5 Natural Dewormers for Chickens: Keep Your Flock Healthy Naturally

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Chickens are resilient creatures, but they can fall prey to internal parasites like worms, which can affect their health, egg production, and overall well-being. While commercial dewormers are effective, many chicken keepers prefer natural alternatives to avoid chemical residues and promote holistic health. Here are five natural dewormers you can use to keep your flock healthy and parasite-free.

1. Garlic
Why it works: Garlic is renowned for its natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic properties. It contains allicin, a compound believed to help repel and kill intestinal worms.

How to use:
Add crushed garlic cloves to your chickens’ water or feed.
A common recommendation is one clove per gallon of water, changed daily.
You can also mix garlic powder into their feed for a more consistent dose.
Always introduce garlic gradually to prevent digestive upset.

2. Pumpkin Seeds
Why it works: Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitacin, a compound that paralyzes intestinal worms, making it easier for chickens to pass them naturally.

How to use:
Offer raw, unsalted pumpkin seeds as a treat or mix them into feed.
For best results, grind the seeds to improve digestibility.
Feed pumpkin seeds for 3-5 days, then pause to observe.
Use organic pumpkin seeds to avoid pesticides.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Why it works: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps maintain the natural acidity of the chickens’ digestive tract, creating an environment less hospitable to worms.

How to use:
Add 1-2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered ACV per gallon of drinking water.
Change the water daily to prevent fermentation or spoilage.

Caution: Start with small amounts to ensure your chickens tolerate it well.

4. Coconut Oil
Why it works: Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which have natural antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. It can help boost your chickens’ immune system and create an environment less favorable for worms.

How to use:
Mix a small amount of coconut oil (about 1 teaspoon per chicken per week) into their feed or scatter it in their run as a treat.

Alternatively, you can add a few drops to their water, but this is less common.
Tip: Use virgin, organic coconut oil for maximum benefits.

5. Oregano
Why it works: Oregano is a powerful antimicrobial herb that can help boost your chickens’ immune system and has natural antiparasitic properties.

How to use:
Finely chop fresh oregano and mix it into their feed or scatter it around their coop as a treat.
You can also dry and crush oregano leaves and add a small amount to their feed.
Use organic oregano if possible for maximum health benefits.

Rotate remedies: Avoid building tolerance by switching between different natural dewormers.
Maintain cleanliness: Regularly clean the coop and nesting boxes to reduce parasite loads.
Monitor health: Keep an eye on your flock’s condition and consult a veterinarian if you suspect heavy infestations.

Natural dewormers can be an effective part of your chicken health management plan. By incorporating garlic, pumpkin seeds, apple cider vinegar, diatomaceous earth, and herbs into your flock’s routine, you can help keep worms at bay while promoting a healthy, vibrant flock naturally.

Always research thoroughly and consult with a poultry veterinarian for tailored advice, especially if your chickens show signs of severe parasitic infection.

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