5 Tips on Living with Dengue Fever
Living with dengue fever is a serious condition affecting millions of people around the world, especially when there is no cure in sight for this mosquito-transmitted viral disease. Without a vaccine to tackle the dengue infection, prevention assumes priority. Even those who have fully recovered from the infection need to be cognizant of risk factors. A variant of the same virus could create a secondary, more dangerous infection called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF). Today, we will discuss managing symptoms of dengue fever at home and during convalescence.
1. Hydrating the tissues through water therapy
One of the biggest challenges faced by dengue fever patients, is the danger of dehydration due to the copious loss of bodily fluids through urine, stools, and sweat. Hydrate the body with plenty of mineral water, vegetable juices and fruit juices to combat headaches, joint pain, and muscle cramps.
A steady intake of water keeps the urine diluted and quickly expels toxins from the tissues. Water strengthens the immune system and helps in fighting the infection. If dehydration is extreme, toxins produced by viral pathogens accumulate in the tissues, creating conditions suitable for the onset of DHF and Dengue shock.
2. Leveraging the curative powers of Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica)
The traditional Indian systems of healing called Unani and Ayurveda put great emphasis on the curative powers of the Neem leaf. A tree grown on the Indian subcontinent, it is the tropical response to a tropical disease. Neem leaves are boiled in water for 10 to 15 minutes on a simmering burner, and the resulting brew is cooled and taken orally by the patient.
The leaf extract has strong antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties that relieve distress caused by dengue fever. It also supports the body's ability to create platelets, countering the destructive power of dengue which can decimate platelet count. Neem leaf oil applied to the skin also cures dryness, itching, and flaking of skin cells.
3. Immunity boost through papaya leaf juice
The juice of crushed papaya leaves fights cancer, boosts immunity and also helps detoxify the body. This can be explained by the presence of chymopapain and papain, two enzymes that help stabilize the blood platelet count. They also detoxify and improve liver functions thereby countering some of the symptoms of dengue fever.
A mixture of papaya leaf extract and Neem tree leaves is widely used in the Unani system of medicine in India for relieving symptoms of dengue fever. The Unani method ensures an accelerated recovery for dengue patients.
4. Rejuvenating the body through orange juice
One of the best ways of tackling dengue fever is by providing a good dose of natural enzymes, vitamins, minerals, fruits and oranges. Antioxidants and vitamin rich orange juice is ideal for easing the symptoms of dengue, particularly dehydration and fatigue which can overwhelm patients. The juice stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, expel toxins through increased urination, and provides collagen that reconstructs fragile cell walls.
5. Increasing your energy and vitality through barley grass
Barley grass in its pure form taken either as a strong decoction or barley tea, stimulates and stabilizes the production of platelets. This strengthens the blood clotting functions in platelets and improves the body’s response to bleeding, which is one of the most dangerous side effects of dengue fever. Nutritionally, barley grass is rich in proteins, calcium, vitamins, and enzymes that help combat fatigue, and overcome depression that characterizes dengue fever.
6. Ayurvedic Medicine
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine. Juice made from a handful of leaves of the Indian pennywort or Centella asiatica improves blood production and is a general antiviral. Another Ayurvedic herb is the giloy (Tinospora Cordifolia). It helps improve metabolism, strengthens the immune systems and helps the body fight infections. Boil the stems in water and drink the liquid. Basil has long been used in Ayurveda for treating dengue. Chewing on basil leaves is recommended as basil is an immune system booster as well has natural insecticidal properties making you less attractive to mosquitoes!! Including turmeric in the food and drink of the patient is helpful as it’s an antiviral.
7. Goldenseal
As with other natural remedies, goldenseal is not approved or undergone proven research but it is highly recommended by homeopathic physicians. Goldenseal is a perennial herb native to parts of the United States and Canada. It is said to have the ability to clear up the symptoms of dengue fever and the virus, very quickly from the body. The natural antiviral capacity of the plant can help ease fever, chills, nausea, headache and vomiting. The roots are the plant are used.
8. Fenugreek
Fenugreek is herb that grows in tropical climates. It is known for its high medicinal value. The leaves are either soaked in water or a powder of the leaves mixed in water can be taken. Fenugreek has a sedative effect and helps ease pain and promote peaceful sleep for the patient.
Other natural remedies
There are many natural remedies that local people in areas generally afflicted by dengue virus partake. Some of these are:
Pink guava juice – This is juice is helpful in increasing platelet count.
Goat Milk- Intake of goat milk is also believed to help elevate platelet count.
Tulsi leaves and black pepper – Drinking water which is boiled with a few tulsi (basil) leaves and peppercorns builds your immunity and is an antibacterial too.
Dates – They are full of natural vitamins and sugars and help the body regain its healthy state.
Coriander Leaves – A tonic made from a handful of fresh coriander leaves helps in reducing fevers.
A degree of caution should be exercised
Many of the remedies found in traditional medicine are under-researched. Very little is known regarding their toxicity or long term effects. Arguably, the best course of action is to combine the benefits of natural remedies with modern medical treatment. This way you ensure that a trained medical professional oversees the patient throughout the duration of the disease. It would be advisable to keep your doctor informed of any natural or herbal treatments you are using or undergoing.
