What is ivermectin and what is the equivalent to it in the field of Ayurveda and Herbalism?

By M. Raven Townsend, 11/27/2025

Ivermectin is a modern antiparasitic drug, while in Ayurveda and herbalism its closest equivalents are antiparasitic herbs such as neem, vidanga, wormwood, clove, black walnut hull, and mimosa pudica, which have traditionally been used to expel or weaken intestinal worms and parasites.

Read my full post at https://sites.google.com/view/raven-townsend/ayurveda-herbalism-yoga/ivermectin-and-antiparasitic-herbs. 

Key Differences Between Ivermectin & Ayurvedic Approach

  • Ivermectin: A single, standardized pharmaceutical compound with predictable dosing and FDA approval.
  • Ayurvedic/Herbal Approach: A holistic protocol combining herbs, diet, and lifestyle to restore digestive fire (agni) and expel parasites. Herbs are often used in formulas rather than alone.

Deworming and Parasite Cleansing

Ivermectin is a powerful modern antiparasitic drug. In Ayurveda and herbalism, its functional equivalents are herbs like neem, vidanga, wormwood, clove, and black walnut hull, which have long histories of use for deworming and parasite cleansing. Instead of a single pill, Ayurveda emphasizes a multi-herbal, digestive-strengthening approach to prevent reinfection and maintain balance.

Ayurveda & Antiparasitic Herbs by Raven Townsend

Read more about Ayurvedic & Herbal Antiparasitic Herbs

Read my full post at https://sites.google.com/view/raven-townsend/ayurveda-herbalism-yoga/ivermectin-and-antiparasitic-herbs. 

 

Medicine cabinet, sourced image from Unsplash - Raven Townsend

 

 

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