Common chemical deworming treatments for dogs are facing increasing resistance. This means that these medications are becoming less effective against the parasites they are designed to target. Additionally, chemical dewormers can cause environmental problems (due to excretion in feces) and are often expensive. Therefore, it is best to use deworming treatments only when they are truly necessary.

Resistance to Worms

Dogs naturally have some level of resistance to most types of parasites. It is important to support this resistance and strengthen their immune system. By doing so, you can help prevent and minimize health issues in your dog. Moreover, this reduces the need for chemical treatments, which in turn slows down the development of resistance. This benefits all dogs and their owners.

Which Herbs Help Against Worms?

Certain herbs, including echinacea, oregano, ginseng, and rosehip, are effective against intestinal parasites. When using herbs, a combination often works best. Additionally, herbs are most effective when given in liquid extract form, as the active compounds are more easily absorbed by your dog's intestines. An extract is also usually much more concentrated than dried herbs or powder, meaning you need a smaller amount.

Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is commonly used as a supplement for humans. It supports a healthy immune system, stimulates immunity, and helps eliminate waste products—not just in humans, but also in dogs. Studies have shown that dogs who received echinacea in their diet were better able to clear pathogens from their system. These dogs also had higher immunity levels.

Ginseng

Ginseng supports heart and blood vessel health, the immune system, and energy metabolism. Studies indicate that hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum) have a harder time infecting dogs that receive a ginseng supplement. Furthermore, hookworms lay fewer eggs in the intestines of dogs treated with ginseng. This herb, therefore, enhances a dog's resistance to hookworms. Other research suggests that the parasite Spirocerca lupi can also be controlled with ginseng. This parasite is transmitted when dogs ingest dung beetles and can cause esophageal issues. Additionally, evidence suggests that ginseng may be effective against Leishmania, a parasite transmitted by sandflies in Southern Europe.

Oregano

The herb oregano (Lippia berlandieri) has been shown to be effective against Giardia parasites. Giardia is a well-known parasite in dogs that can cause significant health problems. Research has demonstrated that oregano extract disrupts the cellular structure of Giardia parasites, likely by damaging proteins in the cell nucleus.

Rosehip

Rosehips—the fruit of rose plants—are small but packed with vitamin C. They are rich in polyphenols, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Scientific studies have shown that rosehip has several medicinal properties. It has anti-inflammatory effects and has been scientifically proven to influence the immune system. Consuming rosehip or rosehip extract increases the number of white blood cells, including phagocytes and neutrophils. These white blood cells help fight bacteria and eliminate unwanted invaders.