zyprexa and [https://www.drugs.com/international/olanzapine.html numerous other names]),
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olanzapine prochlorperazine] (Compazine, Stemzine, Buccastem, Stemetil, Phenotil),
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ziprasidone ziprasidone] (Geodon, Zeldox),
* the migraine treatment
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Migraleve Migraleve Pink],
* and antihistamines including
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buclizine buclizine],
** ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cetirizine cetirizine] (Zyrtec, Reactine),
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorcyclizine chlorcyclizine] (Di-paralene, Mantadil, Pruresidine, Trihistan),
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnarizine cinnarizine] (Stugeron, Stunarone, R5),
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclizine cyclizine],
** ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levocetirizine levocetirizine] (Xyzal) (one NA host has reported having no problems with her worms when taking this [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3067416309980970/?comment_id=3067678586621409]),
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meclizine meclizine] (Bonine, Bonamine, Antivert, Postafen, Sea Legs,
** ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dimenhydrinate dimenhydrinate] (Dramamine, Draminate, Gravol, etc.) While one NA host has reported that taking this drug had no observable effect on her worms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1682302251825723/?comment_id=1682333608489254&reply_comment_id=1682358115153470&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] someone with colitis believes that it killed at least some of her NA colony.
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niaprazine niaprazine]
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebastine ebastine] (Evastin, Kestine, Ebastel, Aleva and Ebatrol) Listed as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piperidine piperidine].
* as well as antianginals, anxiolytics such as
** ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buspirone buspirone] (Buspar), (one self-treater found that the positive effects of NA were lessened in the days following a single dose of buspirone [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1944442368945042/])
* urologicals, e.g.
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sildenafil sildenafil] (Revatio, ✅ Viagra) and
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levitra vardenafil] (Levitra, Staxyn).
</blockquote>

Anthelmintic residues may be encountered in farmed meats, especially the livers of cattle and fowl, but it is not known whether, or to what extent, these might affect therapeutic helminths in hosts who eat this meat.

Canine anthelmintics that have been applied to a dog’s skin should not be a problem for anyone who pets a treated animal so long as they wash their hands immediately after the contact. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/868843983171558/]

=== Antibiotics [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antibiotics] ===

(Also see [[Human helminth care manual#Natural antibiotics|'''Natural antibiotics''']].)

==== ❌ Antibiotics that may significantly reduce hookworm benefits ====
<blockquote>
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cefazolin Cefazolin] (Also known as cefazoline and cephazolin.) Someone who was given a 1 gram shot of cefazolin post-operatively estimates that she suffered a 60% loss of effect from her hookworms for several weeks. She began to feel better after a 3-day course of prednisone taken one month after the cefazolin exposure, and was mostly back to normal at 6 weeks. However, when [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cefalexin cefalexin] (aka cephalexin), a drug related to cefazolin within the cephalosporin class, was taken by a different hookworm host for 2 days, this appeared to have no effect on his NA colony.
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levaquin Levofloxacin] has been reported by one NA host as having "completely devastated" her colony. An egg count revealed only 14 ova, and she went from near total remission to a severe flare. "Back to ground zero." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1626974844025131/?comment_id=1627023594020256&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]
</blockquote>

==== ⚡ Antibiotics that may reduce hookworm benefits in some people ====
<blockquote>

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amoxicillin Amoxicillin] While two hookworm hosts have said that they did not lose their worms following treatment with amoxicillin, two others have reported losing their colonies after taking this drug. Combination drugs that contain amoxicillin e.g., [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amoxicillin/clavulanic_acid amoxicillin/clavulanic acid] (co-amoxiclav, Augmentin) can also be a threat to human helminths, as was found by a hookworm host whose colony was temporarily "knocked out" after taking amoxicillin and clindamycin together. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1664279276961354/?comment_id=1664541103601838&reply_comment_id=2421515414571066]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azithromycin Azithromycin] (brand names include: AZIF-500, Azithral, Azithrocin, Azyth, Azin, Z pack, Zeto and Zithromax) Someone has reported losing her hookworms to a combination of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azithromycin azithromycin] (an azalide, a type of macrolide antibiotic) and doxycycline (see below) (a broad spectrum antibiotic of the tetracycline class), whereas a whipworm host [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/700908506631774/?comment_id=892732697449353&offset=0&total_comments=12&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D did not lose her colony] from taking this same combination of drugs. Azithromycin has been used on its own to treat a child with PANDAS and a female adult with an ear infection [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1230554160333870/?comment_id=1230564746999478&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] without any worm loss, although its use did result in a temporary suspension of benefits in both cases.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clindamycin Clindamycin] has been suspected of possibly harming hookworms when taken in combination with amoxicillin or metronidazole, but two NA hosts who took this drug on its own have reported that it had no adverse effect on their colonies. The first took clindamycin for 10 days (starting in the first week of hosting), [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2123829614339649/] and the second took a 7 day course (300mg taken 4 times per day) after which a float test revealed plenty of hookworm eggs. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2574492762606663/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doxycycline Doxycycline] (Vibramycin, Monodox, Microdox, Periostat, Vibra-Tabs, Oracea, Doryx, Vibrox, Adoxa, Doxyhexal, Doxylin, Doxoral, Doxy-1 and Atridox, etc.) is a tetracycline antibiotic that also has antiprotozoal, antibacterial and some anthelmintic effects, although the latter have been claimed to only affect filarial nematodes. In this case, the drug kills a symbiotic bacterium in the worm’s reproductive tract, thus rendering it sterile. Moreover, an eight-week course of doxycycline may be necessary to achieve this effect. One hookworm host has reported that he took doxycycline for a total of 5 weeks without noticeable effect on his worms, but another has said that her hookworms “completely stopped working” after taking doxycycline for only three days. She said that this happened “pretty much overnight”, and that, in spite of getting a supplementary dose of worms a month or so after taking the antibiotic, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/786180988104525/?comment_id=786946941361263&offset=0&total_comments=16] she didn’t feel right again for the following 6 months. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/786180988104525/?comment_id=786624918060132&offset=0&total_comments=15] (NB: doxycycline has also been found to have [http://medicalxpress.com/news/2015-03-antibiotics-unexpected-effects-mitochondria.html unexpected effects on mitochondria].)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flucloxacillin Flucloxacilin], also known as floxacillin. When one hookworm host took this drug with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Probenecid probenecid] (which is sometimes used to increase the concentration of some antibiotics), she experienced a return of her disease symptoms, although these were not as severe as they had been before she began hosting NA. An incubation yielded only half the usual number of larvae, but, after taking a wake up dose of 12 NA, she was feeling much improved 3 weeks later. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2286252768097332/] Someone else who had a 10 day course of Flucloxacilin, firstly intravenously, and then orally, found that she lost benefits from her NA for 4-6 weeks. She knew the worms were not dead because she was able to incubate fresh larvae from her colony. On a different occasion, a shorter course of 5 days IV, then oral Flucloxacilin, had minimal impact. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3702475279808400/?comment_id=3703092116413383]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fosfomycin Fosfomycin] (also known as phosphomycin, phosphonomycin, Monurol and Monuril) A single, one-off, 3g dose if this broad-spectrum antibiotic that was taken by a hookworm host to treat a urinary tract infection had no obvious effect on her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/966600183395937/?comment_id=967794996609789&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] However, larger doses or a longer treatment period may produce a different result.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metronidazole Metronidazole] (Flagyl). Two hookworm hosts have reported losing their colonies to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metronidazole metronidazole] (Flagyl), [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/861694407219849/?comment_id=861879177201372&offset=0&total_comments=3&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1371228706266414/] which may be particularly harmful to hookworms if taken in combination with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clindamycin clindamycin] (Dalacin, Lincocin, Daclin). '''Metronidazole''' and '''clindamycin''' are favoured by some dentists due to their proven efficacy against anaerobic bacteria. However, when take on its own, metronidazole does not always kill hookworms, as one host found when she had to take this drug along with amoxicillin for several weeks to treat septic gangrenous appendicitis, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1899197376802875/?comment_id=1899228090133137&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] and another found when he needed to take 750mg daily for 7 days to treat SIBO. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2060266257362652/] A third NA host was still able to successfully incubate more larvae after taking five doses of 400mg metronidazole daily for three days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5993193837403188/?comment_id=5993326564056582&reply_comment_id=5993931900662715]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitroimidazole Nitroimidazoles] (metronidazole, tinidazole, nimorazole, dimetridazole).

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinolone_antibiotic Quinolones.] Drugs in the quinolone family have been shown to block a detoxification pathway required by helminths for blood feeding, resulting in arrested development of L3 larvae and adversely affecting the reproductive capacity of adult worms both in vitro and in vivo. [http://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1006931] (NB. In 2018, the European Medicines Agency began to recommend restrictions on the use of fluoroquinolone and quinolone antibiotics on safety grounds, [https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/903029] and, in 2019, fluoroquinolones were linked with heart problems. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/09/190910154710.htm])
</blockquote>

==== ✅ Antibiotics that appear ''not'' to affect hookworm benefits ====
<blockquote>

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mycophenolic_acid Mycophenolic acid] Also called mycophenolate mofetil (MMF, trade name CellCept) and mycophenolate sodium (trade name Myfortic), this antibiotic/immunosuppressant drug has broad-spectrum antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties, but has not been commercialised as an antibiotic due to its adverse effects. One hookworm host has taken CellCept (500mg x 3 per day), apparently without harming her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1001001649955790/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1978467308875881/?comment_id=1978498922206053&reply_comment_id=1979680825421196&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rifaximin Rifaximin] (Xifaxan, Xifaxanta and Normix, etc.) This drug is poorly absorbed when taken by mouth and stays within the gastrointestinal tract, so is unlikely to affect NA, which feed directly on their host's blood, and will pass by TT while they are grazing on tissue secretions within the intestinal lining. The drug's lack of effect on NA was confirmed by one self-treater who took a 14 day course of the drug to treat SIBO and had no return of symptoms from his sinus condition, and only noticed a minimal effect on egg production by his worms. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Treating_SIBO_and_sinusitis_with_NA_and_TTO]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trimethoprim Trimethoprim] (Alprim) One hookworm host has reported continuing to enjoy full benefits from her worms after taking seven 300 mg doses of this drug to treat a urinary tract infection. Another has reported that, when used to treat UTIs, Alprim not only did not affect her hookworm colony, but did not even arrest the production of ova by her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1009048252484463/] Also, when the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole] combination drug, AA-Sulfatrim DS 800, was taken by a hookworm host for 10 days (160mg x2 per day), this had no effect on his NA colony and produced no gastrointestinal changes. (Private communication)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antibiotics Topical antibiotics] If applied to the skin, or used as eye drops, these are unlikely to affect helminths in most cases. Four drops of 0.3% [https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/836/smpc Ciloxan] ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ciprofloxacin ciprofloxacin]) applied to each eye 3 times each day for 2 weeks had no effect on the colonies of two hookworm hosts, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/874927972563159/?comment_id=875296599192963&offset=0&total_comments=8&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tobramycin tobramycin] eye drops applied 3 times each day for 2 days, and twice each day for the following 3 days, had no obvious ill effect on another hookworm colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4810224872366763/]
</blockquote>

==== General discussion ====
<blockquote>
Short courses of most other antibiotics will typically only cause a temporary loss of benefit for between 2 and 8 weeks (e.g., ➿ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythromycin erythromycin] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/770548519667772/]), although it is possible for efficacy to be reduced for longer, e.g., [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1131267180262569/?comment_id=1134969589892328&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D 4 months], and even [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/700908506631774/?comment_id=951430548246234&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D 6 months], and there is anecdotal evidence suggesting a correlation between the length of a course of antibiotics and the length of time that affected helminths are out of action. This might suggest that a single shot of antibiotic might have little or no effect on human helminths, as has been reported by one hookworm host, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3419833164739281?comment_id=3422186914503906] but the type of antibiotic used may be critical in this case, and some antibiotic drugs might adversely affect a helminth colony even when only a single injection is administered. This happened when one hookworm host was given a single, 1 gram shot of cefazolin. See [[#Cefazolin|Cefazolin]] for details.

It is possible that even a small dose of antibiotic could cause a return of symptoms in some people. For example, one hookworm host has reported experiencing a recurrence of significant disease symptoms after using 3 drops per day, for only 1½ days, of a solution containing [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tobramycin tobramycin] 3mg (0.3%).

In cases of dental infection that would routinely be treated by a course of an oral antibiotic, it might be possible to avoid the use of a drug if the dentist is able to use localised ozone injections. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1252700651452554/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1518817608174189/?comment_id=1519018198154130&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

When it is essential to take oral antibiotics, the duration of their negative effect on hookworms can be significantly reduced - perhaps to as little as 2 weeks - by taking a small top-up dose of no more than 5 larvae after finishing the course of drugs. In most cases, this inoculation can be carried out 48 hours after the last dose of the drug, but it's worth asking a pharmacist exactly how long the prescribed drug will take to clear completely from the body. Different antibiotics have different biological half-lives. For example, erythromycin's half-life is only a couple of hours, whereas penicillin's can be up to 56 hours.

An alternative to taking a small top-up dose of NA would be to take 250-500 TSO. One NA host has reported that, without a helminth top-up, it usually takes her 4-6 weeks to come right after an infection. But, if she takes 500 TSO after completing the antibiotics, she recovers within about 10 days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7062445007144727/?comment_id=7065489936840234] In a later report, this same individual said that even taking just 250 TSO post-antibiotics will enable her to bounce back within a week or so. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7897313170324569/?comment_id=7911601488895737] If ordered at the same time as the antibiotics are started, TSO will arrive in time to be taken after the course of the drug is completed. And, since TSO remain viable for a couple of years in a fridge, a small supply of them can be kept to hand.

It has been suggested that the reduction in the benefits derived from hosting human helminths that is seen after taking antibiotics might result, at least in part, from a loss from the gut microbiome of helpful bacterial species and
the proliferation of less beneficial ones. This suggestion, and the fact that taking probiotics alongside antibiotics has been claimed to help [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130530192404.htm offset the gastrointestinal symptoms] typically associated with these drugs, has led to the suggestion that the use of high doses (perhaps 5 or 10 times the normal dose) of good quality probiotics might help to reduce the time that helminths are out of action after using these drugs, especially if the probiotics are taken at a different time of day from the drug. And this effect has been reported by one individual. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1257052664350686/?comment_id=1257367554319197&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] However, also see [https://www.ngmedicine.com/taking-probiotics-with-antibiotics-revisited/ this article] which looks at the evidence on the use of probiotics alongside antibiotics, which is not all positive. Additional help in protecting the microbiome might be gained by supplementing with either butyrate [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211124719303845] or charcoal [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29186529] alongside an antibiotic, and a fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) following treatment with an antibiotic might also help to restore worm benefits more quickly. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1149149175141036/?comment_id=1242073262515293&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

It is possible that the consumption of prebiotics such as galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) may also help to restore the gut biome, since GOS has been shown to help [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24925303 support the recovery of beneficial bifidobacteria] and increase the production of butyrate, after antibiotic treatment. GOS is available in the form of [http://www.bimuno.com/ Bimuno Prebiotic Powder]. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and xylooligosaccharides (XOS) may perform a similar function. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30113166] For more detail about the effects of a total loss of worms due to antibitoic use, and how to restore a colony, see [[Hookworm dosing and response#Colony collapse | '''Colony collapse''']].

In the case of someone needing to take antibiotics regularly, or on a long-term basis, there would be little point in them using hookworms until completely off these drugs. Some worm benefits may be maintained in users of the human whipworm, so long as doses of this organism are being taken regularly, every few weeks. Another solution for those who need to take antibiotics frequently, or for prolonged periods, would be to switch to TSO as these are less likely to be adversely affected by antibiotics. While ciprofloxacin is capable of blocking the action of TSO, other antibiotics just slow them down. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1343118199077465/?comment_id=1343598479029437&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] HDC may also be less susceptible to antibiotics than human helminths, although two users of HDC have reported that the antibiotic,
⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dapsone Dapsone] (diamino-diphenyl sulfone), causes a return of their disease symptoms.
</blockquote>

==== ➿ Antibiotics best avoided for other reasons ====
<blockquote>
Some antibiotics are best avoided for other reasons.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluoroquinolone Fluoroquinolone antibiotics] can be extremely dangerous [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinolone_antibiotic#Adverse_effects] and can cause permanent nerve damage. [http://healthimpactnews.com/2013/warning-fluoroquinolone-antibiotics-may-cause-permanent-nerve-damage/] This group of drugs includes [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ciprofloxacin ciprofloxacin] (cipro), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levaquin levofloxacin] (Levaquin, Tavanic, etc.) [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tequin gatifloxacin] (Gatiflo, Tequin and Zymar), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gemifloxacin Gemifloxacin] (Factive), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moxifloxacin Moxifloxacin] (Avelox, Vigamox, Moxeza, etc.), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norfloxacin Norfloxacin] (Noroxin) and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ofloxacin Ofloxacin] (Floxin, Ocuflox, etc.). The European Medicines Agency began to recommend restrictions on the use of fluoroquinolone and quinolone antibiotics on safety grounds in 2018. [https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/903029]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clarithromycin Clarithromycin] (Biaxin, etc.) has been shown to increase the risk of a fatal heart attack compared with penicillin V, especially in older people with existing cardiac risk factors, although no increased risk was seen with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roxithromycin roxithromycin] [http://www.bmj.com/content/349/bmj.g4930]. Also see this [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29155931/ later study].
</blockquote>

=== Anticoagulants [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anticoagulant] ===

==== ✅ Safe anticoagulants unless otherwise marked ====
<blockquote>
Anticoagulant medicines and herbs (which reduce the clotting ability of blood) do not harm helminths, but may prolong bleeding from the tiny feeding sites of hookworms, which, themselves, secrete minute amounts of anticoagulants to help their digestive process. Anticoagulant drugs include:
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warfarin warfarin]
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heparin heparin]
Other drugs that have an anticoagulant effect include
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspirin aspirin] and products containing it, such as
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alka-Seltzer Alka-Seltzer]
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pepto-Bismol Pepto-Bismol].

Herbs with an anticoagulant effect include:
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginkgo_biloba ginkgo biloba]

All of these compounds may prolong bleeding at hookworm feeding sites to some extent, so may potentially contribute to anaemia (anemia) in susceptible individuals, especially if several of these drugs/supplements are taken at the same time.
</blockquote>

=== Antidepressants ===

Some self-treaters use certain SSRIs alongside NA and TTO without any apparent problem, but, according to a 2018 Nature article, [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-18457-w] some SSRIs (setraline, paroxetine, and chlorpromazine) have such a powerful anthelmintic effect that the authors suggested these drugs could be used clinically as dewormers.

'''NB''' Anyone who wants to start helminthic therapy who is already taking one of the antidepressants that has a known anthelmintic effect should not stop taking the drug without first consulting their medical advisor. This is because, although helminths can eventually help in some cases of depression, the worms are unlikely to start to work immediately and may actually cause a brief initial worsening of this condition before beginning to provide relief. See [[Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function#Depression | '''Helminthic therapy and neuropsychiatric function: Depression''']].

<blockquote>

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amitriptyline Amitriptyline] (Elavil, etc.) This tricyclic antidepressant has been taken by at least one hookworm host at 15 mg per day, without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2085317178190893/?comment_id=2085576868164924&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citalopram Citalopram] (Celexa, Cipramil and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citalopram#Brand_names numerous other names].) This selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) has been used by at least one hookworm host with no ill effect on her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1994977397224872/?comment_id=1995274433861835&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doxepin Doxepin] This tricyclic antidepressant and potent antihistamine has been marketed under many names, including Quitaxon, Aponal and Sinequan. One individual has taken Doxepin daily for several years while hosting hookworms, without noticing any adverse effect on his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1682302251825723/?comment_id=1682894431766505&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duloxetine Duloxetine] (Cymbalta, etc.) This Serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) was taken by one NA host for several years to treat generalised anxiety without any obvious effect on her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2056263424429602/?comment_id=2058009587588319&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluoxetine Fluoxetine] (Prozac, Sarafem, etc.) A study published in Nature reported that this selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) was harmful to the non-theraputic helminth species ''C. elegans'', [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-18457-w] but fluoxetine is being taken by at least two hookworm hosts without issue [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1686522081403740/?comment_id=1687356354653646&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2085317178190893/?comment_id=2085350661520878&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D].

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venlafaxine Venlafaxine] (Effexor, etc.) There have been no reports about this particular drug yet, but it is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and it is already known that duloxetine (Cymbalta, etc.), which is another SNRI, appears to be safe for use by hosts of human helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desvenlafaxine Desvenlafaxine] (Pristiq, Desfax, Ellefore, etc.) One hookworm host has reported that this drug wiped out his entire NA colony.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Escitalopram Escitalopram] (Cipralex and Lexapro.) After taking "the smallest possible dose" of this selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) in the form of Lexapro for 4 weeks, one user found that she lost all the benefits previously conferred by NA, and even HDC benefits were dampened. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1715076141881667/?comment_id=2155918287797448&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]. However, someone else who took Lexapro for the first 2.5 years that she hosted NA did not lose her colony as a result of this. She was already taking 30 mg per day when she first inoculated, and then lowered the dose to 20 mg 18 months later. This user does have to top up her colony with a dose of 10 NA every three months, but this level of attrition is not excessive and may not be due to the drug. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2301858276536781/?comment_id=2309854282403847&reply_comment_id=2311232908932651&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Others have reported taking Lexapro without any obvious adverse effect on their NA, e.g, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3640310742691521?comment_id=3640395312683064 this self-treater] and someone else who had hosted NA for 7 years and been taking Lexapro during this entire time (10mg for 5 years, then 5mg for 2 years, and finally 2.5mg once a week for 3 years [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/2301858276536781/?comment_id=2309854282403847&reply_comment_id=4866244573431459]) and was never aware of this having any adverse effect on his worms.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paroxetine Paroxetine] (Aropax, Brisdelle, Deroxat, Paxil, Pexeva, Paxtine, Paxetin, Paroxat, Paraxyl, Sereupin, and Seroxat.) This antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, has shown anthelmintic effects against three widely divergent helminth species. It kills C. elegans at multiple life stages and acts rapidly to inhibit its feeding within minutes of exposure. It also decreases motility in the adult mouse whipworm, Trichuris muris, prevents hatching and development of the dog hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum, and kills the blood fluke flatworm, Schistosoma mansoni. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29343694]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sertraline Sertraline] (Sold under a very large number of trade names, [https://www.drugs.com/international/sertraline.html] including Zoloft.) This antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class has shown anthelmintic effects against three widely divergent helminth species. It kills C. elegans at multiple life stages and acts rapidly to inhibit its feeding within minutes of exposure. It also decreases motility in the adult mouse whipworm, Trichuris muris, prevents hatching and development of the dog hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum, and kills the blood fluke flatworm, Schistosoma mansoni. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29343694] However, someone who has taken doses of either 100 mg or 150 mg of Zoloft daily for 1.5 years has reported continuing benefits from his NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3054501617939106/]
</blockquote>

=== Antifungals [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antifungals] ===

==== ✅ Safe antifungals unless marked otherwise ====
<blockquote>
The following appear to be safe for use with human helminths
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluconazole fluconazole] (Diflucan and Trican)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nystatin nystatin] (Mycostatin, Nilstat, Nystop, etc.) This has been used for many years by one hookworm host without harming his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1995854040470541/?comment_id=1996211143768164&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]
* the fatty acid [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caprylic_acid caprylic acid] also appears safe [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/935151783207444/?comment_id=935208789868410&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]. However, anyone with a coconut allergy/intolerance should note that ''caprylic acid'' is a coconut/palm kernel derivative.
* the enzyme-based anti-Candida product [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candex candex] is also worm-safe. One hookworm host took 4 ''Candex'' capsules twice a day for over a month without any obvious harm to his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/821478984574725/?comment_id=821502387905718&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorophyll Chlorophyll]. A chlorophyll-based solution has been found to be [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/43335937_Antimicrobial_activity_of_chlorophyll-based_solution_on_Candida_albicans_and_Enterococcus_faecalis effective against Candida albicans] and there have been no reports to suggest this might be harmful to helminths. (Also see❓[[#Chlorophyllin|Chlorophyllin]].)

* [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23965638 Some probiotics] may help to control candida, especially [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saccharomyces_boulardii Saccharomyces boulardii], which significantly inhibits [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20629753 adhesion by C. albicans], thus [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19732158 preventing the formation of biofilms and filamentation], and it is as [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23703468 effective as nystatin] in reducing fungal colonization and invasive fungal infection. '''S. boulardii''' has also been taken by at least two helminth hosts without any obvious effect on their worms. At least one strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus can reduce the population of Candida albicans in the gut microbiota. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29997616]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_butyrate Sodium butyrate] is a powerful antifungal that inhibits pathogenic yeast growth [http://jac.oxfordjournals.org/content/66/11/2573.long]. It is available as a food supplement and is also manufactured in the human intestines by the fermentation of vegetables. The bacteria responsible for butyrate production are vulnerable to antibiotics, but can be reintroduced, or supplemented, by means of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fecal_bacteriotherapy fecal microbiota transplants] (FMT), or the addition of the butyrate-producing bacterial species, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clostridium_butyricum clostridium butyricum], which generates butyrate directly in the gut. C. butyricum is available as the probiotic, Miyarisan Tablets [https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152806891616155&set=p.10152806891616155&type=1&theater], in Japan, and is available online, e.g., from eBay, [http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/251578568400] and in the probiotic formulations, Bifilac and Bifilac HP [http://www.indiamart.com/abpl/probiotic-dietary-supplements.html], the first of which is available from [http://www.internationaldrugmart.eu/pharmacy/over-the-counter-meds/bifilac.html here]. C. butyricum is also available as an animal feed additive [http://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/probiotic-clostridium-butyricum_1589202110.html]. Nutrients that help to increase butyric acid concentrations in the colon include pectin [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pectin] and larch arabinogalactan [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arabinogalactan], which is available as a supplement[http://www.iherb.com/Thorne-Research-Arabinex-3-5-oz-100-g/18737], although arabinogalactan can worsen rheumatic conditions. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/797203453668945/?comment_id=797204570335500&offset=0&total_comments=1], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/797203453668945/?comment_id=797261090329848&offset=0&total_comments=3]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ascorbic_acid Ascorbic acid] (vitamin C) may interfere with the yeast-to-hypha transition [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25084864] of candida.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_cider_vinegar Apple cider vinegar]. Only a single individual has ever reported believing that apple cider vinegar had an adverse effect on their hookworm colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2616391711750101/?comment_id=2616632618392677&reply_comment_id=2617255014997104] Since many other hookworm hosts drink apple cider vinegar without issue, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1516308765091740/?comment_id=1516658838390066&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D] it can be considered to be worm-friendly. It has been revealed as a possible treatment for Candida species involved in denture stomatitis, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25219289] and there have been suggestions that, if ingested, vinegar might induce the body's gut defence system to help combat a Candida albicans infection. [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150608151952.htm] Advice on using apple cider vinegar as part of an anti-Candida treatment regimen can be found [http://www.onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/how-to-treat-chronic-yeast-overgrowth-with-apple-cider-vinegar/ here].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iodine Iodine] appears to have antifungal properties, is worm-friendly, and has proved effective against Candida for one hookworm host.[https://gettinghealthiernow.wordpress.com/2014/11/29/iodine-protocol-destroying-candida/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_D Vitamin D] turns on genes that make antimicrobial peptides, including cathelicidin [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathelicidin], which has been shown to kill Candida. However, dosage with this vitamin may be critical, and excessive amounts might be counter-productive [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25612733]. Aiming for the optimum blood level [http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/about-vitamin-d/how-do-i-get-the-vitamin-d-my-body-needs/] of vitamin D would therefore appear to be ideal. (Vitamin D3 has been shown to extend the median lifespan of one species of roundworm by 30-40%. [http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/vitamin-d-news/new-research-finds-vitamin-d-extends-the-life-of-roundworms-08-2015/#])

* Some foods [http://www.thecandidadiet.com/candida-fighting-foods.htm], eaten in normal dietary amounts, may help support an anti-Candida programme, but see the separate notes on ⚡[[#Cayenne|cayenne]], ⚡[[#Coconut|coconut]] and ⚡[[#Ginger|ginger]]. Fresh ✅ garlic may be particularly helpful [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC538912/], and dietary forms of garlic are known to be worm-safe, but see the details in the separate entry for [[#Garlic|garlic]].

* When Candida is a problem, very low carbohydrate (VLC) diets are best avoided because these cause ketosis, and yeasts love ketones.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monolaurin Monolaurin] (also known as glycerol monolaurate, glyceryl laurate or 1-lauroyl-glycerol). Monolaurin is a monoglyceride - the mono-ester formed from glycerol and lauric acid. Shown in test tube studies to have antibacterial and antiviral activity, it is commonly used as a surfactant in cosmetics, including deodorants, and as an emulsifier in foods. While it is active against candida [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20008774], one subject has reported that taking two teaspoons of monolaurin daily, for a few weeks, produced no obvious effect on his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/872052362850720/?comment_id=872137176175572&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R7%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/872052362850720/?comment_id=872142719508351&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R4%22%7D] Another believes that she probably ingested a significant dose of monolaurin by drinking full fat coconut milk daily, but that her hookworms and whipworms both survived this. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/872052362850720/?comment_id=872162672839689&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] Others have also confirmed that monolaurin is worm-safe. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/974642915924997/?comment_id=975547445834544&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1368090353246916/?comment_id=1369652509757367&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

A very worm-friendly way to reduce Candida is to brush one's teeth after every meal instead of just once each day. This has been shown to reduce the abundance of C. albicans in the stool by 10-fold to 100-fold. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5874442/] The addition of regular [https://wellnessmama.com/17951/coconut-oil-pulling/ oil pulling using coconut oil] (not to be swallowed) could further reduce the amount of candida. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1617823828273566/?comment_id=1618578738198075&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]
</blockquote>

==== ❓ More antifungals ====

<blockquote>

* ❓ '''Cellular silver''' (see [[#AlternativeTherapies|Alternative therapies]] section). The manufacturers of Advanced Cellular Silver (ACS) 200 Extra Strength [http://www.resultsrna.com/products/acs_200_overview/] claim that this product achieves a 99.9989% kill against C. albicans. Although there have been no reports to date of its possible effect on human helminths, its similarity to ➿'''colloidal silver''' (see [[#AlternativeTherapies|Alternative therapies]] section) suggest that it may not kill the worms but only cause a temporary reduction of benefits.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactoferrin Lactoferrin] (also known as lactotransferrin [LTF]) is found naturally in secretory fluids, such as milk, saliva, tears and nasal secretions. It has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic properties, and is effective against candida. It’s antimicrobial properties are enhanced by the peptide, ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactoferricin lactoferricin], the anti fungal effects of which exceed those of lactoferrin. However, there have been no reports of any adverse effect on helminths, and one NA host has reported that taking 300mg of lactoferrin per day had no obvious effect on his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2116858295036781/]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lavandula Lavender] has antifungal activity and may be of value in treating candida. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26550521]

* ❓ '''Propolis''' (see [[#NutritionalSupplements|Nutritional supplements]] section). Candida has been shown to be susceptible to propolis extract [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26149083], and to red propolis alcoholic extract. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26154370]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygodial Polygodial], which has both antifungal and antimicrobial properties and is used as an insecticide, is an active constituent of
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tasmannia_stipitata Dorrigo pepper],
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tasmannia mountain pepper],
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pseudowintera horopito],
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pseudowintera_colorata mountain horopito],
** ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pseudowintera_colorata Kolorex],
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drimys_winteri canelo] (Drimys winteri, winter's bark)
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acmella_oleracea paracress] and
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persicaria_hydropiper water pepper].
Whilst polygodial has been shown to be effective against single-celled parasites such as protozoa, the only report so far that it might also have an adverse effect on helminths comes from a hookworm host who suspects that she killed her colony by taking '''Kolorex''', which contains a mixture of horopito and ⚡'''aniseed'''.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Undecylenic_acid Undecylenic Acid]. This is the common name for 10-Undecenoic Acid, which is used in the Thorne Research product, [https://www.thorne.com/products/dp/formula-sf722-reg Formula SF722]. It is a potent antifungal mono-unsaturated fatty acid extracted from coconut and the castor bean. It has been shown to be 11 times stronger than [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caprylic_acid caprylic acid], and is also claimed to have antiparasitic properties, although there have been no reports about this from hosts of therapeutic helminths.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curcumin Curcumin] inhibits candida [http://jac.oxfordjournals.org/content/63/2/337.long], even at low concentrations, but see the main entry below for [[#Turmeric|Turmeric/curcumin]] for further details.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigella_sativa Black cumin] (nigella sativa). Also known as blackseed, black seed, black caraway, fennel-flower, nutmeg flower, Roman coriander, kalonji and 'Love in the Mist'. Extracts of this herb have shown antifungal effects [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3642442/] against different strains of Candida albicans, but it has also been used as an anthelmintic since ancient times. In India, today, nigella seeds are combined with various purgatives to help kill and expel intestinal parasites, and they have a synergistic effect with pharmaceutical anthelmintics. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30149818]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gymnema_sylvestre Gymnema sylvestre] is effective against candida [http://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/jun13/vediyappan91213.html], but hydroalcoholic extracts of this herb have been found to have anthelmintic activity against the Indian earthworm, Pheretima posthuma. [http://www.ijrap.net/admin/php/uploads/525_pdf.pdf] Even though the research worm, C. elegans, appears to be unaffected by gymnema [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=gymnema+sylvestre+candida] and there are genetic similarities [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11812491] between C. elegans and N. americanus, one helminth host suspects that gymnema was responsible for the loss of his hookworm colony.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lufenuron Lufenuron] is a benzoylurea pesticide used on crops and in veterinary medicine (in flea control, heartworm treatments and other anthelmintic products). Its powerful anti-fungal effects may be due to its ability to inhibit the synthesis of chitin, which is unfortunately an important constituent of the mouthparts of the hookworm.

Some herbal antifungal products may adversely affect helminths, especially if they are in a concentrated form, so any herbal medicine that claims to have antifungal properties should be approached with caution.

Some foods are coated with edible films containing antifungal compounds such as ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natamycin natamycin] (pimaricin) and ❌ '''oregano oil''' (see [[#Oregano|Oregano reference]])
but the quantities used in this application are probably insufficient to affect helminths, and there is no evidence [http://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v48je06.htm] to date that natamycin harms intestinal flora.

NB. Prolonged treatment with antifungal drugs can disrupt commensal fungal populations and cause an increase in
the severity of disease states, as seen in one study [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27237365] in acute and chronic models of colitis and allergic airway
disease.
</blockquote>

=== Antihistamines ===

==== Antihistamines as marked ====

<blockquote>
* ✅ Worm-safe antihistamines are
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diphenhydramine diphenhydramine] -- most likely to cause drowsiness
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loratadine loratadine] (Claritin, Lorafix)
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fexofenadine fexofenadine] (Allegra, Fexidine, Telfast, Fastofen, Tilfur, Vifas, Telfexo, Allerfexo) -- least likely to cause drowsiness
* ✅ Most '''Benadryl-branded products''' sold in the '''US''' contain only diphenhydramine so are worm-safe, e.g.
** [http://www.benadryl.com/products/allergy/benadryl-ultratab-tablets Benadryl Allergy Ultratab Tablets]
** [http://www.benadryl.com/products/allergy/benadryl-liquid-gels Benadryl Allergy Dye-Free Liqui-gels]
** [http://www.benadryl.com/products/children-allergy/benadryl-allergy-liquid Children’s Benadryl Allergy Liquid]
* ⚡ except
** [https://www.benadryl.com/products/children-allergy/benadryl-allergy-and-sinus-liquid Childrens’ Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion] which also contains ⚡ phenylephrine. (See [[#Phenylephrine|local reference]].)

'''Benadryl products''' sold in the '''UK''' all contain drugs with anthelmintic potential - either
* ⚡ cetirizine
** [http://www.benadryl.co.uk/allergy-relief-products/benadryl-allergy-liquid-capsules Benadryl Allergy Liquid Release Tablets/Capsules]
** [http://www.benadryl.co.uk/allergy-relief-products/benadryl-allergy-one-day Benadryl One a Day Relief Tablets/Capsules]
** [http://www.benadryl.co.uk/allergy-relief-products/benadryl-allergy-aged-two-plus Benadryl Allergy Children’s (2+ years) 1mg/ml Oral Solution]
** [http://www.benadryl.co.uk/allergy-relief-products/benadryl-allergy-children Benadryl Allergy Children’s 6+ 1mg/ml Oral Solution]
* ⚡ acrivastine
** [http://www.benadryl.co.uk/allergy-relief-products/benadryl-allergy-relief-plus Benadryl Allergy Relief Plus Decongestant Capsules]
** [http://www.benadryl.co.uk/allergy-relief-products/benadryl-allergy-relief Benadryl Allergy Relief Capsules]
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorphenamine Chlorphenamine] (chlorpheniramine, piriton) While we don’t yet have any confirmation of the effect on helminths of this first-generation antihistamine, it has been suggested by someone who has investigated this that it is unlikely to be harmful to worms.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cromoglicic_acid Cromoglicic acid] (cromolyn, cromoglycate or cromoglicate, sodium cromoglicate [Nalcrom] or cromolyn sodium, plus Gastrocrom and Intercron) This is a mast cell stabiliser which prevents the release of histamine from mast cells and is used to treat some allergic conditions. One hookworm host has taken 8x100mg capsules of Nalcrom daily for periods of up to 10 days without any adverse effect on her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/952539741468648/?comment_id=953466358042653&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doxylamine Doxylamine] (Bendectin, Debendox, Diclectin, Diclegis, Dozile, Lenotan, Merbental, Restavit, Unisom, Valocordin-Doxylamine, Vicks Formula 44 and Vomentin, etc.) One hookworm host believes that an unexpected return of gut symptoms and dry skin may have been caused by taking a quarter of a tablet of this first-generation antihistamine every night for a couple of weeks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/927991007256855/?comment_id=1007272959328659&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] Another NA host believes that taking diclectin (doxylamine combined with pyridoxine) put her worms out of action until she stoped taking it. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2706737069382231/]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ketotifen Ketotifen] - This antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer, which has similar effects to cromoglicic acid (see separate listing), is sold under a large variety of trade names [https://www.drugs.com/international/ketotifen.html] that include Allerban, Allergan, Bentifen, Ketasma, Mastifen, Zaditen and Zylofen. In one study using the helminth, Trichinella spiralis, the addition of ketotifen resulted in a greater worm burden and worm size, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16886340] but in a small in vitro test, one hookworm self-treater found that exposing a sample of NA larvae to Naziden left them “a bit lethargic but alive” [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1037890422933579/?comment_id=1039541612768460&reply_comment_id=1041766029212685&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R8%22%7D] and they were still alive the next day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1037890422933579/?comment_id=1039541612768460&reply_comment_id=1042321262490495&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D] However, effects in vivo don’t always correspond with those observed in a petri dish, and ketotifen is a piperazine-related substance so it may have an adverse effect on human helminths in vivo in at least some users.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Promethazine Promethazine] (Phenergan, Promethegan, Romergan, Fargan, Farganesse, Prothiazine, Avomine, Atosil, Receptozine, Lergigan, and, in the UK, Sominex). This does not appear to kill helminths, whether taken orally or by intramuscular injection, and one self-treater who needs to take oral Phenergan daily says that her NA are unaffected. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1597006987021917/?comment_id=1597396203649662&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] However, another hookworm host has reported that this drug did reduce his worm benefits when it was taken orally.
</blockquote>

==== Piperazine related antihistamines ====
<blockquote>
Popular antihistamines derived from, or closely related to, the anthelmintic drug ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piperazine piperazine] (See the separate entry for [[#piperazine|piperazine]]).
These include:
* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cetirizine cetirizine] (Zyrtec, Reactine)
* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levocetrizine_dihydrochloride levocetrizine] (Alcet, Allear, Curin, levcet, Seasonix, T-Day Syrup, Teczine, UVNIL, Vozet, Xaltec, Xozal, Xuzal, Xusal, Xyzal, Zilola, Zyxem)

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phenylephrine phenylephrine] Some nasal decongestants and allergy medications contain this drug (e.g., products branded "Sudafed PE", but not those branded "Sudafed") so check the ingredients of the product you are considering using. While one hookworm host has reported using this drug without any adverse effect on her colony, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2537589059630367/?comment_id=2537715762951030] it does appear to have anthelmintic properties [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6127426] and has been reported to have caused a brief return of disease symptoms in one hookworm host after a single dose.
* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desloratadine desloratadine] (NeoClarityn, Claramax, Clarinex, Larinex, Aerius, Dazit, Azomyr, Deselex and Delot)
* and possibly ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acrivastine acrivastine] (Semprex-D in the US)

While some people have taken cetirizine, levocetirizine or desloratadine concurrently with helminthic therapy -
sometimes for very long periods - and had no loss of benefit from their worms (for example [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/892594554129834/?comment_id=892794274109862&offset=0&total_comments=16&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/893959107326712/?qa_ref=qd&comment_id=893959580659998&offset=0&total_comments=9&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R7%22%7D]), there
have been others who have suspected that these drugs have been responsible for adversely affecting or even killing their worms.

Less common antihistamines derived from, or related to ❌piperazine.
At the present time, there is no indication whether or not most of the following drugs could affect human helminths.
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buclizine buclizine]
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorcyclizine chlorcyclizine] (Di-paralene, Mantadil, Pruresidine, Trihistan)
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnarizine cinnarizine] (Stugeron, Stunarone, R5)
* ✅/⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydroxyzine Hydroxyzine] (Atarax, Vistaril, etc.) A parent has reported that her son’s NA were not harmed by taking this drug, but dose size and length of use in this case are not known. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/2666963426692929/?comment_id=2667238819998723&reply_comment_id=2669051416484130&notif_id=1581006498061422&notif_t=group_comment_mention]
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclizine cyclizine]
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meclizine meclizine] (Bonine, Bonamine, Antivert, Postafen, Sea Legs)
* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dramamine dimenhydrinate] See [[#dimenhydrinate|dimenhydrinate reference]].
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niaprazine niaprazine]
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bilastine bilastine] (Bilaxten) One NA host has reported that she had been taking bilastine on and off for 3 years - the same amount of time that she had been hosting NA - because she has found it to be very effective for her allergies, and, while the NA have sometimes seemed to be working during this time, they have mostly seemed not to be working all that well. However, she had been able to grow more NA consistently for 2 of the 3 years, thus confirming that she still had some worms, but, when she last reported her experience, she had stopped taking the Bilastine to see whether the NA work better in its absence. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4820011088054808/?comment_id=4851343294921587]
</blockquote>

==== ✅ H2 antagonists are safe ====

<blockquote>
H2 antagonists are a separate class of drugs from '''proton-pump Inhibitors''' (see separate section).

The term, “antihistamine” is usually reserved for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H1_antagonist H1 antagonists] whose main therapeutic effect is mediated by
negative modulation of histamine receptors, but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H2_antagonist H2 histamine receptor antagonists] can also be considered to be a
type of antihistamine. H2 antagonists include
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranitidine ranitidine] (Zantac) which works by blocking histamine and thus decreasing the amount of acid released by the cells of the stomach.
Other common H2 antagonists are
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cimetidine cimetidine] (Tagamet)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Famotidine famotidine] (Pepcid) One hookworm host used this drug successfully, without harm to his colony, for at least 2 months, starting with 20mg daily and titrating within a month to 3x20mg per day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5898386906883882?comment_id=5898568306865742&reply_comment_id=5900280486694524]
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nizatidine nizatidine] (Axid, Tazac).
</blockquote>

=== Antimalarials ===

<blockquote>
*⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chloroquine Chloroquine] A cross-epidemiological study of the effect of treatment for malaria in hookworm-endemic areas found that treated patients presented with reduced helminth egg burdens and worm-related pathology, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4558454/] and a reduced hookworm egg count has also been reported in another set of subjects taking chloroquine. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9645872/]
*✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydroxychloroquine Hydroxychloroquine] (Plaquenil, etc.) There has been one tentative suggestion from a helminth self-treater that this antimalarial medication, ''might'' have harmed her hookworms, but several others have taken this drug without any adverse effect on their worms. One took Plaquenil for 5 years without harming his NA, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3000811316641470/?comment_id=3001544019901533] another takes 400 mg daily without any adverse effect on her hookworms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4823182771070973/?comment_id=4824165244306059] and two further subjects who have taken this drug, one of them in quite large quantities, had no issues with their worms. (Link expired)
No other antimalarial drug has been suspected by self-treaters of harming therapeutic helminths, including [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinine Quinine].
</blockquote>

=== Antiprotozoals ===

<blockquote>
* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metronidazole Metronidazole] (Flagyl). This is one of three derivatives of ❌[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitroimidazole nitroimidazole] that is used against anaerobic bacterial and parasitic, as well as protozoan, infections. One hookworm host has reported[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/861694407219849/?comment_id=861879177201372&offset=0&total_comments=3&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] losing her colony to this drug, which should never be combined with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mebendazole mebendazole] due a risk that, together, they may cause [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1447769/ Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis], something about which many doctors and pharmacists may be unaware, especially in the US.
</blockquote>

=== Antipsychotics ===

<blockquote>
* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorpromazine Chlorpromazine] (Thorazine and Largactil, etc.) This antipsychotic medication has shown anthelmintic effects against three widely divergent helminth species. It kills C. elegans at multiple life stages and acts rapidly to inhibit its feeding within minutes of exposure. It also decreases motility in the adult mouse whipworm, Trichuris muris, prevents hatching and development of the dog hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum, and kills the blood fluke flatworm, Schistosoma mansoni. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29343694]
</blockquote>

=== Antivirals ===
<blockquote>
(Also see [[Human helminth care manual#Natural antivirals|'''Natural antivirals''']] for effective worm-safe antiviral treatments.)

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Famciclovir Famciclovir] (Famvir) -- One hookworm host took Famciclovir (500mg) 3 times per day for many months without any noticeable effect on her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/884990498223573/?comment_id=885041121551844&offset=0&total_comments=6&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir] This co-packaged medication, which combines two protease inhibitors and is marketed as Paxlovid, is used as a treatment for Covid‑19. There have been no reports of it harming human helminths and one report that it did not harm one self-treater’s NA colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6439043419484892/?comment_id=6439498362772731]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valtrex Valaciclovir/valacyclovir] (Valtrex, Zelitrex) -- This antiviral drug was taken by one worm host for a week without any adverse effect on his hookworms or whipworms.

* ❌ Nitazoxanide (See separate entry under Anthelmintics)
</blockquote>

=== Immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG) ===
<blockquote>
✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immunoglobulin_therapy Immunoglobulin therapy], also known as normal human immunoglobulin (NHIG) is compatible with helminthic therapy and has been used effectively in combination with TSO. There is no reason to think that it would harm human helminths.
</blockquote>

=== Immunosuppressive drugs ===

<blockquote>
'''✅ Immunosuppressive drugs reported to be safe for use by hosts of human helminths are:'''
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclosporin ciclosporin] (cyclosporine, cyclosporin). See also [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclosporins cyclosporins].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corticosteroid corticosteroids], including:
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prednisone prednisone] and its active metabolite, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prednisolone prednisolone]
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluticasone_propionate fluticasone propionate] Also known as Flixotide (inhalatory), Flixonase and Flonase (nasal). At least three NA hosts have used this drug without any obvious impact on their worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1707473322641949/?comment_id=1707582379297710&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1707473322641949/?comment_id=1707720709283877&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1707473322641949/?comment_id=1707880315934583&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclophosphamide cyclophosphamide] (Sold as: Cytoxan, Lyophilized Cytoxan, Endoxan, Neosar, Procytox, Revimmune and Cycloblastin). This has been used repeatedly by one hookworm host who has reported that it had no adverse effect on her colony.

* the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiopurine thiopurines], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azathioprine azathioprine] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/6-MP mercaptopurine]/6-MP (purinethol)

* the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TNF_inhibitor TNF inhibitors]
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infliximab infliximab] (Remicade)
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adalimumab adalimumab] (Humira)
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Certolizumab_pegol certolizumab pegol] (Cimzia)
** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golimumab golimumab] (Simponi)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humanized_antibody humanized antibody drugs], e.g. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omalizumab omalizumab] (Xolair)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monoclonal_antibody%23.22Fully.22_human_monoclonal_antibodies humanized monoclonal antibody drugs] such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natalizumab natalizumab] (Tysabri)

* and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fusion_protein recombinant fusion protein] drugs such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etanercept etanercept] (Enbrel)

It can be an advantage to be taking one of these drugs in the early stages of helminthic therapy because they can reduce, or even prevent, the transient side effects triggered by helminths, and their anti-inflammatory action can also help human helminths to become established. So anyone who is already taking one of these drugs should resist the temptation to stop taking it too soon after starting HT.

This applies particularly to subjects with Crohn's and other intestinal diseases, who tend to have a very vigorous immune response to helminths. Suddenly withdrawing a drug that has been keeping this response in check will likely cause a rebound effect that could result in a flare and, potentially, a loss of worms. This is explained in more detail [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Combining helminthic therapy with drug treatments | '''here''']].
</blockquote>

=== Immunotherapy ===

<blockquote>
✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allergen_immunotherapy Allergen immunotherapy] -- In the form of sublingual drops/tablets, subcutaneous injections, and [https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/allergy-shots-(immunotherapy) allergy “shots”],
this is safe to be used concurrently with helminthic therapy. In fact, many who have used the two therapies together have been very pleased with the combined effects.
</blockquote>

=== Laxatives ===
<blockquote>
Hookworms are usually able to withstand the typical [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonoscopy#Preparation colonoscopy prep] using products such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), Macrogol, Colyte, Picosalax, Bisacodyl, phospho soda, sodium picosulfate, or sodium phosphate and/or magnesium citrate. Many hookworm hosts have used the standard colonoscopy bowel prep without any problems (e.g., [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2313948658661076/?comment_id=2316622215060387&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]), and there has only been a single report claiming that colonoscopy prep had terminated a hookworm colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2184696924919584/?comment_id=2184806188241991&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] However, another NA host has reported that, while a colonoscopy prep didn't entirely wipe out his colony, it appeared to have weakened it because he found a much smaller number of larvae than usual when he next incubated. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/6481648121891088/]

It is unlikely that laxatives would dislodge human whipworms once these are mature and embedded in the colonic mucosa, but laxatives could potentially flush them out before this, especially around 21-22 days post inoculation. It may therefore be best to avoid the use of laxatives around this time. After 28 days, human whipworms should not be affected at all.

Also see [[#Diarrhoea/diarrhea|'''Diarrhoea/diarrhea''']].
</blockquote>

=== Recreational drugs ===

==== ❌ Piperazine-based recreational drugs ====
<blockquote>
[http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/13102818.2008.10817529 Piperazine-based recreational drugs] are a group of stimulant drugs with similar effects to ecstasy.
(See separate entry for details on [[#piperazine|piperazine]]) The main piperazine-derivatives that have been used for
recreational purposes include
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzylpiperazine BZP] (Benzylpiperazine, A2, Frenzy, Nemesis)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine TFMPP] (1-[3-(trifluoro-methyl) phenyl]piperazine)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meta-Chlorophenylpiperazine mCPP] (meta-chlorophenylpiperazine, 1- [3-Chlorophenyl]-piperazine).
These drugs were frequently mixed with caffeine and a range of vitamins and binders to make party pills that were marketed as
“natural” or “herbal” highs, but were actually purely synthetic. Other piperazine-derived designer drugs include:
* '''AcBZP''' (4-Acetyl-1-benzylpiperazine, AceticBenzylPiperazine)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methylbenzylpiperazine MBZP] (1-methyl-4-benzylpiperazine)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2C-B-BZP 2C-B-BZP] (4-Bromo-2,5-dimethoxy-1-benzylpiperazine) One user has reported that periodic use of 2C-B did not affect his colony of NA.
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dibenzylpiperazine DBZP] (1,4-Dibenzylpiperazine)
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methylenedioxybenzylpiperazine MDBZP] (3,4 Methylenedioxy-1-benzylpiperazine)
</blockquote>

==== ⚡ Yage (Ayahuasca) ====

<blockquote>
It has been opined that anything that enters the bloodstream and disorients a host has a potential to do the same to hookworms - since they feed on their host’s blood - and that, if the disorientation is excessive, it may cause the worms to lose their grip on the mucosa and possibly be flushed away from their home base in the small intestine, and be lost. Although the assumption that the worms will become inebriated by anything that inebriates their host has been questioned because the 'nervous system' of helminths is quite different from that of mammals, one recreational drug that might produce this effect and cause the loss of hookworms is the South American drug, yage, also known as ayahuasca, as well as by a number of other names. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayahuasca%23Nomenclature]

This psychedelic brew, which is concocted by combining a variety of plant materials, was used as part of S. American native religious rituals and, since being commercialised, has become much more mainstream. Available in Europe and N. America through "churches" set up for its import, this drug causes a deep and immersive hallucinogenic experience during a “trip” lasting 4-8 hours, or 12-18 hours if the subject is re-dosed, which is not uncommon.

"Its purgative properties are important (known as la purga or "the purge"). The intense vomiting and occasional diarrhea it induces can clear the body of worms and other tropical parasites [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2656954] and harmala alkaloids themselves have been shown to be anthelmintic. [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF02860378] Thus, this action is twofold; a direct action on the parasites by these harmala alkaloids (particularly harmine in ayahuasca) works to kill the parasites, and parasites are expelled through the increased intestinal motility that is caused by these alkaloids." [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayahuasca]

“Tropical plants used by South American natives produce an array of isoquinoline and tryptamine-related alkaloids that are not only hallucinogens, but powerful emetics with a wide range of other biological activities, in particular antimicrobial and anthelmintic properties… We propose that these alkaloid mixtures were initially discovered and developed by indigenous people for treatment of a variety of parasitic diseases and incorporated into religious ceremonies using psychoactivity as an effective dose marker.” [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0378874182900538]

However, in spite of all this evidence for the antiparastic potential of ayahuasca, one hookworm host has noticed no apparent adverse effect on her worms as a result of taking part in more than 10 ayahuasca ceremonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2523125094410097/?comment_id=2523255297730410] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2523125094410097/?comment_id=2523441614378445&reply_comment_id=2523573887698551] Another helminth host has confirmed anonymously that he was able to culture more NA from his colony after participating in 3 ceremonies in one year.
</blockquote>

==== ✅ Safe for human helminths unless marked ====

<blockquote>

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Betel Betel leaves] -- The leaves of the Piper betle vine (part of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piperaceae Piperaceae] family, which includes pepper and ⚡kava) are used as a mild stimulant and are thought likely to be safe for human helminths, although there have been no reports from helminth hosts to confirm or contradict this.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Areca_nut betel nut] (or areca nut) seed of the areca palm (and also known as the areca nut palm, betel palm, Pinang palm and Indian nut) is often chewed wrapped in betel leaves - a combination known as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paan paan] that is used for its stimulant and psychoactive effects. Betel nuts contain the anthelmintic [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arecoline arecoline] and have been used as a tapeworm remedy. Fresh betel nuts are also known to be used very effectively by Torres Straight Islanders as a treatment for all types of intestinal worm, and surveys have found that the betel chewers were almost all worm-free, while others weren't. (Prolonged use of the betel nut can create addiction and the World Health Organization classifies the betel nut as a carcinogen.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_(drug) Cannabis], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_(drug)%23Marijuana marijuana] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hashish hashish] appear to be worm-friendly. A paper published in 2015 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26031406] showed that, in the group of hunter-gatherers studied, those who consume cannabis have a significantly lower rate of helminth infection, from which the researchers concluded that the Aka foragers must consume cannabis to kill parasites, even though the scientists admit that, while cannabis kills worms in a petri dish, it has not been shown to kill worms in animals. A different explanation for the correlation seen in this study could be that those individuals with the most worms feel less need to smoke cannabis, and this ties in with the experience of the many helminth hosts who have seen a reduction in anxiety while hosting worms. One host of both hookworms and human whipworms has confirmed the presence of eggs from both species after cannabis use, and another hookworm host who used 10 drops of hemp '''CBD''' ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabidiol cannabidiol]) oil twice daily, plus a few drops of '''THC''' ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tetrahydrocannabinol tetrahydrocannabinol]) oil to help with sleep, has reported that her hookworms were unaffected. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1037560152966606/?comment_id=1037577039631584&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] Someone else used '''CBD''' oil for several months and noticed no adverse effect on his hookworms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1239928846063068/?comment_id=1240221499367136&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] and this lack of any adverse effect has been confirmed by numerous other cannabis users. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1406977876024830/?comment_id=1407227059333245&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1059227607466527/?comment_id=1059279190794702&reply_comment_id=1407016112687673&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] It has even been shown that CBD extends the lifespan and arrests age-associated physiological decline in the research nematode, C. elegans, so may potentially be beneficial for the health of other helminths. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35445360/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocaine Cocaine], in its pure, unadulterated state, could be added to this list of worm-safe drugs, but it is commonly adulterated with other substances that might harm helminths, particularly ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levamisole levamisole] which, according to one report, is the most popular bulking agent found in 73% of seized coke. [https://www.hotpress.com/sex-drugs/10-things-know-cocaine-specialists-guide-22803299]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypnotic Hypnotics] are generally worm-safe, e.g.
** '''propofol''' (see Anaesthetics section) is an ultrashort-acting sedative with amnesiac effects
** anything in the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzodiazepine benzodiazepine] class of drugs (e.g. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valium valium])
** the short-acting nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zolpidem zolpidem] (e.g. Ambien [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/865157116873578/?comment_id=866638886725401&offset=0&total_comments=6&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D], Ambien CR, Intermezzo, Stilnox, Stilnoct, Sublinox, Hypnogen, Lunata, Zonadin, Sanval, Zolsana, Zolfresh)
** the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcotic_analgesic opioids] (e.g. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Codeine codeine], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dextropropoxyphene dextropropoxyphene], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dihydrocodeine dihydrocodeine], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrocodone hydrocodone], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxycodone oxycodone], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tramadol tramadol] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morphine morphine]), along with any of their synthetic or time release variants (e.g. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fentanyl fentanyl / fentanil]); [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1080879281968026/?comment_id=1081015631954391&reply_comment_id=1081726205216667&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

*❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitragyna_speciosa Kratom] (aka kratum and ketum). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/868935276495762/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/868935276495762/?comment_id=869019499820673&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] Extracts and leaves of kratom are reported to have been used as intestinal deworming agents in Thailand, and the FDA has warned consumers not to use any products labeled as containing kratom. [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/304821.php] However, one human whipworm host has taken small doses without any apparent effect on his worms [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1788272677895346/?comment_id=1796502977072316&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] and a hookworm grower has reported no reduction in yield from his cultures after he took kratom.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opium Opium] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heroin heroin] (aka diacetylmorphine, diamorphine and other names) appear to be worm-friendly.

Most other recreational drugs should be safe for use by helminth hosts, including '''tobacco''', '''nicotine''' and most forms of '''alcohol'''.

* ➿ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholic_beverage Alcohol] -- Normal social drinking should not have any adverse effect on helminths, however, alcohol acts as an antimicrobial, and substances produced by the death of gut bacteria can enter the bloodstream to cause inflammation and allergic reactions [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3958483847540874/?comment_id=3958511057538153] which can temporarily make it appear as though therapeutic helminths have stopped working. Overindulgence in alcohol may therefore cause a temporary reduction in worm benefits in a dose-dependent manner. Excessive consumption of alcohol that results in the user going into a coma due to alcohol poisoning may incur a greater risk to helminths.
** ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Absinthe Absinthe] is one alcoholic drink that might present more of a risk, as it was traditionally made using herbs reported to have antiparasitic properties, including ❌'''wormwood'''. (See separate entry). However, the risk from absinthe has been questioned because it only contains the essential oil of wormwood, while the anthelmintic activity of this herb has been linked more to the bitter principles and the alkaloids, which are not included in absinthe.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MDMA MDMA] (ecstasy) -- As primarily a serotonin and dopamine agonist, this is thought unlikely to have much effect on helminths. However, serotonin agonism increases peristalsis, so using MDMA may not be a good idea until after the worms have attached to the intestinal mucosa. Once they are attached, the increased peristalsis alone would not dislodge them. One hookworm host has reported that he has twice rolled with MDMA and it didn't kill his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2331685740220701/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N,N-Dimethyltryptamine DMT] (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine or N,N-DMT) This psychedelic compound with powerful hallucinogenic effects has been reported by one user to be safe for use with NA.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LSD LSD] (Lysergic acid diethylamide) is unlikely to harm helminths, and there has been one report to confirm this.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myristicin Myristicin] -- This psychoactive drug, which is the traditional precursor for the psychedelic and empathogenic drug [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MMDA_(drug) MMDA], is found in very small quantities in vegetables, herbs and fruits consumed by humans on a daily basis, e.g., parsley, celery, lemons, figs, carrots, grape juice, nutmeg and dill, but this dietary intake is unlikely to be harmful to helminths. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5004179/]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peyote Peyote] (Lophophora williamsii) -- This cactus, which contains psychoactive alkaloids, including mescaline, is thought unlikely to harm helminths, but there have been no reports to confirm this.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybin Psilocybin], a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Substituted_tryptamine substituted tryptamine], is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound produced by more than 200 species of mushroom. Although illegal in most countries/states, psilocybin is used for the self-treatment of cluster headaches and one hookworm host has reported using this compound for two months to treat severe migraines, without noticing any apparent effect on his worms. However, it is possible that higher doses of this hallucinogenic may disorient hookworms for long enough to cause their loss.

* [https://psychedelictimes.com/healing-tobacco-rape-tribal-snuff/ Rapé] (pronounced “ha-peh”) is a powerful snuff originally used by shamans in Brazil and Peru as part of medicinal rituals. This sacred tobacco has increased in popularity outside of the Amazon during the early twenty-first century for its medicinal properties, and two hookworm hosts have reported using rapé without adversely affecting their colonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2523125094410097/?comment_id=2523128767743063] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2523125094410097/?comment_id=2523255297730410]
</blockquote>

===Vaccines===

Three helminth hosts have claimed that they may have lost their hookworms after receiving the ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tetanus_vaccine tetanus vaccine], although others have had tetanus shots without any loss of worms, and several people receiving flu vaccination have reported that this had no effect on their hookworms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1861574483898498/?comment_id=1861706373885309&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R3%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1861574483898498/?comment_id=1861973877191892&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Nothing has been reported in respect of other vaccines. Also see [[Helminthic therapy and vaccines | '''Helminthic therapy and vaccines''']].

== Miscellaneous pharmaceuticals and chemicals ==

<blockquote>
''' ✅ Safe for worms unless marked otherwise'''
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zovirax Aciclovir] (Cyclovir, Herpex, Acivir, Acivirax, Zovirax, Zoral, Xovir and Imavir). There have been no reported problems with this drug so far. See also the related drug, Valaciclovir/valacyclovir.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacillus_thuringiensis Bacillus thuringiensis] (Bt) is a soil bacterium that has been engineered into food crops such as corn and rice to render them pest resistant, and residues of Bt-based insecticides have been found on fresh fruits and vegetables. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16672488] Cry5B, a pore-forming protein produced by Bt can kill intestinal worms and is highly effective against all hookworm species tested in all models [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29772478]. It is also used as a natural insecticide on crops on some organic farms. However, the risk of therapeutic helminths being killed as a result of their hosts ingesting small amounts of the delta endotoxins produced by Bt is likely to be very low. When used as an insecticide, one of the many Bt strains available is selected for its specific toxicity against the target insect. The strains that produce toxins against nematodes are therefore unlikely to be used as agricultural insecticides. In addition to this, the toxins produced need to be ingested by the target organism to become active and, as proteins, they may be denatured by heat during cooking. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1270850719637547/?comment_id=1270971972958755&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] The probiotic bacterium, Bacillus subtilis, can also be engineered to express the Cry5B protein, a small dose of which has been shown to kill intestinal nematode parasites, achieving a 93 percent elimination of human hookworms in hamsters. [https://web.archive.org/web/20161005204559/https://www.asm.org/index.php/asm-newsroom2/journal-tipsheets/88-news-room/journal-tipsheets/91749-natural-pest-control-protein-effective-against-hookworm-a-billion-could-benefit], [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23835175] Although researchers may be pursuing this development as a means of delivering anthelmintics via foods and food supplements, the strain of Bacillus subtilis currently used in probiotics that have been manufactured for human consumption is not known to have been modified in this way, and one hookworm host has reported that his worms were unaffected after eating a lot of natto (made using Bacillus subtilis) and taking the Bacillus subtilis-containing probiotic product, Megasporebiotic. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1084149894974298/?comment_id=1084177824971505&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R6%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baclofen Baclofen] (Kemstro, Lioresal, Liofen, Gablofen, Beklo and Baclosan) is a derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). One host who took 20-30mgs of baclofen daily reported no loss of worm benefits.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbiturate Barbiturates] have now largely been replaced in routine medical practice by ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzodiazepines benzodiazepines], but they may still be encountered in general anaesthesia, for epilepsy, and in the treatment of acute migraines. These drugs depress the central nervous system, producing effects ranging from mild sedation to total anaesthesia, so, taken in sufficient quantity, they may disorient hookworms sufficiently to cause them to lose their grip on the intestinal mucosa and be flushed away from their feeding site.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzodiazepine Benzodiazepines] (BZD, benzos). There have been no reports of this type of drug having any adverse effect on helminths. The short-acting anti-anxiety drug, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alprazolam alprazolam] (Xanax), was taken by one hookworm host (0.5 mg 3 or 4 times over the course of a month) without any apparent effect on his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912662098789746/?comment_id=912671848788771&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912662098789746/?comment_id=912703545452268&offset=0&total_comments=4&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] Other self-treaters have found that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clonazepam clonazepam] (Klonopin) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912662098789746/?comment_id=912711478784808&offset=0&total_comments=7&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lormetazepam lormetazepam] are both worm-safe, as is [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorazepam Lorazepam] (Ativan). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/912662098789746/?comment_id=1099405830115371&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bismuth_subsalicylate Bismuth subsalicylate] (pink bismuth, the active ingredient in various stomach-settling medications such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pepto-Bismol Pepto-Bismol] and Kaopectate) There has been one suggestion that bismuth may have a temporary adverse effect on human helminths, similar to that caused by local anaesthetics/anesthetics, but this has not been confirmed by others. Pepto-Bismol is [http://www.reyessyndrome.org/pdfs/medicationscontainingaspirin.pdf listed] as containing aspirin (acetylsalicylate) or an aspirin-like substance (see ✅ Anticoagulants section regarding this ingredient).

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bisphosphonate Bisphosphonates] This class of drugs appears to be harmless to human helminths. They are used to prevent the loss of bone density, and include [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoledronic_acid zoledronic acid] (aka zoledronate, sold under brand names such as Reclast, Zometa, Zometa Concentrate and Aclasta). One NA host has had two infusions of Aclasta without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4932593710129878?comment_id=4934243383298244]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcium_channel_blocker Calcium channel blockers (CCBs)], also known as calcium channel antagonists or calcium antagonists. These medications, which disrupt the movement of calcium through calcium channels, and are commonly used to treat cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, have also shown activity against the non-therapeutic helminth, Schistosoma mansoni. And it has been suggested that the calcium blocking effect of these drugs might be exploited to enhance the effect of existing anthelmintic drugs, or to produce new ones. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30420417] While there have been no reports thus far of therapeutic helminths being affected by calcium channel blockers, this remains a theoretical possibility.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tegretol Carbamazepine] (Tegretol, Equetro). This appears to be worm-safe. One host who took this for two weeks was still producing ample hookworm ova at the end of this period.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine Chlorine]. As a constituent of chlorinated water, e.g., municipal water supplies and at swimming baths, this is no threat to helminths.

* ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine_dioxide Chlorine dioxide] (CD, also known as MMS, CDS, CDH) is an industrial disinfectant and bleach that is used in water purification and detoxification. CD has been taken orally by people who claim that it kills parasites, and that "rope worms" are often released during CD enemas. However, when these rope-like forms have been analysed, they have been found to contain mostly human DNA, so are likely to be merely pieces of gut lining.

* [http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=36f623df-2ae3-4858-9783-c058097951f4&type=display Cortifoam], a hydrocortisone rectal aerosol, uses propane and isobutane as propellants, neither of which is known to have any adverse effect on helminths.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COX-2_inhibitors COX-2 inhibitors], e.g., [https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Celecoxib&redirect=no celecoxib] (Celebrex), are safe for use with helminths.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cromoglicic_acid Cromoglicic acid] (cromolyn, cromoglycate or cromoglicate, sodium cromoglicate [Nalcrom] or cromolyn sodium) is a mast cell stabiliser with anti-allergy effects. One hookworm host has taken 8x100mg capsules of Nalcrom daily for periods of up to 10 days without any adverse effect on her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/952539741468648/?comment_id=953466358042653&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doxazosin Doxazosin] Sold under brand names such as Cardura and Carduran, this antihypertensive medication has been found to have anthelmintic properties. [https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/14/7/686] One hookworm self-treater had indications over a three year period that he had lost his NA colony: reappearance of pre-hookworm symptoms, eosinophil count down to "normal" and inability to incubate more larvae. Repeated re-inoculations with viable larvae failed to restore his colony, and he eventually realised that the loss of the worms had coincided with the change in antihypertensive medication, to the alpha-blocker, doxazocin. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7047958951926666/]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2,3-Dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic_acid DMPS] (Dimercapto-propane sulfonate/2,3-Dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid) and its sodium salt, Unithiol. There have been no reports so far about possible anthelmintic effects following the use of this drug, but there do appear to be some [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18568806 serious risks attached to its use].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dimercaptosuccinic_acid DMSA] (Dimercaptosuccinic acid, also called succimer). The meso isomer form of this organosulfur compound is used as a chelating agent for the treatment of heavy metal toxicity. One hookworm host has taken 25 mg DMSA every 3 hours around the clock for 5 days, and repeated this every 3 weeks for a year without harming her hookworm colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/860154964040460/?comment_id=991229547599667&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] DMSA is apparently such an effective chelator that it may deplete levels of beneficial minerals, so should arguably be used under the guidance of a practitioner. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/860154964040460/?comment_id=860226537366636&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dimethyl_sulfoxide DMSO] (Dimethyl sulfoxide) has been used by two hookworm hosts without any adverse effect on their colonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2437715306284410/?comment_id=2439412252781382]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethylenediaminetetraacetic_acid EDTA] (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid). There are, as yet, no reports from helminth hosts about the possible effects on intestinal worms of this heavy metal chelator.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Essential_oil Essential oils]. These are also known as volatile oils, ethereal oils, aetherolea, or simply as the oil of the plant from which they were extracted. Certain essential oils contain some of the most potent antimicrobial compounds available and can be considered to be [http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/01/the-new-antibiotics-might-be-essential-oils/384247/ natural antibiotics]. For example ❌'''oregano oil''' (see [[#Oregano|Oregano reference]]) and ⚡'''peppermint oil''' (see [[#Peppermint|Peppermint reference]]) can affect human helminths if ingested. However, small quantities of most essential oils should be safe for helminths when applied topically, since not all of the oil applied will reach the bloodstream. And when essential oils are diffused into the air using a nebuliser, heated over a candle flame or burned, these should not harm helminths, even when using blends containing oregano or peppermint oil. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/807989739256983/?comment_id=808058079250149&offset=0&total_comments=3] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/807989739256983/?comment_id=809316062457684&offset=0&total_comments=6&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] However, one hookworm host lost most of her colony when she walked into a room where a diffuser had been left running after a child had emptied an entire bottle of peppermint essential oil into it. She only took one breath in the room before leaving, but her home incubations fell from 25-35 larvae per droplet to just 1 larva per 3 droplets. And, many months and 3 inoculations later, she was still only getting 7-8 larvae per droplet. This inhalation of diffused peppermint oil also caused blistering burns to her face, nostrils and lungs, and did significant damage to her gut microbiome. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2017826074940004/?comment_id=2018762378179707&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2017826074940004/?comment_id=2018762378179707&reply_comment_id=2018765664846045&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamma-Aminobutyric_acid GABA] (gamma-aminobutyric acid). It has been reported [http://www.livestrong.com/article/216236-medications-to-treat-human-worms/] that the anthelmintic drug, ivermectin, causes paralysis in worms by increasing GABA, and a hookworm host has mentioned that she “used to do really well with GABA, but worms don't like it.” On the other hand, a child with Type 1 diabetes was given GABA (750mg x4 per day) alongside hookworm therapy without any indication that the worms were affected by this, and another hookworm host who took 20-30mgs per day of ✅'''baclofen''' (a derivative of GABA) reported no loss of worm benefits.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabapentin Gabapentin] (Neurontin). One hookworm host has taken this without any obvious adverse effect on her colony (link expired), and another has said that she was down from 1200mg to 600mg of gabapentin per day when she first discovered helminths and was never aware of it affecting her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6576693235719909/?comment_id=6576715005717732&reply_comment_id=6576844752371424] However, someone else has reported that single doses as low as 150mg "severely upset" his NA, and taking 3 doses in a row caused a complete loss of benefits for 4-5 days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2926164447439491/]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genistein Genistein] is an isoflavone (phytoestrogen) with antioxidant and anthelmintic properties that has been found to be the main substance responsible for the deworming activity of the root-tuber peel extract of Felmingia vestita, the plant traditionally used as an anthelmintic by the Khasi tribes of India. Genistein is a potent cestocide, being highly effective against several species of tapeworm, as well as a pork trematode and a sheep liver fluke. (See also: [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29844617]) Given the strength of its effect against these other helminths, it is reasonable to assume that concentrated or synthesised forms of genistein (such as KBU2046 and B43-genistein) may also harm or even kill therapeutic human helminths, although there is no evidence that eating soy products might be harmful to human helminths as a result of the naturally occurring genistein they contain.

* ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glucagon-like_peptide-1_receptor_agonist Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists], also known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1-RA) or incretin mimetics, e.g., [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exenatide exenatide] (Byetta, Bydureon), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liraglutide liraglutide] (Victoza, Saxenda), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lixisenatide lixisenatide] (Lyxumia, Adlyxin), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albiglutide albiglutide] (Tanzeum), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dulaglutide dulaglutide] (Trulicity), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semaglutide semaglutide] (Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy) and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirzepatide tirzepatide] (Mounjaro). This type of drug, which is used to treat diabetes and obesity, has shown anthelmintic effects and has been proposed as a potential anthelmintic agent against Trichuris trichiura. [https://eprints.lancs.ac.uk/id/eprint/171826/1/2022DooleyMRes.pdf] However, no reports of any adverse effects have been posted by helminth hosts.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guaifenesin Guaifenesin]. This oral expectorant and muscle relaxant is sold under various brand names, including Mucinex, and is added to many other medicines. There have been no reports of this drug having any ill effect on helminths, and one hookworm host has reported that he regularly takes between 2 and 6 x 400 mg guaifenesin tablets to treat congestion, without any apparent effect on his worms. Another NA user reports continuing to use high doses without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2437715306284410/?comment_id=2439412252781382]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helium Helium] appears to be worm-safe, based on the experience of one hookworm host who deliberately inhaled a small volume of the gas (to enjoy the timbre-changing effect on his voice!) while blowing up balloons, and had no loss of effect from his worm colony.

* Hydrogen therapy. One NA host has reported that inhaling hydrogen gas and drinking hydrogen-infused water has not harmed his colony. (Link expired.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_peroxide Hydrogen peroxide] (H2O2). This may kill helminths in a petri dish but it is so highly reactive that, if ingested, there is likely to be little left by the time it reaches the stomach. And, when inhaled, H2O2 stays largely within the lungs, with only a small amount reaching the blood. Since the amount that could be transmitted to helminths is therefore negligible, it is thought unlikely that H2O2 would be a problem for any intestinal helminth, although no one has reported on this, one way or the other.

*❓Hyoscyamine [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyoscyamine]. (Also known as daturine and levo-atropine. Brand names include Symax, HyoMax, Anaspaz, Egazil, Buwecon, Cystospaz, Levsin, Levbid, Levsinex, Donnamar, NuLev, Spacol T/S and Neoquess.) It has been suggested that hyoscyamine is unlikely to be harmful helminths, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1459052987483985/?comment_id=1459076817481602&reply_comment_id=1459213767467907&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] but there have been no reports to confirm this.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iodine Iodine]. This appears not to have any anthelmintic effect in the case of [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02356443?no-access=true some species of roundworm and lungworm] and no reports of adverse effects have been posted by helminth hosts who are taking iodine supplements.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isotretinoin Isotretinoin] (13-cis retinoic acid, Roaccutane, Accutane, Amnesteem, Claravis, Absorica, Isotroin and Epuris) is used to treat acne and other skin conditions. Although there have been no reports of harm to helminths as a result of taking this drug, anyone considering its use might appreciate knowing that it has been linked to autoimmune disease, which is of course what many readers of this website are already dealing with. The link is controversial, but this paper [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4110532/] sets out the facts.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ketamine Ketamine] There have been no reports to suggest that ketamine might be harmful to human helminths, and one NA host has reported that an incubation following four 200 mg doses of this drug had yielded a bumper crop of larvae, confirming that the drug had had no adverse effect on her colony.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactulose Lactulose]. This synthetic, non-digestible sugar used in the treatment of chronic constipation and as a test for small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) has not been reported to have any untoward effects on human helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limonene Limonene] This has been shown to have a comparable anthelmintic effect against adult Schistosoma mansoni as the common anthelmintic drug, praziquantel, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23408270] (Praziquantel has a 23% cure rate in hookworms. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29153938]) and one hookworm host has reported experiencing a return of disease symptoms after taking 500 mg of limonene daily for a week. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2673526096036662/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loperamide Loperamide] (Immodium, Lopex, etc.) This drug has been taken by numerous worm hosts and there have been no reports of it harming their worms.

* [[Wikipedia:Low-dose naltrexone|Low dose naltrexone]] (LDN). This is compatible with helminthic therapy and several people have had good results from this combination, although the drug doesn’t suit everyone. More details [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_and_low-dose_naltrexone_(LDN) here].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lisdexamfetamine Lisdexamfetamine / L-lysine-dextroamphetamine] (Tyvense, Elvanse, Aduvanz, Venvanse, Vyvanse) is used to treat ADHD and binge eating disorder. One hookworm host took vyvanse for several weeks without noticing any adverse effect on her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1462105477178736/?comment_id=1462409000481717&reply_comment_id=1729076717148276&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mepacrine Mepacrine] (quinacrine [Atabrine]). This is an antiprotozoal drug that has also been used against tapeworms, so it could harm hookworms and whipworms. No one has so far reported any problem with it, but it's likely that few, if any, helminth hosts will have taken it, especially as, "Mepacrine is not the drug of choice because side effects are common, including toxic psychosis, and may cause permanent damage."

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metformin Metformin] [Glucophage], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phenformin phenformin], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosiglitazone rosiglitazone] [Avandia] are [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-diabetic_medication anti-diabetic medications] (also known as oral hypoglycemic or antihyperglycemic agents) that have been shown to have antibiotic properties [http://www.cysonline.org/article.asp?issn=2229-5186;year=2011;volume=2;issue=4;spage=219;epage=221;aulast=Dash], so might therefore have some degree of anthelmintic effect when used in higher doses. However no reports of such an effect have been posted so far by hosts of therapeutic human helminths.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methotrexate Methotrexate]. Some people have taken methotrexate alongside HT without any problem, including one NA host who combined these two treatments for 1½ years, taking up to 15 mg methotrexate per day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1262248410497778/?comment_id=1262259710496648&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1530311280358155/?comment_id=1530363560352927&reply_comment_id=1531077360281547&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D] However, one individual got no benefit from his worms for over a year, while he was taking this drug.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methylphenidate Methylphenidate] (Ritalin, Concerta, etc.) This doesn’t harm NA (or HDC). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5659268434129065/?comment_id=5659285877460654&reply_comment_id=5659339337455308] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5659268434129065/?comment_id=5660377274018181]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montelukast Montelukast] (Singulair, Montelo-10, Monteflo, Lukotas, Arokast and Pulmikast). This leukotriene receptor antagonist has been taken intermittently, in 10 mg doses, by one hookworm host with no apparent effect on her colony, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/904649709590985/?comment_id=904760852913204&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/904649709590985/?comment_id=904793842909905&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] and regularly by another. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1682302251825723/?comment_id=1683751361680812&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muscle_relaxant Muscle relaxants]. There is a theoretical risk that anything that relaxes a hookworm host may have a similar effect on their colony, conceivably affecting the ability of their worms to maintain their grip on the host’s mucosa, and possibly resulting in their expulsion, although this effect would likely be dose-dependent. There has only been a single report of a possible adverse effect, in which a hookworm host suspected [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carisoprodol Carisoprodol] (Soma, Sanoma and Carisoma) of causing the loss of his hookworm population, and both ✅'''Guaifenesin''' and a single night-time dose of 6 mg of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tizanidine ✅'''Tizanidine'''] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4490377691018151/?comment_id=4490387587683828] appear to be safe. Whipworms are much less likely than hookworms to be affected in this way, due to them not feeding directly from the bloodstream and the fact that they anchor themselves deeply into the colonic mucosa, so are not easily dislodged.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-steroidal_anti-inflammatory_drug Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs] (NSAIDS, NSAIAs or NSAIMs) e.g: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspirin aspirin], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diclofenac diclofenac] (sold under many trade names [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diclofenac%23Trade_names]), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ibuprofen ibuprofen] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naproxen naproxen], are safe for use with helminths, but see Anticoagulants section regarding aspirin.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nintedanib Nintedanib] (Ofev and Vargatef) is a piperazine drug (piperazine is an anthelmintic), so *may* have a harmful effect on NA, and to a lesser extent on TT. Unfortunately, there have been no reports about this drug, although the absence of any previous mention of it is a hopeful indication.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxymetazoline Oxymetazoline] (Ocuclear and Drixine) This drug is available over-the-counter as a topical decongestant in the form of oxymetazoline hydrochloride in nasal sprays such as Afrin, Dimetapp, Dristan, Drixoral, Facimin, Mucinex Full Force, Nasivin, Nostrilla, Operil, Otrivin, Otrivine, Oxyspray, SinuFrin, Sudafed OM, Utabon, Vicks Sinex and Zicam. At least one NA host has used these sprays without any harm being caused to his worms.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ozone Ozone]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ozone_therapy Ozone therapy] is used as an alternative treatment for various diseases in humans but is still controversial. Ozone is also used to kill microorganisms, in some instances being employed in place of chlorine as a bactericide. It is also used to eradicate water borne parasites such as Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium, and to kill insects in stored grain. So there would appear to be a potential for ozone to have an adverse effect on human helminths, although this may depend on dosage and there have been no reports to date of the use of ozone by helminth hosts, so caution would seem to be warranted until more is known.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acetaminophen Paracetamol] (acetaminophen. Also sold under names tylenol, panadol, etc). This is safe for use with helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentobarbital Pentobarbital] (US), pentobarbitone (UK), e.g., Nembutal, is a short-acting '''barbiturate''' that has been used as a sleep aid, as well as to euthanise animals and to execute humans. It’s possible that the dosages used to encourage sleep might not have any deleterious effect on human helminths, but, if this drug were to disorientate hookworms, they could lose their grip on the intestinal mucosa and be flushed away. So far, there have been no reports about this drug from any helminth host, although few, if any, will have taken it.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piracetam Piracetam]. This nootropic, cognition- and memory-enhancing drug (Nootropil, Qropi, Myocalm, Dinagen) was suspected as the cause in one case of sudden worm loss.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pregabalin Pregabalin] (Lyrica) is a gabapentinoid drug about which the only report so far has been from someone who who had taken 3 doses of 25mg Lyrica daily for several weeks, with no issues for her NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4589806321075287/?comment_id=4590199551035964&reply_comment_id=4812188858837031]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proton-pump_inhibitor Proton-pump inhibitors] (PPIs), including [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omeprazole omeprazole] (e.g., Losec) and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lansoprazole lansoprazole] (e.g., Prevacid). These gastric acid inhibiting drugs appear not to be harmful to helminths, but they may kill 4% of patients who take them. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31147311]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prucalopride Prucalopride] (DuphaPro, Prudac, Resolor, Resotran) This drug, which is used in the treatment of constipation has been reported by one hookworm host to have had a “pretty marked negative effect” on his worms, and, by another, to have killed theirs. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5980593935329845?comment_id=7427760963946461&reply_comment_id=8031040043618547]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pseudoephedrine Pseudoephedrine] is a stimulant nasal decongestant [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decongestant] that is sometimes added to antihistamine preparations and other products, including some formulations sold under the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudafed Sudafed] brand. Pseudoephedrine has not been reported to have any adverse effect on helminths.

* ➿ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iodine-131 Radioactive iodine] (also known as radioiodine), which is used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism, can adversely affect hookworms, at least temporarily. One worm host found that '''isotope I-128''' (used in diagnostics) [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/830004963722127/ put her colony out of action for a week or two], and has suggested that '''isotope I-131''' (used to kill thyroid tissue) may have a similar effect.

* [https://www.drugs.com/rhophylac.html Rhophylac] The Rhophylac (anti-D immunoglobulin) injection, which contains human anti-D immunoglobulin, is given to pregnant women with rhesus negative blood type. One hookworm host has reported that her colony was unaffected by this injection. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5063598083696106?comment_id=5068476199874961]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rizatriptan Rizatriptan] (Maxalt, etc.) does not harm human helminths. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2348310255224916/?comment_id=2348347051887903] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2348310255224916/?comment_id=2348552771867331]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viagra Sildenafil] (Viagra). This does not kill hookworms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simeticone Simeticone], also known as simethicone (Gas-X, Infacol, Wind-eze, WindSetlers, etc…), is an anti-foaming agent used in different dosages, and in combination with a variety of other drugs, to reduce the bloating, pain and discomfort caused by excessive intestinal gas. Simethicone has been tested directly on pig whipworm ova (TSO) and found to have no effect on them, and one hookworm host has reported taking simethicone periodically with no noticeable adverse effect on her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1969827113073234/?comment_id=1970814692974476&reply_comment_id=1972925246096754&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

*❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirolimus Sirolimus] (aka rapamycin, sold as Rapamune and Fyarro) This immunosuppressive medication was suspected by one NA host of having negatively impacted his worms for several weeks after he took a single dose of the drug.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_oxybate Sodium oxybate] (Xyrem, Alcover) is the sodium salt of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamma-Hydroxybutyric_acid γ-hydroxybutyric acid] (GHB), which is unlikely to harm helminths because it’s an endogenous substance found naturally in the human body [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/813700862019204/?comment_id=815965665126057&offset=0&total_comments=23&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D], and one hookworm/whipworm host has confirmed that it did not affect her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/813700862019204/?comment_id=815975511791739&offset=0&total_comments=24&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steroid_hormone Steroid hormones]. One host of both hookworms and whipworms takes [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dehydroepiandrosterone DHEA], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progesterone progesterone] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Testosterone testosterone] with [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/824719590917331/?comment_id=825008124221811&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D no adverse effect on her worms].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tauroursodeoxycholic_acid Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA)] This ambiphilic bile acid has been taken by two NA hosts without any adverse effect on their colonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2743109875744950/?comment_id=2744212012301403] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7602581533131069/?comment_id=7614652755257280]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turpentine Turpentine]. Also known as spirit of turpentine, oil of turpentine, wood turpentine and, colloquially, turps, this is distilled from pine tree resins. If applied topically to the skin - for example as a treatment for lice - it is unlikely to harm helminths. However, it has been used traditionally as an anthelmintic, so it may be harmful to human helminths if taken internally. It may also be toxic to humans!

* [http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/lung-problems/medicines/vicks-first-defence.html Vicks First Defence]. This cold preventative nasal spray does not contain antiviral chemicals, but forms a microgel that coats the lining of the nose to trap the cold virus and prevent this from reaching, and infecting, the cells within the nose. The microgel also reduces the pH inside the nose, which further helps by making it harder for the cold virus to multiply. It seems unlikely that any of this product’s ingredients [https://www.vicks.co.uk/products/early-cold-treatments/vicks-first-defence-nasal-spray] would harm helminths, although there have been no reports to confirm this.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volatile_Organic_Compounds Volatile Organic Compounds] (VOCs), as found in paints, felt tip markers, etc., are unlikely to harm helminths. One helminth host who regularly worked with organic solvents (including CH2Cl2 and CHCl3) has reported that his helminths have not been affected.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xylometazoline Xylometazoline] Also spelled xylomethazoline, and branded as Otrivin and Otrivine, etc., this decongestant drug is safe for use with human helminths. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2537589059630367/?comment_id=2537912206264719]
</blockquote>

== Medical procedures ==

<blockquote>
''' ✅ Safe for human helminths unless marked otherwise'''

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Botulinum_toxin Botulinum toxin] Also known as botulinum neurotoxin, and commonly called botox. One NA self-treater has reported receiving cosmetic botox injections with no adverse effect on her worm colony.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonoscopy Colonoscopy] As whipworms live in the colon, they may be at some risk of being struck by a colonoscope, but much of their body is embedded in the soft mucosa, and they are well lubricated with mucus, so few, if any, are likely to be damaged. Hookworms should not be affected by colonoscopy at all because they live in the small intestine, which is much higher up the GI tract. Hookworms might possibly be seen during a colonoscopy, but only if the colonoscope is advanced into the terminal ileum, and only then if any hookworms have taken up residence in the ileum, which is not common as they normally concentrate in the upper part of the jejunum, which is above the ileum, and is shown in red in this representation. mouth ➤ oesophagus ➤ stomach ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duodenum duodenum] ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jejunum jejunum] ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ileum ileum] ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cecum caecum] ➤ colon ➤ rectum Anaesthesia for colonoscopy is likely to involve the use of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opioids opioid] pain killers ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fentanyl fentanyl], etc.), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzodiazepine benzodiazepine] anaesthetics ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Versed Versed], etc.) and/or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcotic_analgesic narcotic analgesics], all of which appear to be harmless to helminths. See also [[Human helminth care manual#Laxatives | Laxatives]] regarding [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonoscopy#Preparation colonoscopy prep].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colon_cleansing Colon cleansing] This will not harm hookworms and is unlikely to harm whipworms unless the fluid used contains something to which the whipworms are vulnerable.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Detoxification Detoxification] The use of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrared_sauna infrared saunas] and infrared heating pads is safe for helminths, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/860154964040460/?comment_id=860231720699451&offset=0&total_comments=7&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3617910068264922/] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chelation_therapy chelation therapy] using the [http://www.livingnetwork.co.za/chelationnetwork/chelation-the-andy-cutler-protocol/ Andy Cutler protocol] has been used by one hookworm host with no obvious adverse effect [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/860154964040460/?comment_id=860208537368436&offset=0&total_comments=7&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D] on her colony. (Also see ❓'''DMPS''', ✅'''DMSA''' and❓'''EDTA'''.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enema Enemas] These will not affect hookworms at all, and the liquid used is unlikely to have any adverse effect on whipworms unless this contains something to which they are susceptible.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endoscopy Endoscopy] A standard upper endoscopy (via the mouth) will not reach past the duodenum, and probably only as far as the second of the four parts of this section of the small intestine. It would therefore not harm hookworms or even allow a doctor to see the jejunum, which is the predominant location of hookworms by 20 weeks post-inoculation, shown in red in this representation. mouth ➤ oesophagus ➤ stomach ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duodenum duodenum] ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jejunum jejunum] ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ileum ileum] ➤ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cecum caecum] ➤ colon ➤ rectum For information about the anaesthetics used during an endoscopy, see the [[#Anaesthetics|general anaesthetics]] section.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epidural_opioid_analgesia Epidural opioid analgesia] Opioids such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fentanyl fentanyl] are generally safe for helminths, and one hookworm host has reported that her colony was fine following epidural analgesia administered during labour. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1960341670688445/?comment_id=1960403224015623&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] If an anaesthetic is added to the epidural, the effects of this may be similar to those of other local anaesthetics. (See the [[#localAnaesthetics|local anaesthetics]] section).
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_resonance_imaging Magnetic resonance imaging] An MRI is unlikely to harm helminths, but it can cause a temporary adverse reaction in the patient which may overshadow the benefits being provided by their helminths. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1296754897047129/] The❓gadolinium-based contrast agents used for MRI may also have adverse effects on the patient, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28368880] and there has been one report by a hookworm host who had two MRIs using gadolinium within the same week and experienced a subsequent return of her disease symptoms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3934276469961612/]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiation_therapy Radiation therapy] (also known as radiotherapy, and abbreviated as RT, RTx, or XRT) is a treatment for cancer that used ionizing radiation. It had been thought unlikely that this would harm helminths [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1074039122652042/?comment_id=1074160752639879&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] but one hookworm host appears to have lost her colony after radiotherapy for breast cancer. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1074039122652042/?comment_id=1240655962657023&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiology Radiology] Radiological procedures (e.g., [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiography radiography] using [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/X-ray X-rays]) and the contrast materials used in these (e.g., [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barium barium] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MRI_contrast_agent%23Gadolinium_.28Gd.29:_Paramagnetic gadolinium]) have been found to be worm-safe by several hookworm users, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1014349448621010/?comment_id=1014377761951512&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1014349448621010/?comment_id=1014821705240451&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] but also see the comments about gadolinium in the previous entry, above, for magnetic resonance imaging.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultrasound Ultrasound] At least two hookworm hosts have had ultrasound examinations without their colonies being affected. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2334201623302446/?comment_id=2334208813301727&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2334201623302446/?comment_id=2334224499966825&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]
</blockquote>



== Alternative therapies ==

=== Natural antibiotics ===
<blockquote>

* ➿ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colloidal_silver Colloidal silver]. Some sources have claimed that, if taken orally, this may kill parasite eggs and possibly harm adult worms, but many helminth hosts have taken colloidal silver and there have been no reports of worms being lost as a result. Colloidal silver appears to be the most worm-friendly of the more effective natural antimicrobials, and it has also been shown to have no significant effect on the biodiversity of species in the gut microbiome. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26525505]. Although it can reduce helminthic benefits in a dose-dependent manner while it is being taken, the benefits soon return after its use is discontinued - usually in a matter of days. (Use of this [https://web.archive.org/web/20161227234345/http://www.silversafety.org/autocalculator.php Silver Safety Auto-calculator] will ensure that total silver intake remains at a safe level.)

* ❓ '''Cellular silver'''. The manufacturers of [http://www.resultsrna.com/products/acs_200_overview/ Advanced Cellular Silver (ACS) 200 Extra Strength] claim that it is “...effective against an enormous array of disease causing organisms; literally oxidizing the cell wall of gram positive and gram negative bacteria, spirochetes, virus, fungus, parasites and more without harming healthy flora or damaging human tissue”. Research[http://www.townsendletter.com/Jan2015/silver0115.html] shows that this form of silver may be more effective than ➿'''colloidal silver''' (see Colloidal silver, immediately above), but, so far, there have been no reports from helminth hosts to suggest what effect, if any, it might have on human helminths.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grapefruit_seed_extract Grapefruit seed extract] (GSE). Also known as citrus seed extract and grapefruit seed oil, and often labelled as citrus seed oil. It is used in herbalism and natural therapies as an antibiotic and preservative, and is claimed to be a powerful broad spectrum bactericide, fungicide and antiviral that is effective against a large number of single-celled and multi-celled parasites. However, research has shown that [http://cms.herbalgram.org/press/2012/Many_GFSE_Adulterated_Says_Nonprofit_Research_Consortium.html many “natural” GSE products are adulterated] with undeclared synthetic chemicals, commercially available preservatives and disinfectants, such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triclosan triclosan] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzethonium_chloride benzethonium chloride]. Some versions of GSE [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17468864 may not contain any authentic grapefruit seed extracts] whatsoever, such that its sale may well be one of the most insidious herbal product scams ever. Even if genuinely pure, natural GSE could be found - which, given the evidence, seems doubtful - there may be little point in taking it as an antimicrobial because pure GSE has been shown to have no intrinsic antimicrobial action. And, as the makeup of proprietary GSE products varies so widely, these can not be recommended for worm hosts due to the possibility that one or more of the undeclared ingredients may harm human helminths. (NB. The flesh of grapefruit will not harm helminths.) Also see [[#Grape seed extract|Grape seed extract]], which is safe for use by hosts of human helminths.
</blockquote>

=== Natural antivirals ===
<blockquote>
✅ ''' Antiviral nutraceuticals that are safe for human helminths unless marked otherwise'''

:'''Vitamin C'''

::Taken in large quantities, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has proved to be very effective against the common cold virus. When volunteers in one study were given 8 grams (8,000 mg) on the first day of a cold, 46% were cold free the next day. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4601508]

::In a study involving 700 students, those taking doses of I gram (1,000 mg) of vitamin C each hour for the first 6 hours and then 1 gram three times daily thereafter reported an 85% decrease in cold symptoms compared to those receiving conventional cold and flu treatment. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10543583]

::The ideal amount of vitamin C for colds or flu varies between individuals, but can be established in each case by taking ascorbic acid to ‘bowel tolerance’. Physicians have suggested starting with 3 grams immediately, then taking 1 gram each hour. Once this causes diarrhoea, the dose is reduced.

::In respect of the coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, and the disease it manifests (COVID-19), see the following articles.

::* [https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/11/11/1166/htm Vitamin C Intervention for Critical COVID-19: A Pragmatic Review of the Current Level of Evidence]

::* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32636851/ Quercetin and Vitamin C: An Experimental, Synergistic Therapy for the Prevention and Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 Related Disease (COVID-19)] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7318306/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7318306/pdf/fimmu-11-01451.pdf PDF]

::One UK doctor recommends treating coronavirus with 10 grams of vitamin C in 500 ml of water every hour until the patient gets diarrhoea. [https://www.hammersmithbooks.co.uk/2020/03/13/coronavirus-what-you-need-to-know/?fbclid=IwAR39JZPiB9hCM4gOo4n2TFp2gZf30-hOl9--b1IuXwEDWyDZQzloCbWmX_8]

::In March 2020, the government in Shanghai, China, officially began recommending high-dose intravenous vitamin C for the treatment of COVID-19. Dosage recommendations varied with the severity of illness, ranging from 50 to 200 mg per kg of body weight per day. [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v16n16.shtml] In the same month, hospitals in New York also began treating coronavirus patients with vitamin C. [https://nypost.com/2020/03/24/new-york-hospitals-treating-coronavirus-patients-with-vitamin-c/]

::'''Vitamin C dosing for children'''. Authorities on the use of vitamin C recommend dosing children by body weight, giving a proportion of the adult dose commensurate with the child’s weight as a proportion of the weight of the average adult. In one placebo-controlled study, the majority of subjects were infants and children under five years of age with severe pneumonia. They were given 200 mg vitamin C per day, which is equivalent to a modest adult dose of 2,000-3,000 mg per day. The authors of this study concluded that, even at this dose, "Vitamin C is effective in reducing duration of severe pneumonia in children less than five years of age. Oxygen saturation was improved in less than one day." [http://www.journalrmc.com/volumes/1405749894.pdf] Also see, [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v18n05.shtml Vitamin C and Infants: Determining dose].

::'''Liposomal vitamin C'''. This form of vitamin C is absorbed by a different mechanism, in the gut. The liposomes containing vitamin C can bind directly to the gut cells to release their content of vitamin C which therefore does not require active transport. Thus the maximum level achievable with oral doses of liposomal vitamin C is higher than for regular vitamin C. However, since the absorption mechanism for liposomal vitamin C differs from the active transport of regular vitamin C, both forms can be taken together to increase the level in the bloodstream (up to 400-600 μM), greater than either oral form alone. (Levy TE (2011) Primal Panacea. Medfox Pub. ISBN-13: 978-0983772804)

:'''Vitamin D'''

::This vitamin acts as a natural antibiotic, working against every type of microbe, including viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites, but it does not harm therapeutic helminths.

::The flu can be treated effectively with a 1-time dose of 50,000 IU vitamin D3, or with 10,000 IU 3 times daily for 2 to 3 days. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4463890/]

:: Some functional medicine practitioners advise that it is relatively safe to increase vitamin D intake to as much as 50,000 IU per day during times of virus exposure. John Cannell, MD, of the Vitamin D Council, suggests that 50,000 IU should be taken once each day for three days at the first sign of a cold or the flu. [https://web.archive.org/web/20211221125912/https://preventdisease.com/news/13/102213_Vitamin-D-Proven-More-Effective-Anti-Viral-Drugs-Vaccines-Preventing-Flu.shtml] David Brownstein, MD, recommends taking 50,000 IU per day for 4 days (link expired) and Dr Stephen Gundry suggests taking as much as 150,000 IU daily for 3 days to treat a respiratory infection. [https://mnchiropractors.com/uncategorized/dr-gundry-on-boosting-immunity-for-coronavirus/]

::* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9653496/ Association between vitamin D supplementation and COVID-19 infection and mortality]

::::Vitamin D supplementation produced a statistically significant reduction in the risk of COVID-19 infection and of the infection ending in death within 30-days. Patients receiving higher cumulative dosages and higher average daily dosages showed a greater reduction in COVID-19 infection rates than patients receiving lower dosages. "As a widely available, inexpensive, and safe treatment, vitamin D3 could be a helpful tool for reducing the spread of COVID-19 infection."

::* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32377965 The role of vitamin D in the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 infection and mortality]

::* [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-fallible-mind/202202/striking-link-between-vitamin-d-levels-and-omicron A “Striking” Link Between Vitamin D Levels and Omicron]

:'''Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)'''

::Daily use, for 1 minute, of a 1% hydrogen peroxide solution as a mouthwash and throat gargle, and the daily use, for 1 minute, of a 0.5% solution as a nasal rinse, have been found to provide effective protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The fact that hydrogen peroxide is safe, inexpensive and readily available led this study’s authors to recommend it for the protection against COVID-19 of healthcare workers, inpatients and all vulnerable groups. And, since H2O2 used in this way will not be swallowed or inhaled, it should not harm helminths.

::* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35594985/ Further observations on hydrogen peroxide antisepsis and COVID-19 cases among healthcare workers and inpatients] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9113766/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9113766/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

: '''Lysine'''

:: Lysine appears to be highly suppressive of viral replication. Approximately 80% of acute stage Covid-19 patients given lysine displayed a minimum 70% reduction in symptoms in the first 48 hours. Treatment times varied from 2 days to 3.5 weeks (excluding long term symptomatic subjects), and patients who started lysine in the hospital were discharged an average of 3 days after starting treatment.

::* [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/344210822_Lysine_Therapy_for_SARS-CoV-2 Lysine Therapy for SARS-CoV-2]

:'''Elderberry'''

::Eating elderberries and taking their extracts can help minimise influenza symptoms. [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1756464619300313] But note the following.

::* "Patients with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, celiac, hashimoto’s, and lupus need to consult a physician before taking elderberry because it will stimulate their immune system. Elderberry interferes with medications that suppress the immune system and medications used to treat autoimmune diseases.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20190918211012/http://www.mensahmedical.com/elderberry-benefits-dangers-patients/]

::* While elderberry extract is considered to be effective against flu, it works, as many other immune boosters do, by increasing the cytokine response. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11399518] Since COVID-19 (aka SARS-CoV-2) kills primarily by initiating a cytokine storm, elderberry is probably best not relied upon as a stand-alone option against the new coronavirus, and, if used at all, would be best combined with one or more of the other effective anti-pathogenic treatments mentioned in this section.

'''Other worm-safe nutraceuticals with antiviral effects'''

:* [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0033062020300372 Nutraceuticals have potential for boosting the type 1 interferon response to RNA viruses including influenza and coronavirus] (ferulic acid, lipoic acid, spirulina, N-Acetylcysteine, selenium, glucosamine, zinc, yeast beta-glucan and elderberry)

:* [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v16n04.shtml Nutrients recommended by the International Society for Orthomolecular Medicine to prevent and minimise symptoms of viral infection]

:* Virus-Specific nutraceutical and botanical agents listed by the Institute for Functional Medicine. [https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/the-functional-medicine-approach-to-covid-19-virus-specific-nutraceutical-and-botanical-agents/] [https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/functional-medicine-approach-covid-19-additional-research-nutraceuticals-botanicals/]

:* [https://blog.nutrigold.co.uk/2020/03/09/nutritional-support-for-immunity-against-viruses-including-the-coronavirus/ Nutritional Support for Immunity Against Viruses Including the Coronavirus]

:* [https://cf5e727d-d02d-4d71-89ff-9fe2d3ad957f.filesusr.com/ugd/adf864_cc5004cfa84a46d3b1a0338d4308c42c.pdf A Novel Approach to Treating COVID-19 Using Nutritional and Oxidative Therapies] (Vitamin A, vitamin C [Ascorbate], vitamin D3, Iodine, Nebulized ❓Hydrogen Peroxide and Intramuscular ❓Ozone.)

:* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7428453/ Be well: A potential role for vitamin B in COVID-19]

:* [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25400245 Bifidobacterium longum MM-2 improves defence against flu virus]

:* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32179788 Ginkgolic acid inhibits fusion of enveloped viruses]

::"Thus, in light of the antiviral effect of ginkgolic acids (GA) on established viral infections of permissive cells, GA potentially could be used to treat acute viral infections (e.g. Coronavirus (COVID-19), EBOV, ZIKV, IAV and measles)."

:* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7929665/ Uncaria tomentosa (Cat’s claw) has an antiviral effect against SARS-CoV-2]

:* [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v16n22.shtml Sulforaphane as a Treatment for COVID-19]

:* [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fsn3.3034 Antioxidants and clinical outcomes of patients with coronavirus disease 2019: A systematic review of observational and interventional studies] (Full text) | [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/fsn3.3034 PDF]. Also see [https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220908/The-role-of-some-important-antioxidants-in-major-clinical-outcomes-of-subjects-with-COVID-19.aspx this article about the study].

::"It seems that antioxidants, especially vitamins C and D, selenium, and zinc, can improve multiple COVID-19 clinical outcomes."

:* [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/04/200429105907.htm Link identified between dietary selenium and outcome of COVID-19 disease]

:* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32754164/ The Potential Impact of Zinc Supplementation on COVID-19 Pathogenesis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7365891/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7365891/pdf/fimmu-11-01712.pdf PDF]

:* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32388476/ Is copper beneficial for COVID-19 patients?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7199671/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7199671/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

:* [https://www.europeanreview.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/4062-4063.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0AxUqV9FaHNcaHwlUuzOW9MOYe_1Z3OiHIzVvDJD6J8h3DubgTZGESOGY Are probiotics effective adjuvant therapeutic choice in patients with COVID-19?]

:* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32733907/ Challenges in the Management of SARS-CoV2 Infection: The Role of Oral Bacteriotherapy as Complementary Therapeutic Strategy to Avoid the Progression of COVID-19] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7358304/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7358304/pdf/fmed-07-00389.pdf PDF] (Probiotics)

:* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7649937/ N-Acetylcysteine to Combat COVID-19: An Evidence Review]

:* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34653660/ The Effect of Melatonin on Thrombosis, Sepsis and Mortality Rate in COVID-19 Patients] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1201971221007980 Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8506572/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

:* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32574327/ Therapeutic Algorithm for Use of Melatonin in Patients With COVID-19] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7242729/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7242729/pdf/fmed-07-00226.pdf PDF]

:* [https://wrightacademia.org/articles/jscc/jscc-1-002.php?jid=jscc Free Fatty Acids from Fish Oil Inactivate SARS-CoV-2]

::"… free fatty acids in fish oil may have potential as mouth/throat wash to reduce concentration of SARS-CoV-2 viruses in saliva and upper respiratory mucosa and reduce transmission."

'''Plant medicines recommended for the treatment of coronavirus'''

:* [https://www.stephenharrodbuhner.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/covid-19-2.update.txt.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3sm7OYMH8_RBH0xjrQM984_SFoSZupSOw5IqSes_n6s4JemMjvyLCCEug SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19): Herbal protocols for the treatment of infection and post-coronavirus syndrome] (PDF) This is a very detailed treatise on the use of herbs in this context. Individual herbs suggested should be checked for possible anthelmintic effects by searching for them in the rest of this Care Manual.

'''Inhaled treatments - safe for human helminths unless marked otherwise'''

:'''Iodine'''

::Iodine kills all single-celled microbes on contact and can be introduced into the airways by inhalation from a salt pipe or face mask, or via home-made iodine oil. [https://www.hammersmithbooks.co.uk/2020/03/13/coronavirus-what-you-need-to-know/?fbclid=IwAR39JZPiB9hCM4gOo4n2TFp2gZf30-hOl9--b1IuXwEDWyDZQzloCbWmX_8]

::* Salt pipe. Two drops of Lugol’s iodine 12% or 15% dripped into the mouthpiece of a salt pipe (or simply applied to a piece of cotton wool) can be sniffed up into the nose and inhaled 2-3 times a day, or even every 2 hours. 15 - 20 sniffs provides an adequate dose.
::* Face mask. 2-4 drops of Lugol’s iodine 15% can be applied to a face mask, and reapplied 3 times a day.
::* Iodine oil. This can be made with 10 parts coconut oil to 1 part Lugol’s Iodine 15%, and applied around the nose and upper lip three times each day. The iodine does stain the skin yellow temporarily, but it is a good way to treat children who may not be able to manage a salt pipe or tolerate a mask.

:: “After the 1918 Influenza Pandemic which killed an estimated 30 million people, governments financed research on the Pandemic’s causes. Over 25 years, influenza viruses were isolated and methods for killing them with various agents discovered. Iodine was the most effective agent for killing viruses, especially influenza viruses. Aerosol iodine was found to kill viruses in sprayed mists, and solutions of iodine were equally effective. In 1945, Burnet and Stone found that putting iodine on mice snouts prevented the mice from being infected with live influenza virus in mists. They suggested that impregnating masks with iodine would help stop viral spread. They also recommended that medical personnel have iodine-aerosol-treated rooms for examination and treatment of highly infected patients. Current methods of dealing with influenza infection are isolation, hand washing, antiviral drugs, and vaccinations. All of these methods can be improved by incorporating iodine into them. When impregnated with iodine, masks become much more effective, and hand washing is more effect when done with mild iodine solutions. Isolation techniques coupled with aerosol iodine would make them safer for patients, medical personnel, and all persons working with the public. Public health authorities could organize the distribution of iodine and at the same time educate the public in the effective use of iodine. Oral iodine might also boost body defense mechanisms in the upper oral and respiratory mucus. Conclusion: Iodine incorporated into masks, solutions, aerosols, and oral preparations could help to kill influenza viruses and fight off an H1N1 Pandemic.” [https://www.drlowe.com/thyroidscience/reviews/derry/Derry.flu.iodine.9.19.09.pdf]

:'''Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)'''

::Nebulisation (atomisation) delivers vitamin C directly to where it is needed in the case of a respiratory infection such as COVID-19, and it is known to be at least as, and possibly more, effective as a method of delivery than intravenous infusion.
::'''Materials''': a nebuliser (or atomiser), ascorbic acid and sodium bicarbonate (which is needed because ascorbic acid on its own is too acidic for the airways).
::'''Method''': Mix 100 grams of ascorbic acid powder with 50 grams of bicarbonate of soda in one litre of filtered/spring water. Once the mixture has stopped bubbling, a very slightly cloudy 10% solution of sodium ascorbate will be left. This contains 500 mg of vitamin C per 10 ml of liquid.
::Nebulising 10 ml of this solution (one dose) will deliver 500 mg, or 0.5 gram, of vitamin C. Start with one dose every 2 hours.
::If the nebulised vitamin C does not provide benefits, the airways can be opened up by nebulising magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts), which is also anti-inflammatory. [https://www.cochrane.org/CD003898/AIRWAYS_inhaled-magnesium-sulfate-safe-and-effective-treatment-people-asthma-attacks] Dissolve 50 grams of Epsom salts in 500 ml of filtered/spring water and nebulise 10 ml of this 1% magnesium solution at a time. This will deliver 1 gram of magnesium, and can be done immediately before nebulising the vitamin C.

:'''Hypertonic saline'''

::A simple solution of salt in water could arguably be the simplest and most readily accessible, side-effect free, worm-friendly antiviral prophylaxis and treatment available. It is suitable for use via a nasal spray to reduce viral load in the airways and thereby minimize the severity of COVID-19 in the early stages of infection. It can also be used in a nebuliser to help treat already established or more severe cases affecting the lungs, and as a gargle to reduce viral load in the mouth. The extra salt from the hypertonic solution accumulates in the viral cells, forcing them to expend ATP in order to re-balance the electrolyte gradient, and this activity limits the amount of ATP available for viral replication. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8442612/] And there is a simplified report of this research [https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-09-reveals-saline-solution-inhibit-replication.html here].

:❓'''Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)''' (See [[#Hydrogen peroxide|Hydrogen peroxide]].)

:: "Viral syndromes start or are strongly supported by ongoing viral replication in the naso- and oropharynx. When appropriate agents are nebulized (into a fine spray) and this viral presence is quickly eliminated, the rest of the body "mops up" quite nicely the rest of the viral presence. The worst viral infections are continually fed and sustained by the viral growth in the pharynx. Probably the best and most accessible agent to nebulise would be 3% hydrogen peroxide (1 to 5 cc of 3% peroxide with volume brought up to 10 to 12 cc with filtered water) for 15 to 30 minutes several times daily." [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v15n16.shtml] Also see [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v16n43.shtml Curing Viruses with Hydrogen Peroxide].

: '''DMSO'''

:: "DMSO can be readily combined with other anti-pathogen agents, such as sodium ascorbate (vitamin C) and magnesium chloride. Anecdotally, this DMSO-vitamin C-magnesium chloride combination has proven to be very effective in clearing biofilms and their underlying pathogen colonies. This can be done with 1 to 5 cc of 99.9% DMSO brought up to 10 to 12 cc (for nebulisation) with a combination solution of vitamin C and magnesium chloride. Precise concentrations are not critical, and the combination solution can be quickly and easily made by adding about 2 teaspoons of sodium ascorbate powder and 2 teaspoons of magnesium chloride powder to about a half cup of water. Since the sodium ascorbate will oxidize over several hours as it turns yellow, it can be made separately from the magnesium chloride solution, which remains very stable and does not significantly deteriorate over time." [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v15n16.shtml]

: '''Hyperbaric oxygen'''

:: "...hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) would be an excellent treatment adjunct against severe COVID-19 and a superior alternative to ventilators, which have been shown to cause harm in many patients and increase the risk of death. (Link expired)

: '''Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) and xylitol'''

::Nasal sprays containing GSE and xylitol (e.g., [https://xlear.com/xlear-sinus-care/ Xlear Sinus Care]) may prevent the spread of viral respiratory infections including SAR-CoV-2 and H1N1. GSE significantly reduces the viral load while xylitol prevents attachment of the virus to cell walls. [https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.12.02.408575v3.full]

'''Other considerations when fighting viral infections'''

:* [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/02/190212094839.htm How '''sleep''' can fight infection]

:* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31732517 '''Ketogenic diet''' activates protective γδ T cell responses against influenza virus infection]

:* [https://nutrition.bmj.com/content/early/2022/06/30/bmjnph-2022-000462 Association of '''periodic fasting''' with lower severity of COVID-19 outcomes in the SARS-CoV-2 prevaccine era]

:* [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/two-cases-suggest-fecal-transplants-may-treat-sars-cov-2-infection Two cases suggest '''fecal transplants''' may treat SARS-CoV-2 infection]

:* [https://journals.lww.com/anesthesia-analgesia/Fulltext/2021/04000/Aspirin_in_Coronavirus_Disease_2019_Related_Acute.1.aspx '''Aspirin''' in Coronavirus Disease 2019–Related Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: An Old, Low-Cost Therapy With a Strong Rationale]

:* [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/07/190702112834.htm Pharmaceutical antibiotics weaken flu defences in the lung]

:* [https://www.bmj.com/content/368/bmj.m1182/rr-10?fbclid=IwAR1wHVgtmbbjQ4zcno5d4zjlnmC97fyrrLv7jUuXBtZGpGawQwf6OJat5YU Cholesterol-lowering treatment may worsen the outcome of a COVID-19 infection]
</blockquote>

=== Ayurvedic remedies [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurvedic] ===

:❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aegle_marmelos Aegle marmelos] (also known as Bael, Bengal quince, golden apple, Japanese bitter orange, Sirphal, stone apple and wood apple) has culinary uses and is employed as an ayurvedic remedy in Indian traditional medicine to treat various illnesses, including irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis. Sandu bilagyl, a herbal tea combining Aegle marmelos and sugar, is claimed on several commercial websites to have anthelmintic effects, [https://herbalukstore.co.uk/sandu-bilagyl.html] but this characteristic is not mentioned in more detailed articles found online, [https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/bael.html] where Aegle marmelos is only reported to have pesticidal properties. This may have have been extrapolated by vendors to suggest a possible anthelmintic effect, but there is so far no evidence that it harms intestinal worms, and no self-treaters have reported their experience with it.

<blockquote>
The following ayurvedic remedies are used, in combination, to treat pinworms, so may also have an adverse effect
on other helminths:
* ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vidanga vidanga] (Embelia ribes)
* ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gurmar Gymnema sylvestre] (cowplant, cowplant, gurmari, gurmarbooti, gurmar, periploca of the woods, meshasringa, Bedki cha pala and miracle fruit)
* ⚡[http://ayurveda-foryou.com/ayurveda_herb/trikatu.html trikatu] - a combination of (see Spices section)
** ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_pepper black pepper] (Piper nigrum - (see[[#Black pepper| Black pepper]])
** ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Long_Pepper long pepper] (Piper longum)
** ⚡'''ginger''' (Zingiber officinale - see [[#Ginger|local reference]])

* ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triphala Triphala]. This is an Ayurvedic herbal formula combining three myrobalans: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica/Terminalia bellerica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). The latter two of these are reported to be anthelmintic, but they also have laxative properties, and it may be this characteristic, rather than actual worm killing ability, that is the source of any ‘anthelmintic’ effects.
</blockquote>

=== Chinese herbal medicines [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_Herbal_Medicine] ===

==== ❌ Anthelmintic Chinese herbs ====

<blockquote>
* Bing Lang (Semen arecae). Used against roundworms and flukes.
* Chuan Lian Gen Pi (Cortex meliae radicis). Used against roundworms.
* Da Huang (Radix et rhizoma rhei). Used in combination remedies to treat flukes.
* Guan Zhong (Rhizoma dryopteris crassirhizomae). Used in combination remedies to treat hookworms.
* Ku Lian Gen Pi (Cortex meliae radicis). Used to treat pinworms, and in combination remedies to treat hookworms.
* Lei Wan (Sclerotium omphaliae). Used specifically to treat hookworms.
* Qian Niu Zi (Semen pharbitidis). Used in combination remedies to treat flukes.
* Qu Hui Wan (Dispel Roundworms Pill). Used against roundworms.
* Shi Jun Zi (Fructus quisqualis). Used against pinworms.
* Tu Jing Jie (Herba chenopodii ambrosioidis). Used in combination remedies to treat hookworms.
* Wu Mei Wan / Wu-Mei Wan (Mume Pill). A 10-herb classical formula used to treat intestinal parasite infections, including roundworms.
* Zi Su Ye (Folium perillae). Used in combination remedies to treat hookworms.
</blockquote>

=== Homeopathic remedies ===

✅ Most homeopathic remedies are unlikely to have any adverse effect on human helminths. For example, the influenza remedy, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscillococcinum Oscillococcinum], has been taken occasionally by one hookworm host without harming her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1590515217671094/?comment_id=1590860620969887&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

==== ❌ Antiparasitic homeopathic remedies [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeopathy] ====

<blockquote>
* Cina (a homeopathically potentised form of Eurasian wormwood - [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_cina Artemisia cina])
* Cuprum oxidatum nigrum
* Indigoz
* Podophyllum
* Sabadilla
* Santoninum
* Spigelia
* Stanum
* Teucrium marum
</blockquote>

=== Light therapy===

No reports have been received about adverse effects on human helminths of any form of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light_therapy light therapy] ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low-level_laser_therapy#Red_light_therapy red light therapy], near-infrared, far-infrared, etc.), and one NA host has reported regularly using a red light full body bed without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7155942991128261/?comment_id=7156873597701867]

=== Phage therapy [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phage_therapy] ===

</blockquote>
❓ While it is unlikely that bacteriophages will harm helminths, one hookworm host who took a short course of doses of a cocktail of several phages has reported experiencing a slight temporary reduction in worm benefits following this treatment. The product he took included preservatives (8-hydroxyquinoline sulfate-0,0001 g / ml [calculated content]; or 8-hydroxyquinoline sulfate monohydrate in terms of 8-hydroxyquinoline sulfate-0.0001 g / ml [calculated content]) which may have been responsible for this effect. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2619124714810134/?comment_id=2619284978127441]
</blockquote>

=== Electromagnetic therapy ===

✅ Several forms of electromagnetic stimulation have been used by hosts of human helminths, including [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnet_therapy Magnet Therapy], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulsed_electromagnetic_field_therapy Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transcutaneous_electrical_nerve_stimulation Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)], none of which appear to have had any obvious effect on the worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3123210597734874/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7903061716416381/?comment_id=7903306649725221&reply_comment_id=7903872713001948]

== Foods, supplements, spices, herbs and fungi ==

There are lists on the internet claiming that common foods and spices such as pumpkin seeds, turmeric, and even carrots, will kill helminths, but '''normal dietary amounts of most ''unprocessed'' foods, spices and herbs, will not harm helminths.'''

For example, carrots and sweet potatoes are both claimed to be 'antiparasitic' in some online lists, but one individual who eats 400 g (14 oz) of one or other of these vegetables every day, is still able to maintain a thriving hookworm colony, and there are others who have eaten far more than this without harming their worms.

The only problem that is likely to arise with foods, spices or herbs is when these, and particularly herbs, are artificially concentrated or processed to create extracts or tinctures. Any herbal medicine that claims to have antiparasitic, or even antibacterial or antifungal properties may present a potential risk to human helminths and should therefore be approached with caution. The ultimate potency of these substances will depend on a number of factors, including, in the case of plants, the part used, the season it was picked, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37596334/] the method of extraction, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=21110041] and the extent of concentration and/or processing, as well as dosage.

The effect of such substances also appears to vary between individuals, probably due to differences in the strength of their immune response to helminths, and some people, particularly those who have more difficulty holding on to a viable helminth colony and therefore need more frequent top-ups (especially a subset of patients with IBD or coeliac disease, and some with allergies) may find that ingesting certain substances that have no effect on the worms of other hosts may tip the balance in their case and cause a temporary dip in worm benefits, or even a loss of worms. For example, one helminth host has reported taking peppermint oil continuously without any apparent adverse effect on his worms, yet another individual could not keep a worm colony at all while taking peppermint oil.

In the case of some foods and herbs, a single part of the plant, usually a part that is not normally eaten - perhaps the bark or root - may have antiparasitic properties, while other parts of the same plant may be perfectly safe to eat. For example, the seeds of pomegranates are safe to eat, while the bark of the stems of this plant contains an anthelmintic compound, and the bark of the root contains an even more potent form of this alkaloid, which is used to treat roundworms, pinworms and tapeworms.

'''So, while bearing in mind the general principles set out in the Introduction and the last few paragraphs above, and using the details in the list below, helminth hosts need to observe their own responses and learn what they, as individuals, can and cannot safely consume while hosting helminths.'''

There will often be a warning indication whenever one's worms are not happy. This may be a general loss of wellbeing, or a return of specific symptoms. For example, one person always gets a marked increase in nasal congestion if something compromises the health of his worms.

=== Foods ===
<blockquote>
'''✅ Food items considered safe unless marked otherwise'''

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atemoya Atemoya] The fruit, atemoya, is a hybrid of two other fruits – the sugar-apple (Annona squamosa) and the cherimoya (Annona cherimola). Atemoya is also known as "pineapple sugar apple", anón, chirimorinon, achta and stafeli dogo ("mini soursop"). An NA host has reported that eating the flesh of this fruit appeared not to harm his colony, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7681355011920387/?comment_id=7681459525243269] but that there are neurotoxic compounds, called annonacins, in the seeds, bark, leaves and skin of this plant that may be anthelmintic. While there are also annonacins in the fruit, they are present in much smaller quantities than in the plant’s other parts.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Momordica_charantia Bitter melon] (Momordica charantia) Also known as Momordica chinensis, goya, karela, ampalaya, bitter apple, bitter gourd, bitter squash and balsam-pear. This cucumber-shaped vegetable is found in Asian markets, and aqueous extracts of its leaves and seeds have both been shown to have a dose-dependent adverse effect on one type of adult non-therapeutic helminth (Strongyloides) in test tube studies [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/242567254_In_vitro_anthelmintic_efficacy_of_some_indegeneous_medicinal_plants_against_gastrointestinal_nematodes] and both fruit and seeds have been, and still are, used in a number of countries to treat pinworm infections, and for expelling parasites generally. However, the quantities of fruit and seeds that are quoted as being necessary in order to eradicate worms are rather large, for example two whole melons each day for seven to ten days, repeated after two months. It is therefore unlikely that normal dietary amounts of bitter melon fruit will adversely affect therapeutic helminths, and one hookworm self-treater has reported that bitter melon is a regular part of her diet, but has never adversely affected her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4373320642723857/?comment_id=4376043225784932]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breast_milk Breast milk] (human). There has been one report of a child with severe eczema who was inoculated with hookworms while still being breastfed, and who received only moderate benefits from the worms until breast feeding was suspended. Thereafter, the benefits increased markedly, suggesting that something in the breast milk was inhibiting the worms, possibly the lauric acid which is also found in [[#Coconut|coconut]] products. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2241418522580757/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrot Carrot] (Daucus carota, subsp. sativus). The taproot of the carrot is rich in beta carotene, a precursor for vitamin A, which has been claimed to increase resistance to penetration by larvae. Carrots have also been claimed to be offensive to all parasites and valuable in the elimination of threadworms, but normal dietary amounts are not harmful to therapeutic helminths, and many helminth hosts have regularly eaten significant quantities of this vegetable (e.g., up to 1kg daily [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1074474759275145/?comment_id=1084028951653059&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]) without adversely affecting their worms.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicory Chicory] (Cichorium intybus). This is well known for its toxicity to intestinal parasites, and studies have indicated that ingestion of chicory by farm animals results in reduced worm burdens. This plant contains volatile oils similar to those found in plants in the related genus Tanacetum, which includes ❌'''Tansy''', and is said to be similarly effective in eliminating intestinal worms. One hookworm host has reported that eating 2 tsp of chicory powder stunned her worms for several days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/8036790633043488/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citron Citron] (Citrus medica). Alcoholic extracts of the rind of citron have shown ‘moderate’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies. These extracts may therefore also have an adverse effect on other helminths, though there is no evidence that eating normal dietary amounts of the flesh of this fruit might harm human helminths.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coconut Coconut]. Coconut products contain [[#Medium-chain triglycerides|medium-chain-triglycerides]] (MCT), some of which have been shown to be effective against many parasites including giardia, other protozoa, and also tapeworms. (Also see, [[#Fatty acids|Fatty acids]].) The fats in '''coconut oil''' are 40% lauric acid (lipid number: C12), the MCT most well-known for its antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral properties, and the one most likely to be responsible for any adverse effect on helminths. '''Fractionated coconut oil''' contains primarily caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10) [https://web.archive.org/web/20190122225059/https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fractionated-coconut-oil] which appear not to harm helminths. One hookworm host who routinely consumes 3 to 10 tablespoons daily of MCT oil containing 55% caprylic acid and 35% capric acid has reported that this has no adverse effect on his colony, and that he is able to incubate more NA using eggs from this colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2965258846913046/?comment_id=2966781426760788] '''Coconut fiber''', especially in the form of dried or ground coconut flesh (desiccated coconut, coconut flour) has long been used to expel intestinal worms, both in humans [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1412001672189117/] and animals, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21120531] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24271156] and becomes more effective as the quantity increases. Eating an entire cake baked with coconut flour brought a return of disease symptoms for one hookworm host. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/946802485375707/] Most helminth hosts find that they can eat normal dietary amounts of coconut products without adversely affecting their worms, as can be seen in these examples. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/877714092284547/?comment_id=880956541960302&offset=0&total_comments=6&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/872052362850720/?comment_id=872162672839689&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1026756790713609/?comment_id=1026771657378789&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1026756790713609/?comment_id=1026788797377075&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2214083125314297/?comment_id=2214217708634172&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2214083125314297/?comment_id=2214217708634172&reply_comment_id=2214230838632859&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Nevertheless, coconut products do have a potential to affect human hookworms in some individuals, especially '''coconut oil''' and '''coconut milk''', and the effect is often dose-dependent. For example, one hookworm host who checks the egg output of his worms has reported that they twice produced zero eggs for a period of time after he drank coconut milk. Another hookworm host gets increased pain a few hours after ingesting coconut milk or powder. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/966600183395937/?comment_id=967794996609789&reply_comment_id=968778733178082&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D] Someone else found that, while consuming 200 mg of coconut milk caused a temporary return of mild symptoms of his disease, he regularly eats coconut oil without any obvious problem, but other hookworm hosts have reported a return of disease symptoms after consuming coconut oil. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1446457812076836/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1408578419198109/?comment_id=1409474272441857&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3536097503112846/] A hookworm grower has reported that he can consume coconut products "somewhat regularly" and still be able to incubate plenty of larvae, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1407193439386269/?comment_id=1407718306000449&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] but another grower has found that, while his colony continues to thrive and produce eggs when he takes 3 tablespoons of coconut oil each day, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1084278171628137/?comment_id=1088696887852932&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] about ⅓ of any larvae produced will be dead, and the rest “less energetic”, so he normally restricts himself to 2 tablespoons per day. '''Coconut water''' may also adversely affect a hookworm colony, as one host found after drinking 1 litre of coconut water, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1051741958215092/] and another found after drinking coconut water kefir, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1696907597031855/?comment_id=1698709520184996&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] but one NA host has found that the [https://www.lacroixwater.com coconut essence-flavoured sparkling water produced by La Croix] had no ill effect on his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4820278211361429/] One hookworm host finds that '''all coconut products''' have an adverse effect, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1408578419198109/?comment_id=1409105045812113&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] while two others have said that even small amounts of coconut quickly result in a loss of benefits. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1331489750240310/?comment_id=1339469669442318&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1526713510717932/?comment_id=1529128360476447&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Some '''CBD oils''' for vaping are suspended in coconut oil. However, most of these are only a 3% suspension, so *may* be safe for use while hosting human helminths. '''Coconut sugar''' should not carry the same degree of risk because, whereas coconut milk, oil and flour are all obtained from the flesh of mature coconuts, and coconut water is also from inside the fleshy part of the coconut, coconut sugar comes from the sap of coconut palm flower buds and consists largely of sugars. The seasoning sauce, '''Coconut Aminos''', is also made from coconut tree sap, and at least one hookworm host has used this regularly without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1696907597031855/?comment_id=1697083593680922&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cranberry Cranberry] (Vaccinium macrocarpon). This is claimed by some sources to contain antiparasitic enzymes, and cranberry powder is sometimes included in proprietary antiparasitic formulations, although evidence for its effectiveness in this context is lacking, and there have never been any reports of any form of cranberry having an adverse effect on therapeutic helminths. Cranberry juice was used traditionally to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), but it works by changing the bacteria in ways that [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/198711.php prevent bacterial adhesion] rather than killing them. While drinking 15 fl oz of cranberry juice per day is claimed to help arrest a mild urinary infection, [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/306498.php cranberry powder capsules are more effective] and '''D-mannose''', a cranberry derivative, is even more effective than the powder.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rub_(syrup) Date syrup], also known as “rub”. Laboratory tests have revealed that [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150330213949.htm some forms of date syrup may have antibacterial activity], possibly due to the presence of phenolic compounds that form naturally in the dates as they mature. Significantly, the syrup was able to inhibit the growth of bacteria faster than ⚡'''Manuka honey''', which several people have suspected of having adversely affected their worms. However, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/811693292219961/?comment_id=811695265553097&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D eating dates is unlikely to be harmful to helminths].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dietary_fiber Dietary fibre] (fiber). Some sources claim that eating a lot of fibre may reduce the number of intestinal worms, but fibre consumed as an integral part of a normal diet has not been reported to be a problem for human helminths.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durian Durian] There are several species of fruit-producing durian trees, the most common of which is [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durio_zibethinus Durio zibethinus] So far, there have been no reports about durian from self-treaters, but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombax_ceiba Bombax malabaricum] - another member of the Bombacaceae plant family within which durian is classified - has shown significant anthelmintic activity against one flatworm species. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21853226/]

* ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fatty_acid Fatty acids]. Research on the direct effect of fatty acids on helminths is limited. However, the poly-unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), linoleic acid, has shown in vitro nematocidal activity against both C. elegans [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8202563/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32674325/] and H. contortus, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20075977/] and it has been proposed that unsaturated fatty acids are likely to play a role in the natural attrition of S. mansoni and S. haematobium lung-stage larvae. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16419753/] It has been hypothesised elsewhere that exposure to some fatty acids could cause lethal damage to helminths by interacting with, and compromising, the integrity of the organisms's cuticle, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34149425/] and in vitro exposure to arachidonic acid has been shown to cause disintegration of the surface membranes of the trematode, Schistosoma spp., eventually leading to parasite death. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16419753/] It is likely that the undoubted adverse effect of some coconut products on NA - and possibly also TTO - in ''some'' hosts is due to the fatty acids these products contain, especially lauric acid (C12), and the evidence from the studies presented here suggests that other fatty acids may have an adverse effect on therapeutic helminths in a similar dose-dependent manner, influenced also by the strength of the host's immune response to helminths. People who are hosting NA, in particular, who are not experiencing the benefits they expected should therefore consider the possible effect of any fatty acids they consume, and experiment accordingly. (Also see [[#Medium-chain triglycerides|medium-chain triglycerides]] and [[#Coconut|⚡coconut]].)

* '''Guayusa tea''' ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilex_guayusa ilex guayusa]). The leaves of this Amazonian holly tree are brewed to make a caffeinated drink. One hookworm host who regularly drinks this tea has not noticed any adverse effect on her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2248121518577124/?comment_id=2248562038533072&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetically_modified_foods Genetically modified foods] (GMOs). Some food crops, such as corn and rice, have been genetically modified to produce ❌'''Cry5B''', a protein that can kill intestinal worms, including the human hookworm. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacillus_thuringiensis Bacillus thuringiensis] (Bt), the bacterium that produces Cry5B, is also applied as a [http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-07/asfm-npc072313.php natural insecticide] on crops on some organic farms, but there is no indication yet that GM foods are a potential threat to human helminths.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grapefruit Grapefruit] (citrus paradisi). The flesh of the common grapefruit is perfectly safe to eat while hosting helminths, although ⚡'''grapefruit seed extract''' does have a potential to harm helminths due to the typical addition of synthetic adulterants. Also potentially harmful are some extracts of the rind of ❌'''Citrus decumana''', a close relative of the grapefruit.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hibiscus Hibiscus]. One hookworm host has drunk many litres of strong, homemade hibiscus tea over the years without ever harming her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2647270255328913/?comment_id=2647328495323089]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honey Honey]. Honey can contain antivirals [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25333699] and powerful antimicrobials [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3074369/], some of which can have effects comparable with those of antibiotics such as clarithromycin, and certain types of honey have particularly potent antimicrobial activity. Several people have suspected that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81nuka_honey '''Manuka''' honey] (which inhibits dental plaque as effectively as chlorhexidine mouthwash [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22114423]) has adversely affected their worms, while a few others have reported that '''raw''' honey reduces the benefits from their worms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2517832904939316/?comment_id=2524053750983898] in one case causing increased pain several hours after ingestion, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/966600183395937/?comment_id=967794996609789&reply_comment_id=968778733178082&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D] and someone else, who had a few teaspoons of '''raw''' honey on two occasions, 4 days apart, has reported that some of his symptoms made a limited return for a day after each ingestion. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5132147986841115/] Research reported in 2014 may explain why '''raw''' honey might have this effect. [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/09/140908093741.htm] However, one hookworm host, who regularly takes a '''manuka''' honey/apple cider vinegar combination, has not noticed any loss of benefits, and another two have reported no apparent adverse effect on their worms after consuming '''raw''' honey. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/] One of these individuals reports having eaten quite large amounts of '''raw''' honey continuously during his first 3 years with NA and never noticed anything untoward. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1802586329797314/?comment_id=1807740622615218&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Regular honey appears to be generally worm-safe, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1223658601023426/?comment_id=1224392167616736&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] and, demonstrating the experience of many others, one hookworm host has said that she can consume 2-4 teaspoons of regular honey daily without any issues, but that manuka and any honey labeled as "raw" causes problems. (Note about the different types of honey: '''Manuka''' honey (very viscous with a dark cream to dark brown colour) is produced by bees foraging specifically on the mānuka tree; '''Wild''' honey is often sourced from free-range hives, rather than box hives, by native gatherers who only remove larger honeycomb impurities; '''Raw''' honey is typically only strained to remove physical impurities such as beeswax and dead bees. Regular, commercial honey usually goes through additional processing including finer filtration to remove all debris and air bubbles, and pasteurisation to destroy yeasts. Regular honey may also be subject to utrafiltration, which further refines the product to make it more transparent and smooth, but also removes beneficial nutrients like pollen, enzymes and antioxidants.)

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phyllanthus_emblica Indian gooseberry]. (Phyllanthus emblica, also known as Emblica officinalis, emblic, emblic myrobalan, myrobalan, Malacca tree and amla.) While there are websites online that claim anti-parasitic effects for P. emblica, and one study found that P. emblica exerted toxic effects on a parasitic flat worm, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19819626/] there is no compelling evidence in the scientific literature for a possible adverse effect on hookworms. Neither have any reports of an adverse effect on their worms been posted by any NA self-treaters, and one study found that a traditional Thai preparation containing P. emblica actually extended the life of the research worm, C. elegans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6693129/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kefir Kefir]. Although kefir has been claimed online to kill “parasites”, it will not harm hookworms unless it is made with coconut milk. (See [[#Coconut milk |details for coconut milk]].) There has also been a single report of an NA colony possibly being killed after drinking kefir made from coconut water. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1696907597031855/?comment_id=1698709520184996&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] (See [[#Coconut water |details for coconut water]].)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kombucha Kombucha] (Medusomyces gisevii, also called tea mushroom, tea fungus or Manchurian mushroom.) This fermented drink does not harm helminths. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2616391711750101/?comment_id=2616509485071657]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lime_(fruit) Lime] (Citrus acida). While alcoholic extracts of the rind of limes have shown ‘moderate’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], and extracts of the rind may have an adverse effect on other helminths, there is no reason to believe that eating the flesh of limes will harm human helminths.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medium-chain_triglyceride Medium-chain triglycerides] (MCTs) are extracted from ⚡'''coconut oil''', amongst other things, and can be divided into four groups: 1. caproic acid (C6), 2. caprylic acid (C8), 3. capric acid (C10) and 4. lauric acid (C12). [https://blog.bulletproof.com/the-definitive-guide-to-mcts/] Of these, lauric acid is the most well-known for its antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which may explain why coconut oil (which is 40-50% lauric acid) appears more likely to affect human helminths than products containing a mixture of all four types of MCT, such as the milk of cows, sheep and goats, the fatty acids in which contain 10-20% mixed MCTs. (Also see [[#Fatty acids|⚡fatty acids]] and [[#Coconut|⚡coconut]].)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onion Onion] (Allium cepa). This is used as an ingredient in some proprietary deworming formulations and has been claimed to create an 'uninhabitable environment' for intestinal worms and to help eradicate tapeworms in particular. However, if eaten in normal dietary quantities, onion should not harm therapeutic human helminths.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_foods Organic foods]. While these are less likely to be contaminated with chemicals, some organic farmers apply [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacillus_thuringiensis Bacillus thuringiensis] (Bt) to their crops as a natural insecticide. This bacterium produces ❌'''Cry5B''', a protein that can kill intestinal worms, [http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-07/asfm-npc072313.php including human hookworms]. However many hosts of human helminths have eaten organic foods without them affecting their worms.


* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papaya Papaya] (Carica papaya, also known as or papaw, pawpaw or paw paw). The fruit and leaves contain both antiseptic and antiparasitic compounds, including one called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carpaine carpaine], which is claimed to kill and expel intestinal worms. Papaya latex has been shown to be an [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26343287 effective anthelmintic] against a variety of nematode parasites. However, it is unlikely that eating normal dietary amounts of the flesh of the fruit will adversely affect human helminths and, when someone who grows his own hookworms added a large amount of papaya - comparable to a human eating 2 or 3 pawpaws - to a petri dish full of larvae, these were unaffected. However, ⚡'''Papaya seeds''' are also rich in caricin which is reportedly effective in expelling roundworms. A randomized, placebo-controlled study found that a 20 ml dose of a mixture of air-dried papaya seeds and "natural" honey was effective against various types of human intestinal parasite, although the honey may have contributed to this effect. The mixture demonstrated 100% efficacy in clearing TT, and 80% efficacy against NA. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17472487] Also see [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30526582 this paper].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomegranate Pomegranate] (Punica granatum). ✅The '''flesh and seeds''' of the pomegranate fruit have not been reported to harm human helminths. However, ❌'''pomegranate extracts''' should be avoided because the bark and stems of this plant contain an anthelmintic compound, punicine, and the bark of the root contains an even more potent form of this alkaloid. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32411422] Extracts of the bark of both the root and stems, and extracts of the rind/peel of the fruit, have a strong anthelmintic effect and are used as traditional remedies to treat roundworms, pinworms and tapeworms, to which they are said to be highly toxic. Alcoholic extracts of the rind/peel have also shown ‘moderate’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424] These extracts may therefore have an adverse effect on other helminths, and one hookworm host has reported losing benefits from her colony after accidentally consuming a small amount of pomegranate extract. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1166864270036193/] Pomegranate peel is used in small quantities in dietary supplements and food preservatives and may not be a significant threat to human helminths in this form. However, ❌'''pomegranate peel powder''', which is available for purchase as a remedy for certain health conditions, might be harmful to helminths if it is used in quantity, for example as an ingredient in smoothies. One hookworm host found that while one company’s pomegranate '''''fruit''''' powder is produced from only the dried pomegranate arils (the seeds and their red fleshy coatings), and not including any peel, the same company’s pomegranate '''''juice''''' powder is produced from the whole fruit - both the seeds/arils and the peel. Neither product carries details on their packaging of which part of the pomegranate they contain, and this self-treater had only realised there was a difference when taking the latter product caused a return of his disease symptoms. The Pom Wonderful product is reportedly made from the arils, so should be safe for use by hosts of human helminths.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumpkin Pumpkin] and ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumpkin_seed Pumpkin seeds] (Cucurbita species). This is also referred to as squash or gourd, depending on species, variety and local parlance. Eating the flesh of the pumpkin/squash/gourd is unlikely to have any adverse effect on any human helminth. ⚡'''Pumpkin ''seeds''''' contain an antiparasitic compound called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cucurbitacin curcurbitacin] and they were used traditionally as a remedy for tapeworms and roundworms. However, their effect is likely to be dose-dependent, and large amounts are recommend by herbalists for deworming, e,g., up to 25 ounces for adults. Some hookworm hosts have reported no adverse effect on their colony after eating pumpkin seeds, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2888440857878517/?comment_id=2889359654453304] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2888440857878517/?comment_id=2890447241011212&reply_comment_id=2895457573843512] while others have experienced either a temporary return of disease symptoms or even a loss of their colony. For example one found that eating a daily salad for a week with a mixed seed/nut topping containing pumpkin seeds killed her entire colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2888440857878517/?comment_id=2888764874512782] Another NA host has reported that taking 1000 mg of ⚡'''pumpkin seed oil''' daily for 2 months significantly reduced the fecundity of his NA, resulting in incubations producing only a handful of L3 larvae after having previously always yielded hundreds of larvae per incubation over a 7 year period. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1635384559850826/?comment_id=1635389889850293&reply_comment_id=1635944229794859&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Since this individual is not treating a disease, but only acting as a reservoir donor, it is not known whether this amount of pumpkin seed oil might affect disease remission.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radish Radish] (Raphanus sativus). This has been used as an alternative treatment for intestinal parasites, and is included as an ingredient in some proprietary deworming formulations, but it is unlikely to have any adverse effect on human helminths if eaten as part of a normal diet.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sauerkraut Sauerkraut] Sauerkraut will not kill human helminths, but it can cause significant digestive upset in some people, sufficient to cause a setback in the course of their treatment, and including diarrhoea severe enough to flush hookworms from the gut. Two hookworm hosts have reported experiencing significant upset stomach, “gut issues” and diarrhoea after eating only 2 and 3 forkfuls of sauerkraut respectively [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1440317759357508/?comment_id=1440394666016484&reply_comment_id=1443382035717747][https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2726061500783121/?comment_id=3607483215974274] and another NA host lost his entire colony due to extreme diarrhoea following his first encounter with sauerkraut. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1992639020792043/?comment_id=1993403570715588&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seaweed Seaweed] (macroalgae). Five poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) identified in two Nordic seaweeds (S. latissima and L. digitata) were found to have in vitro effects against helminths in swine (Ascaris suum) and sheep (Teladorsagia circumcincta), with a clear synergistic effect being apparent when selected compounds were tested in combination. “Collectively, our data reveal that fatty acids may have a previously unappreciated role as natural anti-parasitic compounds, which suggests that seaweed products may represent a viable option for control of intestinal helminth infections.” [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34149425/] However, there have been no reports so far of NA or TTO being adversely affected by the consumption of seaweed products. (Also see, [[#Fatty acids|⚡fatty acids]].)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squash_(plant) Squash]. See '''Pumpkin''' above.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweet_potatoes Sweet potato] (Ipomoea batatas). Like the carrot, this root vegetable is rich in beta carotene, a precursor for vitamin A, which it has been claimed can increase resistance to penetration by larvae. However, numerous hosts of human helminths regularly eat significant amounts of sweet potato (e.g., up to 1kg daily [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1074474759275145/?comment_id=1084028951653059&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]) without any adverse effect on their worms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea Tea]. The aromatic beverage prepared by pouring hot or boiling water over cured or fresh leaves of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camellia_sinensis Camellia sinensis] plant, e.g., [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_tea green tea], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_tea black tea], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_tea white tea] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oolong oolong tea], is generally harmless to therapeutic helminths. However, there ''may'' be a risk of harm to human helminths if ❓medicinal quantities of concentrates, extracts or tinctures made from green tea are consumed. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/5449030_Potential_anthelmintics_Polyphenols_from_the_tea_plant_Camellia_sinensis_L_are_lethally_toxic_to_Caenorhabditis_elegans]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_curry Thai curry]. One hookworm host found that a strong green Thai curry upset his colony to the extent that he needed to add a top-up dose to recover the benefits he had enjoyed previously. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2259967414059201/?comment_id=2260424784013464&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juglans_regia Walnut], English (Juglans regia). Also known as the Persian, common, California, or Carpathian walnut. This does not appear to have gained a reputation as an anthelmintic, unlike the ⚡'''black walnut'''.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watermelon Watermelon] flesh is not a problem for either NA or TTO, but there has been one report from an NA host that eating a "bunch" of ⚡watermelon seeds at a barbecue caused a loss of all worm benefits after about three days. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6765576206831610?comment_id=6765885696800661]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xylitol Xylitol]. One hookworm host has reported [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/833127066743250/?comment_id=833225923400031&offset=0&total_comments=6&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] that he takes xylitol daily in place of sugar and has not noticed any effect on his colony.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yam_(vegetable) Yam] ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dioscorea Dioscorea]). Like carrot and sweet potato, the yam is rich in beta carotene, a precursor for vitamin A which is thought to increase resistance to penetration by larvae. However, numerous hosts of human helminths regularly eat this vegetable without adversely affecting their worms.
</blockquote>



=== Nutritional supplements ===

<blockquote>
'''✅ Supplements safe for human helminths, unless marked otherwise'''

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5-Hydroxytryptophan 5-HTP] (5-Hydroxytryptophan, also known as oxitriptan and marketed under trade names such as Cincofarm, Levothym, Levotonine, Oxyfan, Telesol, Tript-OH and Triptum) This is used as an antidepressant, appetite suppressant and sleep aid. One hookworm host has reported [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/811459492243341/?comment_id=811659322223358&offset=0&total_comments=3&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] taking 5-HTP without any adverse effect on her worms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acetylcarnitine Acetylcarnitine] (Acetyl-L-carnitine, ALCAR or ALC) is produced naturally by the body, and has been taken by at least two hookworm hosts without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1701733326549282/?comment_id=1701750936547521&reply_comment_id=1702741433115138&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1701733326549282/?comment_id=1702716603117621&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acetylcysteine Acetylcysteine] (also known as N-acetylcysteine, N-acetyl-L-cysteine and NAC). Three hookworm hosts have reported taking this without causing any problems for their colonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/832123420176948/?comment_id=832517453470878&offset=0&total_comments=3&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3049676998421568/?comment_id=3049740311748570] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4840382556017661/?comment_id=4841276152594968]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Activated_charcoal_(medication) Activated charcoal] (also known as activated carbon). There have been no reports of this harming human helminths and three reports confirming that it does not harm NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7846458328743387?comment_id=7847087392013814][https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/513613715361255/?comment_id=514186115304015&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D][https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/792437597478864/?comment_id=792881060767851&offset=0&total_comments=10&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lipoic_acid Alpha lipoic acid] (ALA), also known as Lipoic acid (LA), α-lipoic acid and thioctic acid. This organosulphur compound is made naturally in animals, where it is essential for aerobic metabolism. Because of its antioxidant properties, it is also sold as a dietary supplement and is available in some countries as a pharmaceutical drug. One host of both hookworms and human whipworms has taken between 300 and 600 mg of alpha lipoic acid per day without any harm befalling their worms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amine_oxidase Amine oxidase] (also known as diamine oxidase, DAO and histaminase). This enzyme, which is involved in the metabolism of histamine, is produced by the body and found in high concentrations in the digestive tract and placenta. It has therefore been suggested [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/883903308332292/?comment_id=883916171664339&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] that it is unlikely to be harmful to helminths, although there are not yet any reports to confirm this.

* [https://aseaglobal.com ASEA] Redox Supplement. This “catalytically processed” saline solution should not harm helminths, a fact confirmed by one hookworm host. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2127858607270083/?comment_id=2129186490470628&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ❌ [https://atrantil.com/ Atrantil] contains three active botanicals: M. balsamea Willd (peppermint) leaf extract, quebracho extract and conker tree extract. While ⚡'''peppermint oil''' has proved to be a problem for some hosts of human helminths (see [[#Peppermint|peppermint reference]]), it is possible that the leaf extract may be worm-safe. However, quebracho extract has been shown to effectively reduce worm burdens in sheep. [http://www.fao.org/docs/eims/upload/agrotech/1905/R7424%20(04)%20Embu%20proceedings.pdf]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bee_pollen Bee pollen]. One hookworm host has reported that eating small amounts of this has had no obvious adverse effect on this worms.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beta-Sitosterol beta-Sitosterol] has demonstrated anthelmintic effects [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12587699] and three hookworm hosts have reported a return of their disease symptoms after taking beta-Sitosterol. (expired link), [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1143218725734081/?comment_id=1146128268776460&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7569548336434389/]

* [http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-312-BETAINE%20HYDROCHLORIDE.aspx?activeIngredientId=312&activeIngredientName=BETAINE%20HYDROCHLORIDE Betaine hydrochloride]. Two hookworm hosts have reported using betaine HCL without noticing any loss of benefits from their worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1103458306376790/?comment_id=1106534052735882&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D], [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1103458306376790/?comment_id=1106538649402089&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] and [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2070288819693729/?comment_id=2070391136350164&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boron Boron] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borax Borax]. Boron is a chemical element and a trace element in human and plant nutrition. Only small amounts of boron are required for health and an excess can be toxic. It is unlikely to have an adverse effect on helminths when consumed in dietary quantities. Borax is a mineral containing boron which has antifungal properties and also certain [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borax#Toxicity health risks]. One hookworm host has reported taking 1/2 teaspoon borax per day for 6-7 weeks without harming his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1232677046788248/?comment_id=1404263146296303&reply_comment_id=1404577376264880&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R7%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1404253479630603/?comment_id=1404658099590141&reply_comment_id=1405046696217948&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D]

*❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BPC-157 Bpc 157] This pentadecapeptide, also known as PL 14736, was taken intranasally over 4 days by one NA host who has reported no negative effect on his colony in that time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6283059368416632/?comment_id=6283148771741025]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorella Chlorella]. One hookworm host took ½ teaspoon of this single-cell green algae daily for a year without any obvious effect on her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1037512569638031/?comment_id=1037568506299104&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

*❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorophyllin Chlorophyllin]. This semi-synthetic derivative of chlorophyll is used as a food colouring agent (e.g., E number E141) and as a treatment aimed at reducing various bodily odours, but its suitability for use by helminth hosts has been questioned because of its apparent [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19009310 ability to kill mosquito larvae and other small animals] at low concentrations, although this effect appears to be dependent on the presence of sunlight. (Also see ✅[[#Chlorophyll|Chlorophyll]].)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chondroitin_sulfate Chondroitin Sulfate]. In an animal study, chondroitin sulfate was shown to prevent threadworms from establishing in the digestive system, but one NA host has taken 900 mg daily for several years without any adverse effect on his worms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colostrum Colostrum]. A hookworm host has taken this without any adverse effect on her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1145589722163648/?comment_id=1145807582141862&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]

*❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mannose D-mannose]. This naturally occurring simple sugar is the ingredient in cranberries that makes their juice effective against urinary tract infections. Pure D-mannose is 10-50 times stronger than cranberry juice, making it more suitable for stubborn cases of UTI, and it reportedly resolves more than 90% of all UTIs within 1-2 days. [https://web.archive.org/web/20210211080155/http://www.tahomaclinicblog.com/d-mannose-for-bladder-and-kidney-infections/], [http://www.townsendletter.com/May2014/gaby0514.html] Taking steps to make the urine less acidic (e.g., by taking Tums[https://www.tums.com/]) might [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150625161623.htm make cranberry-based treatments even more effective]. D-mannose is non-toxic, produces no adverse effects and, while there have been no reports to confirm it’s lack of adverse effects on human helminths, it is unlikely to do them any harm.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digestive_enzymes Digestive enzymes], such as papain and bromelain, are said to make the intestinal tract inhospitable to parasites by dissolving their outer layers. In particular, papain - the milky juice of the unripe papaya - is claimed to be a powerful agent for destroying roundworms. One subject has reported a return of symptoms after taking a product containing papain, bromelain, protease, lipase and amylase for several weeks, and another individual has reported losing their entire hookworm colony after taking ''Healthy Origins Broad Spectrum Digestive Enzymes'' [https://healthyoriginseurope.com/products/digestive-enzymes-nec-broad-spectrum?variant=31997110714427] (amylase, protease, peptidase, alpha-galactosidase, glucoamylase, acid maltase, cellulase, pectinase, protease, lipase, lactase, beta-glucanase, invertase and hemicellulase). However, several other hookworm hosts have taken digestive enzymes, including ''Terranova's Quercetin Nettle Complex'' which contains bromelain, without any obvious effect on their worms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/888731831182773/?comment_id=888738757848747&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] and one of these has regularly taken pancreatin-based products from different manufacturers, mostly from ''Pure Encapsulations'', but also a lipase product by ''Integrative Therapeutics''. Another hookworm host who regularly takes digestive enzymes but has never noticed any adverse effect on his colony, generally avoids papain and bromelain, but regularly takes pancreatin, lipase, ''Acid Ease'', and occasionally ''Udo's Choice'' enzymes. Udo's Choice brand does contain some bromelain, but only a small amount. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/821478984574725/?comment_id=821502387905718&offset=0&total_comments=1&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] One NA host has reported that 500 mg bromelain twice daily appeared to be well tolerated by his hookworms, and someone else noticed no adverse effect on his NA colony after taking ''Enzymedica Digest Spectrum Multiple Food Intolerance Formula'' (amylase, xylanase, protease, alpha galactosidase, glucoamylase, lactase, lipase, maltase, cellulase, invertase, pectinase and hemicellulase). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4876772765711973?comment_id=4879285832127333] And two other NA hosts have taken a product containing lipase (40,000 USP units), protease (126,000 USP units) and amylase (168,000 USP units) without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6285531644836071/?comment_id=6285909298131639]See also ✅[[#Papaya|Papaya]], and, for a brief explanation of how to stimulate one’s own natural enzyme production using a simple form of micro-massage, see [https://www.foodsmatter.com/nutrition_micronutrition/miscellaneous/articles/free_digestive_enzymes.html this article].

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3,3%27-Diindolylmethane Diindolylmethane (DIM)]. 3,3′-Diindolylmethane has never been mentioned by hosts of human helminths as being harmful to their worm colonies, which is unsurprising because it’s a natural compound that is created in the body from the digestion of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Supplements containing DIM are simply a concentrated form of this natural substance.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folic_acid Folic Acid] has been claimed to help prevent the proliferation of intestinal parasites at a dosage of 400 - 800 mcg (0.4 - 0.8 mg) per day. However, this is not a problem for human helminths because they do not proliferate within their hosts, and there have been no reports of adverse effects from hosts of human worms. One subject has taken a daily vitamin B-complex supplement containing 400 mcg of folic acid without any apparent effect on his hookworms, and another has taken 800 mcg of folate (as calcium L-5 methyltetrahydrofolate) every day for over 4 years with no adverse effect on his hookworms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fructooligosaccharide FOS] (fructooligosaccharide) is said to inhibit parasites from attaching to the intestines but no helminth host has reported any problem with this so far.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fulvic_acid Fulvic acid]. This is a form of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humic_acid humic acid] which two hookworm hosts have taken without any apparent adverse effect on their colonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1132613460127941/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1132472786808675/?comment_id=1132930603429560&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginseng Ginseng]. Members of the genus, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panax Panax], appear not to be harmful to human helminths, and one hookworm host has reported taking ginseng without noticing any untoward effect. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1453317641390853/?comment_id=1453345564721394&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glucosamine Glucosamine] may be beneficial for roundworms. Applying this amino sugar experimentally to one roundworm species caused the treated worms to live around 5% longer than their untreated counterparts. [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/275263.php]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glutathione Glutathione]. One hookworm host who has taken [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liposome liposomal glutathione] says he’s confident that this did not harm his worms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/803451913044099/?comment_id=803468529709104&offset=0&total_comments=6] and several people who have taken other oral glutathione supplements have reported no adverse effects. A hookworm host who received intravenous injections containing glutathione experienced no adverse effect on her NA colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1668651476524134/?comment_id=1668819739840641&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grape_seed_extract Grape seed extract]. After taking 4 capsules of a product containing 200mg grape extract, 200mg grape seed extract and 200mg Muscadine grape every day for 2 weeks, one hookworm host carried out a successful incubation, indicating that the product had not adversely affected her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2233069223415687/?comment_id=2282502821805660&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] (Also see [[#Grapefruit seed extract (GSE)|Grapefruit seed extract (GSE)]], which can adversely affect human helminths in some people.)

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron Iron]. Supplementary iron taken orally does not harm helminths, but one hookworm host has reported having apparently lost her worms on two occasions after receiving ❓intravenous iron infusions. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2033546613367950/?comment_id=2033644093358202&reply_comment_id=2033832696672675&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

*❓Lumbricus Tonic. This discontinued [https://www.nutricology.com Nutricology] product contained a powdered earthworm extract as well as ⚡'''sweet flag''' root extract. The herb was last on the list of ingredients however, and there had been no reports by hosts of therapeutic helminths to suggest that the product might be a problem for worms.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melatonin Melatonin]. This hormone, which is commonly used as a sleep aid, has been taken by many helminth hosts, none of whom have reported any adverse effects on their worm colonies.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modified_citrus_pectin Modified citrus pectin] (also known as citrus pectin, Pecta-Sol and MCP) is a complex carbohydrate extracted from citrus fruits using a chemical extraction process that makes it soluble, absorbable and more digestible. This is unlikely to have any effect on helminths.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moringa_oleifera Moringa] (Moringa oleifera, also known as drumstick tree, horseradish tree, ben oil tree and benzoil tree) Although described as a “natural anthelmintic”, moringa has been taken by two helminth self-treaters with no apparent adverse effect on their hookworms. The first takes a 500 mg capsule of 10 to 1 extract (from 5000 mg of Moringa olifeira) twice a week, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1039296249459663/?comment_id=1039406139448674&reply_comment_id=1039533526102602&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R4%22%7D] while the second grows and harvests her own moringa. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1039296249459663/?comment_id=1040747242647897&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] Whatever anthelmintic properties moringa might have may depend on the part of the plant used.

*❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methylsulfonylmethane MSM] (Methylsulfonylmethane) is claimed by one source to be effective against many types of intestinal worm including Enterobius (pinworm [US], threadworm [UK]) and the roundworm, Ascaris. It is suggested that MSM blocks the interface between the parasite and the host by competing with the parasite for binding sites at the surface of the mucous membrane, and that the parasites may find the resulting MSM 'film' impenetrable. However, it may be necessary to take 10,000 mg of MSM per day for three or four weeks to achieve this effect, and one helminth host has reported that he has occasionally taken up to 1 heaped tablespoon of MSM while hosting helminths to treat eczema flare-ups, and has not noticed any loss of worm benefits. Someone else who takes a heaped teaspoonful of equine MSM every other day has also reported observing no adverse effects on her NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4170339756355281?comment_id=4174905152565408]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nattokinase Nattokinase] This serine protease (or serine endopeptidase), which is taken as a nutritional supplement, is an enzyme that cleaves peptide bonds in proteins. One NA host has reported that taking 500 mg twice daily had no adverse effect on his hookworm colony.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omega-3_fatty_acid Omega-3 fatty acid] supplements are taken regularly by a large number of people, and have not been reported to be harmful to any helminth species. Indeed, omega-3 fatty acids have been found to extend the lifespan of some worms. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28772063/]

*❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seaprose_S Oryzin] (Aspergillus alkaline proteinase, aspergillopeptidase B, API 21, aspergillopepsin B, aspergillopepsin F, Aspergillus candidus alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus flavus alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus melleus semi-alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus oryzae alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus parasiticus alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus serine proteinase, Aspergillus sydowi alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus soya alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus melleus alkaline proteinase, Aspergillus sulphureus alkaline proteinase, prozyme, P 5380, kyorinase, seaprose S, semialkaline protease, sumizyme MP, prozyme 10, onoprose, onoprose SA, protease P, promelase.) There have been no reports as yet about the possible effects on human helminths of taking this mould/mold-derived proteinase.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palmitoylethanolamide Palmitoylethanolamide] (PEA) This is unlikely to harm NA, and one NA host who took it for a number of weeks has confirmed that it didn’t harm his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6318336784888890/?comment_id=6318488838207018]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Probiotic Probiotics]. It is known that a number of probiotics - predominantly Lactobacillus species - can have strain-specific effects on certain “parasites”, and, while most of these are not helminths, [https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jpr/2011/610769/] there is some evidence that the milk-based probiotics, lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, may reduce the benefits of HDC. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Self-treating_with_HDC#Probiotics] It is also known that some bacteria are capable of mobilizing nematode-trapping fungi, [http://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms6776] and that Saccharomyces boulardii can have an adverse effect on the dog roundworm, Toxocara canis, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26971490] but S. boulardii and soil-based organisms are likely to be OK for HDC, and S. boulardii has been taken by at least two hookworm hosts without any obvious effect on their worms. There are also many hosts of the human helminths, NA and TTO, who take probiotics regularly, in some cases several different ones each day, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2644164455639493/?comment_id=2645824198806852] yet there have been no reports by any of them that their worms have been adversely affected.

*❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propolis Propolis]. An apitherapist speaking at the 2010 International [http://www.bterfoundation.org BTeR Foundation] Conference on Biotherapy had spoken about the antiparasitic properties of this bee product, and suggested that it might harm helminths. Then, a paper published in 2020 revealed that Brazilian red propolis exhibits antiparasitic properties both in vitro and in vivo, and reduces worm burdens and egg production in a mouse model of infection by the helminth, Schistosoma mansoni. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32918996/] While this new research does not prove that propolis will be harmful to therapeutic helminths, it does make this possibility look more likely. However, one NA host has reported consuming propolis in the form of a dark brown chewing gum, without any obvious effect on his colony. He also reports that the content of propolis varies widely depending on the plants growing around the hive. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3465002256889038/?comment_id=3465063380216259] This variation in constituents also results in propolis from different locations having different colours, and it's possible that the different colours might have differing effects on helminths, with green propolis ''possibly'' being the safest. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3465002256889038/?comment_id=3703669629688965]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psyllium Psyllium] appears not to harm hookworms, and one NA host has reported taking 4 rounded tsp of Metamucil (containing powdered psyllium seed husks) every day without harming his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3363462447043020?comment_id=3364793813576550]. However, psyllium is said to be effective in helping to remove parasite eggs from, and preventing parasites "taking root" in, the gut [https://gutbliss.com/psyllium-husk-a-complete-guide/] and there are indications from one TT host that his regular use of psyllium may be reducing his TT colony and preventing him from culturing this species.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrroloquinoline_quinone Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ)] This enzyme cofactor has been taken by several hookworm hosts without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1248482738541012/?comment_id=1248812458508040&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R1%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1248482738541012/?comment_id=1248893555166597&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quercetin Quercetin]. Taken on its own, this will not harm helminths [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2403427306379877/?comment_id=2404196192969655] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5173747102681203?comment_id=5173760879346492] but, if combined with a digestive enzyme - as it often is, to improve absorption - helminths may be adversely affected. See entry for ⚡[[#Digestive enzymes|Digestive enzymes]].

* [https://intelligenceofnature.com/pages/restore Restore]. This supplement, the active ingredient in which is Terrahydrite, was used by someone reporting that her colony is normally particularly sensitive, but was unaffected when she took Restore for long periods. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1967905053265440/?comment_id=1967995116589767&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resveratrol Resveratrol]. This may have an adverse effect on some helminths, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19562377] but this is likely to depend on dose size, and three hosts of human helminths who regularly take this compound report no adverse effect on their worms. One has taken “Perfect Resgrape Max” (400 mg trans-resveratrol) daily for many months with no apparent ill effects on her NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1803160683073212/?comment_id=1803255516397062&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] (People with MS might want to avoid resveratrol anyway. [http://medicalxpress.com/news/2013-09-resveratrol-red-wine-worsens-ms-like.html])

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S-Adenosyl_methionine S-Adenosyl methionine] (SAM, also known as SAMe, SAM-e or AdoMet) has only been reported on by one hookworm host, who observed no adverse effect on his worms after taking 200-400mg SamE per day for several months.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serratiopeptidase Serrapeptase] (also known as serratiopeptidase, Serratia E-15 protease, serralysin, serratiapeptase, serratia peptidase, serratio peptidase, or serrapeptidase). This proteolytic enzyme (protease) has been taken occasionally by one TTO host two or three times per day over a 4 year period to treat intestinal spasm, without affecting her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1357761264279825/?comment_id=1357766200945998&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R3%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1357761264279825/?comment_id=1357787397610545&reply_comment_id=1385081271547824&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] It has also been taken (at 160k SPU [80mg] per day) for prolonged periods by a hookworm host with no apparent adverse effect on his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2241120995943843/?comment_id=2242321465823796&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2241120995943843/?comment_id=2242321465823796&reply_comment_id=2244261005629842&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spirulina_(dietary_supplement) Spirulina]. This cyanobacterium is [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25599112 an effective anti-inflammatory] that is being used by a number of hosts of human helminths without causing any harm to their worms. One hookworm host takes 10 grams of spirulina every day without noticing any deleterious effects on his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2041940819195196/?comment_id=2043585499030728&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] However, it is worth noting that a significant proportion of algae-derived products tested in one study were found to contain an unhealthy amount of cyanotoxins caused by overgrowth of cyanobacteria due to the dumping of agricultural fertilisers into waterways. These bacterial products might not harm helminths, but they can contribute to neurological disorders like ALS in humans. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5371831/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sulforaphane Sulforaphane / sulphoraphane] This organosulfur compound, which is obtained from cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbages, has been taken in large amounts by one hookworm host without it affecting his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1724242074298407/?comment_id=1724765027579445&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1724242074298407/?comment_id=1724765027579445&reply_comment_id=1724935230895758&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taurine Taurine] is an organic acid that occurs naturally in food, especially seafood and meat (in which form it is no threat to helminths) but it is also produced synthetically and included in a number of products such as health drinks. In this form, it has been linked to a number of [https://web.archive.org/web/20201030111526/https://healthiertalk.com/dangers-taurine-commonly-found-energy-drinks-0996/ health problems], and has consequently been banned in some countries. It has also been shown to have anthelmintic effects, but only against a non-therapeutic helminth [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23832642 in mice]. One helminth self-treater has taken 3 grams of taurine per day without any adverse effect on her hookworms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2178145842241359/]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinc Zinc] is said to inhibit the proliferation of intestinal parasites by stimulating various aspects of the immune system in the digestive tract that counteract parasites. In one animal study [http://jn.nutrition.org/content/130/5/1412S.full] the rodent nematode worm, H. polygyrus, was found to be better able to survive in mice which had been deliberately made deficient in zinc. Those who claim that zinc is an effective antiparasitic in humans suggest a dosage of 15-50 mg per day, but several helminth hosts have taken supplements containing this amount of zinc, in some cases continuously, without issue. One hookworm host takes 10 mg on alternate days, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930029970386292/?comment_id=930318850357404&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D],[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930029970386292/?comment_id=930807120308577&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] another has taken 15 mg zinc gluconate or zinc picolinate daily for several years, while yet another has taken 23 mg zinc gluconate/citrate plus 18.75 mg zinc acetate daily, and previously took 30mg zinc picolinate daily[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/930029970386292/?comment_id=943449092377713&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D], all without any apparent adverse effect on their worms. However, someone who was trying to grow his own hookworms had no success with incubation while he was taking a zinc supplement, the dose of which he had increased slowly to a maximum of 130 mg/day. Three weeks after he stopped all zinc intake, he found NA larvae in his incubations for the first time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/4716370328468547] ❌[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinc_oxide%23ZnO_nanostructures Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs)] have shown strong anthelmintic effects, in vitro, against several gastrointestinal nematodes encountered in veterinary medicine. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26177503] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29975659] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31931890] As well as their topical use in sunscreens and cosmetics, zinc oxide nanoparticles are also used in some food products (in spite of the fact that they can cause DNA damage), but the amounts used in this application may be too small to harm human helminths.

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_A Vitamin A]. Supplementation with this vitamin has no adverse effect on helminths [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25127885] but a vitamin A deficiency may reduce colonisation by worms. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24458645]

* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_C Vitamin C]. This does not harm helminths, even in high doses.

* Xuezikhang, a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_yeast_rice red yeast rice] product, appears to be harmless to hookworms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1347982335257718/?comment_id=1348392021883416&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]
</blockquote>



=== Spices and culinary herbs ===
<blockquote>

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annatto Annatto / roucou] (Bixa orellana). One in vitro study found that higher concentrations of extracts of B. orellana seeds were effective against the earthworm species, Eisenia fetida, [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/356635196_Evaluation_of_Antihelminthic_Activity_of_Bixa_orellana] but it was not tested in intestinal helminths. There has been a single claim [https://www.reddit.com/r/HelminthicTherapy/comments/wmm6im/caution_annatto_can_harm_na] by an NA host of a return of disease symptoms shortly after starting to take an annatto and rice dietary supplement containing a high concentration of delta-tocotrienol, a form of vitamin E: [https://tricutis-shop.de/DeltaTop-delta-Tocotrienol DeltaTop delta-Tocotrienol].

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asafoetida Asafoetida] has been used as an anthelmintic in traditional medicine in several parts of the world [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3459456/] but there has only been one report to date of its use by someone hosting therapeutic helminths, and this user says that he hasn’t noticed any ill effect on his hookworms after occasionally consuming foods that list asafoetida as an ingredient.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basil Basil] Ocimum basilicum, also called great basil, is a culinary herb in the family Lamiaceae (mints) used in cuisines worldwide. In Western cuisine, the generic term "basil" refers to the variety also known as Genovese basil or sweet basil, of which there are many cultivars, including Napolitano basil, also known as Napoletano basil, Neapolitan basil, Mammoth basil, Bolloso Napoletano basil, Napolitano Mammoth-Leafed basil and Italian Large-Leaf basil. Several hookworm hosts have eaten basil and drunk tea made from it without any harm befalling their worms [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/872768092779147/?comment_id=872772372778719&offset=0&total_comments=2&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7987286861327199?comment_id=7987574677965084] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7987286861327199/?comment_id=7992929767429575] ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ocimum_tenuiflorum '''Holy basil'''] (Ocimum tenuiflorum, also known as Ocimum sanctum, tulsi and tulasi/thulasi) is claimed online to be antiparasitic. There is also evidence showing that its essential oil has potent anthelmintic activity, including against the research worm, C. elegans, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11543966] and it has shown some activity against the malaria parasite, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21643655] but there is no indication yet as to how Holy Basil might affect human helminths. Holy Basil is used for religious purposes, in traditional medicine and Ayurveda. It is also used for its essential oil and is widely used as an herbal tea.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_pepper Black pepper] (Piper nigrum). This is often used as an ingredient in proprietary parasite cleanses due to its established antiparasitic effects. It could therefore have an adverse effect on human helminths, though this is likely to be dependent on the dosage and on the form taken. So, while use of the whole spice in small quantities as a condiment is unlikely to present a problem, taking medicinal quantities of black pepper may harm helminths.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunium_bulbocastanum Bunium bulbocastanum] This vegetable/spice, which is commonly called black cumin, great pignut, black zira or earthnut, is thought to be harmless to helminths when consumed in dietary quantities.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cayenne_pepper Cayenne] (Cayenne pepper is a type of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capsicum_annuum Capsicum annuum], and cayenne powder is generally made from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bird%27s_eye_chili bird's eye chili peppers], which are classified as [https://archive.org/details/spiceshenry00ridlrich/page/360/mode/2up?view=theater Capsicum minimum] and often mistaken for the similar-looking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capsicum_frutescens Capsicum frutescens], cultivar [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siling_labuyo siling labuyo], the fruits of which are generally smaller and grow in an upwards direction.) Cayenne is claimed to irritate parasites, and often appears as an ingredient in proprietary parasite cleansing products for pets and humans. There have been a couple of reports of an adverse effect on hookworms, including from someone who says that even a smidgen of cayenne causes her to temporarily lose the benefits from her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1062770903778864/?comment_id=1063030367086251&reply_comment_id=1063315093724445&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D] Someone else who has reported a loss of benefits after taking a "lot" of cayenne, has said that their benefits also returned after they stopping taking the cayenne. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1950621241660488/?comment_id=1951098958279383&reply_comment_id=1951836918205587&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1950621241660488/?comment_id=1951098958279383&reply_comment_id=1956996454356300&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Another cayenne user who reported that, in her early days with NA, she topped some meals with about ⅛ tsp of cayenne, has said that, in her case, the worms seemed to be unaffected. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1950621241660488/?comment_id=1952375724818373&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chili_pepper Chili pepper] (chile, chile pepper, chilli pepper, or chilli). While this is used worldwide as a treatment of certain parasites, and has been demonstrated effective against fascioliasis in animals, evidence that chili might be a problem for therapeutic helminths is lacking. One hookworm host has reported that, while cayenne has had negative responses for him, chilli peppers have not been a problem in his experience, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/892904287432194?comment_id=6868887949833768] and nor have jalapenos, whether fresh or pickled. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6863122353743661/?comment_id=6868980269824536] Another hookworm host has been reported [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/892904287432194/?comment_id=892912737431349&offset=0&total_comments=7&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] to have eaten a HUGE amount of chili during 4 years as a worm host, without any obvious adverse effect on his colony.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnamon Cinnamon] is antimicrobial, as well as being claimed to be effective against parasites, including some parasitic worms, and it appears in lists of ingredients in proprietary parasite cleansing products. The main antimicrobial component of cinnamon is ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnamaldehyde cinnamaldehyde], and this is most concentrated in cinnamon essential oil and cinnamon oleoresins (solid resin extracts produced using solvents) which can be very high in cinnamaldehyde. Forms containing somewhat less cinnamaldehyde are raw cinnamon and cinnamon tinctures which are dissolved in alcohol and about half the strength of raw cinnamon. As cinnamaldehyde is steam-volatile and not water soluble, aqueous extracts of cinnamon should contain less of this substance, and dehydrated/powdered extracts (the form most likely to be encountered in dietary supplements) may contain little, if any at all, so should be less of a threat to helminths. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2225192197536723/?comment_id=2226458237410119&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Generally, the stronger the taste, the more cinnamaldehyde is likely to be present. While the raw spice is generally safe for use in cooking, there has been one report of someone with helminths relapsing after taking an unspecified supplement containing cinnamon, (link expired) and another report of a return of symptoms after eating a rice pudding made with cinnamon. (Link expired)

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clove Clove] (Syzygium aromaticum/Eugenia caryophyllus). Clove oil, which was used traditionally to kill intestinal worms and is claimed to anesthetize fish, contains several powerful antimicrobial agents. While one of these, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eugenol eugenol], is claimed to be anthelmintic, its use didn't produce any loss of benefit in one helminth host who applied it liberally to a dry socket following a difficult tooth extraction, and this was in spite of swallowing and breathing eugenol and a related compound called guaiacol.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cumin Cumin] (Cuminum cyminum) also known as Roman caraway. While the essential oil derived from this spice has shown efficacy against [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anisakis Anisakis], a nematode that parasitises fish and marine mammals, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6130707/] dietary use of the spice is thought to be harmless to human helminths. But see also, ❌ [[#Bitter cumin|Bitter cumin]], ❌ [[#Black cumin|Black cumin]] and Bunium bulbocastanum (sometimes also called black cumin).

* ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elwendia_persica Elwendia persica] (aka Bunium persicum, a close relative of Bunium bulbocastanum). The possible effect of this plant on helminths is as yet unknown.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fennel Fennel] (Foeniculum vulgare). Fennel seed has a long history of use against pinworms and other parasites, with some authorities suggesting that the herb digests parasite eggs and intoxicates parasites. The leaves and oil are both used as dewormers, but one subject has reported no adverse effect from repeated consumption of dietary amounts of fennel seeds (link expired) and another has reported [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/ no loss of worm benefits] after consuming significant quantities of fennel.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fenugreek Fenugreek] (Trigonella foenum-graecum). Both the leaves and seeds of fenugreek have been reported to have anthelmintic properties. Alcoholic extracts of the seeds have shown a dose-dependent inhibition of motility (paralysis) in earthworms, [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/49600762_In_vitro_anthelmintic_activity_of_Fenugreek_seeds_extract_against_Pheritima_posthuma] and an aqueous extract of fenugreek leaves has also shown noteworthy anthelmintic activity against earthworms. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303787324_In-vitro_anthelmintic_activity_of_fenugreek_leaves_aqueous_extract_in_Indian_earthworms] After taking half a teaspoon of powdered fenugreek seeds every day for a week, one hookworm host found that his allergies returned with a vengeance. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1426906954031922/] However, another hookworm host ate about 150 grams of fenugreek leaves in a 2 week period without affecting his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1406562676066350/?comment_id=1406580359397915&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garam_masala Garam Masala] The constituents of this blend of ground spices vary between geographical regions, but the majority of the commonly used ingredients do not have anthelmintic properties, thus minimising the anthelmintic potential of any blend that might include one or two items that could be harmful to worms when used on their own. So garam masala is very unlikely to harm helminths.

* ✅ Garlic (Allium sativum). Garlic compounds have demonstrated anthelmintic activity against flatworms in mice, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28536879] garlic oil extract has shown anthelmintic effects against Schistosoma mansoni in mice [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1995764515002011] and allicin, the active principle of garlic extract, has also been shown to have anthelmintic properties, although one hookworm host has reported that taking a stabilized allicin extract for several weeks did not kill her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/859756094080347/?comment_id=1146360268753260&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R3%22%7D] Alcoholic extracts of garlic have also shown ‘moderate’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424]. However, the exact amount of garlic needed to kill intestinal parasites in humans has not been established. Some sources suggest 1,000 - 4,000 mg per day, using concentrated garlic capsules or tablets, and fresh garlic is said to be more effective than capsules. While chewing three cloves of garlic each day is recommended by some online sources as a treatment for ‘parasites’ in humans, the ingestion of 9 to 14 g of raw garlic daily (54 g total) or 15 to 21 g daily (89 g total) had no evident effect on the egg output of NA in one host, [http://www.ajtmh.org/content/journals/10.4269/ajtmh.1969.18.920] so hookworms may in fact be able to withstand up to 21 grams (approximately 10 cloves) of garlic per day. This means that garlic is unlikely to be an effective killer of mature worms, and its main anthelmintic effect may be to reduce the viability of ova. Cooking may reduce its effect against parasite eggs and larvae, but neither cooked or raw garlic appears to have any adverse effect on the efficacy of a therapeutic hookworm colony.


* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginger Ginger] (Zingiber officinale) contains a chemical called zingibain (aka. zingipain, or ginger protease) that has been claimed to dissolve some parasites and their eggs, and numerous hookworm hosts have reported adverse effects after consuming ginger. One subject reported that fresh ginger drinks depress the egg production of his worms and increase his disease symptoms, and another has reported that eating a LOT of ginger 6 weeks post-inoculation caused her hookworm side effects to disappear for a few days, but that these eventually returned. A similar response was noted by someone who was in the habit of adding ginger to sushi platters. She found that this seemed to knock the worms out for a while but that they eventually recovered. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2249000525155890/?comment_id=2266705326718743&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Another hookworm host has found that, while consuming powdered or cooked ginger isn’t a problem for him, drinking ginger tea, or any form of kombucha made with raw ginger will stun his worms badly and result in a return of disease symptoms the next day. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4390196884369566/?comment_id=4395716387150949] Someone else, who said that his favorite brand of ginger beer was “pretty spicy”, so was probably made from raw, or only very briefly pasteurized, ginger juice, reported that, after going on a fairly significant binge of the stuff, his worms stopped producing eggs and their benefits diminished. Yet another worm host, who was putting at least a thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger in a smoothie every day, believes this was responsible for actually killing her hookworms. Others have also had issues with ginger, e.g., [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2337067596349182/]. However, one subject has reported eating lots of fresh ginger (mostly cooked) without any problems, and several others have reported a similar lack of issues with ginger. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1568726056516677/?comment_id=1568873536501929&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1763989756990305/?comment_id=1764057080316906&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] One hookworm host says that she regularly takes dried ginger in 1g doses to help with migraines and has not noticed any problems with her worms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1062770903778864/?comment_id=1062777610444860&reply_comment_id=1062782733777681&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] and another routinely takes 550 mg of ginger root powder every morning without any obvious effect on either his hookworms or his human whipworms.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horseradish Horseradish] (Amoracia rusticana) has been claimed to be antiparasitic, and it does contain volatile oils, notably [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mustard_oil mustard oil], which has antibacterial properties and is used as an antiparasitic by some farmers, but evidence about the effects of its use by helminth hosts is lacking.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mustard_(condiment) Mustard]. This condiment is claimed to be effective against intestinal worms, including roundworms and threadworms and, in India, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mustard_oil mustard oil] is used as an antiparasitic by some farmers. However, its action is probably more as a laxative that helps to flush out worms rather than to kill them, and hookworms spend much of their time firmly attached to the gut mucosa. One hookworm host has reported taking about 2 grams of ground mustard seeds most days, with no adverse effect on his worms or their egg production. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1958129950909617/?comment_id=1958255070897105&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nutmeg Nutmeg] (Myristica fragrans, or fragrant nutmeg). This spice, which is obtained by grinding the seed of this tree, (mace is produced from the seed covering) is not harmful to helminths when used as a culinary flavour.


* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregano Oregano] (Origanum vulgare). Oregano oil, which contains isomeric phenols (primarily carvacrol but also including thymol and limonene), can destroy a number of bacteria, fungi and viruses in dilutions as low as 1/50,000, and is also antiparasitic. It is reported to be effective against protozoan parasites in particular as well as roundworm larvae, and somewhat effective against tapeworms. In one study [http://www.chirochat.org/article_files/Article-2953.pdf], 57 per cent of adults with intestinal parasites who were treated with 600 mg of oregano oil daily for six weeks experienced total eradication of their parasites. Several hosts of therapeutic helminths have reported adverse effects on their worms after ingesting oregano oil and, in at least two cases, it has resulted in a total loss of worms. However, one subject, who took oil of ''wild'' oregano sublingually twice each day for 2 weeks had a stool test sometime after this that was positive for hookworms, so perhaps either the wild form of the herb, or the sublingual route, helped reduce the effect on the worms in this case. Some foods, particularly soft cheeses, may be coated with an [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/11/141127082311.htm antimicrobial film incorporating oregano oil] to increase their lifespan, but the amount of oregano involved in this application is unlikely to be a serious threat to helminths. A few '''oregano ''leaves''''' eaten with food are less likely to be harmful to human helminths [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2545907775465162/?comment_id=2545955292127077], but one host of both hookworms and whipworms has reported that, while there was no immediate effect on his worms when he applied a ''heavy'' sprinkling of oregano leaf powder to his food a couple of times in a day, he was later plunged into such a self-critical and depressed mood that, before eventually regaining his usual mental balance, he struggled to do any work for several days.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saffron Saffron] This spice is derived from the flower of crocus sativus, commonly known as the "saffron crocus". (See separate entry for this herb.) One hookworm host took a supplement containing turmeric and saffron for 6 weeks without any adverse effect on her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2129639990425278/]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyme Thyme] (Thymus vulgaris). This is also known as Common Thyme, Garden Thyme. Extracts of the leaves, flowering tops and stems are used to kill hookworms, roundworms, threadworms and skin parasites. However, these are unlikely to harm helminths when eaten in reasonable amounts as part of a normal diet. One helminth host has [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/ eaten significant quantities of thyme] without noticing any adverse effect on her hookworm or whipworm populations.


* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turmeric Turmeric] (Curcuma longa), also known as tumeric, generally does not harm human helminths when eaten in food in its natural, whole form, which only contains 3% of the active ingredient, curcumin, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/] or when it is taken in capsules, e.g., as a daily dose of 25 g turmeric (delivering 700 mg curcumin), [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2129639990425278/] or as a dose of 580 mg turmeric extract delivering 551 mg curcuminoids daily. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3303438489712083/?comment_id=3304307169625215] There have only been two reports of food quantities of turmeric affecting hookworms. The first of these is [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1084044901651464/?comment_id=1084640204925267&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D here], and the second was by an individual who boiled and ground turmeric powder into a paste and twice drank a large quantity of this (2 tbsp) in her tea. She subsequently experienced a return of her old symptoms, all of which persisted. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1874049555984324/?comment_id=1875375212518425&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] There is much more chance of helminths being harmed when ⚡[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curcumin curcumin] is extracted from the turmeric and taken in medicinal quantities. It has been reported that 300 mg of curcumin extract has killed some types of parasites in test tube and animal studies, and that it may temporarily reduce the number of helminth eggs produced. One hookworm host believes that she may have lost her colony as a result of taking a curcumin supplement. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/792892197433404/?comment_id=794226897299934&offset=0&total_comments=11] However, another hookworm host has reported experiencing a very enjoyable “bounce” (indicating a healthy NA colony) after inoculating, in spite of taking 250 mg of curcumin daily. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/792892197433404/] As with other substances that can affect hookworms, the effect of curcumin may depend to some extent on the strength of the individual host’s immune response, as well as on the form of curcumin used. Nano-emulsified curcumin appears to be more effective, therapeutically, [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/11/141106113204.htm] so may also have an increased detrimental impact on helminths. Another high-potency form of curcumin is BCM-95, which has been shown to be 6.93 times more bioavailable than normal curcumin, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2792534/] and this product may have been responsible for a sudden return of disease symptoms for one hookworm host. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/792892197433404/?comment_id=808508489205108&offset=0&total_comments=21&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D] The beneficial effect of curcumin can be increased 5- to 10-fold by adding ascorbic acid (vitamin C) [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814612001744] so taking this vitamin along with curcumin might make it possible to use curcumin therapeutically in much smaller doses (ascorbic acid does not harm helminths), although this vitamin may increase curcumin's adverse effect on helminths if the quantity of the spice is not reduced proportionately.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wild_Turmeric Turmeric, Wild] (Curcuma aromatica). While alcoholic extracts of the rhizomes of wild turmeric have shown ‘moderate’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424 test tube studies] and extracts of the rhizomes may therefore also have an adverse effect on other helminths, it is likely that consuming dietary amounts of this spice will do no harm to human helminths, though this has not yet been confirmed.
</blockquote>

=== Herbs and medicinal plants===

The majority of the herbs listed below have been reported, or claimed, to be antiparasitic, although clinical evidence for this effect is lacking in many cases. Furthermore, where they are indeed antiparasitic, herbs may be more effective against types of parasite other than helminths, although this is not to say that they may not also have some detrimental effect on helminths.

Where a herb is effective against helminths, quite large quantities may be required to dislodge or kill the worms, but consuming some of these herbs on a regular basis, or in the form of concentrates, extracts, tinctures and oils that are directed at the gastrointestinal tract may weaken therapeutic helminths, making them less effective.

It should not be assumed, from a cursory glance at the following list, that most herbs are potential threats to human helminths. This list only contains those herbs that have been mentioned specifically by self-treaters, and there are less than 100 herbs in the entire list. Many thousands of compounds are used in herbal medicine, so it will usually be possible to find a more hookworm-friendly alternative for whatever purpose one has in mind.

Many of the herbs listed below are used to treat a number of conditions in addition to parasite infections, so might be encountered in a range of herbal remedies. It may therefore be advisable for any helminth host who contemplates taking any herbal remedy to check its ingredients against the list below and, where an ingredient appears to have antiparasitic properties, to seek an alternative, if possible.

When taking herbs, an additional risk arises from the fact that the majority of herbal products [http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/267363.php contain unlisted ingredients], in view of which it would seem wise to employ a cautious approach with all herbal products.

==== List of herbs and medicinal plants ====

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* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acacia Acacia]. Also known as thorntree, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whistling_thorn whistling thorn], or wattle. One example of this genus of shrubs and trees, ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acacia_mollissima Acacia mearnsii], previously known as Acacia molissima) contains tannin extracts that have been found to have an [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377840107003641 anthelmintic effect] on Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis in lambs. For a more detailed consideration of the possible effects of tannins on nematodes, see these papers: [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28426037] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36344622/].

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajwain Ajwain] contains thymol (see separate reference), which appears to be the primary constituent of the essential oil extracted from ajwain "seeds" (actually a seed-like fruit). Ajwain may therefore be harmful to human helminths if consumed in the form of ajwain "seeds" or the oil extracted from them, but it ''may'' be less harmful if only the leaves are eaten.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albizia_lebbeck Albizia lebbeck]. Alcoholic extracts of the bark of Albizia lebbeck have shown ‘moderate’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so extracts of the bark may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aloe_vera Aloe vera]. This contains an antimicrobial agent, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saponin saponin], and the laxative chemical, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aloin aloin]. Aloe is perhaps the best known laxative in history, and it may be this, rather than any actual anthelmintic property, that is the source of its reputation for expelling parasites. While extracts have been reported as showing inhibitory effects on two roundworm species, these only affected the hatching of eggs and the development of larval stages. One aloedrinking helminth host has reported that his habit has had no obvious detrimental effect on his worms, and another hookworm host failed to notice any adverse effects after drinking pure aloe juice or gel daily for a week or two, or after drinking one of the 16oz sweetened/flavored drinks. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/803451913044099/]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpinia Alpinia calcaratta]. Alcoholic extracts of the rhizomes of Alpinia calcaratta have shown ‘moderate’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424] so extracts of the rhizomes may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpinia_galanga Alpinia galanga]. Alcoholic extracts of the rhizomes of Alpinia galanga have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424] so extracts of these rhizomes may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrographis_paniculata Andrographis paniculata] (also known as creat, green chiretta; active component: andrographolide). Alcoholic extracts of Andrographis paniculata have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424] Andrographolide has also shown significant ovicidal and larvicidal activity against the human hookworm, [[Ancylostoma duodenale | '''Ancylostoma duodenale''']]. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30763693/]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anise Anise] (Pimpinella anisum). Also known as aniseed. Anise oil may have modest antiparasitic effects and has been recommended by some practitioners as a treatment for mild intestinal parasite infections, but there have not been any reports about this from helminth hosts.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arecoline Arecoline]. This odourless oily liquid derived from the areca nut, fruit of the areca palm ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Areca_catechu Areca catechu]), has long been used medicinally as an anthelmintic.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashwagandha Ashwagandha] (Withania somnifera). Also known as Indian ginseng, poison gooseberry, and winter cherry. Several hookworm self-treaters have reported using ashwagandha without issue. One NA host has reported that taking 380mg ashwagandha root and 95mg ashwagandha root extract twice each day for a month appeared not to affect her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1831773386878608/?comment_id=1832855323437081&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Someone else takes 450 mg ashwagandha x2 per day and reports that his NA are fine, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2416283988427542/?comment_id=2431728343549773&reply_comment_id=2432787723443835] and a third hookworm host has taken 500mg ashwagandha twice a day without any adverse effect on their worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1874049555984324/?comment_id=1875375212518425&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] A naturopathic doctor has also reported that ashwagandha is OK to take while hosting hookworms, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1831773386878608/?comment_id=1832031526852794&reply_comment_id=1833267093395904&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] and someone who is self-treating with human whipworms (TT) has reported that taking a teaspoon of ashwagandha every day did not have any apparent effect on this species. (Also see the list of concerns and contraindications regarding Ashwagandha in [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6319449901444245/ this Facebook post].)

*❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus Astragalus]. A chloroform extract of the Astragalus species, [https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:477246-1 Astragalus ecbatanus], has been shown to have anthelmintic effects against the protoscoleces (the scoleces of the larval form of tapeworms) of the helminth, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echinococcus_granulosus Echinococcus granulosus]. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36457771/]. However, there have been no reports that either of the forms of astragalus that are sold as food supplements ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus_propinquus Astragalus membranaceus/Astragalus propinquus] and Astragalus mongholicus) has had an adverse effect on any of the therapeutic helminths.

* ⚡ [http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/b/balmon04.html Balmony] (Chelone glabra) A decoction or tincture prepared with all parts of the plant is said to be a highly effective remedy for parasites, including intestinal worms. It was used traditionally by Native Americans to expel worms and is used today in proprietary parasite cleansing preparations.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barberry Barberry] (Berberis vulgaris) contains ⚡'''berberine'''.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terminalia_bellirica Beleric] (Terminalia bellirica/Terminalia bellerica). Also known as bastard myrobalan or Bahera. This herb is said to be anthelmintic, but this reputation may be due more to its laxative properties than any actual worm-killing potential.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berberine Berberine] is an amebicide which, in concentrated form, has been shown to kill various parasites such as tapeworms and giardia and to have anti adhesive effects which prevent pathogens from adhering to intestinal mucosal cells. One hookworm host who took one gram of berberine three times a day has reported being pretty sure that this killed his worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1803353316387282/?comment_id=1807383979317549&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bidens_alba Bidens alba] has been reported as not being a problem for helminths.

* ❌ [https://biocidin.com/products/biocidin-liquid-formula Biocidin] is a proprietary herbal blend that includes oregano oil and black walnut, both of which are known to have anthelmintic effects. See the separate entries for these two herbs.

* ❌ [http://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=ijp.2013.211.226 Bitter cumin] (Centratherum anthelminticum). As its Latin name suggests, the seeds of this member of the daisy family are considered anthelmintic.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitter_melon Bitter melon] (Momordica charantia) is used as a folk medicine to treat gastrointestinal diseases, and extracts have shown activity against the nematode worm C. elegans in test tube studies[http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874104003770].

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juglans_nigra Black walnut] (Juglans nigra). Also known as eastern black walnut. This nut has been claimed to be one of the best overall dewormers for humans, killing both the adult and developmental stages of at least 100 parasites. However, according to the American Cancer Society, available scientific evidence does not support claims that the hulls of the black walnut remove intestinal parasites. Although this nut has a strong flavour, it is actually quite rare, as its shell is hard and difficult to remove. It is therefore only likely to be encountered in expensive baked goods. Most commercially available walnuts are hybrids of the ✅'''English walnut'''. "Commerically-sold walnuts will be English unless specified. The taste and appearance of black walnuts is different too." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7955684137820805/?comment_id=7955710474484838] "Black walnuts are very, VERY rare to find in stores, and 100% this will be specified. 'Walnuts' are ALWAYS English walnuts unless otherwise stated." [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7955684137820805?comment_id=7955725021150050]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boswellia Boswellia] is a fragrant resin, extracts of which are used in pharmacology, particularly as anti-inflammatories. There have been no suggestions that boswellia might be a problem for helminths, and its anti-inflammatory action could be supportive of the beneficial effects that helminths produce, as demonstrated in Crohn’s disease in this study. [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11215357]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breadfruit Breadfruit] (Artocarpus altilis)) A methanol-water fraction of this plant has been shown to inactivate 50% of the larvae of the helminth, Strongyloides stercoralis, in approximately 9.5 hours, compared with 35 hours taken by albendazole. Aqueous methanol extracts took 49 hours. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/21072595]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acorus_calamus Calamus/Sweet Flag] (Acorus calamus) The bitter element in sweetflag, acorin, is claimed to have anthelmintic properties, and the standardised rhizome extract of A. calamus has been shown to have significant dose-dependent effects against the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta, so may also harm other helminths. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27757269]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castor_oil Castor oil]. This will not kill helminths, though it may help to expel worms after eradication, and this is probably the reason for its antiparasitic reputation and it's use in para-cleanse products.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cat's_claw Cat’s Claw] is a common name for several plants, but it appears to be applied particularly to two species - [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uncaria_tomentosa Uncaria tomentosa] (samento), most commonly used in the US, and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uncaria_guianensis Uncaria guianensis], typically used in Europe. Medicines made from the root and bark of these species have been claimed online to facilitate the elimination of intestinal parasites, but WebMD states that there is insufficient evidence for its effectiveness against parasites, [http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-395-CAT'S%20CLAW.aspx?activeIngredientId=395&activeIngredientName=CAT%27S%20CLAW] and one hookworm host has taken up to 2000-2500 mg of Uncaria tomentosa daily in raw form for months with no adverse effects on his NA. He was even able to incubate fresh larvae from his colony during this period. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4013894361999822?comment_id=4014662455256346]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larrea_tridentata Chaparral] (Larrea tridentata). Some cultures customarily bathe with chaparral annually to eliminate skin parasites, but use of the leaves of Larrea species is not advised, due to the possibility of damage to the liver and kidneys.

* ❌ Chicken weed ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvia_serotina Salvia serotina]), also known as Littlewoman, has been shown to inactivate 50% of the larvae of the helminth, Strongyloides stercoralis, in approximately 20 hours, compared with 35 hours taken by albendazole. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/21072595]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallopia_multiflora Chinese knotweed] (Fallopia multiflora, also known as Reynoutria multiflora (Thunb.) Moldenke, Polygonum multiflorum Thunb., tuber fleeceflower) has been shown to make one nematode live longer. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181009102529.htm]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnamomum_verum Cinnamomum verum]. This was previously known as ⚡''C. zeylanicum'' and also referred to as ⚡"true cinnamon", ⚡''Ceylon cinnamon'' or ⚡''Sri Lanka cinnamon''. Alcoholic extracts of the bark of ⚡''C. verum'' have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424] so extracts of the bark may also have an adverse effect on other helminths. The spice, ⚡'''cinnamon''' is typically derived from related species within the genus, '''Cinnamomum'''.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citrus_decumana Citrus decumana]. Alcoholic extracts of the rind of Citrus decumana have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so extracts of the rind may also have an adverse effect on other helminths. Citrus decumana is a relative of the common ✅[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grapefruit grapefruit] (citrus paradisi) and, while commercially available forms of ⚡'''grapefruit seed extract''' have a potential to harm human helminths (due to the typical addition of synthetic adulterants), there is no evidence that the flesh of the grapefruit has any adverse effect on helminths.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crocus_sativus Crocus sativus]. Also known as autumn crocus and saffron crocus, this plant is best known for the spice saffron, which is produced from parts of the plant's flowers. (See separate entry for the spice.) Two important bioactive compounds of Crocus sativus (crocin and safranal), and some semi-synthetic derivatives of safranal, have been found to be [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25766747 effective against some types of parasite] (Helicobacter pylori, the malaria parasite, plasmodium, and Leishmania). However, there have been no reports of adverse effects on therapeutic helminths.

* ⚡ '''Curled/Curly Mint''' (Mentha spicata variety crispii/Mentha crispa/Mentha crispata). This cultivar of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spearmint Spearmint] (Mentha spicata), and close relative of Peppermint (Mentha piperita) (see [[#Peppermint|Peppermint reference]]), may be effective against giardia and amoeba infections, and may have anthelmintic properties. It was once listed on a website under, “herbs that your health care provider might consider using to treat intestinal parasites.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20070918071439/http://health.kernan.org/altmed/articles/intestinal-parasites-000097.htm]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desmodium_triflorum Desmodium triflorum]. Alcoholic extracts of Desmodium triflorum have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so it’s extracts may also have an adverse effect on other helminths, possibly due to it containing a significant amount of a powerful psychedelic substance which might cause hookworms to lose their grip and be expelled.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echinacea Echinacea]. This is not a single plant but a genus containing several different species. In the case of medicinal products labelled as echinacea, these are likely to have been obtained from one or more of the following sources: E. purpurea, E. angustifolia or E. pallida. Such products may also be either extracts, or the expressed juice of, different plant organs (e.g., roots and leaves) resulting in different products having very different chemical compositions. However, there have been no reports of human helminths being harmed by taking any echinacea products. As the polysaccharides found in Echinacea purpurea roots have been [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26190752 shown to have anti-inflammatory effects], water extracts of these roots may be of benefit to helminth hosts who require a supplementary anti-inflammatory.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elecampane Elecampane.] (Inula helenium, also known as alant, aster helenium, aster officinalis, aunée, aunée Officinale, elfdock, elfwort, enule campagne, grande aunée, helenio, helenium grandiflorum, horse-elder, horseheal, horse-heal, Indian elecampane, inule aulnée, inule aunée, inule hélénie, &OElig;il-de-cheval, scabwort, velvet dock, wild sunflower and yellow starwort.) According to WebMD, this herb can be used to kill intestinal worms, including hookworms and whipworms. [https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-2/elecampane] One hookworm host who took some drops containing several herbs that included elecampane suffered “vicious” diarrhoea for 16 hours, after which she reportedly lost the benefits from her worms.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epazote Epazote]. See [[#Wormseed|Wormseed]].

* ❌ [http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ceterach_officinarum Erba ruggine] (Ceterach officinarum) is listed on one website under, “Herbals that may kill and expel worms.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20160215131104/http://www.altmd.com/Articles/Worms--Encyclopedia-of-Alternative-Medicine]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eurycoma_longifolia Eurycoma longifolia] (commonly called tongkat ali, pasak bumi or malaysian ginseng). The root of the plant is used in Indonesia and Malaysia as a health tonic, the benefits of which are claimed to include the treatment of intestinal worm infections. However, one hookworm host has reported using 100mg tongkat ali extract, containing 10% eurycomanone, for 60 days without any adverse effect on his worm colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6839629756092921/?comment_id=6839701856085711]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankincense Frankincense] (olibanum). This aromatic resin is used in incense and perfumes, and is obtained from trees in the Boswellia genus. There have been no reports about it having any effect on helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentian_root Gentian root]. The root and underground stem of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentiana_lutea Gentiana lutea] (yellow gentian) are said to assist in expelling 'harmful organisms'. One subject has reported that taking a form of gentian in large quantity on a daily basis for sinus inflammation was responsible for the loss of his whipworms, although possibly not his hookworms.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginkgo_biloba Ginkgo biloba]. There has been one hint that ginkgo may have caused a mild reduction in hookworm benefits, but this was by no means certain, and two other helminth hosts have reported taking ginkgo regularly with no apparent adverse effect on their worms. (Also see Anticoagulants.)

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goldenseal Goldenseal] (Hydrastis canadensis). This contains '''berberine'''.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coptis_chinensis Goldenthread/Chinese goldthread] (Coptis chinensis) contains '''berberine'''.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goosefoot Goosefoot] (Chenopodium ambrosioides) is widely used to deworm animals, and the Japanese make a dewormer tea with the leaves. Goosefoot oil is a highly efficient anthelmintic, and extremely toxic. Human consumption of this herb has often produced strong side effects such as nausea and headaches, and even death in some cases.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hagenia Hagenia] (Hagenia abyssinica). Also known as African redwood, brayera, cusso, hagenia, and kousso, hagenia has been used as a treatment for the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), but is often only partially effective in this case.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terminalia_chebula Haritaki] (Terminalia chebula). Also known as Yellow Myrobalan, Chebulic Myrobalan, Kadukkai, Silikha, Himmej, Karakkaya and A-ru-ra. The fruits are reportedly anthelmintic, but this reputation may be due more to its laxative properties than any actual worm-killing potential.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Houttuynia_cordata Houttuynia cordata Thunb] (HCT), also known as fish mint, fish leaf, rainbow plant, chameleon plant, heart leaf, fish wort, Chinese lizard tail, and bishop's weed. The leaf extract of this Thai herb, which is used as an anti-inflammatory medication in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26170903] has shown anthelmintic activity against Hymenolepis diminuta, especially the adult worms. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23024502/] The entire Saururaceae plant family is considered to have anthelmintic properties and is used by the Naga tribes in Northeast India to treat intestinal worm infections in general. It may therefore also have a potentially harmful effect on other therapeutic helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydnocarpus_wightiana Hydnocarpus wightiana]. Alcoholic extracts of the seeds have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so extracts of the seeds may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyssopus_officinalis Hyssop] (Hyssopus officinalis). The leaf contains an essential oil with antiseptic properties that has been claimed to have anthelmintic effects, but, if eaten as a herb, hyssop is unlikely to harm helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ipecac Ipecac], syrup of. Alkaloids in ipecac, including [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emetine emetine], are reported to kill several types of parasite, particularly amoebae, but also pinworms and tapeworms, although the amounts needed to produce these effects in humans are generally high and can lead to severe side effects. Emetine and the somewhat safer form, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dihydroemetine Dehydroemetine], are usually reserved for rare cases of people infected with amoebae who are not cured by using anti-amoeba drugs.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juniper Juniper] (Juniperus communis) is a very effective natural antibiotic which is also said to have deworming properties, notably against liver fluke, and is used to treat worm infestations in animals. Juniper is also used as the primary flavouring in gin, but there have been no reports of any harm coming to helminths as a result of drinking gin.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaempferia_galanga Kaempferia galanga]. Alcoholic extracts of the rhizomes have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so extracts of the rhizomes may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kava Kava/kava-kava] (Piper methysticum). According to this report[http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/index.cfm?id=3180], the active ingredients in Kava tea ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kavalactone kavalactones]) can create mild sedation without disrupting cognitive function, and can act as a muscle relaxant, with higher doses having an effect similar to that of a local anaesthetic. If Kava tea were to “relax” hookworms, this might conceivably affect their ability to keep their grip on their host’s mucosa, which might lead to them being expelled, especially if the drink is taken in quantity or at higher strength.

* ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactuca_virosa Lactuca virosa] Also known as wild lettuce, bitter lettuce, laitue vireuse, opium lettuce, poisonous lettuce, tall lettuce, great lettuce and rakutu-karyumu-so. While this herb is claimed by a few sources online to have an anthelmintic effect (e.g., [https://herbu.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/8-Wild-Lettuce-5pgs.pdf] (PDF)), there have been no reports of it having an adverse effect on either NA or TT. However, it is worth noting that Lactuca virosa can cause toxic effects in those who consume it. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3031874/]

* ❓[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemon_balm Lemon balm] (Melissa officinalis), a member of the mint family also known as balm, common balm or balm mint. This has been found to exhibit high nematicidal activity against the roundworm, Meloidogyne incognita [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20527965] and, when included with other herbs, to help reduce the number of pigs infected with the roundworm, Ascaris suum. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19954891]. It is also listed as a vermifuge on some herbal websites, but there have been no reports thus far of lemon balm having adversely affected either NA to TT, and one NA host has reported using it almost daily for over a year, both as a tea and a tincture, without it causing any issues for her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7626177840771438/]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemongrass Lemongrass] (Cymbopogon citratus) essential oil has shown [http://www.academia.edu/3999135/Evaluation_of_in_vitro_anthelmintic_activity_of_Cymbopogon_citratus_lemon_grass_extract anthelmintic activity against earthworms]. However, one individual has consumed lemongrass tea [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/ without adverse effect] on her hookworm or whipworm colonies.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liquorice Liquorice/licorice], the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra. One hookworm host has reported [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/798992926823331/?comment_id=799022316820392&offset=0&total_comments=2] taking “lots” of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deglycyrrhizinated_licorice deglycyrrhizinated licorice] (DGL) with no ill effect on his worms. And another NA host has reported taking liquorice extract without any problems. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1627189140670368/?comment_id=1627254150663867&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] Liquorice extracts may be useful as an adjunctive therapy [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26383911 for psoriasis, for colitis] and possibly other autoimmune diseases, but excessive consumption of liquorice containing glycyrrhizin/glycyrrhizic acid [http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150302081147.htm may not be wise]. The World Health Organization's recommended daily maximum for liquorice is 2 mg/kg.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lippia_nodiflora Lippia nodiflora]. Alcoholic extracts of this have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so these extracts may also have an adverse effect on other worms.

* ❌ Love weed ([https://plants.jstor.org/compilation/cuscuta.americana Cuscuta americana]) extract has been shown to inactivate 50% of the larvae of the helminth, Strongyloides stercoralis, in approximately 2 hours, compared with 35 hours taken by albendazole. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/21072595]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Male_fern Male fern] (Dryopteris filix mas). Also once known as worm fern! The rhizomes and young shoots (fiddleheads) of the male fern have antiparasitic properties and the root has been used to treat tapeworms. However, this herb is seldom used today due to its side effects (e.g. headaches and nausea) and because large doses are extremely poisonous and may induce liver damage. The North American equivalent of the male fern is the evergreen [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dryopteris_marginalis marginal shield-fern] (Dryopteris marginalis).

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastic_(plant_resin) Mastic gum] Mastic (plant resin), also known as tears of Chios, is excreted by the resin glands of certain trees. One NA host has reported chewing mastic gum every day for a couple of months, and said that even chewing it until it dissolved had no harmful effect on his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/6291172814271954/]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milk_thistle Milk Thistle] (Silybum marianum). Also known as cardus marianus, blessed milk thistle, Marian Thistle, Mary Thistle, Saint Mary's Thistle, Mediterranean milk thistle, variegated thistle and Scotch thistle. There have been no adverse reports about this herb from worm hosts, and there are no reasons to believe that it might harm human helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mimosa_pudica Mimosa pudica] Also known as shy plant, sensitive plant, sleepy plant, action plant, touch-me-not, and shameplant, this popular houseplant is a tropical fern, whose leaves close rapidly when touched. Aqueous methanol extracts of the leaves of this plant showed a similar ability as the anthelmintic drug, levamisole, to inactivate larvae of the helminth, Strongyloides stercoralis. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/21072595] While there have been no reports to date of this plant having a harmful effect on any of the therapeutic helminths, it has been used extensively as an anti-parasitic agent in traditional and Ayurvedic medicine, so clearly has significant potential as an anthelmintic.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morinda_citrifolia Morinda citrifolia], also known as great morinda, Indian mulberry, beach mulberry and cheese fruit). Alcoholic extracts of the tender leaves of ''M. citrifolia'' have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so the same extracts may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mugwort Mugwort] (Artemisia vulgaris). Also known as Moxa, Common Wormwood, Traveler's Herb and Felon Herb, and a relative of wormwood (Artemisia Absinthium), mugwort is said to make short work of roundworms, pinworms and tapeworms.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myrrh Myrrh]. This has antiparasitic effects against various schistosome species and the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neem Neem] (Azadirachta indica). Also known as margosa, nimtree and Indian lilac. Ayurvedic medicine holds that Neem is the best herb for treating worms and other parasites and that a simple decoction of Neem leaves can kill all parasites present in the intestines. Neem extract has also been shown to be [http://www.banglajol.info/index.php/DUJBS/article/view/8836 more effective against rodent helminths] than standard chemotherapy with albendazole or mebendazole.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urtica_dioica Nettle, stinging] (Urtica dioica) Stinging nettle was found to have anthelmintic effects in one study [https://benthamopen.com/contents/pdf/TOPHARMCJ/TOPHARMCJ-3-38.pdf] but this was carried out ''in vitro'', using a nettle ''extract'', and in a non-therapeutic worm (the Indian earthworm) so these findings are not directly applicable to humans using human-adapted helminths. There have been no reports of any adverse effect on human helminths after their hosts have drunk nettle tea, and one hookworm host has reported regularly eating nettles without issue. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1265558373500115/?comment_id=1265700353485917&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noni Noni] (Morinda citrifolia). See the separate entry for Morinda citrifolia, above. A test tube study [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1158424/] found that noni helps to eliminate the roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, but, so far, no one hosting therapeutic helminths has reported using this.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olive_leaf Olive leaf extract] (Olea europaea). Known as 'nature's antibiotic', this extract contains a component called oleuropein that is able to degrade pathological microorganisms of all kinds, and inhibit or kill many types of intestinal parasites including flatworms, hookworms, roundworms and tapeworms. Two subjects have reported losing their helminths after taking this.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregon_grape Oregon grape] (Berberis aquifolium/mahonia aquifolium) contains '''berberine'''.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oroxylum_indicum Oroxylum indicum] (also known as broken bones plant, Indian calosanthes, Indian trumpet flower, kampong, midnight horror and tree of Damocles). The bark extract of O. indicum [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26660694 produces concentration-dependent effects against both larval and adult H. diminuta worms] so may also affect other helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palmarosa Palmarosa] (Cymbopogon martinii). Also known as Indian geranium, gingergrass and rosha or rosha grass. This may kill helminths.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passionflower Passion flower] (Passiflora). This will not harm helminths.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handroanthus Pau d’arco]. Also known as lapacho, red lapacho or taheebo, pau d'arco is a tea made from the inner bark of Handroanthus impetiginosus (Pink Ipê), which is claimed to have antiparasitic effects. Its main active ingredients are lapachol, quercetin and other flavonoids. Having expectorant properties, it is used as a herbal remedy for colds, flu and smoker's cough. However, lapachol is rather toxic and is more often used topically, for example as as antibacterial or pesticide. There have been no reports from helminthic therapy self-treaters to suggest what effect, if any, drinking pau d'arco might have on therapeutic helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentha_pulegium Pennyroyal] (Mentha pulegium). A member of the mint family, also known as European pennyroyal, pennyrile, squaw mint, mosquito plant and pudding grass. This plant has anthelmintic properties. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32002775]


* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peppermint Peppermint] (Mentha piperita, aka M. balsamea Willd) is used as an ingredient in some antiparasitic preparations. Several helminth hosts have strongly suspected that peppermint oil killed their worms, and one found he could not establish a worm colony at all while taking peppermint oil. Even eating a lot of peppermints caused a return of disease symptoms for one hookworm host. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/948433751879247/?comment_id=948595591863063&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] However, a number of others, who have used peppermint oil as a treatment for IBS, have noticed nothing untoward, and one subject has reported taking peppermint oil continuously without issue. Only the oil has been implicated. Eating ✅''peppermint leaves'', or drinking tea made from them, should not be a problem, as was found by two hookworm hosts who have reported drinking lots of peppermint tea without hurting their worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1986080694781209/?comment_id=1986669308055681&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7433421123380445/?comment_id=7434211146634776] ''Peppermint extract'' has also been reported not to be a problem for another hookworm host. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3042115625844372/?comment_id=3048690678520200]

* ❌ '''Pollia serzogonian'''. Alcoholic extracts of the rhizomes of ⚡''P. serzogonian'' have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424] so extracts of the rhizomes may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ❌ [http://www.starchild.co.uk/products/6564_3590_quassia-root-chips.aspx Quassia] (Picrasma excelsa) has, anecdotally, been used successfully to treat threadworms and roundworms, as well as giardiasis, especially when used as an enema. It is a favoured botanical anthelmintic because of its low toxicity.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhodiola_rosea Rhodiola rosea]. Two hookworm hosts have reported taking rhodiola without any adverse effect on their colonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/995774170478538/?comment_id=996296763759612&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1627189140670368/?comment_id=1627254150663867&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosemary Rosemary] has been reported not to be a problem for helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvia_officinalis Sage] (Salvia officinalis) was used traditionally as a treatment for intestinal worms and some forms of sage are still often included as an ingredient in modern proprietary antiparasitic remedies. Also one NA host has reported that drinking sage-containing teas stunned his colony for nearly a month. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/3505446409511289/?comment_id=5274927742563138&reply_comment_id=5275387002517212] However, the use of sage leaves as a culinary herb may not pose a problem for helminths, but there has not yet been sufficient feedback to be certain about this. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sage_oil Sage oil] is likely to be much more of a problem for helminths, and one helminth provider cautions against the use of any concentrated form of sage.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvadora_persica Salvadora persica] (also known as arak, jhak, pīlu, Salvadora indica, toothbrush tree and mustard tree). Extracts of the root of this plant have been found to have powerful anthelmintic activity in a model worm. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31516352]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sambucus_nigra Sambucus nigra], also known as European elderberry, European black elderberry, elder, European elder, elderberry, black elder, and the branded product, Sambucol. Several NA hosts have taken different forms of black elderberry liquid with no harm to their NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/2546894892033117/] Elderberry is known to stimulate the immune system, so might increase the symptoms of autoimmune diseases [https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-434-elderberry.aspx?activeingredientid=434&activeingredientname=elderberry] [https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/elderberry-01#references-7] which may give the impression that it has affected a worm colony when it hasn't. Also see the comments [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1570295849693031/?comment_id=1570536949668921&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D here] and [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1570295849693031/?comment_id=1570537809668835&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D here].

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santonin Santonin] is extracted from the dry buds of the desert plant ''Eurasian wormwood'' ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_cina Artemisia cina]). It acts against most parasites except Echinococcus, and is used to treat roundworms.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saw_palmetto Saw palmetto] (Serenoa repens). Also known simply as Serenoa, or Sabal serrulatum. One individual has reported an inability to maintain a hookworm colony while taking this herb, but had success once the herb was discontinued.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shilajit Shilajit] (mumijo). One hookworm host has taken this without any apparent adverse effect on his colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1132613460127941/]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ulmus_rubra Slippery elm] (ulmus rubra). This is listed on at least one website[http://www.livestrong.com/article/395900-herbal-home-remedy-for-hookworms-in-a-human/] as a herb that may be helpful in treating various types of parasitic worms, including hookworms, but the only report[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/796860063703284/?comment_id=796869800368977&offset=0&total_comments=2] so far was from a hookworm host who said that she used a small amount of slippery elm powder on a few occasions without noticeably affecting her worms.

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soursop Soursop]. This is also called graviola, guyabano and guanábana, and is the fruit of the Annona muricata tree. A. muricata has demonstrated nematicidal activity against several roundworms, including Meloidogyne incognita [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37552644/], Trichinella spiralis [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34515021/] and Haemonchus contortus. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31455460/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23583362/] Since NA are nematodes, there is a possibility of A. muricata also producing an adverse effect on this species, but there have been no reports yet by helminth self-treaters.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southernwood Southernwood] (Artemisia abrotanum) This European flowering plant has demonstrated effects against some helminths. It is also known as old man, boy's love, oldman wormwood, lover's plant, appleringie, garderobe, Our Lord's wood, maid's ruin, garden sagebrush, European sage, sitherwood and lemon plant. Spondias (Spondias mombin or Spondias purpurea var. lutea) This tropical fruit, which is also known as hog plums, Spanish plums, libas in Bikol, golden apples and mombins, may have anthelmintic effects.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypericum_perforatum St. John’s Wort] (Hypericum perforatum). It had been considered conceivable that some of the constituents of hypericum might have an adverse effect on helminths if taken in isolation and in large quantities (e.g., hyperforin, which has demonstrated some antibacterial properties, and hypericin, which has shown both antibacterial and antiviral activity), but there have been no reports of adverse effects on human helminths from any hypericum product in more than a decade.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_annua Sweet Annie] (Artemisia annua). Also known as sweet wormwood, sweet sagewort and annual wormwood. Both the herb and the pure form of its active ingredient, the sesquiterpene lactone, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisinin artemisinin], have been used traditionally to treat malaria and intestinal parasites. Artemisinin is a potent anthelmintic and has been shown to be effective against [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schistosoma schistosomes]. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29727708]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tansy Tansy] (Tanacetum vulgare), also known as common tansy, cow bitter, bitter buttons and golden buttons, is highly toxic to intestinal parasites and, for centuries, tansy tea has been prescribed by herbalists to expel worms. One study found that both the crude hydroalcoholic extract of T. Vulgare, and its essential oils, possess significant activity against adult S. mansoni worms, and the activity of the essential oils may be related, at least in part, to monoterpene thujones, which were detected as major constituents of the essential oils. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3929489/]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea_tree_oil Tea tree oil] (Melaleuca alternifolia) has been claimed to kill intestinal worms, including roundworms, tapeworms and hookworms, and its anthelmintic activity has been investigated. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33503761/] The use of tea tree products may therefore have adverse effects on therapeutic helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tephrosia_purpurea Tephrosia purpurea]. Alcoholic extracts of ⚡''T. purpurea'' have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so these extracts may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thymol Thymol]. This is a monoterpene phenol found in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyme%23Medicinal_use oil of thyme] and ''oregano oil'' (see separate reference), as well as ''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajwain ajwain] oil'' and ajwain "seeds" (actually the seed-like fruit from which the oil is extracted). Thymol has antimicrobial and antifungal properties and is said to be highly effective against hookworms. It can also be toxic and has caused fatalities in children.

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usnea Usnea] are lichen species with powerful antibiotic and antifungal properties. [http://species.wikimedia.org/wiki/Usnea_florida Usnea florida] extract has been found to have a dose-dependent anthelmintic effect against the nematode worm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichinella_spiralis Trichinella spiralis].

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arctostaphylos_uva-ursi Uva-ursi]. (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi). One of several related species referred to as bearberry, uva-ursi contains the glycoside [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arbutin arbutin], which has antimicrobial properties. There are claims online that uva-ursi is also anthelmintic, but, so far, there have been no reports of its effect on therapeutic helminths.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valerian_(herb) Valerian] (Valeriana officinalis). One hookworm host has reported taking valerian tincture without noticing any interaction with her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1300794123309873/?comment_id=1301681973221088&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasaka Vasaka] (Justicia adhatoda). Also known as Malabar Nut, Adulsa, Adhatoda and Vasa. From the same family as Adhatoda zeylanica. The leaves (which contain [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasicine vasicine], an alkaloid with significant antimicrobial activity), root, bark, fruit, and flowers are all said to help in removing intestinal parasites.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vernonia_amygdalina Vernonia amygdalina] Wild Mahale chimpanzees control parasite-related diseases by ingesting the pith of this plant, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7878093/] and some human tribal communities use concoctions of the plant for the same purpose. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vernonia_amygdalina#Medicinal]

* ❌ Vervine ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stachytarpheta_jamaicensis Stachytarpheta jamaicensis]) (Also known as, blue porterweed, blue snake weed, bastard vervain, Brazilian tea, Jamaica vervain and light-blue snakeweed. Vervine extract has been shown to inactivate 50% of the larvae of the helminth, Strongyloides stercoralis, in approximately 81.5 hours - not much more than the anthelmintic drug, thiabendazole, which took 74 hours. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/21072595]

* ✅ Vitaxyn. Alcoholic herbal concoctions with this name, or referred to as "Tancosan", are thought unlikely to be a problem if taken at the recommended dosage and unless they contain some other ingredient that is known to be harmful to helminths. A product called "Tancosan" was taken by one hookworm host for over 2 years without any obvious adverse effect on her worms.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitex_agnus-castus Vitex agnus-castus]. Also known as vitex, chaste tree, chasteberry, Abraham's balm, lilac chastetree and monk's pepper. One hookworm host has taken 1000 mg of dried vitex agnus castus each day for many months without any noticeable ill effect on her worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/986939411362014/?comment_id=986984301357525&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]

* ⚡ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juglans_cinerea White walnut] (Juglans cinerea). Also known as Butternut. This nut has been used to expel rather than kill worms, although both root bark and leaves have been used in combination with an equal amount of ❌''Mugwort'' to treat worms in children.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wild_rue Wild rue] (Peganum harmala). Also known as Esfand, Syrian rue, African rue and harmal. Its powdered seeds were used traditionally to expel tapeworms.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stachys_officinalis Wood betony] (Stachys officinalis). Also known as betony, purple betony, bishopwort, or bishop's wort. A tea made from this may kill helminths.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woodsorrel Woodsorrel] (Oxalis) has been reported[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/544122108977082/] as not being a problem for worm hosts when eaten as a food.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dysphania_ambrosioides Wormseed] (Dysphania ambrosioides, formerly Chenopodium ambrosioides). Also known as epazote, goosefoot, Jesuit's Tea, Mexican Tea, Herba Sancti Mariae and paico. Wormseed is a traditional herbal remedy used in the tropics for expelling roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. The oil, leaves or whole plants can be used, but one study[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Studies+on+the+traditional+herbal+anthelmintic+Chenopodium+ambrosioides+L.:+Ethnopharmacological+evaluation+and+clinical+field+trials] found that the powdered herb did not effectively eradicate hookworms, roundworms, or whipworms.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_absinthium Wormwood] (Artemisia Absinthium). Also known as common wormwood, green ginger or grand wormwood, this herb was used traditionally as an anthelmintic. Other members of the genus, artemisia, that were traditionally used as anthelmintics include white wormwood ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_herba-alba Artemisia herba-alba]), Eurasian wormwood (Artemisia cina) commonly known as santonica, Levant wormseed and wormseed, and Russian wormwood (Artemisia vestita) also known as Buer, Chamariya, Drubsha, Ganga Tulsi, Kubsha, Kundiyaa, Kundja and Seski. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36985759/]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yerba_mate Yerba mate] (also known as erva-mate). No adverse reports have appeared so far about the effect of this herb on human helminths, or of the beverage made from it, known as mate, maté, Chimarrão, cimarrón, Tererê or Tereré.

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zingiber_zerumbet Zingiber zerumbet]. Alcoholic extracts of the rhizomes of Z. zerumbet have shown ‘good’ anthelmintic activity against the human roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, in test tube studies[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1158424], so these extracts may also have an adverse effect on other helminths.

{{Columns}}

=== Fungi ===
<blockquote>
* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amanita_muscaria Amanita muscaria] is a psychoactive and poisonous fungus with several known variations, or subspecies. One hookworm host has reported eating "a couple of hats (5-6 max)" on a few occasions without any effect on his NA that he can remember. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/2485762264813047/?comment_id=5343576092364969&reply_comment_id=5374046685984576]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inonotus_obliquus Chaga mushroom] (Inonotus obliquus). This fungus, which grows singly on birch and other trees, is claimed, in several places online, to be effective against intestinal parasites, and it has been used for this purpose in the traditional folk medicine of Russia and Eastern Europe. One hookworm host thinks that drinking tea made from chaga mushrooms may have caused the failure of several hookworm incubations, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/810579668997990/?comment_id=810664495656174&offset=0&total_comments=8&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R4%22%7D] however, another NA host has taken 200 mg+ daily of the chaga-containing Sacred 7 Mushroom Extract Powder blend (chaga, cordyceps, lion's mane, maitake, reishi, shiitake, & turkey tail) with no apparent ill effect on his NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/4610641158991803/?comment_id=4611955338860385&reply_comment_id=4887932381262678]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cordyceps Cordyceps] One NA host took 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cordyceps 5 times a week for months with no ill effect on his helminths. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6943497675706128/?comment_id=6943653899023839]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fomitopsis_betulina Fomitopsis betulina]. This edible fungus, which is usually found on birch trees, was previously known as Piptoporus betulinus, and is commonly known as the birch polypore, birch bracket, or razor strop. Wikipedia reports that F. betulina has been widely used in traditional medicines, and a paper referenced in the Wikipedia article suggests that polyporenic acid, found in the fruit body of the fungus, may be poisonous to the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura (TT). [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fomitopsis_betulina#Research_on_chemical_constituents] F. betulina also contains toxic resins and an active compound, agaric acid, which are powerful purgatives that can result in strong though short-lived bouts of diarrhoea. [https://sci-hub.hk/10.1016/S0140-6736(05)79939-6]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingzhi_mushroom Lingzhi mushroom] (also known as Reishi). Several self-treaters have taken Reishi mushrooms or their extracts, e.g, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1301004239955528/?comment_id=1973652139357398], and there have been no reports of any adverse effects on NA or TT. One user says he consumes moderate doses of reishi [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/316642988391663/?comment_id=936181859771103] and another has even successfully used Reishi (Reishi Mushroom extract powder, 1000 mg 2x daily) to treat “worm flu”. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1461731890549428/?comment_id=1461830860539531]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hericium_erinaceus Lion’s mane mushroom] (Hericium erinaceus) Also known as yamabushitake (= ‘mountain priest mushroom’), bearded tooth fungus and bearded hedgehog. One NA host took 1/4-1/2 teaspoon lion's mane 5 times a week for months with no ill effect on his helminths. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6943497675706128/?comment_id=6943653899023839]
</blockquote>

== Miscellaneous ==
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* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apitherapy Bee venom therapy] appears to be safe for worms. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/876826799039943/?comment_id=876902382365718&offset=0&total_comments=5&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R2%22%7D]

* ❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diatomaceous_earth Diatomaceous earth (DE)]. This is made from the fossilized remains of tiny, aquatic organisms called diatoms which are mined from ancient sea beds and ground into a fine powder to produce food grade or medical grade diatomite. The finer grade diatomites are used as an insecticide and are also employed to deworm pets and humans. They are believed to work by dehydrating the organism, although the sharp edges of the particles may also be damaging to tiny creatures. A daily dose of one heaped teaspoon of DE has been claimed to be effective for human worm control, and one hookworm host has reported that three doses, of approximately one teaspoon each, quickly wiped out her colony and caused the return of all the symptoms of her disease. Someone who actually wanted to terminate a hookworm colony has said that small amounts of DE did not do this for her, but that taking 1 tablespoon each day for three days did completely eradicate a hookworm colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3759836894072238/]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clay Clay] (bentonite, kaolin, etc.) Some clays have antibacterial properties [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26743034] [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/08/180821112029.htm] that vary by type, and some have been claimed to be natural parasite preventives that inhibit the reproduction of organisms. One helminth provider at one time advised against the use of clay while hosting worms, but clay is now thought much less likely to harm human hookworms and whipworms than it is tapeworms, and it may in fact not have any adverse effect at all on any type of ''therapeutic'' helminth. Someone has reported taking a "scant soup spoonful" of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montmorillonite montmorillonite clay] slurry daily for quite long periods up to 3 or 4 months with no obvious adverse effect on her NA. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5297777343611511/?comment_id=5298086576913921]

* ✅/❌ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diarrhea Diarrhoea/diarrhea] While it is possible to lose hookworms to diarrhoea, this is only likely if the diarrhoea is very severe, or if it is severe and prolonged, i.e., lasting for several weeks. There is a description of one individual’s experience of losing a hookworm colon to very severe diarrhoea [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1992639020792043/?comment_id=1993403570715588&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D here].

:People who get diarrhoea/diarrhea as a side effect following their first inoculation with hookworms do not lose all their worms as a result of this, and hookworms are able to withstand the typical [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonoscopy#Preparation colonoscopy prep]. See [[Human helminth care manual#Laxatives | '''Laxatives''']].

:It would seem logical to assume that hookworms might be better able to resist being flushed out after the point at which they attach to the gut wall, which is towards the end of the third week post inoculation.

:While adult hookworms do move around to feed, and are therefore theoretically more likely to be lost if diarrhoea strikes while they are on the move, this is unlikely to lead to any significant loss.

:Human whipworms are unlikely to be dislodged by diarrhoea once these are mature and embedded in the colonic mucosa, but they could could potentially be flushed out before this, especially around 21-22 days post inoculation. After 28 days, human whipworms should not be affected at all by diarrhoea.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fasting Fasting]. This [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/812582472131043/?comment_id=813100818745875&offset=0&total_comments=3&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D will not harm human helminths] because they feed from their host’s blood (hookworms), or from their intestinal tissue (whipworms). Fasting is also unlikely to have any detrimental effect on the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta (HDC), even though this species normally lives on carbohydrates consumed by their host. HDC can apparently also live off glycoproteins secreted in the gut.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fever Fever]. Running a fever for several days will not harm helminths.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperbaric_oxygen Hyperbaric oxygen]. This is safe for use alongside helminthic therapy. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1281704005218885/?comment_id=1284905411565411&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/2543377009101234/?comment_id=2543517345753867] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4319514804771108?comment_id=4320113668044555]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrared_sauna Infrared sauna]. Two hookworm hosts used an infrared sauna regularly for over 15 years without any adverse effect on their colonies. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2106930399362904/?comment_id=2107487372640540&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ketosis Ketosis] is a metabolic state in which most of the body's energy supply comes from ketone bodies in the blood. This state is often induced deliberately by fasting or the adoption of a low-carbohydrate diet as a intervention in various medical conditions. One commenter has suggested that ketosis should not be harmful to helminths because, like fungi, they have mitochondria so can metabolise fat and therefore utilise ketones as a food source, unlike bacteria and viruses which require carbohydrates to survive. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1077988932257061/?comment_id=1078025565586731&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R0%22%7D] For more on keptogenic diets, see [http://perfecthealthdiet.com/2011/02/ketogenic-diets-i-ways-to-make-a-diet-ketogenic/ here].

* ❓ [http://rifevideos.com/index.html Rife machines]. These devices are claimed to be capable of killing or "devitalizing" worms when set to 2,400 Hz. Therefore, assuming that they are able to do what is claimed (and this is a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Rife contentious issue]) it would seem sensible to avoid this particular frequency if using these machines.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spermidine Spermidine]. When fed to worms, this simple polyamine (found in large quantities in human sperm and grapefruit) significantly prolonged their lifespan. [http://www.rsc.org/chemistryworld/News/2009/October/04100901.asp]

* ✅ Steam. Saunas, hot tubs and hot baths do not harm helminths because the body's core temperature remains relatively constant while the skin sweats.

* ✅ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wim_Hof Wim Hof] breathing techniques. Someone who hosts hookworms and has done these exercises on and off for about a year has reported having no issues as a result of combining the two treatments. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1417893248266626/?comment_id=1417961461593138&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

* ❓ [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeolite Zeolite] Zeolites are microporous, aluminosilicate minerals that are used widely in water purification systems. One hookworm host has reported taking 1 zeolite tablet daily for a week with no adverse affect on her colony. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2129639990425278/?comment_id=2168119789910631]

{{Columns}}

Nasal allergies nuked by worms

2024-09-04T03:18:58Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

Helminth incubation

2024-09-04T03:18:58Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

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{{Breadcrumb|[[Using_helminths|Using helminths]]}}
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== Introduction ==

This page is concerned with the incubation of the mutualistic helminths used in helminthic therapy.

Of the four species of helminth being used in therapy, three are suitable for home cultivation.

# Rat tapeworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hymenolepis_diminuta, Hymenolepis diminuta] (HDC)
# Human hookworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necator_americanus Necator americanus] (NA)
# Human whipworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichuris_trichiura Trichuris trichiura] (TT/TTO)

The only therapeutic helminth not suitable for cultivation at home is the pig whipworm, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichuris_suis Trichuris suis]. The incubation of TSO involves a complex process spanning many months, and requires the use of pigs - preferably sterile ones.

In terms of risk, HDC is arguably the least problematic, since only a relatively small number of cysticerci - typically somewhere between 0 and 80 - will be found in each beetle dissected, whereas '''a single batch of TTO or NA may contain thousands of infectious organisms, with a potential to cause serious illness if not very carefully managed during incubation and inoculation'''. For example, one of the risks with TTO is that, if too large a dose was ingested, this could cause [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rectal_prolapse rectal prolapse]. TTO is also more challenging to grow than either HDC or NA.

There is additional risk attached to using organisms obtained from other private growers, due to the possibility that some, or all, of these may not be the species they are claimed to be. A donor may have unknowingly become infected with a pathogenic helminth, especially if they have engaged in foreign travel. It's also possible for a private donor to pass on other pathogenic microorganisms. It is therefore recommended that any incubation process is begun by obtaining a dose of the organism to be cultivated from a reputable commercial source that guarantees its product contains only the specified helminth species and that this is free from contamination by other organisms.

HDC and NA are both available for purchase as a single dose. See the list of [[Helminth providers | '''helminth providers''']].

Before sourcing any products from a private grower, the would-be incubator should explore the legality of doing this in their particular locality. What regulations there are are often imprecisely defined, so are open to interpretation, making it difficult to predict exactly how a regulatory authority might react if someone in their jurisdiction were identified as having supplied or received helminths, or been involved in their cultivation.

While the precise legal position concerning helminths is still uncertain and untested in many countries, it is clearer in the US, where hookworms, whipworms (both human and porcine) and rat tapeworms are currently classified by the Food and Drug Administration as biological agents (i.e. drugs), as defined in Section 351 of the Public Health Service Act, and subject to an [http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cms_ia/importalert_159.html Import Alert].

== Helminth incubation methods ==

The following incubation protocols were written by members of the helminthic therapy community.

<div style="background-color:#F5FAFF;border:1px solid #CEDFF2;padding:6px 10px 12px 16px; margin:6px 8px 8px 0px;
border-radius:18px;">

===Necator americanus===

* [[NA incubation: very simple Harada-Mori method by Sarah | '''NA incubation: very simple Harada-Mori method by Sarah''']] (A well-developed method featuring many supplementary details that will also be useful to users of other methods.)

* [[NA incubation: very simple petri dish method by Steven | '''NA incubation: very simple petri dish method by Steven''']] (This method uses petri dishes and supplementary heat to produce very clear water.)

* [[NA incubation: simple method by Janice | '''NA incubation: simple method by Janice''']] (This approach gathers larvae onto cork particles, providing a clear sample for microscoping.)

* [[NA incubation: simple method by Anon | '''NA incubation: simple method by Anon''']] (This method gathers larvae onto cotton balls, which are then dropped into water, creating a clean sample.

* [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana | '''NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana''']]. (This method provides information about every aspect of hookworm incubation. A valuable resource for users of other methods, as well as an effective method in itself.)


===Hymenolepis diminuta===

* [[HDC incubation: very simple method by Don | '''HDC incubation: very simple method by Don''']]

* [[HDC_incubation:_detailed_method_by_John_M | '''HDC incubation: detailed method by John M''']]

* [http://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/6/10/98/htm HDC production protocol from Duke University, 2017] See Section 2: Materials and Methods.

* [[media:Production_of_Hymenolepis_diminuta_in_the_Laboratory-_An_Old_Research_Tool_with_New_Clinical_Applications.pdf | HDC production protocol from Duke University, 2018 (PDF)]] See sections 2, 3 and 4: Materials, Methods and Notes.

===Trichuris trichiura===

* [[TTO incubation: very detailed method by Alana | '''TTO incubation: very detailed method by Alana''']]. This comprehensive manual is the ''only'' TTO incubation protocol available for home growers.
</div>

== Helminth incubation discussion groups ==

See the following page section.
* [[Helminthic therapy support groups#DIY helminth incubation groups | '''DIY helminth incubation groups''']]

== DIY biology support ==

Expert help with incubation can be found in bio-hackers clubs (DIY biology, DIY bio) which are often located in university science departments and form part of a growing biotechnological social movement ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Do-it-yourself_biology ‘Do-it-yourself biology’]) in which individuals with extensive research training mentor and oversee DIY biologists with little or no formal training.

DIY bio clubs can be found on [https://diybio.org/local/ this list], through [https://www.meetup.com/topics/synthetic-biology/all/ Meetup], or by googling “community science" groups, or “meetup" science groups.

== Hookworm incubation ==

=== Hookworm incubation issues ===

==== Some find incubation surprisingly difficult ====

Many people find the cultivation of hookworm larvae simple and straightforward, especially those living in a favourable climate, but others have failed, sometimes repeatedly, even when they have had appropriate previous experience, and in spite of following good instructions. This has led to the suggestion that this process is as much an art as a science.

{{Quote|indent}}I’m a microbiology student, so I did microscopy before and still failed with the helminths in the beginning. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/3176407559131506/?comment_id=3178681852237410&reply_comment_id=3180090635429865]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It took me about 6 months and I have prior lab experience. For some reason it's just tricky. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1811850892204191/?comment_id=1811858705536743&reply_comment_id=1811898878866059&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R0%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have a bio degree and took several micro labs and it still took me over 40 hours and several months to get incubation done right.{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Although this is not rocket science, it is actually far more difficult to successfully incubate viable HW and produce safe doses than people realise. If nothing else, someone with no laboratory background is probably going to spend so much of their time getting this to work, it would actually work out far cheaper and much quicker to get a job on the side to pay for the therapy. Even with a strong scientific/laboratory background it will probably take many months at least to get your first dose, and that is assuming a significant amount of work each day on the incubations. Working with live organisms requires some art. It is not purely science.{{Quote|/indent}}

Sometimes, even very experienced incubators can have incubations that inexplicably fail or produce very low yields.

{{Quote|indent}}We have had an absolute boomer crop. Then the next one practically nothing! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/5577778798994358/?comment_id=6010437695728464&notif_id=1691306913147415&notif_t=group_comment_follow]{{Quote|/indent}}

And a few people, including some with a high level of education, have found that they just can’t grow any larvae at all, whatever they try.

==== Infection risk ====

Some would-be hookworm hosts may consider traveling to an area where these worms are endemic, in the hope of acquiring their larvae in the same way that the locals do - by walking barefoot in open-air latrines. For a number of reasons, this is a not a good idea, as is explained [https://web.archive.org/web/20231128130336/http://www.jasper-lawrence.com/why-acquiring-hookworm-the-old-fashioned-way-is-a-baaaad-idea/ here] by the only Westerner who claims to have done this.

Anyone seeking hookworm larvae from someone who is already cultivating their own supply, or faeces containing hookworm ova, needs to consider several issues. Included amongst these is the risk of inadvertently acquiring a different type of helminth, such as the less desirable species of hookworm, [[Ancylostoma duodenale | '''Ancylostoma duodenale''']], which causes an estimated nine times more blood loss than NA, can infect a foetus by crossing the placenta, and is able to migrate via breast milk. [http://parasite.org.au/para-site/text/ancylostoma-necator-text.html]. Even more risky is the roundworm, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strongyloides_stercoralis Strongyloides stercoralis], which is autoinfective and potentially hyperinfective, with a risk of fatality, [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25774935] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30898993] and which has already contributed to the death of one member of the helminthic therapy community. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_safety#Do_hookworms_pose_a_threat_to_patients_with_respiratory_disease%3F] The eggs of both these species are virtually identical to those of NA, and a DIY grower would be very unlikely to be able to distinguish between the larvae produced from them.

Accurate methods for identifying the species of larvae are likely to be beyond the resources found in the home setting. The old style approach was microscopy, but this requires the examination of a stained specimen using a more powerful microscope than is typically available to home growers. Microscopy also requires a lot more experience than is possessed by most amateur incubators. More modern methods of species identification are molecular, either [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polymerase_chain_reaction polymerase chain reaction] (PCR) or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNA_sequencing DNA sequencing].

In the context of the domestic incubation of NA, the major infection concern is the possibility of contamination by cat or dog helminths such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toxocara_cati Toxocara cati] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toxocara_canis Toxocara canis], which can result from using unsterilised soil in incubations. This medium may also contain the larvae of free living nematodes which, while not at all harmful, can interfere with the counting of larvae for inclusion in therapeutic doses. To avoid these risks, any soil used in incubations must be fully sterilised, using, for example, the protocol explained [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/NA_incubation:_very_detailed_method_by_Alana#The_medium here].

Another issue is that an untested donor may prove to be a source of any one of a range of pathological bacterial and viral infections. Commercial providers of hookworms ensure the safety of the products they supply by regularly testing their donors for Hepatitis A, B & C and for HIV, and by employing a method similar to the one detailed below, which has been used by researchers since the 1950s and in the original studies into the efficacy of the anthelmintic drug, albendazole.

#The sample, obtained from an individual that has been tested for Hepatitis and HIV, is cultured in a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment to facilitate development of the embryos to stage 2 larvae, which takes 8-10 days.
#The larvae are forced to migrate through a 3 inch layer of activated charcoal, taking advantage of the larvae's instinctive behavior to migrate up and through whatever they are covered by or contained in. This takes a further 1-2 days.
#Once sufficient numbers of the larvae have gathered on the surface of the charcoal, they are removed by placing two layers of fabric over the charcoal. Once they have migrated through this, removal of the top layer will bring the larvae along.
#The sample is washed in buffered saline solution by agitating it mechanically for twenty minutes.
#The larvae are extracted from the saline by pipetting them from the surface (they float in saline). They are then placed on the surface of a piece of filter paper.
#The larvae are submerged and flushed ten times using a solution of Chlorohexidine 0.2% by weight.
#The larvae are washed from the filter paper into a solution of sterile saline. After allowing them to recover, motile individuals are individually pipetted onto a dressing for application to the user's skin, or placed into a suitable container for dispatch.

In addition to these steps, current providers of NA also add an antibiotic to the solution in which doses of larvae are shipped.

==== Legal risks ====

Yet another often overlooked issue is the risk of legal action against a donor of hookworms or hookworm-infected materials.

The donation of larvae or infected faeces could expose the person supplying them to legal action by the recipient’s relatives in the event of that recipient dying after using the donated material. The grieving relatives might sue the donor in the belief, whether right or wrong, that the donation was somehow responsible for the death of their loved one. Someone contemplating the use of donated materials may think that their relatives would never react in this way, but death can spark unpredictable and irrational behaviour in family members, and the fact that the organisms had been given away rather than being sold would not necessarily free the donor of liability. The outcome of such a scenario would only be revealed after it had been tested in a court of law, and this could be a very costly and stressful process for all those involved.

==== The risk of attracting damaging publicity ====

There are some people who choose the DIY hookworm culture route because they object to having to pay for the treatment, even though the cost of a dose of hookworm larvae is now minimal. Unfortunately, the sometimes reckless attitude displayed by some in this group not only threatens their own safety and possibly that of those around them, but could also have much wider implications.

A number of reports have already surfaced about people who have successfully incubated hookworm larvae but, then, due to a failure to carry out the appropriate research, sloppy technique, undue haste, or just plain carelessness, have taken unbelievable risks with their health. One individual attempted to collect larvae for inoculation without a microscope, using only a magnifying glass. Others have chosen not to even bother counting out a number of larvae with which to inoculate, and, in one case, someone who had incubated larvae proceeded to smear faeces from the sample, along with liquid from its container, directly onto his skin, potentially giving himself a dose of hundreds, if not thousands of hookworms!

A medical doctor, who hosts therapeutic helminths himself, has reported seeing the arm of another individual who he estimated had probably inoculated with at least many hundreds of hookworm larvae on a single occasion, resulting in a rash covering the individual's entire upper arm. Since infection with more than 1,000 NA can be lethal [https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007/978-3-642-27769-6_2077-2?no-access=true#page-1] it was fortunate that this individual sought medical assistance. He was treated immediately with steroids, and followed the advice he was given to eliminate the worms.

This experience serves as an example to all who might consider DIY hookworm culture. Even though this individual is well educated and has a job requiring intelligence, his research, and the level of care he applied to the task, had obviously not been sufficient to ensure even his own safety, and this scenario is unfortunately repeated all too often.

What is perhaps of greatest concern about incidents like this, is that their ramifications could extend well beyond the people who are directly involved. If news of such a story were to be picked up by the media, it would undoubtedly be seized upon by news-hungry journalists and milked for profit by publishers. This publicity could result in regulatory crackdowns that could well impact the ability of others to access this therapy, and there are now thousands whose health depends on them being able to obtain helminths. There are also millions of others who are desperately ill but have not yet heard about this therapy, who, as a result of the actions of some thoughtless individual, might be deprived of the opportunity to try it.

So it is hoped that anyone intent on incubating hookworms themselves will take great care in sourcing their live materials, and then proceed with the utmost caution, conscious of their responsibility for the health and safety of others.

== Resources for helminth incubation ==

=== Incubators ===

==== Ready-made incubators ====

Time and effort can be saved by buying an entire incubator with built-in temperature and humidity control Examples range from laboratory quality incubation cabinets to simple plant propagators. (Note that many people have found that they get better and more dependable results without heat. Temperature control is arguably more important in colder climates. Also, closed container methods maintain humidity automatically.)

===== Laboratory incubators =====

Laboratory supply outlets offer incubators that have all the bells and whistles, but come at a price. For example, this small cabinet from Interlab.

* [https://www.interlab.co.nz/10-Litre-Mini-Incubator-dsi-100d 10 Litre Digital Mini Incubator.]

===== Reptile incubators =====

Devices designed for incubating reptile or poultry eggs can be very inexpensive and can work well for incubating hookworms. They may not control humidity, but humidity could be increased by incubating in a semi enclosed container within the incubator.

* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Lucky-Reptile-HN-2UK-Nursery-Incubator/dp/B002NFR0HQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443620551&sr=8-1&keywords=Lucky+Reptile+Herp+Nursery+II Lucky Reptile HN-2UK Herp Nursery II Incubator]

* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/posts/742656392506647/?comment_id=743049399134013 A Terrarium set-up for growing NA] (Scroll down thread for more details.)

===== Egg incubators =====

* [https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2510209.m570&_nkw=chicken+egg+incubators&_sacat=0 Chicken egg incubators.]
If purchasing one of these incubators, make sure you get one with the right ac plug / voltage for your country.

===== Plant propagators =====

This type of propagator can be found at garden centres.

* [http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CUAB38Q?keywords=plant%20propagator&qid=1443693375&ref_=sr_1_10&sr=8-10 Propagator Plants Greenhouse Garland Large Budget Propagator Black]

* [http://www.hgagarden.com/nl/producten/kweekbakken/propagator43 Propagator 43]

The 'Propagator 43' is working well for one of our members who lives in a warmer climate.
“So far all my incubations were successful."

It might also work in a cooler climate, after the addition of a source of heat such as an [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Exo-Terra-Heating-Rock-Medium/dp/B0002AR2Y0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1428896384&sr=8-1&keywords=Reptile+Heat+Rock aquarium reptile heat rock].

This, or a standard incandescent light bulb, can be connected to a temperature switch, such as the Red 12V Heat Cool Thermostat Temperature High Low Alarm Control Switch -55-120C. [http://www.ebay.com/itm/321772153451] using a 5.0V DC power supply (e.g., an old cell phone charge adapter) and wired as described in the [https://lookaside.fbsbx.com/file/Temperature%20control%20switch%20circuit%20for%20HW%20incubator.pdf?token=AWwv79nrYaYUiE3ZsbwPWwM6zd13cauwykM-XErpKdaXu9lO0L9CzYBx1l39RlMe-d02zJzDVMKby7A0aQELA1j79odgi-WbNM39H6rXm3wrTmWfp41IvcpskpVvu1lkeRRon7VliCmCIRYHl1MOSM3iG_fo1Artt0fvN5M-CzbKPQ Temperature control switch circuit for HW incubator doc] in the Files section of the Helminth Incubation discussion group on Facebook.

==== Home-built incubators ====

In most climates, a cooler, or other similar insulated box, should work just fine, and this type of DIY incubator can be built for well under $50.

One incubator built hers using a widely available, $15 temperature controller that she wired with a regular double socket outlet and a project box from Radioshack. She plugged this into the cool plug and used a light bulb as her heat source.

Below are the exact materials she used.

* A widely available STC 1000 controller, such as the Inkbird All-Purpose Digital Temperature Controller Fahrenheit &Centigrade Thermostat w Sensor 2 Relays. [http://www.amazon.com/Inkbird-All-Purpose-Temperature-Controller-Fahrenheit/dp/B00OXPE8U6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1444261356&sr=8-1&keywords=stc%201000]
* A project box, such as the Radioshack Project Enclosure (6”x4”x2”). [http://www.radioshack.com/project-enclosure-6x4x2/2701806.html]
* A $5 ikea hanging lamp cord with a fluorescent bulb as a heat source.

She had never wired anything before, but just followed Youtube videos that described setting up a temperature controller. The video she followed is [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMRT2Z_-vJU How to wire your STC-1000 temp. control unit], but there are many alternative ones to be found by searching YouTube for “STC 1000”.

Another home grower described his DIY incubator as follows.

{{Quote|indent}}I made my incubator with a cheap Beer ESKY (plastic "cooler" box that you might take to a picknick or the beach). Through the lid I cut holes and attached a peltier cooler (Ebay about $20.00) and ran it with a 12 volt power plugpack (5 amps, from old computer or Ebay). In the bottom I put a 220V heater globe (not a light globe to avoid the light stimulating the N.A.) Both the heater globe and peltier cooler were plugged externally into 2 cheap ($13.00) thermostat temperature controllers like you would use for pet lizards etc. (Ebay) The thermostat temperature probes are dangling inside the Esky. I set one thermostat to heat if the temp gets below 22C and the other to cool if it gets above 26C. In hindsight, the best place for the cooler is in the lid, however it is all much easier to work with if all the bits are attached to the box, and all wires go through small holes in the sides of the box to make the lid easily removable. I put the whole thing in a big cardboard box and surrounded it with old pillows and blankets to add thermal insulation to reduce power consumption as I keep it in an outside shed with temp ranging from 9C to 33C depending on month.{{Quote|/indent}}

'''Potential issues with temperature control relays that could cause incubation failure'''

One incubator identified a potential problem with a W1209 temperature control relay purchased from eBay.

{{Quote|indent}}Ice water temp reads 23.9! room temp reads 33.0. boiling water is close at 96. My trendline equation is y=24.31e(0.145x). Not exactly anything close to linear. Mapped the sensor with 13 data points and the data match the predictive curve well. The short of it is that my W1209 sensor will read about 39 C when the real temp is about 32 C and will read about 33 C when the real temp is about 20 C. A 12 degree real temperature change will only register a 6 degree range. If you've had issues with targeted temperatures and incubation failures, this might be something you should look into. Caveat: My "prover" temperature sensor is of unknown accuracy (it's curve is not mapped) so my curve may have big error. Use the data at your own risk. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/832815183490767/]{{Quote|/indent}}

The ideal temperature for incubation is said to be between 73°F (23°C) and 86°F (30°C), although one grower has found that a room temperature of 68-72°F (20-22°C) works well for him, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1306907306081550/?comment_id=1307011726071108&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R2%22%7D] and another had great success at 64-65°F (18°C). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1650567355048875/]. At the lower end of the range, the larvae might be ready after 12-14 days and at the higher range after only 4-5 days. Larvae incubated at a lower temperature have greater longevity.

===== Styrofoam enclosure =====
A low cost incubator can be rigged from a Styrofoam cooler, or, with a little more work, constructed from Styrofoam insulation from a home improvement store, and glued together with silicon sealant.

'''List of materials'''

*1 x Styrofoam Box with Lid
*1 x Old Reading Light
*1 x 15 Watt Light Globe, resistance heater with light-bulb base, or infrared bulb (available at pet shops or online)
*1 x Combination Thermometer and Hygrometer
*1 x Plastic Container
*1 x Duct Tape

'''Assembly and operation'''

# Buy a combination thermometer/hygrometer from ebay. They're cheap!
# Acquire a styrofoam box or cooler from the local shopping center.
# Acquire an old reading lamp, ideally one with a dimmer switch. Inline dimmer switches are also easily added to the line cord of any lamp.
# Cut a hole for the lamp in the styrofoam box, then tape up the gap between the box and the light fitting. Hopefully by this stage, you will have a empty styrofoam box with a light sticking through the side.
# Tape up all the corners of the box, and generally make it sturdy. Minimize the amount that the lid needs to open to maintain temperature and humidity in the box. You just need enough access to pull thing in and out of the box.
# Punch a hold in the side of the box which is opposite the heat source. This will encourage a flow of air (not too much) through the incubator.
# Put in a low wattage light-bulb. This may vary somewhat according to the size of the incubator.
# Find a good spot for your incubator. If you have a garage, use this. Inside is a bad place for it, as incubated feces tends to get a bit smelly. Keeping the incubator outdoors and using a waterproof extension cord could also work.
# Plug in your incubator and place a container filled with water inside.
# Place the thermometer/hygrometer inside, and keep careful observations.

'''Troubleshooting'''

* If the incubator is too hot: put in a lower wattage bulb, or punch another hole in the side.
* If the incubator is too cold: Place a higher wattage bulb in the light, and consider covering the hole you made.
* If the incubator is too dry: Consider placing a container with a larger surface area in the incubator, or place two containers in there.

===== A beer 12-pack box =====

Alternatively, an effective incubator can be made from a beer 12-pack box and a cat heater.

{{Quote|indent}}I have been successful with a cat heater buffered with a piece of cardboard and a large thermometer. I keep this in a beer 12-pack box (Crooked Tree IPA works best 😉). It stays at 75-76 degrees F. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/875569952548623/?comment_id=875626475876304&reply_comment_id=1122363691202580&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R5%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

===== Aquarium heater and two tubs =====
Homemade Incubator less than €20/$20. 
[[File:Tub_incubator.jpeg]] 
Use two plastic tubs of the same size. Put a 5 watt submersible aquarium heater on the floor of the bottom tub (it has suction cups). Cover the heater well with water. You will be floating the other tub on this water, so put something (rocks for instance) in the bottom tub to prevent the top tub from touching the heater if the water goes too low. The top tub (covered) is where you put your samples. You may need to add weight in this tub to keep it nested in the water a bit. A cover on the tub helps keep the temperature steady.

I find the adjustable heaters take too much work to keep the temperature just right. Even the ones with thermostats need adjusting. So I like the ones without adjustments; they keep the temperature in a good range for worms, 78°F/26°C. However if you you want it warmer, you can buy an adjustable aquarium heater and be prepared to spend about a week to be sure it is the correct setting and it holds the temp well.

==== Incubator accessories ====

If a source of humidity is needed, this can be provided by placing a pan of water in the incubator. Or humidity can be controlled remotely by using a small aquarium pump and an airstone in a pan of water. The air bubbles carry humidity out of the pan much more rapidly than just evaporation.

Aquarium stores and pet shops have several items that will be useful in constructing incubators. Resistive heaters with standard light bulb sockets are available as are infrared bulbs. Hookworms don't like light but many people report success using standard light bulbs for heaters, so this appears to be fairly unimportant. Inexpensive remote thermometers for use in fish tanks and aquariums are very useful.

Controlling the heat source is an issue. It is possible to use an "open-loop" type of control over the heat source by controlling the heat, with a light dimmer say, and simply monitoring the temperature, while very slowly raising the power level. However there is an element of danger that should be carefully considered in putting a heat source in an enclosed place and we strongly recommend one of the inexpensive thermostatic controllers made for reptile terrariums (they have a wider range than aquarium heaters and also have useful remote sensors). Controllers with digital control and humidity reporting are available for a little more money. Other users have reported finding useful (and possible better-made) thermostatic controllers on eBay for about the same price, e.g., [https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/240V-Wired-Relays-Digital-Temperature-Controller-Thermostat-Outlet-Switch-sensor/253754800867?_trkparms=pageci%3A43c37d4f-0415-11e9-bb49-74dbd180d386%7Cparentrq%3Aca03b1161670ab6aa3e50c08fffaeb61%7Ciid%3A1&algo=REC.SEED&ao=1&asc=20160908105057&meid=dcb6b4ce008f4595a352e3232c0e47c7&pid=100675&rk=1&rkt=15&sd=253754800867&itm=253754800867&_trksid=p2481888.c100675.m4236 this one] or [https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Temperature-Controller-Digital-Thermostat-Outlet-With-Probe-Sensor-110v-220v/113062293161?hash=item1a5309aea9%3Am%3AmsFC-UQa3DWDOtPoEahW7fA&frcectupt=true&fbclid=IwAR31g0RT7we4MZrS3iKDF8lTYFGgkIbcRSabeHGz-Nj0zjMSqrIS5IGphvE this one].

Conservative design principles would still indicate that heaters should be sized as small as possible (similar to the open-loop method), in case of thermostat failure, so that peak temperatures remain as low as possible, with the heater on all of the time.

Inexpensive timers - that will control on-off cycles in as small an increment as 10 minutes are also available in aquarium or pet stores.

===Stool testing===

Checking one's stool for eggs will reveal whether or not one is hosting helminths.

* [[Stool_testing_(egg_counting) | '''Stool testing (egg counting)''']]
* [[Stool_testing_(Equipment)|'''Stool testing (Equipment)''']]
* [[Stool_testing_(Method)|'''Stool testing (Method)''']]

===Microscopes===

Advice on selecting and using a microscope for helminth incubation.

* [[Microscope selection notes | '''Microscope selection notes''']]
* [[Microscope selection and use | '''Microscope selection and use''']]
* [[Stool testing (Equipment) | '''Microscopes for egg counting''']]

===Pipettes and pipetting technique===

* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1415250991913847/ A discussion about pipette selection, and their use in hookworm culture.]

===Buffer solution===

A buffer solution suitable for washing hookworm larvae (e.g., from the gauze into a beaker before counting and extracting them from the solution) and for storing them.

* 4.1g Sodium Chloride (Table salt)
* 7.1g Disodium hydrogen phosphate
* 3.0g Potassium dihydrogen phosphate

Mix these ingredients individually into 1 Litre of distilled water. Store the buffer solution long term in a fridge as it contains no preservatives.

* [http://chemistry.about.com/od/acidsbases/a/phosphatebutter.htm How to Make a Phosphate Buffer Solution]

"Larvae were retrieved from the suspension by gravitational sedimentation, and stored in BU buffer (50 mM Na2HPO4, 22 mM KH2PO4, 70 mM NaCl) at 12oC to preserve their infectivity.[http://bionames.org/bionames-archive/issn/1049-233x/58/140.pdf]" [https://web.archive.org/web/20210621074700/https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2003/178/2/experimental-human-infection-dog-hookworm-ancylostoma-caninum]

===Sterilisation of leftover live materials===

Immersion in boiling water for one minute or a 10% bleach solution are affordable, fairly safe, and effective for sterilization.

A study reported in 2017 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28974272] shows that [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virkon Virkon®S] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chloroxylenol Dettol® (Chloroxylenol)] outperformed four other commercial disinfectants against [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toxascaris_leonina Toxascaris leonina] eggs and larvae, and the study authors highly recommend the use of these two agents against other potentially zoonotic helminths. This suggests that Virkon®S and Dettol® may be the most effective disinfectants for use in sterilisation by worm growers.

Another option is to place the leftover materials in a freezer for 24 hours, although this is not guaranteed to break the shell of the egg, depending on freezer conditions. "Freezing at −21 °C for 1–7 days generally inactivates parasites, but cannot be relied upon in home situations." [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924224418301560], although the following link states that freezing in saline increases effectiveness. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/permalink/1229161523856129/?comment_id=1229237760515172&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D] and, for other suggestions, see the penultimate paragraph of this page section: [[NA incubation: very detailed method by Alana#Storage and clean-up | Storage and clean-up]].

===Further incubation resources===

'''NA'''
* [[media:CulturingHookworm1.pdf | Stool culture for Nematode larvae]] (PDF)
* [[media:An_Agar_Plate.pdf‎ | An Agar Plate Method for Culturing Hookworm Larvae: Analysis of Growth Kinetics and Infectivity Compared With Standard Coproculture Techniques]] (PDF)
* [http://www.wormbook.org/chapters/www_strongyloides/strongyloides.html#sec4_3 An explanation of the Baermann apparatus (funnel) for isolating nematode larvae from media.]

'''HDC'''
* [[media:Lab_exercise_in_HDC_culture.pdf | Laboratory exercise in HDC culture]] (PDF)

== Shipping biological materials ==

There are several categories of biological materials regarding the manner in which they can be properly shipped. A human sample infected with nematode parasites would be a class B biological substance. Details about the correct way to package and label a specimen can be found at the following link.
* [[media:Bio_shipping.pdf | Guidelines for shipping biological materials]] (PDF)

Introduction to helminthic therapy

2024-09-04T03:18:58Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

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'''Are you a doctor or other medical professional?'''

: Please first see, [[Helminthic therapy information for doctors | '''Helminthic therapy information for doctors''']].

'''Are you a journalist, or skeptical about this therapy?'''

:You may find it helpful to start with the [[The history of helminthic therapy | '''History of Helminthic Therapy''']], which reviews this therapy's development alongside the emerging science.


'''Are you considering using this therapy?'''

:Reading this entire page ''very'' carefully, along with the material at the links within the text, will greatly increase the likelihood of a satisfactory outcome.

:{{Quote|indent}}Make sure to read the wiki... literally all of the questions are answered there. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4086725951383329/?comment_id=4086728104716447&reply_comment_id=4087079534681304]{{Quote|/indent}}

:{{Quote|indent}}I didn't read the wiki closely enough before starting. So I'm paying the price! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3718183734904221/?comment_id=3718478751541386&reply_comment_id=3718612754861319]{{Quote|/indent}}
</div>

== What is helminthic therapy? ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28phztp-uG8 '''What is helminthic therapy?'''] - William Parker, retired Professor of Surgery, explains in this 2-minute video. 

Helminthic therapy is a "probiotic" self-treatment involving the reintroduction to the digestive tract of a controlled number of specially domesticated, safe, mutualistic helminths (intestinal worms) in the form of microscopic eggs or microscopic larvae.

{{Quote|indent}}We think of these worms as kind of big probiotics. (Dr Paul Giacomin, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine.) [http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/nights/audio/201819018/hookworms-to-treat-coeliac-disease]{{Quote|/indent}}

People living in developed countries gradually lost contact with this type of organism during the 20th century as a result of the introduction of "systems hygiene" in the form of indoor flush toilets and sewage treatment as well as water purification facilities and food processing plants, plus innovations such as mass-produced shoes, canned food, artificial refrigeration and anthelmintic drugs. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/The_history_of_helminthic_therapy#The_origins_of_helminth_deficiency_in_industrialised_populations]

By reconstituting and enriching the intestinal biome, helminthic therapy counteracts this loss of biodiversity, as well as halting the immune-related disorders that result from it.

The therapy is being used today by many thousands of individuals to successfully treat and prevent autoimmunity, inflammation and allergy as well as neuropsychiatric and metabolic disorders.

Since it is not a medical treatment, doctors are not normally involved in its use, although many naturopathic physicians and practitioners of functional medicine recommend their patients to use it.

In order to experience optimum benefits from helminthic therapy, the self-treater must fully understand how to use it '''''before''''' commencing, and there is a lot to learn, with a choice of four different organisms, each with different characteristics and somewhat different effects. Fortunately for anyone who is new to this therapy, all the information they need is presented on this site, and this page is the main doorway into that information.

== Terminology ==

This practice is known variously by the following terms:
* Helminthic therapy
* Helminth therapy
* Helminth replacement therapy
* Helminth-induced immunomodulation therapy (HINT) [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29064315/]
* Worm therapy
* Biome restoration
* Biome reconstitution
Hovering your cursor over any words or abbreviations that have a faint underlining will reveal a definition. Alternatively, go to the [[Terminology | '''Terminology page''']].
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== Humans need helminths ==

The term, “helminthic therapy” may suggest that this might be just another therapeutic option that one can try in the hope of fixing some health issue that has not responded adequately to other forms of treatment, but helminth replacement is actually far more than this.

Helminths are an essential component of a healthy human biome and provide uniquely effective exercise and training for the immune system, such that ''continual'' exposure to helminths is a fundamental necessity for optimal human health.

The first suggestion that this might be the case emerged in a report published in 1968 by a researcher working in Nigeria who opined that the rarity of autoimmune disease in tropical Africa might be related to the fact that Africans typically host multiple parasites.   [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/1/1f/Autoimmune_disease_and_parasitic_infections_in_Nigerians.pdf]

Since then, it has become abundantly clear that humankind’s coevolution with helminths over millennia has left the human immune system less able to function optimally without the presence of this type of organism.  

{{Quote|indent}}All immunocompetent humans need regular exposure to helminths in order to maintain optimal immune function and avoid risk for inflammation-associated disease. [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/6/10/98/htm]{{Quote|/indent}}

It is now known that helminths train the developing immune system in infancy and continue to regulate immunity throughout the rest of life for as long as they remain with their host. The science supporting this view is now extensive, and growing continually.  

{{Quote|indent}}Independent lines of evidence, including epidemiologic studies, studies using animal models and clinical observations, point to the idea that we need exposure to helminths in order to avoid biota alteration and immune hypersensitivity. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33732461/]{{Quote|/indent}}

The gradual loss of intestinal worms from industrialised societies from the mid-1800s, leading to their virtual eradication during the 20th century, has undoubtedly relieved these populations of the health issues associated with pathogenic helminths, but it has also led to inflammation-associated deficiencies in immune function that have contributed to widespread pandemics of allergy and autoimmune disease, as well as metabolic and neuropsychiatric disorders.

{{Quote|indent}}Exposure to helminths is a necessary component of our biology, and the essentially complete absence of those organisms is an underlying cause of inflammatory disease. Based on this view, we have argued that access to helminths is a basic human need. [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/6/10/98/htm]{{Quote|/indent}}

The only rational solution to the loss of these essential, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22612580/ "keystone" organisms] is their routine replacement in the form of the non-pathogenic helminth species that have been domesticated and made available commercially in the 21st century for use as "probiotic" supplements. (See [[#Therapeutic helminths|'''Therapeutic helminths''']].)

{{Quote|indent}}In some not too distant futurity, there may come a day when we all take ‘helminth supplements’ along with our Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins, and whatever else goes to make up a modern balanced diet. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16965287/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Twenty years from now everybody is going to have a helminth, and no insurance company will begin to cover you if you don’t have your helminths. We’re very confident in the science, that every single human being needs a helminth. It’s part of our biology. [https://web.archive.org/web/20221227042743/https://centerforhealthjournalism.org/fellowships/projects/hooked-hookworms-and-other-parasites]{{Quote|/indent}}
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== The rewards of re-worming ==

 Socio-medical studies have examined the effects of intentional re-worming and found that the controlled reintroduction of mutualistic helminths is effective in treating a wide range of inflammation-related diseases including allergic disorders and autoimmune conditions as well as digestive and metabolic diseases. Even neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, migraine headaches, ASD, bipolar disorder and Parkinson’s disease have been effectively ameliorated by self-treaters using the available [[#Therapeutic helminths|'''therapeutic helminths''']].

* [[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf | Overcoming Evolutionary Mismatch by Self-Treatment with Helminths: Current Practices and Experience]] (PDF)

* [[media:Practices_and_outcomes_of_self-treatment_with_helminths_based_on_physicians_observations.pdf | Practices and outcomes of self-treatment with helminths based on physicians observations]] (PDF)

* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737071/ Socio-medical studies of individuals self-treating with helminths provide insight into clinical trial design for assessing helminth therapy] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383576921002063 Full text] | [[media:Socio-medical_studies_of_individuals_self-treating_with_helminths_provide_insight_into_clinical_trial_design_for_assessing_helminth_therapy.pdf | PDF]]

For many hundreds of anecdotal reports of success using helminths to treat over 160 different conditions, see the following page.

* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories | '''Helminthic therapy personal stories''']]

  In addition to re-worming being an effective treatment for existing immune-related disorders, there are many benefits to be gained from hosting helminths throughout life. Amongst these are a reduction in risk for a whole raft of conditions which include the degenerative diseases that develop with age. 

* [[Helminthic therapy for well people | '''Helminthic therapy for well people''']]
</div>

== A brief history of helminthic therapy ==

Following the first appearance, in 1968, of evidence pointing to the importance of helminths for human health, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/1/1f/Autoimmune_disease_and_parasitic_infections_in_Nigerians.pdf] further evidence emerged in the 1970s, including a report of higher levels of allergic disease in urban communities than in rural indigenous areas where levels of helminth colonisation were much higher. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/987744]

By 1990, it had become clear from further scientific studies that, while autoimmune, inflammatory and allergic conditions had escalated in developed countries during the twentieth century, they had remained much less common in parts of the world where helminths are still prevalent. (See this [https://htwiki.mywikis.eu/wiki/File:Distribution_of_Autoimmune_Disorders_and_Helminths.jpg '''distribution graphic'''] prepared at the start of the twenty first century by the late [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-w-summers-82a8588 Prof Robert Summers].) It was this realisation that gave rise to the idea of reintroducing helminths into patients who have developed these conditions, in the hope that this intervention might rebalance their immune system and restore their health. The first indication that this may be an effective approach had already appeared in the Lancet in 1976, when a researcher had reported putting his own seasonal allergies into remission by colonising himself with hookworms. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/60540]

Researchers began to consider the importance to health of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microbiota microbiome], and the theories formed by these pioneers have been refined through several stages, each being given a new title, viz. the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygiene_hypothesis Hygiene Hypothesis], the [http://evmedreview.com/?p=103 Old Friends' Hypothesis] and, more recently, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mismatch_theory Evolutionary Mismatch Theory] and [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24481190 Biome Depletion Theory]/ [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29133248 Biota Alteration Theory]. By the 2020s, this concept had ceased to be merely a hypothesis, and had become a working paradigm.

During this process, helminths were identified as being of special significance, and they are now considered to be [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22612580 keystone species] of the human [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27863931 multibiome], with profound importance for health. So much so that there are calls for them to be employed not only as a treatment for established disease, but also [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24481190 as a preventative] to help eliminate the pandemics of allergic, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases that are today afflicting the populations of developed countries, and possibly also to offer protection against many degenerative diseases such as [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24355423 atherosclerosis], [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25656764 diabetes] and [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24588712 cancer].

Most members of the medical profession remain skeptical about the use of live helminths, while some are overtly hostile, and no mainstream medic will be able to use these organisms in clinical practice until they have been validated in each target disease by randomised clinical trials.

Unfortunately, where helminths have been the subject of studies, these have often employed methods that were designed to test pharmaceutical products and are unsuitable for the assessment of a natural therapeutic, especially one whose beneficial effects do not become consistent for at least twelve weeks - the typical limit of drug trials - and, in a few cases, have taken as long as two years to materialise. (See [[Helminthic therapy research#Problems with clinical trials using live helminths | '''Problems with clinical trials using live helminths''']].) Unsurprisingly, some of these trials have failed to show efficacy, in contrast to the experience being reported by many thousands of individuals who are self-treating with helminths.

{{Quote|indent}}Although self-treatment with helminths cannot be recommended by medical professionals due to a lack of blinded, placebo controlled trials, neither should it be discouraged since the available evidence suggests that it is beneficial in most cases when practiced by knowledgeable individuals. ([https://evmedreview.com/progress-on-reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/ Parker and Morey, 2015]){{Quote|/indent}}
As a consequence of the failure of medical research to provide the type of evidence that would allow the use of helminthic therapy in clinical practice, millions of patients are being forced to continue to suffer the often devastating effects of immunological disorders, along with the frequently serious side effects produced by many of the pharmaceutical therapies currently prescribed to treat them. And this is in spite of the fact that four helminth species have already been identified as suitable and [[Helminthic therapy safety | safe]] for use in therapy and are currently being used successfully for self-treatment by many thousands of individuals.
{{Quote|indent}}What was a costly and sometimes risky venture into the unknown, undertaken by only a few 10 years ago, is rapidly becoming a readily available and well-established resource currently used by thousands of individuals. ([[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf |Cheng et al, 2015]]){{Quote|/indent}}

Several of the researchers who have examined the effects of helminths on autoimmune disease admit privately that, were they or a member of their family to succumb to an autoimmune disease, they would not hesitate to use one of the available therapeutic helminths. A few have even said this publicly.

{{Quote|indent}}In developed countries, where we are well nourished, worms are potentially good... If I had Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or multiple sclerosis, I would infect myself without hesitation. (Alex Loukas, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, in [http://lifeonus.vhx.tv/ Life On Us, 2014]){{Quote|/indent}}

While citizen scientists continue to refine the therapeutic use of live helminths, the vast majority of medical researchers have their sights set on the creation of drugs employing helminth-derived molecules. However, some researchers have suggested that no worm-derived pharmaceutical will ever match the efficacy of a live worm.

{{Quote|indent}}It is difficult to imagine a single pharmaceutical or even a collection of pharmaceuticals that could recapitulate the vast complexity of the interaction between helminths and the host immune system. While pharmaceuticals are generally directed at one component in the immune apparatus, a single helminth species produces dozens if not more molecules that each target specific components of host immunity. ([https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21741180 Bilbo et al, 2011]){{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}When you give someone a live worm, it’s like giving them the factory that makes the products and letting the factory do what it needs to do… Evolution has already created this thing. ([http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20130422-feeling-ill-swallow-a-parasite David Elliott, University of Iowa.]){{Quote|/indent}}

Helminth-derived pharmaceutical products are still many years away, and if and when they do become available, some, if not all of them, are likely to present adverse side effects, as are seen frequently with other single molecule drugs. In contrast, none of the living helminths that are currently in use therapeutically cause long-term side effects.

Acceptance of helminthic therapy by the medical establishment is currently hindered by the strong pharmaceutical bias of modern Western medicine, and by an inflexible medical research system that ignores vibrant sources of new knowledge generated by activist patients such as those who have contributed to this wiki and its associated [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_support_groups groups] and [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_blogs blogs]. [https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/governing-medical-knowledge-commons/chronic-disease-new-thinking-and-outlaw-innovation-patients-on-the-edge-in-the-knowledge-commons/8105C66FEBA55446E15538FD4B164005/core-reader#]

However, in spite of these factors impeding acceptance, helminthic therapy is nevertheless predicted to become an essential part of healthcare in the future.

{{Quote|indent}}Twenty years from now everybody is going to have a helminth, and no insurance company will begin to cover you if you don’t have your helminths ... We’re very confident in the science, that every single human being needs a helminth. It’s part of our biology. ([https://web.archive.org/web/20221227042743/https://centerforhealthjournalism.org/fellowships/projects/hooked-hookworms-and-other-parasites William Parker, 2016]){{Quote|/indent}}

For a more detailed examination of the history of this therapy, see the full [[The history of helminthic therapy | '''History of helminthic therapy''']].

== Helminthic therapy science ==

Here is a short selection of scientific papers that provide a good overview of the therapeutic potential of controlled colonisation by benign helminths.
* [[Helminthic therapy research#Reading packet | '''Reading packet''']]

For a full list of scientific papers and articles from the media documenting the history and development of helminthic therapy from its beginnings up until the present day, see the following pages.
* [[Helminthic therapy research | '''Helminthic therapy research''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy in the media | '''Helminthic therapy in the media''']]

==Helminthic therapy safety==

Helminthic therapy is very safe.

For details about benefits and risks, known and possible contraindications, and a list of conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing, see the following page.

* [[Helminthic therapy safety | '''Helminthic therapy safety''']]


== Therapeutic helminths ==

For a helminth to be suitable for use in therapy, it must meet a number of generally agreed criteria. The following
list is a composite drawn from several sources, including [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17313951] & [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy].

Criteria for a therapeutic helminth

# does not cause disease in humans at therapeutic doses
# is not a potential vector for other parasites, viruses, or bacteria
# does not cause long-term symptoms in humans at therapeutic doses
# does not alter its behaviour in patients with depressed immunity
# is not easily transmissible from the host to other people
# is not able to reproduce in a host, ensuring dosage control
# is easily eradicated from the host if required
# is compatible with commonly used medications
# is easy to administer
# is amenable to production in large numbers
# is amenable to storage and transportation

A more recent ''Graphical Overview of (Re)formulated Eligibility Criteria for Present and Future Therapeutic Worm Candidates'' can be found in Figure 1 of [[media:Helminth_Therapy_–_From_the_Parasite_Perspective.pdf | this paper]].

There are currently four types of helminth available commercially for use in self-treatment. All of these meet the above criteria.

# '''Pig whipworm''', [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichuris_suis Trichuris suis] (TS) Introduced for therapy in 2003. Sold as ova (TSO) and taken as a drink.
# '''Human hookworm''', [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necator_americanus Necator americanus] (NA or HW) Introduced for therapy in 2006. Sold as microscopic larvae which are applied to the skin.
# '''Human whipworm''', [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichuris_trichiura Trichuris trichiura] (TT) Introduced for therapy in 2009. Sold as ova (TTO) and taken in a drink.
# '''Rat tapeworm''', [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hymenolepis_diminuta Hymenolepis diminuta] (HD) Introduced for therapy in 2011. Sold as cysticercoids (HDC) and taken in a drink.

=== Choosing a therapeutic helminth ===

See the separate page:
* [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth | '''Selecting a therapeutic helminth''']]

== Helminthic therapy in practice ==

=== Before starting ===

====Worm phobia====

If you are reluctant to try helminthic therapy because of a fear of, or aversion to, worms, see: [[Don’t let worms give you the squirms! | '''Don’t let worms give you the squirms!''']]

====Contraindications====

Helminthic therapy is contraindicated for people with certain conditions.
* [[Helminthic therapy safety#Known and possible contraindications for the use of helminthic therapy | '''Known and possible contraindications for the use of helminthic therapy''']]

People considering self-treatment with helminths sometimes ask if they need to make sure they don’t already have any worms before introducing therapeutic ones. However, this is unnecessary in the vast majority of cases, as can be seen from the details on the [[Deworming debunked |'''Deworming debunked''']] page. Additionally, the use of "parasite cleanses" is rarely a good idea, for the reasons set out in [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/a/a4/Why_a_parasite_cleanse_can_make_you_worse.pdf this article].

In a study carried out in Argentina, 12 MS patients were found to be hosting a variety of helminths. Three had Hymenolepis nana, 3 Trichuris trichiura, 3 Ascaris lumbricoides, 2 Strongyloides stercolaris, and 1 Enterobius vermicularis. Only one of these species is a mutualistic helminth (Trichuris trichiura), yet no patient developed clinical disease associated with any of the helminths during the 4.6 year period that they were followed by the researchers. And there were only 3 reported relapses in MS in the subjects hosting this wide range of mostly non-mutualistic helminth species in comparison with 56 relapses in those without helminths. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/e/ec/Association_Between_Parasite_Infection_and_Immune_Responses_in_Multiple_Sclerosis_.pdf]

However, any potentially pathogenic helminths that also have the capability to proliferate within a host may do so if the host were to become immunosuppressed, for example due to chemotherapy or HIV, or as a result of taking a corticosteroid drug such as prednisone. This could result in a helminth such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strongyloides_stercoralis Strongyloides stercolaris] multiplying and causing the pathologies associated with this species, including [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18321548/ Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome] which has a high mortality rate. Therefore, if someone has previously travelled to an area of the world where pathogenic helminths are endemic, they may wish to take a parasite test before commencing helminthic therapy. This would allow them to avoid the possibility that any future immunosuppression might cause the proliferation of a species that would require termination, causing the collateral loss of any therapeutic helminths that were also being hosted at that time.

The '''''only''''' reliable test for this purpose is a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polymerase_chain_reaction PCR (polymerase chain reaction)] analysis that checks for helminth DNA, and this can be ordered internationally online from [https://www.diagnosticsolutionslab.com/tests/pathogens-panel-stool Diagnostic Solutions] in Atlanta, Georgia, US. The clinician ordering this test should ask specifically for the '''helminth''' test.

=== Getting started ===

This quick start guide will ensure that the prospective helminth host has covered all bases before commencing treatment.

*[[Helminthic therapy FAQ#How do I get started with helminthic therapy? | '''How do I get started with helminthic therapy?''']]

=== Further considerations ===

Self-treatment with helminths is very individual so, even with guidance, it can take a while to establish the ideal dosing regimen.

{{Quote|indent}}I now realise that the dosage, intervals and maintenance of Helminthic Therapy is ongoing and requires lots of attention, which if I’m being honest I wasn’t expecting.{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Self treatment is hard. I'm still figuring out the right species and number of worms best for me, 5 years into this. For some of us, it's much more complicated than 'take worms, get better.'{{Quote|/indent}}

Helminthic therapy is typically very slow to deliver benefits when compared with drugs. For the majority who do respond, significant and consistent improvements do not usually materialise until at least 3 months after the first inoculation, with most people only seeing improvement in their condition between 3 and 5 months. Some may only start to improve between 6 and 12 months and a few may even have to wait for as long as 18-24 months.

{{Quote|indent}}18 month update. After hitting the one year mark with no improvement I was starting to get discouraged… Finally, a couple weeks ago, everything changed. I was able to eat regular foods again. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1035915279797760/]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I was a year and a half into HT and flaring. My GI wouldn't do my colonoscopy because I was so inflamed he thought I would perf. He thought I should be admitted for IV steroids and started on Remicade. (but, at almost 2 years) I have been in complete remission for the past two months and have never felt as good. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/855123671210256/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Once improvements do begin to materialise, some people can experience a sudden and dramatic reduction in symptoms, while others may respond more gradually over a period of time, possibly three years or more. Improvements during the first 2 years are not always continuous because there can be periods of exacerbation during which symptoms may worsen again, albeit temporarily. And approximately 25% of those who try helminthic therapy do not respond at all.

Helminthic therapy is also not a one-size-fits-all solution, nor a one dose fix. Dosing needs to be tailored to the unique needs of each individual, and continued indefinitely in the vast majority of cases.

It is not yet possible to predict exactly who is likely to benefit from helminthic therapy, but statistics compiled from responses to a survey carried out by one provider of NA showed that 70-80% of those who self-treated with this species experienced an improvement in their health. The [https://www.ashdin.com/articles/overcoming-evolutionary-mismatch-by-selftreatment-with-helminths-current-practices-and-experience.pdf report] of a [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/1/1c/Helminth_Self-treatment_Survey_V2.pdf survey] conducted by researchers at Duke University showed that treatment with HDC was effective in more than 90% of cases, although this apparently higher efficacy of HDC in comparison with NA is likely to be at least partly due to the fact that users of HDC tend to be relatively less ill than those who use other therapeutic helminths.

Helminthic therapy is not always a complete solution on its own, and some self-treaters may need to combine this therapy with lifestyle changes, dietary modification [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6468841779838389/] and other treatments, either complementary or pharmaceutical. For example, one self-treater has said:

{{Quote|indent}}My personal efficacy is quite low without entocort. Without it, I need to take the HDC about weekly to get any effect on my sinuses, and the effect still isn't as good as with it.{{Quote|/indent}}
There are many examples of both successful and unsuccessful outcomes in the [[Helminthic therapy personal stories | '''Helminthic therapy personal stories''']] collection, which presents thumbnails and links to more than 900 accounts by people who have used helminthic therapy to treat over 160 different medical conditions.

There are very few doctors who understand helminthic therapy, let alone have any practical experience with it. A few medics are using HDC in some client groups, especially children with autism ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDhB_kQjjYA video]) and a few doctors may recommend that patients with various autoimmune conditions try TSO. There is also a small but growing number of doctors, especially naturopathic practitioners, who are recommending the use of NA and a few doctors have become sufficiently knowledgeable to be able to advise self-treaters. (See [[Helminthic therapy practitioners | '''Helminthic therapy practitioners''']].)

The [[Helminth providers | '''helminth providers''']] are another valuable source of information and guidance, although no one company sells or has experience with all four helminth species, so they are unlikely to be able to match the objectivity or breadth of information found in this wiki, which offers a balanced assessment of all 4 available helminth species based on the findings of science and the first-hand experience of self-treaters. It is therefore recommended that, before proceeding with this therapy, each would-be helminth self-treater should make full use of this site and familiarise themselves with as much of its contents as possible.

{{Quote|indent}}The only bumps I have had as a self treater, were when I didn't check the wiki. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2100578413331436/?comment_id=2103549636367647&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Obtaining helminths ===

Newcomers to helminthic therapy will often ask in the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ support group] for personal recommendations about the best place to buy helminths, but purchasing worms for therapy needs to be approached on an individual basis.

There are four different species of therapeutic helminth available with two different methods of application, widely differing lifespans and somewhat different effects. None of the companies who supply therapeutic helminths sell all the available species, ship to all global destinations, or accept all payment options. And, while most sell individual doses, with discounts for purchasing multiple doses at one time, a few offer long-term contracts. Therefore, details from '''''all''''' of the following three pages will need to be considered '''''in conjunction''''' in order to make the best decisions about which organism(s) will meet each user’s unique needs and circumstances, and where to purchase them.

* [[Selecting a therapeutic helminth | '''Selecting a therapeutic helminth''']]
* [[Helminth providers | '''Helminth providers''']]
* [[Helminth provider reviews | '''Helminth provider customer reviews''']]

Some adventurous would-be hookworm hosts may consider traveling to an area where these worms are endemic, in the hope of acquiring their larvae at zero cost in the same way that the locals do - accidentally, while walking barefoot in open-air latrines. This is a not a good idea, however, for a number of reasons, as is explained [https://web.archive.org/web/20231128130336/http://www.jasper-lawrence.com/why-acquiring-hookworm-the-old-fashioned-way-is-a-baaaad-idea/ here] by the only Westerner known to have done this.

=== Working with a doctor ===

At the present time, helminthic therapy is not approved as a medical treatment anywhere outside Thailand, so mainstream doctors - as opposed to naturopathic doctors (NDs) - face the possibility of losing their medical licence if they become involved In its use. Fortunately, helminthic therapy does not need to be doctor-led because, in practice, it is little different from taking a probiotic supplement, which most people do without involving a doctor.

One of the purposes of this wiki is to provide everything that the helminth self-treater needs in order to use this therapy safely, but it is essential that would-be self-treaters familiarise themselves fully with all the relevant sections of the site before commencing their treatment.

While a doctor's involvement is not essential, it can be helpful to have medical support available during the early stages of helminthic therapy. For example, a doctor will be able to prescribe an immunosuppressant drug to ease helminth side effects if these were to become troublesome, or to prescribe an anthelmintic drug if termination of a worm colony became necessary. But exactly how much to involve a physician is a matter for each self-treater to decide for themselves, based on their knowledge of their own practitioner.

Most doctors are dismissive of helminthic therapy, some are even hostile to its use, and many intensely dislike patients taking matters into their own hands to try what the doctor will likely consider an "experimental" treatment. Fortunately, '''all that is required from a doctor is that, while the patient is using helminthic therapy, they continue to provide the routine medical care that they would normally provide'''.

If a helminthic therapy self-treater decides to tell their doctor what they are doing, the language used can be important because, if a doctor thinks that their permission, approval or cooperation is being sought, they may feel they have no choice but to refuse to become involved in any way. To avoid placing a doctor in a difficult position, they can simply be informed by the patient of their intention to pursue the therapy. This lets the doctor off the hook and gives them the option of ending the relationship if they feel uncomfortable about it.

Doctors should certainly not disparage this therapy nor try to dissuade their patients from using it, especially if they are not fully conversant with the therapy. Any physician who does arbitrarily discourage self-treatment with helminths, in disregard of all the available [[Helminthic therapy research | '''research''']] and [[Helminthic therapy personal stories | '''anecdotal evidence''']] would clearly be violating the Hippocratic principle of primum non nocere (first, do no harm) and, in acting in this way, would arguably be committing medical abuse.

If a doctor is open to learning about helminthic therapy, they can be given a link to, or a copy of, the concise summary of information on this wiki page: [[Helminthic therapy information for doctors | '''Helminthic therapy information for doctors''']].

One patient who shared a few [[Helminthic therapy research#Reading packet | '''selected scientific papers''']] with her doctor and explained what she’d learned about the therapy reported that, after glancing through the literature, the doctor responded as follows.

{{Quote|indent}}I cannot officially recommend this as treatment, or treat you with this, but, in your case i think this is a great idea. The risks seem minimal. I see no threat to your health, and I’m happy to run any monitoring testing you want. Just let me know. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1563747870347829/?comment_id=1564416723614277&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

Here are comments by other patients who have found their doctors to be supportive of their decision to try helminthic therapy.

{{Quote|indent}}I told my GP and he was totally fine. He even agreed to allow me a test for anemia down the line. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}My neurologist is totally on board and thinks I am brave for doing it. (Link expired){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I was very nervous to be upfront with my doctor, but when I did, I felt much better, and my doctor never dissuaded me to stop treatment. He screens me annually in a metabolic panel just to be sure. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3004108712978397/?comment_id=3017078365014765&reply_comment_id=3297734953615770]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I told my specialist. He said don't stop if it's working. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5137991819590065/?comment_id=5138019112920669&reply_comment_id=5138023626253551]{{Quote|/indent}}

But some doctors are completely closed to even learning about this therapy. When an extensively published and award-winning toxicologist presented the head of adult allergy and asthma at his local university with papers about helminthic therapy, she refused to consider them and promptly fired him as a patient. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3469698079752789/?comment_id=3471023562953574]

Another self-treater whose doctor was not supportive found it necessary to locate a new one when he needed a prescription for prednisone to help ease the initial side effects after inoculating with too many hookworms. He did this by identifying all the most alternative and “hippie-looking” doctors in his area and emailing them. While most of them declined to help him, two agreed, and the one he selected carried out before-and-after blood tests and was willing to prescribe whatever he needed.

One self-treater takes a very proactive approach when introducing the subject with a doctor.

{{Quote|indent}}My drs are all well trained in what I will tolerate from them. I basically say this is the deal and I need your help monitoring general health for everything but biome. This works for 99% [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2016054118450533/?comment_id=2016157205106891&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}

For further help with talking to a doctor about helminthic therapy, see the following resources.

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20211130054709/http://colonyofme.com/how-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-helminthic-therapy/ How to talk to your doctor about helminthic therapy]

* [[Helminthic therapy research#Reading packet | ''' Helminthic Therapy Reading packet''']]. (A list of scientific papers that are suitable to be given to a doctor.)

=== Doctors as helminthic therapists ===

Some naturopathic doctors (NDs), may recommend helminthic therapy and be willing to become involved in its use, and a few may act as an intermediary in the supply of helminths to their patients. However, even some NDs can be poorly informed about helminthic therapy, and those whose understanding of it is limited can sometimes give their patients incorrect advice. For example, one patient was told by an ND that worms won’t work in someone who has SIBO, which is not the case. See [[Helminthic therapy and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) | '''Helminthic therapy and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)''']].

Doctors who do offer helminthic therapy to their patients often do not treat a sufficiently large number of individuals to have encountered some of the outliers with [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing''']], especially the extremely hypersensitive and those who are helminth permissive, i.e., their immune systems allow much longer helminth persistence. Some NDs may also favour the use of a fixed dosing protocol which they have personally determined as being best for most patients, rather than employing an individualised dose-finding approach in each case, starting with a very small number of worms as recommended in this wiki.

This latter factor can be a particular issue in the case of therapy with the hookworm, NA. The range of physician-determined dosing protocols for introducing NA varies widely, from the addition of a single larva every week or fortnight, to starting with a single dose of between 25 and 35 larvae. If a patient encounters adverse effects as a result of dosing that proves to be too much for them, an overseeing physician will obviously be able to prescribe immune suppressant drugs and/or anthelmintics, but this eventuality is arguably best avoided in the first place by following a very gentle introductory protocol that establishes the unique dosing needs of each individual. See [[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response''']].

If a doctor offers to supply helminths, their prices should be checked against those of the [[Helminth providers | '''online helminth providers''']], who will likely be considerably cheaper. Some doctors have claimed that the worms they supply are more gentle, “stronger”, more effective, or even safer, than those available online, but none of these claims is true. See [[Helminth providers#Doctors as providers | '''Doctors as providers''']]. The only possible difference between the worms available from doctors and online helminth providers is seen in the "fresh" and "commercially prepared" versions of HDC, and, in this case, correct dosing with commercially prepared HDC fully compensates for their slightly reduced effect in comparison with fresh HDC. See [[Self-treating with HDC#Dosing with HDC | '''Dosing with HDC''']].

For a list of doctors who are experienced in the use of helminthic therapy and who offer remote consultations via telephone and Skype, see the following page.

* [[Helminthic therapy practitioners | '''Helminthic therapy practitioners''']]

=== Combining helminthic therapy with drug treatments ===

====Immunosuppressant drugs are fully compatible with helminthic therapy====

No incompatibility issues have been reported as a result of combining NA, TTO or TSO with any immunosuppressive medication, such as the following examples mentioned by helminth self-treaters.

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclosporin Cyclosporin]; synthetic [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corticosteroid corticosteroids] including [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prednisolone prednisone] and its active metabolite, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prednisolone prednisolone]; the
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thiopurine thiopurines], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azathioprine azathioprine] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/6-MP mercaptopurine]/6-MP (purinethol); the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TNF_inhibitor TNF inhibitors], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infliximab infliximab] (Remicade),
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adalimumab adalimumab] (Humira), [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Certolizumab_pegol certolizumab pegol] (Cimzia) and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golimumab golimumab] (Simponi); [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humanized_antibody humanized antibody] drugs, e.g.,
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omalizumab omalizumab] (Xolair); [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monoclonal_antibody%23.22Fully.22_human_monoclonal_antibodies humanized monoclonal antibody] drugs such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natalizumab natalizumab] (Tysabri); and recombinant
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fusion_protein fusion protein drugs] such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etanercept etanercept] (Enbrel).

====No need to terminate therapeutic helminths while taking immunosuppressants====

The detail sheet for some immunosuppressant drugs - for example [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dupilumab dupilumab] (Dupixent) and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tezepelumab tezepelumab] (Tezspire) - may advise that helminth infections should be treated before commencing use of the drug. This advice is to prevent immunosuppression by the drug from supporting the proliferation of ''pathogenic'' helminths, but this is not an issue for users of NA, TTO or TSO because these species cannot proliferate within a host. (For example, see, [[Helminthic therapy safety#Can hookworms multiply within a host? |'''Can hookworms multiply within a host?''']].) However, it may not be advisable for anyone to take HDCs who is immunocompromised as a result of treatment with major immune-suppressive drugs, or due to HIV/AIDS or a genetic condition. [http://biomerestoration.com/faqs/]

====Immunosuppressant drugs can reduce initial helminth side effects====

It can actually be an advantage to be taking an immunosuppressive drug in the early stages of helminthic therapy using NA, TTO or TSO because the drugs reduce, and often completely prevent, the transient side effects sometimes caused by the introduction of helminths, especially NA.

People who are already taking a daily dose of prednisone when they begin helminthic therapy experience little or no side effects after inoculation, and those who have used this drug on a short-term basis specifically to reduce side effects have found that 5 or 10 mg per day is usually sufficient for this purpose.

{{Quote|indent}}We've found that a half-pill (5 or 10 mg?) of Prednisone per day is enough to kill any of those symptoms from dosing. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1016630521726236/?comment_id=1016974145025207&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}I was having bad diarrhea every day from worm flu starting around week three or four. 5mg of prednisone per day helped a lot (I'm 135 pounds). I am in week 7 now and stopped taking prednisone a few days ago (after
tapering off).[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/960597907329498/?comment_id=960661000656522&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R9%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}5-10 mg/day completely alleviated my GI symptoms after my first inoculation. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/977396905649598/?comment_id=978535158869106&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R1%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
If prednisone is used specifically to relieve side effects, the prescribing doctor will determine a taper to wean their patient off the drug and, if the symptoms return, they may be willing to defer the taper.

====Immunosuppressant drugs can help helminths become established====

Immunosuppressive drugs can help human helminths become established by reducing intestinal inflammation, so anyone who is already on one of these drugs should resist the temptation to stop taking them too soon after introducing NA or TTO. As the majority of those who respond to this therapy don’t see significant or consistent benefits until at least 3 months after their first inoculation, it would arguably be unwise to stop taking an immunosuppressant drug before this. In fact, many users have found it best to continue with the drug treatment beyond this point because some people only start to improve between 6 and 9 months, some only after 9 months, and a few not until between 18 and 24 months.

One individual with IBD-related arthritis found that reducing prednisone too soon caused her joints to ache and stiffen, so she continued to take azathioprine (Imuran) on its own after stopping prednisone, and this provided an intermediate step which allowed her to wean herself off drugs altogether, a process that took between 8 months and a year. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1414212941967990/?comment_id=1415214955201122&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

====Immunosuppressant drugs can support helminthic therapy====

Even helminth hosts who see early benefits can continue to experience periodic exacerbations or flares of their disease for up to 18 months, and a few may need to continue to take medication alongside helminthic therapy in the longterm.

{{Quote|indent}}I have had success only while taking TSO plus Humira. Humira alone does not make my Crohn's improve. Same with TSO. The combination seems to put me in clinical remission. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1147012698688017/?comment_id=3358780404177891]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I've had UC for 18 years, mostly mild to moderate. I take 25-50mg azathioprine daily and 250 TTO every 12 weeks. This treatment has kept me in complete clinical and endoscopic remission for 5 years, with no diet restrictions of any kind. (Edited from [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6595206410535258/?comment_id=6622999654422600 this post]){{Quote|/indent}}

Another self-treater who has kept his ulcerative colitis in remission for many years by combining TTO and NA, also takes 6.75g per day of Balsalazide (Colazal). He says that he probably doesn’t need the drug now, but that it’s cheap and has no side effects so he continues to take it. (Details from private communication.)

In view of this wide variation in experience, each individual must decide, in consultation with their physician, how long into their therapy to continue with an immunosuppressive drug before beginning, very slowly, to taper the dose. However, one supplier of human helminths (NA and TT) has been very specific about this and advised waiting until at least five months have elapsed after achieving a substantial improvement in symptoms.

This is particularly important for subjects with Crohn’s disease, or one of the other intestinal diseases, because they tend to have a vigorous immune response to helminths, so suddenly stopping a drug that has been keeping this response in check may result in a flare and, potentially, a loss of worms in the case of NA or TTO.

====Some drugs can harm therapeutic helminths====

A few drugs are harmful to helminths, and those that can adversely affect NA and TT are listed in the [[Human helminth care manual | '''Human Helminth Care Manual''']]. These drugs include some oral and injected antibiotics, the effects of which can be such that there may be little point in using NA, or possibly TT, if there is a need to take antibiotics regularly, or on a longterm basis. Those drugs that are incompatible with TSO are listed here: [[Self-treating with TSO#Caring for TSO | '''Caring for TSO''']], and those that are best avoided by users of HDC are shown here: [[Self-treating with HDC#Caring for HDC | '''Caring for HDC''']].

== Documenting one's helminthic therapy experience ==

Unlike pharmaceutical treatments, helminthic therapy is a journey that unfolds over a number of months and, to a lesser extent, over the first two or three years. Recalling the details of one’s experience can be important for informing choices about dosing, which needs to be optimised in the early stages of treatment and may require further adjustment over time. Since memory about these details can fade quickly, it’s important to record the size and dates of doses, along with details of any physical and/or symptomatic changes that occur along the way.

Some people have found a '''log app''' useful for this, possibly combined with a '''disease activity index''' to take periodic snapshots of progress during treatment, for example with Crohn's disease, [https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/3318/crohns-disease-activity-index-cdai] Ulcerative Colitis, [https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/3675/mayo-score-disease-activity-index-dai-ulcerative-colitis] Rheumatoid Arthritis, [https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/2194/simple-disease-activity-index-sdai-rheumatoid-arthritis] Ankylosing Spondylitis [https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/10047/ankylosing-spondylitis-disease-activity-score-crp-asdas-crp] or Lupus (SLE). [https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/10099/systemic-lupus-erythematosus-disease-activity-index-2000-sledai-2k]

== Considering the cost of helminthic therapy ==

At first sight, helminthic therapy may appear to be expensive, especially to those who live in countries with free health care, but a number of factors need to be taken into consideration, including the following.

1. Compared with other treatments used for the conditions that helminthic therapy treats, it is extremely cost-effective. For example, TSO is only 1/5th of the cost of Remicade, and the other helminths are even cheaper than this.

{{Quote|indent}}What we ended up paying for 3-years worked out to be cheaper than any hospital bill we would ever get. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/956494664406489/?comment_id=956646001058022&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22:%22R%22%7D]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}It may sound like a lot, but it can save money in the long run. I have been on HWs for about a year and I have decreased my medication, stopped my twice monthly IV therapy that cost $145/bag, and reduced my visits to the doctor. In addition I feel better and my quality of life has improved tremendously, for which there is no price tag.{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}It’s actually quite affordable. Definitely less expensive than all of the supplements & medications that I took prior. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3362273833828548?comment_id=3362383860484212&reply_comment_id=3363256360396962]{{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}It is still early after my 4th inoculation but I'm seeing amazing benefits. Gone are the days of terrible IBS-D and the improvement in life quality is tremendous. All that for about 400 usd per year. I never spent my money better in my life.
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2726061500783121?comment_id=3922843074438285]{{Quote|/indent}}

2. There is a good chance that helminthic therapy users will be able to earn more after treatment than they could before.

{{Quote|indent}}Since taking helminth therapy I am able to work, full time and then some, allowing me to make money to support myself and have a meaningful life of contribution and giving, instead of going broke, being a burden and dependent on charity. For those who think Helminthic therapy is expensive I suggest you recalculate the cost of your health care bills and the value of quality of life. I am grateful for helminthic therapy and for those who make it possible. It has literally saved my life! (From someone with Crohn’s disease.){{Quote|/indent}}
{{Quote|indent}}Coming up to 3 year anniversary of starting Helminthic therapy. Overall things very good. No significant relapses. Holding down very well paid job and loving it. (From someone with Multiple Sclerosis.){{Quote|/indent}}

3. People who smoke, and many others with a variety of interests and hobbies, often pay out far more than the cost of helminths just to provide themselves with pleasure and entertainment. 

4. Please look ''carefully'' at the details for each of the companies on the [[Helminth providers | '''Helminth providers''']] page. There is considerable variation in what is on offer, and discounts and payment plans may be available to those who ask. You may be able to work out something more manageable if you talk to each of the providers who are offering the species of helminth that you want and are able to ship to your location.

If you are still unhappy with the cost of helminths, you can grow your own NA, HDC or TTO. Incubating the first two of these species is well within the ability of most people if they follow the detailed instructions on the [[Helminth incubation | '''Helminth incubation''']] page, but a single first dose will need to be purchased from a provider to start the process.

== DIY helminth incubation ==

Three of the four species of helminth that are used in therapy are suitable for DIY incubation at home. See [[Helminth incubation | '''Helminth incubation''']]. However, if you intend to incubate hookworms, it is recommended that you obtain your starter dose from an established provider because this will obviate the risk of acquiring a different and possibly harmful species of worm, or some other unwanted infection, from another self-treater. See [[Helminth incubation#Hookworm incubation issues | '''Hookworm incubation issues''']] for more about these risks.
<div style="background-color:#FFF5FA; border:1px solid #A3B0BF; padding:6px; padding-left:8px; margin-bottom:12px;">
== How to drill into the contents of this site ==

* [[Helminthic Therapy Wiki | '''The Home page''']] shows the site’s main sections.
* [[Index to topics | '''The Index to Topics''']] lists every subject covered on the site.
* [[Special:AllPages | '''The List of Pages''']] includes the title of every page on the site.
* [[Sitemap | '''The Sitemap''']] provides a schematic of the site's contents.
* '''The Search tool''' available at the top right of every page on the site offers the best way to find specific details. Type a keyword into the search box - e.g., the name of a disease - and hit "Return". This will bring up a list of all the references to that keyword in the wiki, and clicking on any of the items listed will take you to another wiki page where you can use the search function on your device (Control+F on a PC, or Command+F on a Mac) to locate each mention of your keyword on that page.
</div>

== Online support ==

See the separate page:

* [[Helminthic therapy support groups | '''Helminthic therapy support groups''']]

== Further information ==
Enquirers who use a search engine to locate information about helminthic therapy will be presented, first, with sites that favour mainstream, mainly pharmaceutical approaches to healthcare and deprecate natural and alternative approaches such as helminthic therapy. This is because of Google’s active censorship of the details returned by its searches.

Prominant among the sites ranked most highly by Google are the larger general health information websites, which carry pages about helminthic therapy. Unfortunately, these pages have invariably been written, and reviewed, by staff members who have no personal experience of helminthic therapy, so have turned for information to the evidence presented by the authors of clinical trials, which, in the case of this particular therapy, are mostly seriously flawed, as is explained here: [[Helminthic therapy research#Problems with clinical trials using live helminths | '''Problems with clinical trials using live helminths''']].

An example of this is the article on the ''Healthline'' website entitled, [http://www.healthline.com/health/crohns-disease/hook-worms#1 Helminthic Treatment for Crohn's Disease]. This speaks of worm eggs being “injected” into patients, and of helminths causing dangerous side effects over time, including anaemia, protein deficiency and stunted growth. However, none of these claims are true in the case of the four species of ''mutualistic'' helminth being used in small numbers in helminthic therapy, as can be seen from the following wiki pages.

* [[Helminthic therapy safety | '''Helminthic therapy safety''']]
* [[Helminth inoculation | '''Helminth inoculation''']]
* [[Helminthic therapy and nutritional deficiencies | '''Helminthic therapy and nutritional deficiencies''']]

Editors of this wiki have made several attempts to have the errors in the Healthline article corrected, but no one has ever responded to any communication about the article, a situation that is typical for most of the large health information websites, many of which have been acquired by pharmaceutical companies and are controlled by these companies' employees or representatives.

In view of these issues with online health sites, anyone who is seeking information about helminthic therapy is urged to use this wiki as their primary source. It is the definitive database of information about all aspects of the therapy and its primary sources are the personal expereince of helmnth self-treaters and the best of the available science. And it is updated daily by volunteer citizen scientists who are directly involved in pioneering its use.

Hookworms prove life-changing for a patient with ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease

2024-09-04T03:18:57Z

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__NOTOC__===From drugs to diet and exercise, and then worms===

I’m a 32 year old female with an extensive history of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis / indeterminate Crohn's disease over 20 years. I’ve had IBD since I was 8 and was diagnosed with it when I was 12. I have also had mild asthma and allergies all my life.

At my worst, back in 2010, I was recommended to take Humira / Remicade due to severe illness that had put me out for about 2 years. Although I was on the verge of a total colectomy, I refused all medical interventions and focused on changing my diet and excersizing regularly. Then I ended up with a pregnancy which vastly improved my health but, 2 years after the birth, I began relapsing. I was in quite a lot of pain, with nausea, cramping, alternating diarrhea and constipation, and a lot of fatigue etc.

It was April 2016 when I started my helminthic therapy journey, and three weeks after my first dose of hookworms (NA), I started to feel a positive difference. It’s been an upward trend ever since, but it took around 18 to 24 months to achieve full clinical remission. In 2018, I had my first colonoscopy for 6 years, and this showed that my disease was clinically absent at a cellular level.

===Managing my hookworm colony===

I have had issues with the amount of worms I dose with, as it seems that I can never tolerate more than 10 at a time. I did have one dose of 20, but that turned out to be a bad decision, and I had to mitigate the resulting nightmarish cramps with low dose prednisone. However, that dose of 20 NA did provide the most benefit, possibly because it was my second or third dose and it helped to boost my colony. I now take about 7-10 hookworm larvae every 3-4 months, depending on how I am feeling.

Today, I am weaning off Immuran and have noticed that I do need more frequent doses of worms as opposed to before. In the beginning, I could go for 6 months between doses, but this time began shortening as I began weaning off the drug. Now, I dose roughly every 3-4 months because I start to get constipated if I don’t.

I also occasionally take Visbiome probiotics, especially if something has irritated my intestines - usually as a result of food poisoning or the flu, both of which can have a temporary adverse effect on my colony, as can colonoscopy prep.

After taking colon prep in 2018, I was beyond miserable with cramps and pain, to the extent that I thought I would never recover and might stay in an indefinite flare. Although it did eventually go away, it lasted for a good 3-6 months and I needed 2 hookworm doses to recover from it.

Whenever I get the flu, my colony starts to suffer and I need to top it up with an extra dose at around the 3 month mark as opposed to 4-5 months. Also, whenever I take a dose after having JUST recovered from the flu, my lungs will be affected. This has now happened twice. The first time was in 2018, when I experienced breathing issues for a short time. Then, this year, I suffered from the most severe flu that I have ever experienced - or it may actually have been coronavirus. Two weeks after ''almost'' recovering, I took a top-up dose, developed bronchitis and ended up going to hospital due to the breathing issues. This was mitigated by a 5 day course of high-dose prednisone along with steroid inhalers, then worsened again as the 10th week post inoculation drew near, but then finally subsided as the 12 week mark approached.

===I’ll never ever give up my worms!===

Despite some of the issues that I have experienced while on NA, I would never ever give them up because of the benefits they have given me. They have changed my life for the better and allowed me to live my life to the fullest extent possible. “Life changing” is the only way to describe what they have done for me.

I now grow my own hookworms using use [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/NA_incubation:_very_simple_Harada-Mori_method_by_Sarah '''Sarah’s very simple Harada-Mori incubtion method'''] and, after only one initial failure, I have been very successful at this.

I got lucky with my GI doctor because she has not judged my choices too harshly, and had actually enrolled me in an FMT (Fecal Microbiota Transplant) trial prior to me doing the worms. In the event, I didn't qualify for the trial, but I did end up doing FMT myself, in the USA, although I didn't see much benefit from this.

While my doctor had advised caution when I told her about the worms, and she still thinks that they do nothing and that the improvements I’ve seen are all a coincidence, she is nevertheless curious and is generally more open- and research-minded than most doctors. By Saira, September 2020
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Helminthic therapy and COVID-19

2024-09-04T03:18:57Z

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== Helminths may confer protection against COVID-19 ==

Someone who contracts SARS-CoV-2 and develops COVID-19 may recover from the illness more quickly and face a reduced risk of fatality if they are hosting helminths.

{{Quote|indent}}... we believe that chronic helminth infection provides infected people with an unexpected wealth of protective mechanisms against the Covid-19 disease and its lethal complications. [https://www.qeios.com/read/IWKQH9.2]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}The most severe symptoms (of COVID-19) are associated with overactive inflammatory immune responses, leading to a cytokine storm, tissue damage, and death, if not balanced and controlled… Soil transmitted helminths stimulate the immunosuppressive and regulatory T-helper 2 (TH2) branch of the immune system, which decreases ACE2-receptor expression (i.e., receptors SARS-CoV-2 uses to infect host cells), balances the inflammatory TH1/TH17 branches of the immune system triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection, and reduces inflammation through the release of anti-inflammatory/regulatory cytokines.” [https://academic.oup.com/emph/advance-article/doi/10.1093/emph/eoaa037/5930904]{{Quote|/indent}}

Hookworm antigens are known to up-regulate genes belonging to certain families, including P53, that are responsible for programmed cell death. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23277021/] In other research, it was found that P53 reduces replication of the SARS-CoV by 65%. [https://www.pnas.org/content/113/35/E5192]

== The science ==

* 2023 Aug 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37566678/ Exposure to lung-migrating helminth protects against murine SARS-CoV-2 infection through macrophage-dependent T cell activation]
:{{Quote|indent}}These results demonstrate that lung-migrating helminths reprogram lung immune homeostasis, leading to enhanced protection against subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infection. (The species used in this research was Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, which is similar to Necator americanus, the hookworm used in helminthic therapy which is also a lung-migrating worm.){{Quote|/indent}}

* 2023 Jun 20 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37383608/ The Potential Nexus between Helminths and SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Literature Review] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10299886/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10299886/pdf/JIR2023-5544819.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}… chronic helminth infections may reduce the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection by reducing hyperinflammation and exaggerated immune response.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2023 May [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37038955/ Immunological interactions in helminths-SARS CoV-2 coinfection: Could old enemy be a friend today?]

:{{Quote|indent}}… COVID-19 severity in patients with chronic helminth infections (CHIs) is mild, as immuno-suppressive anti-inflammatory cytokines counterbalance the risk of cytokine storm. Here, an overview of the interplay between helminths and COVID-19 severity is given.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2023 Feb 9 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36785786/ COVID-19 morbidity in lower versus higher income populations underscores the need to restore lost biodiversity of eukaryotic symbionts] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9908430/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

:{{Quote|indent}}… it is now apparent that 'biome reconstitution', defined as the artificial re-introduction of benign, symbiotic helminths or protists into the ecosystem of the human body, is important not only for alleviation of chronic immune disease, but likely also for pandemic preparedness.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2022 Nov 10 [https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.11.09.515832v1 Helminth exposure protects against murine SARS-CoV-2 infection through macrophage dependent T cell activation] -- [https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.11.09.515832v1.full Full text] | [https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.11.09.515832v1.full.pdf PDF]

::This study shows that lung remodelling from a prior helminth infection promotes recovery and less severe outcomes in mice challenged with SARS-CoV-2.

* 2022 Jun 28 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35764965/ Helminth antigens differentially modulate the activation of CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes of convalescent COVID-19 patients in vitro] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9241220/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9241220/pdf/12916_2022_Article_2441.pdf PDF]

:{{Quote|indent}}Our data offer a plausible explanation for the moderate incidence of COVID-19 in Africa and support the hypothesis that helper T cell-mediated immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 are mitigated in the presence of helminth antigens, while virus-specific cytotoxic T cell responses are maintained.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2022 Mar [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34861106/ Immunomodulation of COVID-19 severity by helminth co-infection: Implications for COVID-19 vaccine efficacy] -- [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/iid3.573 Full text] | [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/iid3.573 PDF]

* 2022 Feb 11 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35222441/ The Fight Against Severe COVID-19: Can Parasitic Worms Contribute?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8874793/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8874793/pdf/fimmu-13-849465.pdf PDF]

:{{Quote|indent}}We argue that helminth-derived products and molecules that can potentially induce a Th2-biased immune response may provide a contributory role in preventing severe COVID-19 by restricting the cytokine storm associated with ARDS… Another unanswered question is whether a well-controlled low level concomitant infection with a live helminth, such as hookworm, can achieve an equivalent or superior effect to an immunomodulator or vaccine in preventing serious outcomes of COVID-19. It would be valuable to test such helminthic-based therapies as these may represent a safe and cost-effective anti-inflammation approach to reducing COVID-19 severity.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2022 Jan 19 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35115243/ Helminths and COVID-19 susceptibility, disease progression, and vaccination efficacy] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1471492222000083 Full text]

:{{Quote|indent}}We postulate that helminth infection may be beneficial in preventing cytokine storms and severe COVID-19…{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2021 Dec 6 [https://evmedreview.com/evolutionary-medicine-helps-explain-pandemic-dynamics-predictions-regarding-clinical-impact-of-covid-19-borne-out/ Evolutionary medicine helps explain pandemic dynamics: Predictions regarding clinical impact of COVID-19 borne out]

::A significant amount of the tragic clinical outcome of the COVID pandemic in high-income countries might arguably have been mitigated had timely investigations been carried out into the effects of the loss of helminths and protists in these countries and into the reintroduction of benign species capable of safely modulating immune function.

* 2021 Oct 27 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737582/ The Influence of Helminth Immune Regulation on COVID-19 Clinical Outcomes: Is it Beneficial or Detrimental?] — [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558425/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558425/pdf/idr-14-4421.pdf PDF]

::The authors call for more studies looking at pre-existing helminth and SARS-CoV-2 co-infection, with a view to informing the management of COVID-19 in areas where helminth infections are co-endemic.

* 2021 Oct 26 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34868595/ Helminth infection is associated with dampened cytokine responses to viral and bacterial stimulations in Tsimane forager-horticulturalists] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634526/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634526/pdf/eoab035.pdf PDF]

::The results support the hypothesis that soil-transmitted helminths inhibit the cytokine response to viruses and bacteria by dampening the proinflammatory cytokine phenotype, suggesting that the helminth-induced anti-inflammatory immunomodulatory network may attenuate some of the most severe symptoms of viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2.

* 2021 Sept [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34368662/ Effect of co-infection with intestinal parasites on COVID-19 severity: A prospective observational cohort study] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8324426/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8324426/pdf/main.pdf PDF]

::This study showed a significant inverse correlation between the presence of intestinal parasites and COVID-19 severity, suggesting that parasite co-infection, with both protozoa and helminths, may protect against progression to severe COVID-19.

* 2021 Jul 19 [https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/lab-report/novel-autoantibody-adds-fuel-to-covid-19-firestorm-of-inflammation-blood-clots Novel autoantibody adds fuel to COVID-19 “firestorm” of inflammation, blood clots]

:{{Quote|indent}}A growing body of studies suggests COVID-19 emulates many aspects of systemic autoimmune disorders, including the release of a flurry of overactive immune cells that produce toxic webs of proteins and DNA called neutrophil extracellular traps, or NETs.{{Quote|/indent}}

::Therapeutic administration of helminth excretory/secretory factors has been shown to modulate these neutrophil responses, abolishing NET formation and reducing the ensuing inflammation. [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-92001-9]

* 2021 Jul 19 [https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2021.705020/full Gut Microbiota Diversity and C-Reactive Protein Are Predictors of Disease Severity in COVID-19 Patients]

::This study demonstrated that hospitalized patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 have microbial signatures of gut dysbiosis. Since helminths are known to engender beneficial changes in the gut microbiota [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminths_and_the_gut_microbiota] this study’s findings may suggest a beneficial role for helminths in reducing COVID-19 severity.

* 2021 Jul 16 [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.07.12.21260394v1.full.pdf Patterns of SARS-CoV-2 exposure and mortality suggest endemic infections, in addition to space and population factors, shape dynamics across countries]

:{{Quote|indent}}The number of SARS-CoV-2 cases was not the only predictor of deaths, with countries with a high prevalence of hookworm and malaria experiencing fewer SARS-CoV-2 deaths compared to those with lower hookworm and malaria prevalence.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2021 Jun 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34171587/ SARS-CoV-2 and helminth co-infections, and environmental pollution exposure: An epidemiological and immunological perspective] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8205275/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8205275/pdf/main.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}The present review focused on the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2, helminths and fine particulate matter air pollution exposure in helminth endemic regions, the possible immunomodulatory activity of helminths against SARS-CoV-2 hyper-inflammatory immune response, and whether air and water pollutants can further exacerbate SARS-CoV-2 related cytokine storm and in the process hinder helminths immunomodulatory functionality.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2021 Jun 7 [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/11/2533 The New Status of Parasitic Diseases in the COVID-19 Pandemic—Risk Factors or Protective Agents?] — [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/11/2533/htm Full text]
::Reviews current knowledge about the relationships between a wide range of parasitic infections and COVID-19.

* 2021 May 26 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34051352/ Emerging issues in COVID-19 vaccination in Tropical Areas: Impact of the Immune Response against Helminths in Endemic Areas]
:{{Quote|indent}}The implications of the immunomodulation effect of helminths in endemic areas must be considered in the context of COVID-19 mass vaccination.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2021 May 24 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34029332/ COVID-19 and helminth infection: Beyond the Th1/Th2 paradigm] — [https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0009402]
:{{Quote|indent}}It is essential to remember the manifold negative effects of intestinal parasitosis... In regions where undernutrition rather than overnutrition is a dominating concern, nutritional and metabolic compromise may present a greater hazard in persons at risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2021 Apr 16 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33935986/ Interrogating the Impact of Intestinal Parasite-Microbiome on Pathogenesis of COVID-19 in Sub-Saharan Africa] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8086792/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8086792/pdf/fmicb-12-614522.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}Here, we propose that the interplay between intestinal parasites and microbiome may have a potential direct or indirect effects on the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection, in particular in the context of Low- and Middle-Income Countries.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2021 Feb 12 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33732461/ Between a hygiene rock and a hygienic hard place: Avoiding SARS-CoV-2 while needing environmental exposures for immunity] — [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7928958/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7928958/pdf/eoab006.pdf PDF]
::Evidence not only points to humans’ need of helminths for effective immune function, but also for an effective immune response against SARS-CoV-2 and other viral infections.

* 2021 Feb 2 [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.02.02.21250995v1 Effect of co-infection with parasites on severity of COVID-19] -- [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.02.02.21250995v1.full.pdf PDF] (medRxiv preprints)
::Pre-existing infection with either protozoan parasites or helminths appears to be associated with reduced COVID-19 severity.
::(Related media article: [https://www.news-medical.net/news/20210204/Research-shows-intestinal-parasite-infestations-reduce-COVID-19-severity.aspx Research shows intestinal parasite infestations reduce COVID-19 severity] - Liji Thomas, News Medical)

* 2020 Oct 20 [https://academic.oup.com/emph/advance-article/doi/10.1093/emph/eoaa037/5930904 Old Friends Meet a New Foe – A potential role for immune-priming parasites in mitigating COVID-19 morbidity and mortality] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7665448/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7665448/pdf/eoaa037.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}An evolutionary perspective is required to understand the global impact and various presentations of COVID-19. We consider how coinfection with soil-transmitted helminths (common parasitic worms that coevolved with humans) may suppress inflammatory immune activity, thereby potentially reducing COVID-19 disease severity.{{Quote|/indent}}
::(Related media article: [https://web.archive.org/web/20220516224132/https://communique.uccs.edu/?p=128160 Cepon-Robins illustrates how immune responses to intestinal parasites could reduce severity of COVID-19] - Anna Squires, Communique.)

* 2020 Oct 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33153921/ Potential Influence of Helminth Molecules on COVID-19 Pathology] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1471492220302804 Full text] | [https://www.cell.com/trends/parasitology/pdf/S1471-4922(20)30280-4.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}Helminth parasites could change the outcome of COVID-19 infections, in areas of the world where helminthic infections are still prevalent, by inducing a modified Th2 response with a controlled inflammatory component. Notably, in countries of Africa and Latin America, where helminth infections are still common, the numbers of reported COVID-19 deaths are substantially lower than those reported in high-income countries.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2020 Oct 8 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33117371/ COVID-19 Lethality in Sub-Saharan Africa and Helminth Immune Modulation] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7578247/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7578247/pdf/fimmu-11-574910.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}… we argue that helminth coinfection… may be related to the low lethality of COVID-19 in Sub-Saharan Africa.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2020 Oct [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32653475/ Does the hygiene hypothesis apply to COVID-19 susceptibility?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7347347/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7347347/pdf/main.pdf PDF]
::The hygiene hypothesis, which posited that children exposed to certain environments and enteric organisms such as helminths were less likely to develop allergies and autoimmune diseases than those who experienced a more hygienic upbringing, may apply to COVID-19 susceptibility and severity.

* 2020 Aug 17 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32804930/ Helminth coinfection and COVID-19: An alternate hypothesis] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7430705/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7430705/pdf/pntd.0008628.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}We believe… that any interaction between pre-existing helminth infection and the subsequent severity of COVID-19 need not necessarily be a negative one, and theoretical and empirical evidence suggests that helminths may indeed have a mitigating effect.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2020 May 28 [https://www.qeios.com/read/IWKQH9.2 The global helminth belt and Covid-19: the new eosinophilic link]
:{{Quote|indent}}Our main hypothesis therefore is that chronic helminth infection, and the immune consequences thereof, is the main reason why the Covid-19 pandemic have a relatively much lower presence in the millenarian global helminth belt than in the modern urban "dewormed" world...{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2020 May 18 [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.05.11.20098053v1.full.pdf Parasites and their protection against COVID-19- Ecology or Immunology?] (PDF)
:{{Quote|indent}}We report a consistent inverse correlation between the incidence of COVID-19 and parasitic infections observed across WHO regions. These preliminary findings from an ecological analysis, support our hypothesis of a possible immune-modulatory mechanism induced by parasitic infections, which is protective against COVID-19 and warrants further investigation.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2020 May 15 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33623561/ Immunity, parasites, genetics and sex hormones: contributors to mild inflammatory responses in COVID-19?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7875730/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7875730/pdf/PAMJ-SUPP-35-2-36.pdf PDF]
::Explores the possible factors, including parasites, that may be contributing to the lower number of COVID-19 deaths reported in Africa.

* 2020 May 1 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32358579 Will helminth co-infection modulate COVID-19 severity in endemic regions?] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7193760/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7193760/pdf/41577_2020_Article_330.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}We call on the research community to investigate the influence of helminth co-infection on COVID-19 outcomes as the pandemic spreads through the helminth-endemic regions of the word. Potential negative effects may influence recommendations on deworming.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2020 Apr 27 [https://www.qeios.com/read/5IY4IF Asthma and COVID-19: The Eosinophilic Link]
:{{Quote|indent}}Finally, we could also speculate that the high prevalence of parasitic diseases and therefore the pervasiveness of (blood or tissue) eosinophilia and the relatively low incidence of the (COVID-19) pandemic in areas like Tropical Africa or the Indian subcontinent, could be somehow linked. Only time and further research will tell us if there is a relevant connection here.{{Quote|/indent}}

* 2017 Oct [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28196762/ Enteric helminth-induced type I interferon signaling protects against pulmonary virus infection through interaction with the microbiota] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6485385/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6485385/pdf/emss-79828.pdf PDF]

:{{Quote|indent}}In conclusion, we show that intestinal helminth infection can be beneficial in viral respiratory tract infections… we hypothesize that helminth infection in the gut triggers type I interferon production through bacterial interactions, which leads to systemic type I interferon induction, thus raising preparedness of remote sites, such as the lung, to mount an effective innate response against incoming unrelated viral pathogens.{{Quote|/indent}}

== The experience of Brazil ==

Brazil has been one of the countries most severely affected by the pandemic, with SARS-CoV-2 spreading particularly rapidly in the pandemic’s early stages in Maranhao State in the Northeast region of the country. However, this state’s fatality rate peaked in May and fell consistently thereafter. [https://www.news-medical.net/news/20200902/Brazilian-state-of-Maranhao-heading-towards-SARS-CoV-2-herd-immunity-say-researchers.aspx?fbclid=IwAR26nhCH6lmKxQ5587uSsoR810sezGQqZ43sQpFy0jqxHTjDTz4ekwlbozI]

By April 2021, Maranhao State had Brazil’s lowest covid-19 caseload (9 per 100,000) and almost the lowest death rate (0.61 per 100,000) per population. [https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/world/americas/brazil-coronavirus-cases.html?fbclid=IwAR0fpR9mio0UObBgMmFxHF5piIn7OggM-SiAFhZisl7Tq3-UwC-NcLwxku8]

Researchers reporting from Maranhao in September 2020 had estimated that the prevalence of detectable antibodies (seroprevalence) in the state was already the highest, and the closest reported at that point to the herd immunity threshold, [https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.08.28.20180463v1] in spite of the population’s generally low economic and nutritional status.

Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are still endemic in Brazil’s Northeast region, [http://www.saude.ba.gov.br/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/RELATÓRIO-FINAL-INQUÉRITO-PREVALÊNCIA-ESQUISTOSSOMOSE-2016.pdf] and a national survey carried out in 2016 had found the region’s highest STH prevalence was in Maranhao State, which also had the highest hookworm rate in Brazil. [https://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S0036-46652020000100234&script=sci_arttext&fbclid=IwAR0tMHhNJ5Ncj9dZochGsQQv6dtRdZUkeHVsYe9CcM5UWlrd5SrofLherOY]

== The experience among helminthic therapy self-treaters ==

=== Reactions to COVID-19 ===

There have been very few reports from self-treaters describing the experience of COVID-19. Most comments from those in this community have described how they began to show signs of what appeared to be a viral infection but which soon resolved, or followed a course very similar to that of a bout of influenza, leaving most of these individuals uncertain as to whether they had had COVID-19 or not. The marked absence from this community of reports of severe illness attributed to COVID-19 may, itself, be suggestive of a beneficial role for helminths.

{{Quote|indent}}I had a CONFIRMED case of Covid-19 and I am hosting about 15-20 NA. The virus came like a quick storm for me. Day 1, I had a fever of 101-2 degrees all day and severe body aches. Day 2, my fever completely subsided and I've been slowly recovering ever since. I'm not sure if my NA had any role to play. I'm 7 days from onset and still dealing with some fatigue and loss of smell/taste. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3325294814193117/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I came down with COVID but I wouldn’t consider my aches more severe than I usually get when I’m ill. I’m generally all aches, no fever. I had a lingering odd feeling in my respiratory tract but nothing severe. Also a headache after the first two days, followed by total loss of smell that has still not completely returned. I was never super fatigued but the aches lingered a bit. I only host 5 NA and it’s time to redose. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3325294814193117/?comment_id=3375772835811981]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}It lasted 5-6 days total. I still have a mild sore throat but otherwise I’m recovered. My symptoms (per the usual with NA) were quite different from others. Two friends of mine, who are both considered healthy, are still having symptoms. (One of them infected me). They are coping with a continued cough & congestion. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4596585873730665/?comment_id=4610220309033888]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Had covid (confirmed by positive PCR test). Light cold symptoms for couple of days. No meds, just vitamins. I’d inoculated with 25 NA (3 months previously). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4615015881887664?comment_id=4616299278425991] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4615015881887664/?comment_id=4616299278425991&reply_comment_id=4617240928331826]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Day 1 was a really rough start, and I was still feeling bad on day 2, but the fever had gone. By day 3, I was doing almost everything as normal, and, on day 4, I can honestly say I'm fine again. Out of 8 friends of mine - all in their 30s - that had COVID two weeks before, or at the same time as me, 6 took 2 weeks to start feeling normal and they were really sick. One took 1 week and one recovered in 3 days. I used to be the one that was sick for weeks and took forever to recover. (Edited from several posts in this thread: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4715644738491444/]){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Both my husband and I host NA and we have both had COVID - a very mild dose for both of us, not even a sore throat. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5499503683438875/?comment_id=5500587119997198]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I just recovered from Covid after being infected last week while visiting a hospital that was suffering an outbreak. My experience was pretty much identical to my brother and the family friend who got infected at the same time. They had the same symptoms, the same timeline as I. My helminths didn't appear to alter the course of my illness one way or another. This was my 3rd bout of Covid and this time was similar or slightly worse than my second, just a bad cold lasting 5-6 days. My first Covid infection in 2020 was horrible, life-threatening. Perhaps hookworms might have spared me some impact with that much more serious illness, but unfortunately I wasn't hosting NA during that time. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6730054200383811/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I have had COVID multiple times, and I have been hosting NA for years. My symptoms were less severe than my wife's, who is not hosting NA. Very mild symptoms most of the time - light cough, headache for several days, and a dizziness for maybe one or two days. I was not as tired and did not seem to have as long of recovery. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7046973088691919?comment_id=7047120318677196]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}I had fever for 4 days. Temporarily lost the sense of taste and smell, etc. I was somewhat tired for 10 days and it all came back to normal afterward. I take TSO for Ulcerative Colitis. I have been in remission for almost 3 years now. I was in Mexico when I got COVID. The variant was named Xibalba. This particular variant had a strong affinity with the digestive track. So I had intestinal symptoms like others but at no time did the Ulcerative Colitis symptoms reappear. The remission held well. I believe this is because I keep taking a lower regular dose of TSO to keep the immunity in my digestive track in good balance. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/7046973088691919?comment_id=7047025488686679]{{Quote|/indent}}

Someone who uses TSO to keep his ulcerative colitis in remission was able to weather a bout of the diarrhea-causing Xibalba COVID variant without it exacerbating his intestinal disease.

{{Quote|indent}}I have been without Ulcerative Colitis symptoms now for more than 1.5 years - thanks to taking 1,250 TSO every 2 weeks. My body has recovered largely from the previous flare and has rebuilt itself well even if I am now 71 years old. So I figured it was time to travel again. I went to Yucatan Mexico, an area of the world that I know well. I spent the first 10 days in a small Mayan village of 300 people surrounded by the jungle. Then I moved for another 10 days to a small city in the heart of the Mayan world.

I began feeling ill on Day 2. I had a bout of intense diarrhea for one day - reminiscent of colitis of course - followed with fever. My wife suggested I do a Covid test. I agreed but I was certain it was a reaction caused by lots of unusual foods including gluten foods which I avoid at home. The test came out positive! We got the Xibalba Covid variant which is common now in the Yucatan peninsula. That variant is known to affect the intestinal tract and provoke diarrhea.

For 5 days I was ill with fever, cough, loss of smell, skin sensitivities etc. My intestines were hurting, my stools had mucus in them. I came back home to Canada testing negative but with my intestines still dysfunctional. The inflammation created pressure on my lower back and I have been feeling pain for several days.

One week later, while it is not entirely resolved at this time, I feel 95% OK. I realized today that in spite of the Covid and its effect on my fragile intestinal tract, at no time I had blood in my stool and no sense of urgency either. In other words, it held well and I seem to do no worse than others with this variant. It did NOT trigger Ulcerative Colitis (which was my biggest fear), so all is well. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5672681642787744/]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Reactions to a COVID-19 vaccine ===

Several members of the helminthic therapy self-treatment community have reported significant health issues following receipt of COVID-19 vaccines.

* Someone working in an educational institution has reported that he was pressured by his employer into getting a COVID vaccine, which he described as a standard “virus plus aluminum adjuvant” version rather than an mRNA one. He had expressed concerns to his institution’s doctor about possible adverse effects from the vaccine, and requested exemption based on his history of autoimmune issues, and his concern about “rocking the boat” with his health, which had been much more stable since hosting helminths. He also referenced his experience with influenza, which he had always coped with well, unlike some others he knew who had had a flu vaccine. However, the institution’s medic had dismissed all his concerns and expressed total confidence in the safety of the vaccine, which the individual reluctantly accepted.

: After getting the vaccine, he experienced what he has described as “some scary autoimmune symptoms” and was still having difficulty getting his health back on track, in spite of hosting helminths, 6 months later.

: {{Quote|indent}}I've been struggling with a severe vax reaction the past 6 months with which my existing NA colony of maybe around 40, plus 2 top-ups of 20 (one 20 weeks ago, one 8) have seemingly not helped much. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/4683032438419341/]{{Quote|/indent}}

: And even at 9 months post vaccination.

: {{Quote|indent}}Still having problems with vax side effects 9 months after one dose of Sinovac. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4306254222763833?comment_id=4966081903447725]{{Quote|/indent}}

* Someone else has reported significant issues following the Moderna vaccine.

: {{Quote|indent}}I developed my first autoimmune disease shortly after my 2 shot Moderna shot. I went into remission 9 months later after changing my diet and practicing intermittent fasting. After my booster shot, I developed 2 more autoimmune diseases and the first one came back. Itis diet seems to be helping and I have high hopes for NA (but currently on day 6 with HT). [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4306254222763833?comment_id=4968833826505866]{{Quote|/indent}}

* And a third helminthic therapy self-treater has reported a possible adverse effect following vaccination.

: {{Quote|indent}}My health has been declining slowly since April, which is coincidentally when I got vaccinated. Other variables are at play, so I definitely can't say with confidence that it's the vaccine that's caused it. It's just a tad confusing/disconcerting that I've had two (helminth) inoculations since April, but things seem to continue trending worse. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4306254222763833/]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== Timing of vaccine doses and helminth inoculations ===

Until more is known about possible interactions, the cautious approach might be to leave an interval of two or three weeks between helminth doses and vaccinations. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6856414004414496/?comment_id=6856461057743124] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6856414004414496?comment_id=6866519600070603]

Although one NA user had no issues when only leaving a couple of days between the two.

{{Quote|indent}}I am a long term user (of hookworms). I put in about 30 worms and had a (COVID vaccine) booster a few days after with no issues. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/4677530632302855?comment_id=4678758012180117]{{Quote|/indent}}

== Treating COVID-19 while hosting helminths ==

Anyone hosting helminths who does develop this illness will want to use therapies that will not have any detrimental effect on their helminth colony. A comprehensive list of effective, helminth-friendly, natural antiviral therapies can be found [[Human helminth care manual#Natural_antivirals | '''here''']].

=== Can the corticosteroids used to treat COVID-19 cause helminth colonies to increase? ===

There have been several reports of Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection in COVID-19 patients treated with corticosteroids. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34446397/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32830642/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34127256/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34150517/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32910321/] However, while this particular nematode species is of special concern in immunosuppressed persons due to the possibility of potentially life-threatening systemic hyperinfection, [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25774935] [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30898993] TSO, TTO, HDC and NA do not present the same risk due to their inability to multiply within a host.

=== Can the mRNA and spike proteins from COVID vaccines pass into hookworm larvae? ===

This question, which was asked in the Helminthic Therapy Support group, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5427440317311879/] appeared to have arisen as a result of concern about the possibility of the vaccine mRNA or reverse transcribed spike protein DNA persisting in the cells of human vaccinees - a fiercely debated issue. The concern in the mind of the NA self-treater who asked the question was perhaps about whether any spike protein genetic material in the blood ingested by a hookworm might then be integrated into that worm’s genome, and passed, first, to the worm’s progeny, and then to their next human host, where it might be integrated into that host’s genome.

This possibility is thought to be vanishingly improbable because, firstly, the blood ingested by an adult hookworm will be broken down by the digestive enzymes and microbiota of the worm’s gut. And, secondly, because, even if an intact strand of the spike protein gene were to survive the digestive process, it would need to be absorbed, and then - the toughest challenge of all - would need to get into the worm’s ovary or testis, and into the chromosome of a germ cell. And this exceedingly improbable journey would need to be followed by another, in which a gene in the new generation of hookworms would need to be transmitted to the next human host.

This is therefore not something that hookworm self-treaters need to worry about. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5427440317311879?comment_id=5430907446965166]

== Helminthic therapy and Long COVID ==

Since Long COVID has many similarities with ME/CFS, also see [[Helminthic therapy and ME/CFS | '''Helminthic therapy and ME/CFS''']].

=== Using helminths to treat long COVID ===

One hookworm user who has reported that introducing 3 NA had very quickly led to full remission from their "pretty severe", ME/CFS-related [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-exertional_malaise post-exertional malaise], has said that this therapy also worked for them on Long COVID.

{{Quote|indent}}For me, it worked on long covid... after less than two months of hosting, I am essentially cured. [https://www.reddit.com/r/covidlonghaulers/comments/13xq6oz/this_will_probably_get_deleted_but_i_just_wanted/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=2]{{Quote|/indent}}

Another NA user reported a similar success with Long COVID.

{{Quote|indent}}Had ongoing long-covid symptoms following covid infection in August 2022: debilitating fatigue, severe joint pain, and extreme post-exercise muscle soreness. After inoculating with 3 NA on 5 November 2022, I had a huge improvement, almost back to my prior baseline. Super healthy and feeling great. I continued to top up my NA colony and, by the summer and fall of 2023, I was the healthiest, fittest and strongest I’ve ever been! (Edited from a private message.){{Quote|/indent}}

And an HDC user has reported as follows.

{{Quote|indent}}Long Covid since October 2021 (i.e. for the past two years). POTS/PEM standard symptoms. Started HDC at lowest dose a month or so ago. Started at 10 HDC and it felt good for a few days. Then up to 20 and things got even better. I'm still in that window of 20. Now I've placed an order for 30. This is the ONLY thing that has helped. I've tried EVERYTHING from therapeutics to supplements and treatments like HBOT (helped the rest of me but not LC), red light, SGB, etc. This past week, I've had to walk a half mile (100 yards usually kills me with PEM) for a dinner with my son, played 18 holes of golf - loaded up on steroids - , and totally did unplanned physical activity (my boat was stranded and I had to wrestle it). While I still get some PEM, it goes away and I take meclizine for that. I also take dexamethasone, but in smaller doses. Plus, I fast 16/8 + OMAD. Now, maybe it's just time, but NOTHING has moved the needle this much except the HDC!! Even if this feeling ends tomorrow, I truly believe I'm on the right path!!! I NEVER thought I would be able to do the kind of physical activity that I've done over the last week or so. It feels miraculous. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6595054713883761/?comment_id=6595228117199754&reply_comment_id=6596172700438629]{{Quote|/indent}}

A nurse specialising in helminthic therapy has reported her experience of assisting patients with Long COVID, as follows.

{{Quote|indent}}Sticking to very low doses is key, as those with long covid and CFS seem particularly sensitive. Even just 2 NA. Or small doses of TSO, but this really is individual. Most seem ok on 250 TSO each fortnight. Some only a quarter of that. We really just have to go on how sensitive they are to any treatment, if they have other issues as well, and how concerned they are about side effects. But one can never tell who will ultimately need big doses and who will only tolerate small. Starting small and working up is really the only solution. (Edited from three posts: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6267106066678629/?comment_id=6270434826345753&reply_comment_id=6349491531773415] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6267106066678629?comment_id=6270434826345753&reply_comment_id=6803763619679535] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/6267106066678629/?comment_id=6270434826345753&reply_comment_id=6804054009650496].){{Quote|/indent}}

=== Treating long COVID while hosting helminths ===

Treatment protocols have been, and are continuing to be, developed to address Long COVID, for example, those mentioned below.

* [https://covid19criticalcare.com/protocol/i-recover-long-covid-treatment/ I-RECOVER - Long COVID Treatment]

* [http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v18n25.shtml Niacin for COVID - How niacin, niacinamide and NAD can help with Long COVID-19]

However, care should be taken if using Long COVID treatment protocols while hosting helminths because these can include the use of anthelmintics such as ivermectin, which may obviously have a potentially harmful effect on therapeutic worms.

John Scott and helminthic therapy

2024-09-04T03:18:57Z

Mywikis: Text replacement - "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/index.php/" to "helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/"

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John Scott is a retired special school head teacher from the UK, who is, himself, on the autism spectrum. His Asperger’s syndrome has played a large part in shaping his contribution to the helminthic therapy community and movement.

== A life saved by worms ==

Scott had issues with his health from infancy. He had asthma, allergies and gastrointestinal symptoms during childhood, with the latter requiring hospitalisation when he was four years old. All but the allergies resolved during his early teens, and he remained relatively healthy throughout his twenties. Then, in his thirties, he developed a severe hyper-sensitivity to food, along with Crohn’s disease, myalgic encephalomyelitis (M.E.), multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and restless legs syndrome.

The food intolerance worsened relentlessly over a number of years until Scott was unable to tolerate any normal food whatsoever and was forced to live on powdered semi-elemental infant foods, which eventually also began to cause reactions. In 2007, just when this situation was looking bleak, he heard about a clinical trial that was investigating the safety of using hookworms as a treatment for Crohn’s disease, and he promptly signed up. [https://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/appetite_worms.html]

Most of the doctors whom Scott had consulted had insisted that his reactions to food were psychosomatic, even though he had voluntarily submitted himself for a psychiatric evaluation which had categorically ruled out this possibility. [https://www.foodsmatter.com/allergy_intolerance/total_food_intolerance/articles/tfa.html] These physicians had also dismissed Scott’s suggestion that his problem with food could be immune-related, so he hoped that the hookworm trial might provide more objective guidance on this possibility.

Just before the end of the twelve week trial, Scott found that he began to regain a degree of tolerance to a couple of foods, so asked if he could keep his hookworms a little longer. The researchers agreed and, during the next few weeks, it became very clear that hosting hookworms could be the solution to his hypersensitivity to food, and he began to journal his path back to health. His detailed account of this experience can be found on the following page.

* [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohns disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']]

Before becoming involved in helminthic therapy, Scott was providing support for people with allergies by acting as a telephone contact for Allergy UK. He was also writing articles about allergy-related matters, and reviewing allergy research for the Foods Matter magazine and, later, the [https://www.foodsmatter.com Foods Matter website].

For several years, Scott also maintained a microbiome science digest on Facebook ([https://www.facebook.com/Gut-Buddies-158080244255095 Gut Buddies]) where he shared details of new microbiome research that might have implications for health. However, in 2018, when his involvement with the helminthic therapy movement was demanding most of his time, he passed this project to a friend.

== Creating community stability ==

At the time Scott first entered the helminthic therapy space, the only community for helminthic therapy self-treaters was the Yahoo Helminthic Therapy forum started by [[Jasper Lawrence and helminthic therapy | Jasper Lawrence]], a co-founder of [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#Autoimmune_Therapies_.28AIT.29 Autoimmune Therapies] (AIT). The other early helminth providers, Ovamed (forerunner of [http://www.tanawisa.com Tanawisa]) and [https://www.wormtherapy.com Worm Therapy], have never created online groups.

After his involvement in the clinical trial at Nottingham, Scott had obtained his next few doses of hookworms from AIT and, in June 2010, was invited to help this company's staff with the moderation of the Yahoo forum. He continued in this role until Lawrence lost interest in the group in 2011 and indicated that he was considering deleting it. Unwilling to allow the group’s demise, Scott assumed ownership of it and continued to manage it until Yahoo closed down their groups operation in 2020.

The first few years of Scott’s involvement were a difficult period for the burgeoning helminthic therapy community, starting with a breakdown in the relationship between Lawrence and a member of the community with whom he had struck a commercial deal. This individual, who was operating under an alias, had formed several new groups, both on Yahoo and Facebook, to facilitate his plan to monetise the therapy, and, following his split from Lawrence, he used these groups to mount a very unpleasant campaign of disparagement against Lawrence. (For more about this individual, his groups and activities, see the [[Helminthic therapy support groups#History of the helminthic therapy groups | '''History of the helminthic therapy groups''']] and [[media:Herbert_Smith_and_Helminthic_Therapy.pdf | '''Herbert Smith and helminthic therapy''']].)

Smith was supported by several others who had grievances with Lawrence, all of whom were, by then, clients of the only other hookworm vendor operating at that time, Garin Aglietti, founder of Worm Therapy. Their vigorous promotion of Aglietti and Worm Therapy, combined with Smith's relentless attacks on Lawrence and AIT, inevitably upset those members of Smith's groups who were AIT clients.

At this point, Scott was unaware of the deal between Smith and Lawrence, and how this had broken down, and, since he was unable to understand why Lawrence was being attacked so vigorously, he tried to defend this provider with whom he had worked closely on the Yahoo forum. This led to Scott also becoming a target for Smith.

When Scott saw how this “provider war” was dominating the community, he determined to find a way to bring it to an end and re-focus attention on the therapy itself and on the remarkable results being obtained by those who were using it. Unfortunately, there was seemingly no end to Smith’s need to express his obsessive animosity towards Lawrence, and, recognising this, along with the fact that Facebook had become the preferred platform for the majority of helminthophiles, Scott created the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Facebook Helminthic Therapy Support Group] in March 2012, initially with a provider-agnostic policy.

The Support group was the first truly independent group run by, and for, the entire helminthic therapy community, including not only clients of Worm Therapy and AIT, but also of Ovamed, the supplier of TSO, which would eventually be replaced by Tanawisa. It was a venue where everyone interested in helminthic therapy could meet and interact in an atmosphere free from the influence and manipulation of those with commercial interests or personal agendas.

In June 2015, when it became clear that there was a need for a separate Facebook group for self-treaters who were growing their own helminths, Scott created the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/678894952216125/ Helminth Incubation group] on Facebook. Then, in late 2020, in response to reluctance on the part of a few community members to use Facebook, he created a satellite group on [https://mewe.com/join/helminthictherapy MeWe], followed, in 2021, by new group on [https://www.reddit.com/r/HelminthicTherapy/ Reddit] to replace an earlier, derelict one that the platform had archived.

== Establishing an information database ==

While moderating the Yahoo Helminthic Therapy forum in its early years, Scott became concerned by the way that he had to keep repeating the same basic facts in response to members’ questions, and also by the numerous ideas about helminthic therapy that were being repeated as fact when there was little or no evidence to support them. For example, one unsupported idea that persisted at that time was that anyone with Crohn’s disease would only benefit from hosting helminths for a very limited period before the disease would return in full force. Another notion was that the hookworms that were available from the providers would quickly lose efficacy due of inbreeding.

Both these ideas were eventually shown to be groundless but, with no body of information to which self-treaters could turn for clarity about such issues, these notions were regularly revisited, and, at that time, never satisfactorily resolved. So Scott had begun gathering relevant data from the available science, as well as collecting details from online reports by self-treaters, and organising these into documents made available initially in the Yahoo forum’s files section. Eventually, they were moved to the files section of the Helminthic Therapy Support group on Facebook.

While these files gradually became the go-to source for information about helminthic therapy, there were many issues with the functionality of the files section in Facebook groups, not least the sparsity of editing tools and the lack of a search function. But the final straw was the introduction of censorship by Facebook, which prevented some details that were important to those using the therapy from being shared in the group’s documents. Scott realised that what was needed was a dedicated helminthic therapy website that was beyond the control of the tech giants, and not connected with any commercial entity, including the helminth providers.

There was already an “Open Source Helminth Therapy” (OSHT) website that had been created by an early adopter of the therapy - an artist and Crohn’s disease sufferer named Paul Badger. Scott had become an editor on this site, and had been adding material and periodically updating details about the helminthic therapy groups that he managed. However, the site had been taken over by [[media:Herbert_Smith_and_Helminthic_Therapy.pdf | Herbert Smith]], who eventually blocked Scott’s access to it.

With Smith preventing Scott and others from contributing to the OSHT site from 2014 onwards, and with Smith not making any further additions to the site himself, Scott contacted Badger in the hope of being able to use this site as the permanent home for the documents he had produced. Unfortunately, Badger deferred to Smith, who continued to block Scott's access.

While Scott was considering other options, Facebook unwittingly intervened when they deleted Smith’s account after discovering that his identity was a fake. This action effectively banished Smith from the helminthic therapy community, which was, by then, operating almost entirely on Facebook. When Scott contacted Badger following this event, he was finally given access to the OSHT site, and was eventually able to negotiate the transfer of ownership from Badger to himself.

Unfortunately, the OSHT site’s software was badly out of date as a result of several years of neglect by Smith, and insurmountable technical issues were encountered in trying to update the site. It was therefore decided to take this site offline and create a new one. The resulting [https://helminthictherapywiki.org Helminthic Therapy wiki] entered service in January 2017 and, once all the extensive material from the Support group’s files had been transferred to the site, this quickly became established as the definitive source of information about helminthic therapy.

== Curation, advocacy and networking ==

Scott's contribution to the helminthic therapy community has been characterised by an ability to recognise what needed to be done to meet the needs of its members and to make information about the therapy available to the wider public. Having identified what was required, Scott then applied patience and determination in finding ways to overcome the obstacles that presented themselves as he set about doing what he believed was necessary.

Having realised his vision of a comprehensive, science- and crowd-sourced helminthic therapy database, administered by independent volunteer members of the helminthic therapy community, Scott has continued to work on building the site using details gleaned from the continually emerging science and the constant flow of anecdotal reports shared online by self-treaters. He also began to encourage individuals to recount their personal stories in more detail for inclusion in the [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Detailed stories | '''Detailed personal stories''']] section of the site.

In the first five years that the wiki was available (Jan 2017 - Jan 2022), the site was edited more than 12,000 times, with 10,000 of those edits having been made by Scott himself.

One continuing frustration that Scott has voiced is that, while the Helminthic Therapy wiki offers community members free 24/7 access to all the information they need in order to understand and use helminthic therapy, some people prefer not to make use of this resource. Instead, they say they would rather ask questions in the Support group, because they want to hear about the “real experience” of “real people”. Not having taken the time to explore the wiki, these individuals remain unaware that the experience of real people is the source of much of the material on the site. And their rejection of this resource leaves Scott and other group members having to continue to repeat details that are set out, often much more comprehensively, in the wiki, or to give these enquirers links to the relevant wiki pages which they could so easily have found for themselves using the site’s search function.

In addition to his ongoing work on the wiki, and managing the [[Helminthic therapy support groups | '''helminthic therapy groups''']], Scott also acts as an interface between all those interested in the therapy, whether or not they are active in the groups. These include self-treaters, helminth providers, doctors, researchers, journalists and others.

Whenever misinformation about the therapy has appeared in articles online, or been presented in broadcast interviews, etc., Scott has done whatever he could to try to set the record straight, in the hope of limiting the damage to public perception of the therapy and minimising any adverse effect of the misinformation on the health of individuals exposed to it, potentially dissuading them from considering helminthic therapy as an option. One example of this activity is the page that Scott wrote for this wiki in response to unfounded criticism made repeatedly to the press about this therapy by a New Zealand academic. See [[Graham Le Gros and helminthic therapy | '''Graham Le Gros and helminthic therapy''']] for full details.

When time allows, Scott will sometimes get involved in promoting helminthic therapy in various locations online, although he says that this particular activity more often attracts an adverse response from those he encounters, including the deletion of his posts about the therapy by admins in other groups, and, in some cases, even his removal from those groups. So he finds that this is not as productive an activity as serving those with at least some interest in the therapy.

By 2023, Scott had been involved in the helminthic therapy community for thirteen years, and has said that he considers this to have been the most enjoyable and rewarding period of his life.

== See also ==

Here are a few of Scott’s articles on helminthic therapy topics.

* [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']]

* [[Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho | '''Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho''']]

* [[Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms | '''Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms''']]

* [[Nasal allergies nuked by worms | '''Nasal allergies nuked by worms''']]

* [[The Amazing Dr Wriggly | '''The Amazing Dr Wriggly''']]

* [[Rhinitis can ruin your sex life, but a few worms might restore it | '''Rhinitis can ruin your sex life, but a few worms might restore it''']]

* [[Don’t let worms give you the squirms! | '''Don’t let worms give you the squirms!''']]

Helminthic therapy and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

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[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_intestinal_bacterial_overgrowth SIBO] can be challenging to treat, and it may be best to do whatever one can to get the SIBO under control before starting helminthic therapy.

One individual began by taking the herbal, Atrantil, in combination with appropriate dietary changes and efforts to boost gut motility using vagus nerve stimulation, before adding hookworms for longer term management of SIBO. His post also contains a number of useful practical tips. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/1145061378883149/?comment_id=1145239628865324&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D]

Here is how another helminth self-treater approached this.

{{Quote|indent}}I had SIBO before using NA (Necator americanus). I used large doses of vitamin c and pancreatic enzymes to combat it before I tried HT. Once I started with NA I kept using the vitamin c and now it’s all gone. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3582086288513967/?comment_id=3583701685019094]{{Quote|/indent}}

Some doctors have apparently told their patients that helminths don’t work in someone who has SIBO. However, there is no evidence for this claim, and one doctor has been reported to have found that SIBO is easier to manage using conventional therapies when HDC are being taken at the same time. (Link expired.)

The fact that helminthic therapy can help SIBO can be seen from the entries for this condition on the following page.

* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#SIBO | '''Helminthic therapy personal stories: SIBO''']]

While helminthic therapy can improve SIBO in the longer term, the gastrointestinal side effects that are possible following the first introduction of hookworms may exacerbate SIBO before eventually improving it, and there has been one case where each new dose of NA taken by a patient with SIBO caused the condition to flare temporarily.

* [[Hookworm side effects#SIBO | '''Hookworm side effects: SIBO''']]

If someone were to develop SIBO while hosting helminths, the condition can be treated medically before inoculating with more worms.
{{Quote|indent}}I took metronidazole, according to the medical protocol (750mg of metronidazole daily [250mg every 8 hours] for 7 days), and immediately afterwards (re)inoculated myself with NAs. This put an end to SIBO and allowed HT to work in the best possible way. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/2033838740005404/] [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3668355803220348/?comment_id=3669837069738888&reply_comment_id=3670950452960883]{{Quote|/indent}}

== Also worth noting ==

* Hookworms will not affect the hydrogen breath test for SIBO. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/533057563416870/]
* Peppermint oil, which provides antimicrobial activity in the small intestine and is sometimes used in the treatment of SIBO, [http://www.altmedrev.com/publications/7/5/410.pdf] (PDF) may also adversely affect the human helminths, TTO and NA, especially the latter. [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Human_helminth_care_manual#Miscellaneous_pharmaceuticals_and_chemicals]

== See also ==

* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24891990/ Herbal therapy is equivalent to rifaximin for the treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth] -- [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4030608/ Full text] | [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4030608/pdf/gahmj.2014.019.pdf PDF]
:{{Quote|indent}}Herbal therapies are at least as effective as rifaximin for resolution of SIBO by lactulose breath testing (LBT). Herbals also appear to be as effective as triple antibiotic therapy for SIBO rescue therapy for rifaximin non-responders.{{Quote|/indent}}

* [https://www.hormonesmatter.com/sibo-ibs-constipation-thiamine-deficiency/ SIBO, IBS, and Constipation: Unrecognized Thiamine Deficiency?]

* [https://www.eonutrition.co.uk/post/sulfate-iv-chronic-sibo-gut-dysbiosis-as-a-protective-adaptation-to-supply-sulfate Sulfate IV: Chronic SIBO/Gut Dysbiosis As A Protective Adaptation To Supply Sulfate]

* Therapeutic "Yogurt" (high CFUs from a 36 hour culture) made with the probiotics, L. Reuteri and L. Gasseri, can be effective against SIBO. [https://web.archive.org/web/20221127052515/https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/recipe/sibo-yogurt-l-reuteri-and-l-gasseri/]

Helminthic therapy and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS)

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|og:image=}}Helminthic therapy can certainly be helpful in cases of MCS, and the helminth species that has proved to be the most beneficial to people with this disorder is the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA). The ova of the porcine whipworm, Trichuris suis (TSO), can also help in treating MCS, but generally to a somewhat lesser extent than is usual with NA.

Whichever species is used, results may take a long time to materialise, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworm_dosing_and_response#Consistent_improvement_can_begin_anytime_from_3_to_24_months] and, in the case of TSO, results may prove to be only temporary. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/posts/5198277750228138/?comment_id=5198390683550178&reply_comment_id=5198476403541606]

Since MCS is one of the [[Helminthic therapy safety#Conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing | '''conditions that require a modified approach to helminth dosing''']], great care is needed in how it is managed. Whichever species is used, very careful attention must be paid to dosing, especially in the early stages of treatment. See[[Hookworm dosing and response | '''Hookworm dosing and response]] and/or [[Self-treating with TSO#Recommended dosing regimens | '''TSO: recommended dosing regimens''']].

== Personal stories ==
For reports by individuals with MCS who have tried helminthic therapy, see the following page.
* [[Helminthic therapy personal stories#Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) | '''Helminthic therapy personal stories: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS)''']]

The history of helminthic therapy

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|og:image=}}It is now very clear that the presence of helminths in the human biome is essential for optimal health (see [[Introduction to helminthic therapy#Humans need helminths! | '''Humans need helminths''']]), but industrialised societies became largely devoid of these organisms during the 20th century.

While the loss of intestinal worms has undoubtedly relieved these populations of the health issues associated with pathogenic helminths, it has also led to inflammation-associated deficiencies in immune function that have contributed to pandemic levels of allergy, inflammation and autoimmune disease, as well as metabolic and neuropsychiatric disorders.

After hundreds of millions of years of symbiosis between our ancestors and helminths, modern humans began to lose these organisms in the mid 19th century, but their absence wasn’t recognised as a problem until the late 20th century, and a convenient remedy only became available in the early 21st century.

This page presents a timeline from the loss of helminths, through the subsequent recognition of a connection between helminth deficiency and disease, and on to the eventual use of re-worming as a treatment for the diseases that result from this deficiency.

Included are details of relevant scientific developments and of the emergence of the probiotic practice of helminth replacement, also known as worm therapy and helminth therapy, as well as helminthic therapy.

<div class="toclimit-2">__TOC__</div>

== The origins of helminth deficiency in industrialised populations ==

The second half of the 19th century saw the beginning of the end for many human helminths in industrialised nations.

* The '''indoor flush toilet''' became widely adopted during this period of increasing urbanisation and industrial prosperity, coinciding with a dramatic expansion of the '''sewage system'''. These developments interrupted the life cycle of a number of human helminths.

* In 1883, an '''automated shoe laster''' was patented that transformed shoe production and went on to cut the price of shoes by half. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Ernst_Matzeliger] This invention helped to interrupt another route of transmission for some helminths.

* While the canning of food was developed from the mid-to-late 18th century onwards, [https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=NFRR6GayR74C&pg=PA122&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false] the range of '''canned food''' available to urban populations only increased significantly in the late 19th century. This allowed a wide range of foods to be preserved until immediately before use, mitigating against the growth of microorganisms.

* Although the health benefits of '''purified drinking water''' became clear in the 19th century, and various countries experimented with water treatment during the early 20th century, it wasn’t until the 1940s that standards were finally put in place in the US for all municipal drinking water supplies. [https://advancedwaterinc.com/history-water-treatment/]

* '''Artificial refrigeration''' had been introduced in the mid-1750s, but refrigerators for home use only became available from 1913, and full-size home freezers were not introduced until 1940. Frozen foods, previously a luxury item, then became commonplace, reducing yet another source of helminth exposure.

* '''Anthelmintic drugs''' were introduced in the middle of the 20th century, with a range of new anthelmintic products being developed during the rest of that century.

== Recognition of the effects of helminth deficiency ==

=== 1932 ===

* The first description of regional ileitis. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10828911/] This condition, characterised by inflammation of the terminal ileum, would later become known as Crohn’s disease. Its appearance at this time was arguably a result of the increasing loss of helminths from the human biome due to factors that include those mentioned above.

=== 1968 ===

* The first observation by a researcher of a possible relationship between a reduction in parasitic colonisation and an increased incidence of autoimmune disease. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/1/1f/Autoimmune_disease_and_parasitic_infections_in_Nigerians.pdf]

=== 1976 ===

* Research suggested that atopic disease was the price paid by some members of the white community of northern Saskatchewan for their relative freedom from helminth colonisation, as well as viral and bacterial infections. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/987744/]

=== 2000 ===

* Publication of a groundbreaking paper linking a failure to acquire helminths to the prevalence of Crohn’s disease. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10973934/] This paper was key in the development of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygiene_hypothesis Hygiene Hypothesis].

* The late [https://web.archive.org/web/20221229021418/https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/press-citizen/name/robert-summers-obituary?id=32967585 Robert Summers] (Professor Emeritus, Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Iowa) prepared a graphic illustrating the relationship between an absence of helminths and higher rates of autoimmune disorders. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/0/04/Distribution_of_Autoimmune_Disorders_and_Helminths.jpg]

== The emergence and development of helminth replacement therapy ==

=== 1948 ===

* Publication of the first report of the clinical application of helminthic therapy, in which the hookworm, [[Ancylostoma duodenale | '''Ancylostoma duodenale''']], was used to successfully treat 25 patients with polycythemia, which causes an abnormally high number of red cells in the blood. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5190334/] This study had been commenced in 1939.

=== 1970 ===

* Twelve naval officers who had suffered from hay-fever for some years were found to be free from this condition for an average of 2 years following colonisation with the large roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5498517/]

=== 1976 ===

* A letter published in the Lancet reported that a parasitologist / immunologist who had suffered from hay-fever for 25 years was completely free from this condition following colonisation by the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA). [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/f/fd/Letter_-_IgE%2C_parasites%2C_and_allergy_%28Turton%29.pdf] (PDF)

=== 1986 ===

* [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/David-Pritchard-6 Prof David Pritchard] (School of Pharmacy, Nottingham University) published the first three of many papers generated by his investigations into the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), and its effects on human immunology. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3299889/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2426588/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2427992/] While this work eventually led to trials using live NA in subjects with Crohn’s disease [https://gut.bmj.com/content/59/Suppl_1/A2.1] and multiple sclerosis, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32539079/] Pritchard’s primary interest has never been in therapy using living worms, but in identifying helminth-derived molecules that could be synthesised and utilised in the production of helminth-inspired pharmaceutical products. In Pritchard's own words to [[John Scott and helminthic therapy | '''John Scott''']], he's in the business of seeking "drugs from bugs".

=== 1995 ===

* While looking over decades of literature as he edited journal articles on parasites of the liver and intestine, Prof Joel Weinstock from Iowa University kept coming across the idea that all well-adapted helminths perform some useful function for their hosts, if only to assure the host’s survival in order to provide them with a long-term home. [http://www.nytimes.com/1999/08/31/health/in-pursuit-of-autoimmune-worm-cure.html] He said later that it was while he was sat on a delayed plane waiting for takeoff that the "Eureka moment" occurred, and he began to wonder whether the reintroduction of helminths might help his IBD patients.

=== 1999 ===

* It was reported in the New York Times that researchers at Iowa university, led by the late Prof Joel Weinstock, had used pig whipworm ova (TSO) to successfully treat six patients with acute, chronic IBD who had previously failed pharmaceutical therapies. When these subjects relapsed after the worms died, they were said to have been "begging to be re-treated”. [http://www.nytimes.com/1999/08/31/health/in-pursuit-of-autoimmune-worm-cure.html]

=== 2002 ===

* A study found that intestinal nematode colonisation ameliorated experimental colitis in mice. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12379667/]

=== 2003 ===

* A trial demonstrated that pig whipworm ova (TSO) can reduce symptoms of Crohn’s disease without producing side effects. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14499784/]

* The ova of the pig whipworm, Trichuris suis (TSO) were offered for sale for the first time by Ovamed, founded by [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOk2mMcPB7Q Detlev Goj]. After having started to develop the process for manufacturing TSO in around 1998, and carried out several years of further product development, Goj worked with the late Prof Joel Weinstock at Iowa University to carry out clinical trials to demonstrate TSO’s safety and efficacy. This led to the granting of regulatory approval by the Thai FDA for the sale of TSO in Thailand. Ovamed would be superseded in 2015 by [http://www.tanawisa.com Tanawisa], also owned by Goj.

=== 2006 ===

* A dose-ranging study explored the number of Necator americanus (NA) that would be required to have a therapeutic effect on asthma. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17123987/]

=== 2007 ===

* Publication of the first study to explore the effects of helminth colonisation on immune response and the natural course of Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). This study showed that this disease progressed much more slowly in patients who hosted intestinal worms. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/e/ec/Association_Between_Parasite_Infection_and_Immune_Responses_in_Multiple_Sclerosis_.pdf] (PDF)

* The helminth provider [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#Autoimmune_Therapies_.28AIT.29 Autoimmune Therapies (AIT)] was founded by former marketing executive, [[Jasper Lawrence and helminthic therapy | '''Jasper Lawrence''']], former medical student, Garin Aglietti, and clinical scientist, [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marc-Dellerba-2 Marc Dellerba]. This was the first company to sell the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), to the public, and its clients had to sign up for a three year contract entitling them to both NA and personal support. Initially, they also had to travel to the [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#The_Llamas_Clinic clinic of Dr Llamas] in Mexico to collect their hookworm doses.

=== 2008 ===

* This year saw the start of an ill-conceived decade-long research programme that proved to be catastrophic for the reputation of helminthic therapy in general, and for TSO in particular.

:The results from early trials of TSO carried out in the first few years of the 21st century had been very encouraging. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14499784/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15591509/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15825065/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21372112/] But a raft of twelve trials carried out by a different research team between 2008 and 2017, to investigate the effect of TSO in five different diseases, produced such universally lacklustre results that all but three of them were discontinued prematurely. [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00645749] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25698173/] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01040221] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01279577] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01413243] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01433471] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01836939] [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01948271] [https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01953354] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27707789/] [https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02140112] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33572978/]

:The researchers involved in this unprecedented project made two critical errors in their study design, the first of which was to use a trial length of only 12 weeks. While this is the standard trial period used in pharmaceutical research, it is not appropriate for studies of live helminths such as TSO, which typically only begins to deliver benefits after 8 weeks, and remission only after 20 weeks, with even longer waits experienced by some patients with severe or chronic disease.

:Arguably the most critical mistake was to insist on the use of a novel TSO formulation with a pH of 5.0, even though the investigators were advised against this by the product’s manufacturer, who knew from his own product development work that TSO is most effective when formulated with a pH of 2.4, which was the formulation used in the earlier, more successful trials. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28720335/] (No abstract | [[media:Not_infection_with_parasitic_worms_but_rather_colonization_with_therapeutic_helminths.pdf | Full text PDF]])

:Other significant errors in the design of these trials included the use of a single dose size for all participants, when it is known that the helminth dosage requirements of individuals can vary by as much as a factor of 10. Also there was poor subject selection, evident in the high rate of improvement in the placebo group in some cases.

:With so few clinical trials of helminthic therapy having been carried out previously, the sheer number of these “failed” studies overwhelmed the existing helminthic therapy research base to deliver a body blow to the therapy’s reputation that has set back progress by at least 20 years.

:Other researchers began referencing these trials in support of assertions that TSO is ineffective. For example, four of these trials were included in a meta-analysis of only six studies, based on which the authors concluded that TSO therapy showed no statistical benefit in IBD. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30142867/] Apart from the issues with the product's pH, only one of the trials reviewed in this analysis had lasted for longer than 12 weeks, and the remit of that particular study was only to assess the safety and tolerability - not the efficacy - of a '''''single''''' dose of TSO.

:For more detail about these issues, see [[Helminthic therapy research#Problems with clinical trials using live helminths | ''' Problems with clinical trials using live helminths''']].

* The helminth provider, [https://www.wormtherapy.com Worm Therapy], was founded by Garin Aglietti, after he left [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#Autoimmune_Therapies_.28AIT.29 Autoimmune Therapies (AIT)]. The new company began selling NA via a two year contract entitling clients to both worms and support.

* The first helminthic therapy discussion group was created on Yahoo by [[Jasper Lawrence and helminthic therapy | '''Jasper Lawrence''']]. This remained the go-to venue for discussion about therapy with hookworms - and, from 2009, also human whipworms - until 2010, when the first of several helminthic therapy groups was created on the Facebook platform.

=== 2009 ===

* [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#Autoimmune_Therapies_.28AIT.29 Autoimmune Therapies (AIT)] began offering the ova of the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura (TTO) for sale, in addition to NA.

=== 2010 ===

* Australian researchers [https://research.jcu.edu.au/portfolio/alex.loukas Prof Alex Loukas] (James Cook University) and [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/John_Croese2 Prof John Croese] (The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane) began clinical trials using the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), in human subjects with coeliac disease, and continued with this work for a number of years. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21408161/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27827438/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23291460/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26381211/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26150662/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25248819/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21949691/]

* Helminths are described as one of humankind’s heirloom species. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2841838/]

* [https://www.research.manchester.ac.uk/portal/en/researchers/ian-roberts(3fd7596f-e8f7-48de-a4e5-f4aa9fa5c6a2).html Ian Roberts] (Professor of microbiology, Manchester university) proposed that the presence of helminths in the human gut is essential for health. He likened the situation to a three-legged stool, with the microbes, worms and immune system regulating each other in the development of a functional immune system. [https://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/how-the-parasitic-worm-has-turned/]

* In a paper explaining why the replacement of absent "old friends" may be the only reasonable therapy for a wide range of immune-associated disorders, including allergy, autoimmunity and autism, [https://www.wplaboratory.org/ William Parker] (at that time, Associate Professor in Surgery, Duke University) asserted that living helminths are preferable to helminth-inspired drugs, [https://evmedreview.com/reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/] an idea that would be echoed many times during the following decade. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21741180/] [https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20130422-feeling-ill-swallow-a-parasite] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29133248/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31153721/]

* A paper was published providing a comprehensive cellular and molecular portrait of dynamic changes in the intestinal mucosa of an individual who infected himself with Trichuris trichiura ova (TTO) to treat his ulcerative colitis. [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Png_Loke/publication/49650965_IL-22_CD4_T_Cells_Are_Associated_with_Therapeutic_Trichuris_trichiura_Infection_in_an_Ulcerative_Colitis_Patient/links/00b7d535585b829413000000.pdf] (PDF)

* A member of the helminthic therapy community who was using the alias, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/6/61/Herbert_Smith_and_Helminthic_Therapy.pdf Herbert Smith], set up several helminthic therapy groups on Facebook, after reaching a commission deal with [[Jasper Lawrence and helminthic therapy | '''Jasper Lawrence''']] that Smith had hoped would allow him to monetise helminthic therapy. However, when Smith refused to reveal his real name to those he referred to Lawrence's company, AIT, Lawrence terminated their agreement. He also failed to pay Smith the commission he had already earned, to which Smith responded by using his Facebook groups to mount a campaign of disparagement against Lawrence and AIT, while promoting AIT’s competitor, [https://www.wormtherapy.com Worm Therapy]. Smith’s behaviour and overtly partisan activity continued to polarise the community around the two providers for the following two years, until Facebook discovered that “Herbert Smith” was a fake identity, and deleted the account in 2016.

=== 2011 ===

* After previously having helped the staff of AIT to moderate the Yahoo Helminthic Therapy forum, [[John Scott and helminthic therapy | '''John Scott''']] assumed ownership of the group after [[Jasper Lawrence and helminthic therapy | '''Jasper Lawrence''']] lost interest in social media and had indicated that he might delete the group. Scott continued to manage this forum until Yahoo closed down its groups operation in 2020.

=== 2012 ===

* Publication of a paper summarising the science underpinning helminthic therapy. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3744090/?report=classic]

* The [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group] was founded on Facebook by [[John Scott and helminthic therapy | '''John Scott''']] to provide support to self-treaters and focus on the therapy. The group initially had a provider-agnostic policy to prevent the divisive practices that had plagued the earlier helminthic therapy groups created on Facebook by [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/6/61/Herbert_Smith_and_Helminthic_Therapy.pdf Herbert Smith].

=== 2013 ===

* Publication of a paper explaining how the modern pandemics of autoimmune, inflammatory and allergic diseases are due to the loss of species - especially helminths - from the human ecosystem. [https://jeffollerton.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/parker-and-ollerton-2013-biome-reonstitution-emph.pdf]

* In a letter to Nature, [https://web.archive.org/web/20210509225737/https://www.kent.ac.uk/kent-business-school/people/2410/flowers-stephen Stephen Flowers] (University of Kent, UK) and [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael-Hopkins-6 Michael Hopkins] (University of Sussex, UK) noted that using a pseudo-pharmaceutical process to evaluate helminthic therapy would be likely to cost millions of dollars and take more than a decade. Instead, they suggested that researchers could utilise the insights and evidence of self-treaters in a revised model that would better reflect patient behaviour and capabilities. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/2/26/Patients_self-treat_with_parasitic_worms_-_Flowers_et_al.pdf]

* Publication of the book, [https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/An-Epidemic-of-Absence/Moises-Velasquez-Manoff/9781439199398 An Epidemic of Absence: A New Way of Understanding Allergies and Autoimmune Diseases], by [http://www.moisesvm.com/bio/ Moises Velasquez-Manoff]. This groundbreaking report on the recent dramatic rise in allergic and autoimmune disease explores the use of helminthic therapy as a treatment for autoimmune disease.

* The helminth provider, [http://www.biomerestoration.com Biome Restoration], was founded by the late physician, [https://web.archive.org/web/20230422013410/https://www.hamlettdobson.com/obituaries/donald-donahue Don Donahue], along with clinical scientist [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marc-Dellerba-2 Marc Dellerba], and nutritionist and long-time advocate of helminthic therapy, [https://biomebuzz.com/about/ Judy Chinitz]. The company made HDCs - the cysticercoids of the rodent tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta - available commercially for the first time.

=== 2014 ===

:By now, the evidence supporting helminthic therapy was so compelling that several of the researchers who had examined the effects of helminths on autoimmune disease admitted privately that, were they, or a member of their family, to develop an autoimmune disease, they would not hesitate to use one of the available therapeutic helminths. One researcher even said this publicly.

:{{Quote|indent}}In developed countries, where we are well nourished, worms are potentially good... If I had Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or multiple sclerosis, I would infect myself without hesitation. ([https://research.jcu.edu.au/portfolio/alex.loukas Alex Loukas], Distinguished Professor, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, in [http://lifeonus.vhx.tv/ Life On Us]){{Quote|/indent}}

* The helminth provider, [https://web.archive.org/web/20221209070413/http://wormswell.com/ Wormswell], was founded by an anonymous microbiologist who introduced a new, more user-friendly business model by selling single doses of NA at reasonable cost using the Bitcoin cryptocurrency. The company only traded for four years, before withdrawing from the market in 2018, after several new providers had begun to offer a similar service including single doses of NA.

* An HDC User Discussion and Support group was created on Facebook by an enthusiastic HDC user looking to share experiences with this relatively recently introduced organism, but this single-species group only ever gained a very limited membership and was eventually deleted.

=== 2015 ===

:By this date, there were already many thousands of individuals self-treating with one or more of the available therapeutic helminths, and, while many doctors and medical researchers were still expressing varying degrees of disapproval for the practice, some scientists recognised the value in the self-treatment approach.

:{{Quote|indent}}Although self-treatment with helminths cannot be recommended by medical professionals due to a lack of blinded, placebo controlled trials, neither should it be discouraged since the available evidence suggests that it is beneficial in most cases when practiced by knowledgeable individuals. [https://evmedreview.com/progress-on-reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/]{{Quote|/indent}}

* The first socio-medical study to examine the methods and outcomes reported by helminthic therapy self-treaters was published ([[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf|Cheng et al]]) and its authors concluded that,

:{{Quote|indent}}What was a costly and sometimes risky venture into the unknown, undertaken by only a few 10 years ago, is rapidly becoming a readily available and well-established resource currently used by thousands of individuals.{{Quote|/indent}}

:This socio-medical surveillance also broke new ground by revealing that helminthic therapy could be very helpful with neuropsychiatric disorders. While the link between helminth exposure and freedom from allergy had been established during the previous 50 years, this latest paper was the first to report on the beneficial effects of helminths on major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders - the most prevalent problems in Western populations apart from allergy, with a tendency to be even more debilitating than allergies.

:{{Quote|indent}}This study finds that the therapy is being refined through experience and is now expanding to treat widespread neuropsychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety, migraine headaches, bipolar disorder, and perhaps Parkinson’s disease.{{Quote|/indent}}

* The helminth provider, [https://brisbanenaturopaths.com.au Helminth Therapy Aust & NZ] was founded. Previously operating as [https://brisbanenaturopaths.com.au Brisbane Naturopaths], they had been the Australian distributor of the HDC produced by [http://www.biomerestoration.com Biome Restoration] from 2015 until 2019, at which point they began producing their own HDC for the Australasian market. They later changed their name again to [https://www.guthappy.com.au/helminthic-therapy/ Gut Happy Pty Ltd]) but eventually ceased trading in 2023 after their website was reported to the government's Therapeutic Goods Administration by a journalist.

=== 2016 ===

* Researchers had previously demonstrated that rats infected with bacteria as newborns display life-long vulnerabilities to cognitive dysfunction. In a new study in a laboratory animal model, they confirmed that perinatal exposure to helminths prevents persistent immune sensitization and cognitive dysfunction induced by early-life infection. Their data pointed to an inter-relatedness of various components of the biome, and suggested potential mechanisms by which helminths might exert therapeutic benefits in the treatment of neuroinflammatory and cognitive disorders. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26162711/]

* Publication of the first study to probe the practices and experiences of helminthic therapy self-treaters, as viewed through the eyes of their physicians. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/7/77/Practices_and_outcomes_of_self-treatment_with_helminths_based_on_physicians_observations.pdf] (PDF)

* The helminth provider, [http://www.symmbio.com Symmbio], was founded, initially to supply the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), but adding the ova of the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura (TTO), some time later.

* A study investigating the immunomodulatory effects of colonisation by the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura (TTO), in a self-infected volunteer without intestinal disease, found that both regional and systemic immunity were modulated. The authors opined that immune modulation induced by helminths may have a role to play in the future treatment of autoimmune diseases. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/6/6a/Mucosal_and_systemic_immune_modulation_by_Trichuris_trichiura_in_a_self-infected_individual.pdf]

*[https://www.wplaboratory.org/ William Parker] (Associate Professor in Surgery, Duke University) whose team in the [https://web.archive.org/web/20210613111434/https://surgery.duke.edu/divisions/surgical-sciences/research/research-laboratories/immune-dysfunction-and-evolutionary-mismatch-laboratory Immune Dysfunction and Evolutionary Mismatch Laboratory] was studying the practices and outcomes of the helminthic therapy self-treatment community, felt sufficiently confident about the importance of helminths to human health to make the following comment to the author of an article written about the experience of one self-treater.

:{{Quote|indent}}Twenty years from now everybody is going to have a helminth, and no insurance company will begin to cover you if you don’t have your helminths ... We’re very confident in the science, that every single human being needs a helminth. It’s part of our biology. [http://pamplinmedia.com/pt/9-news/302838-180108-hooked-on-hookworms-and-other-parasites]{{Quote|/indent}}

=== 2017 ===

* A paper was published noting, firstly, that the effects on the human biota caused by thousands of years of human cultural change have strongly influenced human health, and, secondly, that, while these changes have, over the past 30 years, been reflected in the evolution of the hygiene hypothesis into a nuanced biota alteration theory, the knowledge acquired during this process has been tragically under-utilised by modern medicine. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29133248/]

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20210509225737/https://www.kent.ac.uk/kent-business-school/people/2410/flowers-stephen Stephen Flowers] (Professor of Management [Innovation] at the University of Kent) published a book chapter exploring the implications of innovation in the context of helminthic therapy and Crohn’s disease. [https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/governing-medical-knowledge-commons/chronic-disease-new-thinking-and-outlaw-innovation-patients-on-the-edge-in-the-knowledge-commons/8105C66FEBA55446E15538FD4B164005] Although the data that Flowers referenced had been collected several years previously, in the very early days of helminthic therapy self-treatment, his commentary remains pertinent many years later.

* This [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/ '''Helminthic Therapy wiki'''] was founded by [[John Scott and helminthic therapy | '''John Scott''']]. Once all the data that Scott had collected over the previous seven years was transferred to the new site from the files section of the [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Helminthic Therapy Support group] on Facebook, the wiki immediately became the world’s largest database of information about the therapy.

=== 2018 ===

* The helminth provider, [https://www.yoursymbionts.com YourSymbionts] was founded. They began by selling the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), and added the ova of the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura (TTO) some time later.

* [https://www.geog.ox.ac.uk/staff/jlorimer.html Jamie Lorimer] (Professor of Environmental Geography, Oxford University) published the first of three papers about the ecological turn underway in immunology, referencing helminthic therapy. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/2/2d/Hookworms_Make_Us_Human-_The_Microbiome%2C_Eco-immunology%2C_and_a_Probiotic_Turn_in_Western_Health_Care.pdf] [http://rdcu.be/tubO] [http://environmentalhumanities.dukejournals.org/content/8/1/57.full.pdf] Focusing on the hookworm, Necator americanus (NA), and its restoration to the human biome, the first of these papers considered how probiotic approaches to the restoration of microbial life were being added to existing antimicrobial approaches, in relation to an emerging model of “post-paleo” microbiopolitics.

* An article was published by the New Zealand Herald describing the experience of a pathologist and medical microbiologist who, having become interested in the concept of helminthic therapy, proceeded to intentionally colonise himself with the human hookworm, Necator americanus (NA) as a personal experiment. With no particular expectations of what the results might be, this doctor reported being astounded and gratified when the arthritic pain vanished from his knees, the plantar fasciitis affecting his heels completely resolved and, for the first time in his life, he was able to lose weight and keep it off. [https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/why-doctor-working-in-new-zealand-infected-himself-with-hookworms/L6CXH25ANBS5TB3KXLD7DT2AYY/] Similar experiences have been reported online by many hundreds of others who have benefitted from helminth replacement. See, [[Helminthic therapy personal stories | '''Helminthic therapy personal stories''']]. And, for many more media articles, see, [[Helminthic therapy in the media | '''Helminthic therapy in the media''']].

=== 2019 ===

* The helminth provider, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#Au_NAturel Au NAturel], was founded as a source for NA.

* A New Zealand scientist, [https://www.malaghan.org.nz/about-us/our-people/professor-graham-le-gros/ '''Prof Graham Le Gros'''] gave a series of interviews to representatives of the media to promote his research with hookworms and the development of a hookworm vaccine, and used every one of these interviews as an opportunity to ridicule those who self-treat with helminths. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Graham_Le_Gros_and_helminthic_therapy] This not only revealed this particular scientist’s ignorance about the reality of helminthic therapy, but also illustrated how the thinking of many academics was still firmly entrenched in the increasingly outdated Pasteurian paradigm.

* The Yahoo Helminthic Therapy forum was reduced to an email list after Yahoo removed the user content from all its groups, a step that removed 11,000 posts from the Helminthic Therapy forum alone.

=== 2020 ===

* The results were published for a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial in which patients with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) were colonised by hookworms. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32539079/] Although the statistical endpoint determined by the trial’s design was not reached, the data nevertheless revealed that more than half the patients given hookworms had not developed any new lesions.

* [https://www.geog.ox.ac.uk/staff/jlorimer.html Jamie Lorimer] (Professor of Environmental Geography, Oxford University) published the book, [https://progressivegeographies.com/2020/10/22/jamie-lorimer-the-probiotic-planet-university-of-minnesota-press-november-2020/ The Probiotic Planet: Using Life to Manage Life], which focuses on two forms of “rewilding” occurring on vastly different scales: the use of keystone species like wolves and beavers in landscape restoration, and the introduction of hookworms into human hosts to treat autoimmune disorders.

* The Yahoo Helminthic Therapy forum was deleted, after 13 years in existence, when Yahoo finally closed down its groups operation after many years of neglecting the platform.

=== 2021 ===

* In their third socio-medical study of individuals self-treating with helminths, [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383576921002063] researchers from the [https://web.archive.org/web/20210613111434/https://surgery.duke.edu/divisions/surgical-sciences/research/research-laboratories/immune-dysfunction-and-evolutionary-mismatch-laboratory Immune Dysfunction and Evolutionary Mismatch Laboratory (IDEML)] at Duke University opined that the disappointing results from “gold standard”, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials of helminthic therapy (see the first entry for 2008, above) were likely to have been due to a lack of appropriate consideration of the biology of the organisms used, and of the nuance of their interaction with their hosts.

:The IDEML researchers drew attention to the fact that the lacklustre, and even false negative, results from clinical trials have been starkly at odds with other strands of evidence that include numerous positive results in animal models, the positive results reported for individuals self-treating with helminths [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf] [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/images/7/77/Practices_and_outcomes_of_self-treatment_with_helminths_based_on_physicians_observations.pdf] (PDF) and the positive reports from clinical examination following accidental exposure to helminths. [https://jrnms.bmj.com/content/56/3/229] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18655096/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21277637/]

:The study’s authors suggested that, with the impetus no longer being provided by medical researchers, the community of helminth self-treaters has become the primary "laboratory” for helminthic therapy, adding that this community’s “biohacking” endeavours may yet prove to be critical for public health by addressing the helminth deficiency that is a fundamental cause of disease in Western society.

* The first helminthic therapy support group for French speakers, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/142874834658175 Helminthes thérapeutiques], was created on Facebook.

=== 2022 ===

* The helminth provider, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#Nathural Nathural], was founded to supply NA to Europe and the UK.

* The helminth provider, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers#Helminth_Therapy_NZ Helminth Therapy NZ] was founded to supply NA within New Zealand.

=== 2023 ===

* The Australian helminth provider, [https://www.guthappy.com.au/helminthic-therapy/ Gut Happy Pty Ltd], ceased trading after being contacted by the Australian Government's Therapeutic Goods Administration, who had been alerted by a local journalist to details on their website.

== Helminthic therapy today ==

Today, there are three distinct approaches being taken to the utilisation of helminths for therapeutic purposes.

* Firstly, medical researchers are working towards developing pharmaceutical products by identifying and synthesising molecules mined from helminth excretory/secretory products. In this approach, clinicians working within mainstream medicine will be unable to offer "helminth-derived product therapy" (HDPT) to their patients until researchers have created, and successfully trialled, helminth-inspired drugs, and these have then been granted approval by medical regulators. It will therefore be many years, if not decades, before this endeavour delivers products to the clinic, and, when it does, they may prove to have long-term adverse side effect profiles similar to many other single molecule pharmaceutical products.

* Secondly, a novel approach to the therapeutic use of living worms is being explored by scientists investigating the custom engineering of organisms to perform specific functions, such as seeking out and destroying cancer cells, [https://www.tweaktown.com/news/87338/] or protecting soldiers from chemical and biological weapons. [https://medicine.wustl.edu/news/hookworms-have-potential-to-protect-soldiers-from-chemical-biological-weapons]

* A third approach has been taken by thousands of patients, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/] along with naturopathic and functional physicians, [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27240605/] all of whom are employing one or more of four specially domesticated species of living non-pathogenic helminth to treat a wide range of immune-related disorders. [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories] Numerous scientists have expressed support for this form of therapy [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_research#What_researchers_say_about_helminthic_therapy], some of them arguing that biome reconstitution using living helminths will always be preferable to the use of synthesised pharmaceutical products. [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Living_helminths_are_better_than_helminth-inspired_drugs] The helminth "probiotic" approach also offers patients a self-administered treatment that is very safe, [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_safety] remarkably effective [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279166326_Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths_Current_Practices_and_Experience] and available for immediate use [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers]. Detailed information about all aspects of the therapy is available in this wiki, [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_Therapy_Wiki] while support is available online from knowledgeable and experienced users, [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/] along with information from doctors and other health professionals who have personal experience with the therapy. [https://www.helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_practitioners]

Now that helminth replacement therapy has been developed to the point it has reached today, there is no longer an excuse for any medic to disparage the practice, or to attempt to dissuade their patients from using it on a self-treatment basis, yet there are still many doctors who persist in doing this. Some even refuse to provide routine medical care to those patients who choose to host helminths to improve their health, even though this behaviour by doctors clearly violates a fundamental principle of bioethics that is taught to all healthcare students: primum non nocere (first, do no harm).

== See also ==

For a general introduction to helminthic therapy, see the following page.

* [[Introduction to helminthic therapy | '''Introduction to helminthic therapy''']]

The following list of 900 scientific papers encompasses the history of helminthic therapy research.

* [[Helminthic therapy research | '''Helminthic therapy research''']]

The next two pages give more detail about specific aspects of helminthic therapy history.

* [[Helminthic therapy support groups#History of the helminthic therapy groups | '''History of the helminthic therapy groups''']]

* [[Hookworm dosing and response#The evolution of hookworm dosing |'''The evolution of hookworm dosing''']]

Graham Le Gros and helminthic therapy

2024-09-04T03:18:54Z

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== Helminth research at the Malaghan Institute ==

[https://www.malaghan.org.nz/about-us/our-people/professor-graham-le-gros/ Prof Graham Le Gros] had stated that the long-term goal of his research programme at the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research in New Zealand was to develop vaccines against asthma and allergy and to create an anti-hookworm vaccine. [https://www.malaghan.org.nz/about-us/our-people/professor-graham-le-gros/]

In 2019, Le Gros and his colleagues began a clinical study in which healthy adult volunteers were each given a dose of Necator americanus hookworms (NA) to enable the researchers to investigate the human immune response to this species [https://www.malaghan.org.nz/news/malaghan-institute-seeking-volunteers-for-hookworm-therapy-clinical-trial/] and to understand its effects on a healthy individual’s gut bacteria composition and function.

In July, 2019, Le Gros gave a series of interviews to the New Zealand media [https://web.archive.org/web/20190721123358/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/114332185/kiwi-researchers-given-green-light-for-worldfirst-human-trial-exploring-the-health-potential-of-parasitic-worms] [https://web.archive.org/web/20200207190930/https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2019/07/30/701634/what-gut-worms-could-do-for-cancer] [https://web.archive.org/web/20210225193102/https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/simon-barnett-and-phil-gifford-afternoons/audio/professor-graham-le-gros-hookworms-could-have-huge-potential-for-health/] [https://web.archive.org/web/20211207173358/https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/afternoons/audio/2018705196/human-hookworms-potential-to-help-inflammatory-diseases] to promote this work, with a further interview being given in September 2020, [https://web.archive.org/web/20210223045159/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/09/wellington-scientists-say-human-hookworms-could-be-answer-to-autoimmune-diseases.html] by which time his team’s remit had been extended to investigating the feasibility of using human hookworms as a medication-free maintenance therapy for ulcerative colitis, [https://web.archive.org/web/20220125164345/https://researchforlife.org.nz/hookworm-therapy-study-expands-to-treat-allergic-inflammatory-diseases] with similar trials being planned for perennial rhinitis and eosinophilic esophagitis.

A later page posted on the Malaghan website describes the institute's hookworm programme as, "exploring the therapeutic potential of human hookworms to ultimately find better treatment options for a range of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including coeliac, asthma, allergy, MS and IBD". [https://www.malaghan.org.nz/our-research/hookworm-therapy/]

== Smoke and mirrors in Le Gros’ interaction with the media ==

In the four interviews Le Gros gave in 2019, he presented himself as ''the'' pioneering investigator of what he proposed could eventually lead to a natural, low cost treatment solution for many inflammatory and allergic diseases, and he claimed that his forthcoming trial was a “world first”. [https://web.archive.org/web/20190721123358/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/114332185/kiwi-researchers-given-green-light-for-worldfirst-human-trial-exploring-the-health-potential-of-parasitic-worms]   

However, Le Gros failed to mention that, more than thirty years previously, [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/David_Pritchard14 Prof David Pritchard] (Nottingham University) had pioneered the study of the immune response engendered by the human hookworm, Necator americanus, and has been researching the potential for the therapeutic use of this species since the early 2000s. After completing preliminary safety and dose-ranging studies, Pritchard’s team carried out a large Phase II randomised, placebo-controlled trial between 2011 and 2016 to assess the effects of hookworms on disease activity in patients with multiple sclerosis. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32539079/]  

Also not mentioned by Le Gros was that, in 2010, Australian researchers [https://research.jcu.edu.au/portfolio/alex.loukas Prof Alex Loukas] (James Cook University) and [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/John_Croese2 Prof John Croese] (The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane) began clinical trials using N. americanus in human subjects with coeliac disease, and have continued with this work in the years since. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21408161/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27827438/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23291460/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26381211/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26150662/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25248819/] [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21949691/]

== Research into helminthic therapy self-treatment ==

Not only has all this pioneering science involving the therapeutic use of N. americanus been carried out previously by other researchers, but the practice of helminthic therapy has been continuously developed and refined since 2003 by citizen scientists using this species and three other domesticated, mutualistic helminths: the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura, the porcine whipworm, Trichuris suis, and the murine tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta. The results obtained from all this work by the helminthic therapy citizen science community have been investigated and documented by several researchers.

In 2015, [https://williamparkerlab.org/blog/about-us/ Prof William Parker] and his team at Duke University reported their first detailed examination of this community.

* [[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf | Overcoming Evolutionary Mismatch by Self-Treatment with Helminths: Current Practices and Experience]] (PDF)

A year later, they published this second study.

* [[media:Practices_and_outcomes_of_self-treatment_with_helminths_based_on_physicians_observations.pdf | Practices and outcomes of self-treatment with helminths based on physicians observations]] (PDF)

Then, in 2020, they published a further paper after revisiting the community.

* [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737071/ Socio-medical studies of individuals self-treating with helminths provide insight into clinical trial design for assessing helminth therapy] -- [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383576921002063 Full text] | [[media:Socio-medical_studies_of_individuals_self-treating_with_helminths_provide_insight_into_clinical_trial_design_for_assessing_helminth_therapy.pdf | PDF]]

The helminthic therapy community has also been investigated by academics from disciplines other than medicine. These include [https://www.geog.ox.ac.uk/staff/jlorimer.html Jamie Lorimer], Associate Professor in Human Geography at Oxford University, who has published three papers and a book on topics related to helminthic therapy using hookworms.

* [[media:Hookworms_Make_Us_Human-_The_Microbiome%2C_Eco-immunology%2C_and_a_Probiotic_Turn_in_Western_Health_Care.pdf | Hookworms Make Us Human - The Microbiome, Eco-immunology, and a Probiotic Turn in Western Health Care]] (PDF)

* [[media:Parasites, ghosts and mutualists- a relational geography of microbes for global health.pdf | Parasites, ghosts and mutualists - a relational geography of microbes for global health]] (PDF)

* [[media:Gut Buddies - Multispecies Studies and the Microbiome.pdf | Gut Buddies - Multispecies Studies and the Microbiome]] (PDF)

* [https://progressivegeographies.com/2020/10/22/jamie-lorimer-the-probiotic-planet-university-of-minnesota-press-november-2020/ The Probiotic Planet: Using Life to Manage Life]

Another scientist who has taken an interest in helminthic therapy citizen science is [https://web.archive.org/web/20210509225737/https://www.kent.ac.uk/kent-business-school/people/2410/flowers-stephen Stephen Flowers], Professor of Management (Innovation) at the University of Kent, UK. In the following book chapter, he explored the implications of innovation in the context of helminthic therapy and Crohn’s disease, and, although the data that Flowers references had been collected several years previously, in the very early days of the self-treatment movement, his commentary continues to be pertinent.

* [https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/governing-medical-knowledge-commons/chronic-disease-new-thinking-and-outlaw-innovation-patients-on-the-edge-in-the-knowledge-commons/8105C66FEBA55446E15538FD4B164005 Chronic Disease, New Thinking, and Outlaw Innovation: Patients on the Edge in the Knowledge Commons]

Numerous other researchers have investigated helminthic therapy, and some of their comments are collected at the following link.

* [[Helminthic therapy research#What researchers say about helminthic therapy | '''What researchers say about helminthic therapy''']]

== Le Gros’ changing views on helminthic therapy self-treatment ==

In his interviews with the press, Le Gros has not only omitted to mention any of the extensive body of work carried out previously by other scientists, or the fact that helminthic therapy has been available as a self-treatment since 2003 and become established as a very successful form of therapy for immune-related disorders, but he and his colleagues have gone out of their way to pour scorn on those individuals who have chosen to follow the extensive scientific evidence (see: [[Helminthic therapy research | '''Helminthic therapy research''']]) and take advantage of this self-treatment option. When making their claims, Le Gros and other members of the Malaghan team have repeatedly used emotive and disparaging terms, none of which bear any relationship to reality.

{{Quote|indent}}There's a whole lot of bootlegged worms, and there are parasite support groups, and so you have people with conditions and they’re just desperate to try something. And they hear that, in one-off cases, that someone feels better once they’ve had a worm. And they’ll just go on the internet and get them. [https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/afternoons/audio/2018705196/human-hookworms-potential-to-help-inflammatory-diseases]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}There's all these urban, backyard bootlegging worm factories around the world. You just go onto Bitcoin, and people are self-diagnosing and they’re working themselves up and giving themselves worms. [https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/simon-barnett-and-phil-gifford-afternoons/audio/professor-graham-le-gros-hookworms-could-have-huge-potential-for-health/]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}At the moment it [hookworms] are just passed from person to person in the most unreliable way, with no clear protocols on how to make a good healthy worm. [https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2019/07/30/701634/what-gut-worms-could-do-for-cancer]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}They don’t know what they’re buying, they don’t know where they’re coming from, and the dosing and everything is just completely unknown… They’re willy nilly using worms without there being any real evidence yet that they work. [https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/afternoons/audio/2018705196/human-hookworms-potential-to-help-inflammatory-diseases]{{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}People are buying them [hookworms] on the black market, they don't know what the source is, they don't know the safety of it. Sometimes they're not actually getting human hookworms, they're getting dog hookworms which can make you very sick... [https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/09/wellington-scientists-say-human-hookworms-could-be-answer-to-autoimmune-diseases.html]{{Quote|/indent}}

Malaghan staff involved in the institute's hookworm programme have continued to give regular promotional interviews to the New Zealand press, [https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/nights/audio/2018794285/hookworms-to-heal] [https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/sunday/audio/2018799500/could-hosting-parasitic-worms-prevent-ageing] in which they have repeated Le Gros' unfounded claims, especially his bizarre contention that helminthic therapy self treaters are unwittingly being supplied with dog hookworms. This notion is laid to rest here: [[Helminthic therapy safety#Could there be dog hookworm larvae in NA doses from providers? | '''Could there be dog hookworm larvae in NA doses from providers?''']]

The only researchers outside the Malaghan Institute who share this jaundiced view of self-treatment with helminths are a very small band of parasitologists who include [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Hotez Prof Peter Hotez], an anti-hookworm zealot who, like Le Gros, has spent years seeking to develop a vaccine against this species, which Hotez believes is a scourge and should be condemned to extinction.

{{Quote|indent}}Giving people worms belongs in the trash bin. [https://web.archive.org/web/20230409054231/https://www.healthline.com/health-news/patients-resorting-to-worm-therapy-to-treat-autoimmune-diseases]{{Quote|/indent}}

When Le Gros was interviewed by TVNZ Sunday on 14 November 2021, he appeared to have modified his previously strident views on self-treatment with worms. In response to a direct question as to whether people who self-medicate with hookworms are "wacko," he replied,

{{Quote|indent}}No. They're not wacko at all.{{Quote|/indent}}

And he added,

{{Quote|indent}}We've thrown the baby out with the bath water by throwing the parasites away. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbT2EzMNphY]{{Quote|/indent}}

== The reality of helminthic therapy self-treatment ==

It is clear from the comments made by Le Gros and his colleagues that they lack even the most basic understanding about how helminthic therapy is being practised today. While they have characterised those who self-treat with helminths as desperate, incompetent and reckless renegades, the community in fact comprises thousands of very knowledgeable and responsible individuals with an average level of academic attainment much higher than that found in the general population. A significant number of the community’s members hold higher degrees, including many MDs.

The community is performing a remarkable and invaluable service by sharing their knowledge to enable many others to experience remission from diseases for which the healthcare establishment can only offer pharmaceutical or surgical treatment options, many of which cause long term adverse side effects and some of which can prove fatal. Helminthic therapy has saved many lives, including that of the lady featured on the page, [[Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy | '''Treating SIBO and metal allergy with helminthic therapy''']], and the son of the very relieved mother who wrote the following.

{{Quote|indent}}My son, who is 15, is on the autism spectrum, is gay, overweight, fatigued, depressed, and has PANDAS/POTS and OCD, along with mast cell and allergy issues. The list is long! He started using helminths to treat the PANDAS. The first dose was 5 NA in November 2019, then a second dose of 5 in May 2020. He has always struggled with being awkward and different, and had difficulty expressing what he was feeling, but I didn’t realise just how severely depressed he had become. When he told me how much he had hated himself for so long, it broke my heart. His anxiety was off the charts. He said he was suicidal. Fortunately, a month on helminths has cleared his brain. He wakes up early now, and has lost 15 lbs. It’s like night and day, like a switch turned off and his inflammation is gone, and I am so thankful for this. I wish I had given NA to him 5 years ago. He's doing so great on them. Helminths have literally saved his life. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/permalink/3419265288129402/]{{Quote|/indent}}

Below are further facts that give the lie to Le Gros’ opinions about the helminthic therapy self-treatment community.

* In the absence of interest from mainstream medicine, the citizen scientists in the self-treatment community have not only pioneered the practice of helminth replacement therapy but also created the world’s largest database of information on the subject, the [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_Therapy_Wiki Helminthic Therapy wiki]. This website lists all the relevant research to date - some [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_research 900 papers] - and features [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories 900 accounts of success and failure] by individuals who are treating one or more of over 160 different medical conditions. Were Le Gros to read this wiki, he would learn much that would be of value to him in his own research into this subject, including, for example, why the 30 NA larvae that he gave to subjects in his first hookworm trial can be too large a number to be given as a single dose to a hookworm-naive subject. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Hookworm_dosing_and_response] He would also learn that this species only lives for as little as 2-3 months in some people (see [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Self-treating_with_NA#Hookworm_lifespan '''Hookworm lifespan''']) - not the 10 years that he claims - and why, therefore, a 12-month trial with NA should involve the use of several smaller doses given at shorter intervals. He would also discover that hookworms are not as robust as he believes them to be, and are in fact susceptible to a number of substances, including some foods. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Human_helminth_care_manual]

* There are many medical doctors who are using helminths to treat themselves. For example, a [https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/why-doctor-working-in-new-zealand-infected-himself-with-hookworms/L6CXH25ANBS5TB3KXLD7DT2AYY/ pathologist in New Zealand]

* There are yet more medics who are using helminths to treat members of their own families, and there is an increasing number of doctors who recommend helminthic therapy self-treatment to their patients, and advise them to obtain their organisms from the community’s well established [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers helminth providers], the quality of service offered by which is kept under review via [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_provider_reviews customer feedback]. The “backyard bootlegging worm factories” imagined by Le Gros have no chance to flourish in this environment.

* There is a steadily growing number of doctors with experience in the use of helminthic therapy, and some of these offer [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_practitioners online consultations] to anyone who feels the need of professional guidance.

* There is a very active [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/ Facebook group] where self-treaters can receive free advice and support from more experienced members while learning how to use helminths to treat their own particular conditions.

* Researchers who, unlike Le Gros, have actually carried out rigorous investigations into the activities of the community of helminthic therapy self-treaters, and published their findings, have concluded that this community had, by 2020, become the primary "laboratory" for this therapy. They also stated their opinion that, since helminthic therapy addresses a fundamental cause of disease in Western society, "this particular biohacking endeavour may in fact be critical for public health." [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34737071/]

== Potential consequences of Le Gros’ comments to the media ==

Sadly, the comments made to the press by Le Gros and his colleagues will have been read or heard by many thousands of individuals, some of whom might have benefitted from this therapy, had they not been dissuaded by these scientsts' pejorative and factually incorrect remarks. Some of those individuals, who are desperately ill and may have exhausted all other available treatment options, will consequently face unnecessary suffering and possibly even an untimely death.

{{Quote|indent}}It is untenable to rebuke patients for self-treatment with helminths when such treatment may in fact be their best course of action… ([[media:Overcoming_Evolutionary_Mismatch_by_Self-Treatment_with_Helminths.pdf |Cheng et al]]) (PDF){{Quote|/indent}}

{{Quote|indent}}Although self-treatment with helminths cannot be recommended by medical professionals due to a lack of blinded, placebo controlled trials, neither should it be discouraged since the available evidence suggests that it is beneficial in most cases when practiced by knowledgeable individuals. ([https://evmedreview.com/progress-on-reconstituting-the-depleted-biome-to-prevent-immune-disorders/ Parker and Morey]){{Quote|/indent}}

In spite of what Le Gros appears to believe, self-treatment with helminths is not something to be regulated, or controlled, by the medical establishment. Helminths are the heirlooms of all humankind, not the sole preserve of medical researchers or clinicians. As an essential component of a healthy human biome, helminths are necessary for optimal immune function. Access to them is therefore a basic human right. [https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/6/10/98/htm]

Although Le Gros would have people wait for him to complete ''his'' research, there is absolutely no need for anyone to delay availing themselves of the remarkable healing potential offered by helminth replacement. This therapy is already known to improve health in approximately 75% of users with immune-related disorders, [http://www.yourwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/galley-proof-v2.pdf] it is recommended by doctors who understand its use, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_practitioners] the details of its application are already established, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Using_helminths] appropriate helminths can be purchased from reputable providers, [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers] and support for self-treaters is readily available. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/htsupport/]

The Amazing Dr Wriggly

2024-09-04T03:18:54Z

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All the Queen's doctors 
And all the Queen's men 
Couldn't give Johnny 
His health back again. 

But then he met Wriggly, 
Who knew what to do. 
So Johnny felt better, 
And so too might you! 

Over a thirty year period, I gave both mainstream medicine and the alternative healthcare sector every opportunity to resolve the numerous health problems to which I had fallen prey and, in the process of meeting dozens of doctors and therapists, I was fortunate to encounter a few who went out of their way to try to help me. Sadly, however, none was successful in arresting the seemingly inexorable decline in my health.

Then, by chance, I met a truly remarkable healer who was descended from a long line of immunology specialists – so long in fact that, between them, they had gathered millions of years of practical experience in the management of the human immune system.

Dr Wriggly, as I affectionately call my new specialist, is a worm – a one centimetre long, thin-as-a-hair hookworm – but what he doesn't know about the human immune system is clearly not worth knowing.

With silent determination, he set to work on the catalogue of health problems that had defeated the best human healers and, after thirty years of steadily declining health, the tide was finally turned and Wriggly gave me back the life I had lost and thought I would never see again.

My problems had begun in early childhood with allergic asthma, which segued into perennial rhinitis in my teens and sinusitis in my twenties. Then, in my thirties, I began to experience difficulty tolerating food, at which point I consulted some of the best allergists in the UK.

This led to a diagnosis of food intolerance and IgE-mediated allergies to a number of foods as well as to many environmental allergens. I then tried all the treatments that orthodox medicine had to offer, including less common options such as desensitisation, and a slew of complementary therapies, but all to no avail.

Eventually, my food intolerance became so overwhelming that it threatened my survival [http://www.foodsmatter.com/allergy_intolerance/total_food_intolerance/articles/tfa.html] but, just when things were looking really bleak, my luck changed as a result of being given yet another diagnosis, this time of Crohn's disease. This led, fortuitously, to me joining the Hookworm Therapy in Crohn's Disease clinical trial at Nottingham University in late 2007. [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/appetite_worms.html]

This study was not originally designed to assess the efficacy of treatment with hookworms, but merely to gauge whether it is safe to give Crohn's patients 10 hookworms each for 12 weeks. Nevertheless, the experience proved to me that these tiny creatures could be effective against food allergy and food intolerance because, with the help of my ten hookworms, I was once again able to tolerate a few normal foods.

After my involvement with the trial was complete and the trial team had declined to provide me with a further hookworm infection, I began to search for some other way to renew my relationship with this organism.

Eventually, I found a commercial source [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminth_providers] and inoculated myself with a fresh dose of Necator americanus larvae, with astonishing results. After 12 weeks, I was able to resume eating a few normal foods and, by 70 weeks, I was enjoying a full, normal diet for the first time in almost thirty years. (For full details of the transformation, see [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']].)

In addition to the miraculous reversal of the food allergy and food intolerance, all my environmental allergies have completely disappeared, so that I can now spend all day outdoors during the summer without even the slightest hint of a sniffle, even when the pollen season is at its height. The catarrh and sinusitis that had been such a bane for so much of my life are also completely gone. [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Nasal_allergies_nuked_by_worms]

My Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is now sufficiently diminished for me to be able to tolerate perfume again, and I have even been able to resume using spirit-based paints with no ill-effects whatsoever. [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/helminths_mcs.html]

My Crohn's disease is in remission, my eczema is much less troublesome and the severity of my M.E./CFS has been greatly moderated. My previously daily headaches and regular migraines have been dramatically reduced, [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/headache_migraine.html] and my Restless Leg Syndrome has completely disappeared. [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/restless-legs.html]

Although the majority of people have still not heard of the remarkable healing skills of Dr Wriggly, there are already many thousands of individuals who are enjoying greatly improved health due to his ministrations, and hundreds of them have related their success stories online. [http://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_personal_stories]

By [[John Scott and helminthic therapy | '''John Scott''']].
(Originally published in March 2012 on the Foods Matter website. [http://www.foodsmatter.com/natural_medicine_comp_therapies/helminthic_therapy/articles/amazing-dr-wriggle-03-12.html])

=== See also ===

Here are a few of Scott’s articles about specific aspects of his helminthic therapy experience.

* [[Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease | '''Wriggling out of total food intolerance, M.E. and Crohn’s disease''']]

* [[Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho | '''Hookworms give chronic headaches the old heave-ho''']]

* [[Nasal allergies nuked by worms | '''Nasal allergies nuked by worms''']]

* [[Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms | '''Restless legs syndrome yields completely to hookworms''']]
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Hookworms transform a food intolerant and food allergic patient into a foodie

2024-09-04T03:18:54Z

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__NOTOC__I live in Yorkshire in the UK and I’m 54 years of age. My main health problem is multiple food allergies and intolerances, accompanied by environmental allergies, chemical sensitivities and asthma. I have an obviously compromised immune system.

===A dwindling diet and nowhere left to turn===

I experienced a progressive worsening of symptoms which go back to childhood and were aggravated by Cryptosporidiosis at age 30, and three bouts of glandular fever, the last of which was when I was 39/40.

As my body was reacting against more and more food stuffs, and since medical investigations had only managed to confirm this problem rather than treat it, I was down to being able to eat only 26 different food items such as beef, lamb and chicken, and counting related foods such as chicken and turkey separately. As the list got ever shorter, I was becoming more and more scared that I would run out of things I could eat, or that my internal organs would not cope, and would simply pack up.

I had followed up all lines of conventional medicine and was already on high doses of antihistamine. I had also tried homeopathic remedies, some of which seemed to ameliorate the adverse reactions, but did not widen the range of foods I could eat or help me stay symptom free.

===Getting started, and periodic setbacks===

When I started helminthic therapy 6 years ago, at the age of 48, I wrote to my gastroenterologist to ask for support, but received no reply. My local doctor put it on my records in inverted commas, and only the nursing staff at the local practice were interested at that stage. I had to consult a different local doctor to ensure they would continue treating me, and also to change my antihistamine to a hookworm-friendly variety. This doctor does now take it seriously.

My family were fully supportive. They all understood the seriousness of the situation I was in as well as the misery it caused. I gave them articles to read and they were totally behind me from day one.

I started dosing with Necator americanus (NA) in August 2014, and continued to dose approximately quarterly for the first 18 months. After that, I left longer gaps as I tried to work out the optimum timing, and settled on one dose around every 4 months or so. Unfortunately, due to problems with the provider I was using at that time, those periods were sometimes longer, and the effectiveness of my colony reduced a little. Once I was able to return to dosing quarterly, this seemed to be more effective for me.

I have had another recent dip in effectiveness, but this may also have been linked to the length of time doses have taken to arrive, and the consequent reduction in their viability. I am now looking to restore my colony to full strength through more regular dosing from a supplier offering shorter delivery times, and I hope to add 10 NA every quarter to try to maintain a balance.

===The early doses caused some side effects===

The side effects included the usual itching around the site where the patch was applied, which was aggravated by being allergic to the dressing itself. I also had some stomach cramps, nausea and a flare up of vertigo from approximately 3 to 8 weeks post inoculation. But, once my colony was established, these symptoms reduced, except for the itching. More recently, a repeat incidence of shingles seems to have been linked to having left too long a gap between dosing, to which my body reacted once I did top up again.

===The proof of the pudding is in the eating!===

Improvement came in stages, the first signs appearing soon after starting - in a matter of days in fact. In less than 9 months, the improvement was considerable and, at around 12 months, I wrote the following:

"On Saturday, it will be my 50th birthday and it will be one of my best ever. Having reached the point where, thanks to hosting hookworms for just over a year, I can eat almost everything. (I was down to only 26 different foods in total before I started). I will need to be on a diet after the weekend because we are having a cream tea for Saturday lunch, going out for a meal Saturday night, and for coffee and cake on Sunday. My presents include a bread maker, a sandwich press, a soup maker, a cheese making kit and several cookery books that don't have ‘allergy’ anywhere in their titles.”

===An overall 70-90% improvement in health===

I would say that, at my best, I have probably been 90% better. At the moment, I’m probably at around the 70% mark but hoping to pull things back again.
If I were to list the top 4 things about my life with hookworms, they would be:

* Fewer antibiotics 
* Better overall health 
* Eating out again
* Feeling like a more normal person

===From unappealing therapy to life-changing process===

When I started out, I thought the whole thing sounded gruesome. I was only prepared to try it because I was desperate. But, having got to where I am today, I can assure you that none of it is nearly as unpleasant as you might imagine, and it has totally changed my life for the better.

When I started the process, I was embarrassed about people knowing what my treatment was; now I've even [http://alfiedog.me.uk/2015/08/12/wednesday-12th-august-2015-helminthic-therapy/ open blogged] about it and am happy to tell anyone. It has given me back such joy in life.

So, if you decide to try this and are faced with scepticism, don’t feel you need to justify yourself. If you have read the background and feel that helminthic therapy would be of potential benefit, then go for it! Those around you will be convinced very quickly when they see the change it can bring. However, do give them links to [https://helminthictherapywiki.org/wiki/Helminthic_therapy_in_the_media#Articles relevant articles]. By Ros Kind, April, 2020. 

 For further details, see Rosemary's 36 minute podcast for the Sensitive One, recorded in Dec 2021.

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRaDQv_53LY '''Rosemary's Story: From Food Intolerant to Foodie with Helminthic Therapy''']
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2023-09-18T10:13:52Z

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== Summary ==
Logo from [[:File:HTW_LogoWithText.gif]], in format which works.