Terminology

Abbreviations

AD

Ancylostoma duodenale. A species of roundworm, aka the Old World Hookworm, that is not ideal for general therapeutic use. See 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. Enterobius vermicularis

FMT

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. [1]

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. Wikipedia:Irritable Bowel Syndrome

LDN

low-dose naltrexone. Wikipedia:Low-dose naltrexone

MCAD

Mast cell activation disorder, also known as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). An immunological condition. Wikipedia:Mast cell activation syndrome

MCAS

Mast cell activation syndrome, also referred to as mast cell activation disorder (MCAD). An immunological condition. 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. 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. 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.

Biome Reconstitution

Biome reconstitution

biome reconstitution

An alternative term for helminthic therapy taken from a seminal publication by Prof William Parker [2] 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. [3]

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. [4]

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. 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. [5]

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. 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: 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 [6], 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 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 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.

Ancylostoma duodenale. A species of roundworm, aka the Old World Hookworm, that is not ideal for general therapeutic use. See Ancylostoma duodenale.

A species of roundworm, aka the Old World hookworm, that is "not" used in helminthic therapy. Wikipedia:Ancylostoma duodenale

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.

Autism spectrum disorder.

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.

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.

C-reactive protein is an inflammation marker but is not a reliable indicator of inflammation, especially in chronic inflammatory disorders.

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.

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.

Enterobius vermicularis. Enterobius vermicularis

A human helminth known as 'pinworm' in the US, and 'threadworm' in the UK.

Fecal Microbiota Transplant. Wikipedia:Fecal microbiota transplant

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.

Helminth-Induced Immunomodulation Therapy. This term was adopted by researchers investigating the effects of TSO in patients with MS. [7]

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. Wikipedia:Helminths

the ova (eggs) of the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis

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.

Hymenolepis diminuta, a murine (rat) tapeworm.

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.

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.

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

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

hookworm, usually referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus

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.

The species of human hookworm used in helminthic therapy. Its microscopic larvae are applied periodically to the skin.

helminthic 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.

hookworm, usually referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus

hookworm, usually referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus

hookworm, usually referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus

hookworm, usually referring to the human hookworm, Necator americanus

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).

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.

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.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a widespread condition involving recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhoea or constipation. Wikipedia:Irritable Bowel Syndrome

low-dose naltrexone. Wikipedia:Low-dose naltrexone

Mast cell activation disorder, also known as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). An immunological condition. Wikipedia:Mast cell activation syndrome

Mast cell activation syndrome, also referred to as mast cell activation disorder (MCAD). An immunological condition. Wikipedia:Mast cell activation syndrome

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. A review of a two-phase population study of multiple chemical sensitivities

Doctor of Medicine (MD, from the Latin Medicinæ Doctor meaning "Teacher of Medicine").

the human hookworm, Necator americanus

the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis

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.

The porcine (pig) whipworm used in helminthic therapy and taken as microscopic eggs (TSO) in a drink every two weeks.

the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura

The human whipworm used in helminthic therapy and taken periodically as microscopic eggs (TTO) in a drink.

the ova (eggs) of the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura

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.

whipworm, referring either to the human whipworm, Trichuris trichiura, or the porcine (pig) whipworm, Trichuris suis

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A substance capable of eliminating or destroying intestinal worms.

A species of helminth that is unsuitable for helminthic therapy, e.g., Ascaris lumbricoides.

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. Wikipedia:Helminths

An alternative term for helminthic therapy taken from a seminal publication by Prof William Parker [8] 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. [9]

An alternative term for helminthic therapy taken from a seminal publication by Prof William Parker [10] 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. [11]

An alternative term for helminthic therapy taken from a seminal publication by Prof William Parker [12] 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. [13]

An alternative term for helminthic therapy that has been adopted by one helminth provider as the name of their business. [14]

An alternative term for helminthic therapy that has been adopted by one helminth provider as the name of their business. [15]

An alternative term for helminthic therapy that has been adopted by one helminth provider as the name of their business. [16]

Commensalism is a relationship between two organisms where one benefits from the other without affecting it.

Commensalism is a relationship between two organisms where one benefits from the other without affecting it.

Commensalism is a relationship between two organisms where one benefits from the other without affecting it.

Commensalism is a relationship between two organisms where one benefits from the other without affecting it.

Commensalism is a relationship between two organisms where one benefits from the other without affecting it.

Commensalism is a relationship between two organisms where one benefits from the other without affecting it.

The larval (immature) stage of a tapeworm.

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.

a change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause.

the degree to which something is successful in producing a desired result; success.

the ability to produce a desired or intended result.

Examination using an endoscope - an instrument used to view the interior of a hollow organ or cavity within the body.

Examination using an endoscope - an instrument used to view the interior of a hollow organ or cavity within the body.

A human helminth known as 'pinworm' in the US, and 'threadworm' in the UK.

A human helminth known as 'pinworm' in the US, and 'threadworm' in the UK.

Refers to Enterobius vermicularis in the US, and to Strongyloides stercoralis in the UK.

Refers to Strongyloides stercoralis in the US, and to Enterobius vermicularis in the UK.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The introduction of an infectious agent into an organism. Helminth inoculation

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. Wikipedia:Helminths

Cells and fluid that seep out of blood vessels during inflammation.

Cells and fluid that seep out of blood vessels during inflammation.

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. Wikipedia:Helminths

An alternative term for helminthic therapy, emphasising its role in correcting the loss of beneficial species caused by modern hygiene practices.

An alternative term for helminthic therapy, emphasising its role in correcting the loss of beneficial species caused by modern hygiene practices.

An alternative term for helminthic therapy, emphasising its role in correcting the loss of beneficial species caused by modern hygiene practices.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

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.

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. [17]

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. [18]

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

An organism that can be seen by the naked eye, e.g., a mature helminth.

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.

An organism that can be seen by the naked eye, e.g., a mature helminth.

An organism that can be seen by the naked eye, e.g., a mature helminth.

An organism that can be seen by the naked eye, e.g., a mature helminth.

A method of counting parasite eggs in a faecal sample.

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.)

A microorganism, especially a bacterium that causes disease or fermentation.

A microorganism, especially a bacterium that causes disease or fermentation.

A microorganism, especially a bacterium that causes disease or fermentation.

A microorganism, especially a bacterium that causes disease or fermentation.

A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium, virus or fungus.

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.

A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium, virus or fungus.

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.

A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium, virus or fungus.

A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium, virus or fungus.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship between individuals of different species where each organism benefits from the other.

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.

The species of human hookworm used in helminthic therapy. Its microscopic larvae are applied periodically to the skin.

A category of worms with slender, unsegmented, cylindrical bodies that include roundworms and threadworms.

A category of worms with slender, unsegmented, cylindrical bodies that include roundworms and threadworms.

A category of worms with slender, unsegmented, cylindrical bodies that include roundworms and threadworms.

A category of worms with slender, unsegmented, cylindrical bodies that include roundworms and threadworms.

A category of worms with slender, unsegmented, cylindrical bodies that include roundworms and threadworms.

A category of worms with slender, unsegmented, cylindrical bodies that include roundworms and threadworms.

"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: Stool testing (egg counting)

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.)

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.)

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.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

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.)

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.)

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.)

According to Paxson [19], 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.

According to Paxson [20], 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.

According to Paxson [21], 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.

According to Paxson [22], 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.

According to Paxson [23], 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.

According to Paxson [24], 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.

According to Paxson [25], 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.

According to Paxson [26], 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.

According to Paxson [27], 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.

Refers to Enterobius vermicularis in the US, and to Strongyloides stercoralis in the UK.

The roundworm that causes strongyloidiasis and is known as 'pinworm' in the UK and 'threadworm' in the US. Infection with S. stercoralis can be fatal.

Microorganisms that are believed to provide health benefits when consumed.

Microorganisms that are believed to provide health benefits when consumed.

Microorganisms that are believed to provide health benefits when consumed.

Microorganisms that are believed to provide health benefits when consumed.

Reintroducing worms to a helminth-deficient biome.

Reintroducing worms to a helminth-deficient biome.

Medication or treatment of one's own disease or condition without medical assistance.

Medication or treatment of one's own disease or condition without medical assistance.

Someone who treats their own disease or condition without medical assistance.

Someone who treats their own disease or condition without medical assistance.

Clear, thin, watery plasma released during the inflammatory stage of wound healing.

Clear, thin, watery plasma released during the inflammatory stage of wound healing.

a secondary, typically undesirable, effect of a drug or medical treatment.

a secondary, typically undesirable, effect of a drug or medical treatment.

The segmented part of the body of a tapeworm that consists of a long chain of proglottids.

The segmented part of the body of a tapeworm that consists of a long chain of proglottids.

The segmented part of the body of a tapeworm that consists of a long chain of proglottids.

The segmented part of the body of a tapeworm that consists of a long chain of proglottids.

The roundworm that causes strongyloidiasis and is known as 'pinworm' in the UK and 'threadworm' in the US. Infection with S. stercoralis can be fatal.

Puss formed as a result of bacterial infection.

Puss formed as a result of bacterial infection.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Refers to Strongyloides stercoralis in the US, and to Enterobius vermicularis in the UK.

A substance used to to expel worms or other animal parasites from the intestines.

A substance used to kill worms, especially parasitic intestinal worms.

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.

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.

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 influenza - fever, cough, respiratory symptoms, chills, muscle or joint ache, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

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 influenza - fever, cough, respiratory symptoms, chills, muscle or joint ache, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

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 influenza - fever, cough, respiratory symptoms, chills, muscle or joint ache, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

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 influenza - fever, cough, respiratory symptoms, chills, muscle or joint ache, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

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.

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.

Do-It-Yourself. Literally to bypass the professional and do it yourself.