INTRODUCTION: Intestinal colonization by helminths has decreased in the developing world coinciding with an increased prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in these regions. This has raised the question of the protective role these parasites play in attenuating intestinal inflammation. Trichuris suis ova (TSO), porcine whipworm, has been evaluated as a possible therapy for IBD, but the most recent meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of this treatment showed no clinically significant benefit in inducing remission. We describe a case of a patient with Crohn’s disease whose symptoms were exacerbated by self-administered helminth therapy. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: A 24-year-old male with a longstanding Crohn's disease presented with active colonic inflammation. Patient learned of a clinical trial involving ingestion of TSO, and failing to qualify, independently obtained T. trichiura, human whipworm, and hookworm products from an online vendor marketing themselves as a safe alternative to standard IBD therapy. Following a protocol under advisement from the vendor, the patient ingested whipworm ova and applied hookworm ova to his arm regularly for six months, in the meantime refusing standard IBD therapy. Failing to improve, the patient was eventually started on infliximab infusions and obtained clinical remission. Stool studies for Ova and Parasites negative prior to starting biologic therapy. Five years later while still on biologic therapy, the patient presented with worsening abdominal pain and diarrhea. Colonoscopy was performed and showed quiescent Crohn's colitis with live helminth seen in the cecum. Stool studies confirmed Trichuris trichiura worm and eggs. Patient was treated with mebendazole 100 mg and clinical remission was restored. Patient has been asymptomatic since parasite treatment and continues to be maintained on infliximab. DISCUSSION: This case illustrates the risk associated with the vast naturopathic products marketed for the treatment of IBD. Patients have an arsenal of products at their disposal, many sold based on loose or inconclusive data, not overseen by federally guided regulatory supervision. Through an internet search, we identified several vendors marketing helminths for the treatment of IBD and other illnesses. The availability of these products needs to be recognized when treating patients with IBD, and the presence of parasites needs to be tested when diagnosing and treating such patients, even those from regions of the world where these infections are uncommon.