Fight chikungunya with home remedies

Manav Mander

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Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 16

Chikungunya has started rearing its head in the city. A patient was tested positive, while the sample of one more patient has been sent by the department for testing.

Joint pain is very strong in chikungunya and experts suggest some home remedies which give relief from pain. Dr Shiv Ram, an expert Ayurvedacharya from the city, said: “Garlic paste application can relieve one from the joint pain that occurs due to chikungunya. In Ayurveda, chikungunya is known as Sandhijwara which literally means fever of the joints. It is considered as a ‘vata doksha’ disorder. Diet changes usually prescribed include increased intake of fluid food, increased intake of vegetables, less use of oil and avoiding intake of tea and coffee.”

Another expert from an alternative medicine stream said one could prepare massage oil which gives relief from pain. “Take one table spoon of castor oil, 3-4 pieces of drumsticks, 2-3 billets of camphor, three cloves of garlic, two teaspoon of coconut oil. Crush the ingredients and make them warm in coconut oil and apply on the joints three times a day. It will give relief from the pain. Be sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle to promote early recovery from chikungunya joint pain. A healthy diet which includes fruits and vegetables and good sleep promote early recovery,” he said.

He said: “Vitamin C has numerous antioxidant properties which help to flush out toxins from the body. The vicinity of Vitamin C triggers the action of Vitamin E, which is vital to alleviate pain and inflammation. In addition to this, pulverize some ice and wrap it up in a little hand towel. Press and hold the towel over the joint for a while. Utilising the cool pack is the best method to decrease inflammation, pain, and joint harm. Turmeric contains curcumin, a solid antioxidant, which displays anti-inflammatory attributes. It makes turmeric an effective home solution for curing symptoms of chikungunya.”

Preventive measures 

Keep surroundings clean and wear protective clothing

The dengue mosquito attacks during the day and some experts say the favourite spots are below the elbow and below the knee

Reduce mosquito habitat by removing stagnant water around houses

One can also turn to natural repellents such as lemon eucalyptus oil, lavender, neem oil and cinnamon oil to protect against mosquito bites

There are a number of plants that have mosquito repellent properties such as marigold, citronella, catnip, rosemary, lemongrass and lavender. Grow them around your house to keep mosquitoes away