Cultural Practices and "Purging"
Doing an annual “cleanse” or “purge” is deeply rooted in Caribbean culture. Mothers and grandmothers often administer natural remedies to clear out the bowels. These cultural cleanses are often viewed as a “reset” for the body, especially after periods of heavy eating or around holiday seasons.
Why "Purge"
Warm, tropical climates, frequent rainfall, and certain soil conditions create an ideal environment for intestinal parasites (helminths). People can become infected by walking barefoot on contaminated soil or by consuming contaminated food or water. Because these infections are common in many regions, organizations such as the Pan American Health Organization recommend periodic deworming in high-risk communities to help prevent malnutrition, poor growth and development in children, and iron-deficiency anemia caused by parasites such as hookworms. In many communities, periodic “purging” has also been a traditional practice used to remove intestinal worms and support digestive health.
