What Is Zymex II Parasite Cleanse?

Zymex II is a supplement meant to provide you with digestive support that also may help you get rid of pinworms. It has natural digestive enzymes derived from substances like almonds and figs. Always consult a health care provider before trying to treat an issue with parasites or trying a new supplement.

Identification

Zymex II has three proteolytic enzymes, bromelain, ficin and papain, which help you break down protein. It also contains amylase, which helps break down starches that you consume, along with lipase, which helps break down fats that you ingest.

Time Frame

The usual dose of this supplement is two capsules twice a day. However, nutritionist Ann Louise Gittleman, author of “The Gut Flush Plan,” recommends starting with one capsule and increasing the amount that you take gradually 1. If you are trying to get rid of pinworms, use the supplement at full strength daily for a minimum of six weeks, then transition to twice a week once a month.

Function

Proteolytic enzymes like bromelain and papain break down parasites’ protein structures, says Skye Weintraub, author of “The Parasite Menace.” In fact, taking 500 mg of just bromelain twice a day is a good pinworm remedy, the author notes, though adding in other digestive enzymes can make this regimen more effective 2. This folk medicine remedy is being studied as an alternative to synthetic drugs used to treat parasites in animals and humans, notes Jerzy M. Behnke, lead author for a 2008 study published in the journal Parasites and Vectors.

Considerations

Take Zymex II between meals when fighting pinworms, advises Mary Bove, author of “An Encyclopedia of Natural Healing for Children.” If you are giving the supplement to children, who may not want to swallow a pill, it can be opened up and mixed with water or into unsweetened applesauce 3.

In addition to taking Zymex II to fight parasites, you need to avoid simple carbohydrates such as foods with lots of sugar in them because pinworms thrive on these. That restriction includes fruit juices. Instead, consume more onions, garlic, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, ginger and cloves. Also consume plenty of water to make the Zymex treatment more effective. Hand washing is also key to preventing reinfection.

Expert Insight

Pinworm infections usually are treated with the medications pyrantel pamoate, mebendazole or albendazole. Pyrantel pamoate is available over the counter. However, parents and doctors need to weigh health risks versus benefits of all three of these drugs for children younger than 2, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes. Talk to your doctor about Zymex versus standard treatments for pinworms.