Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by a certain type of mosquito. The symptoms include high fever, headache, nausea, skin rashes and joint pain. Because the disease can breakout even among those in the most remote of areas, it is very important that you know about its remedies, or even just simple ways to ease its symptoms. It is not generally fatal, but it may cause you a lot of pain and might weaken your body.
There is no cure for the disease, and the side effects may become extremely troublesome, but there are ways to get relief. The home remedies listed in this article are natural and effective, speeding up your recovery with minimal side effects. Read on to learn more!
What is Chikungunya?
Professionals have identified the condition as a viral infection spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitos. Researchers are still torridly studying possible cures. For the time being, doctors normally recommend a variety of fever-reducing drugs and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to ease the symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Chikungunya
The symptoms usually appear somewhere between the 3rd and 7th day after the mosquito bites you. They include the following:
– Fatigue
– Vomiting or nausea
– Skin rashes
– Muscle pain
– Headache
– Swelling of the joints
– Pain in the joints
– High fever
Home Remedies for Chikungunya
Here are some of the best home treatments or remedies for Chikungunya:
Chili peppers. Their rich capsaicin content is effective in relieving inflammation. Furthermore, it also helps relieve pain by blocking the pain signal to the brain.
Garlic paste. Some use this paste to relieve joint pain. When applied externally, it reduces pain and inflammation. It also improves circulation.
Basil. Basil leaves are effective in treating Chikungunya fever. Furthermore, these leaves also help boost immunity.
Giloy. This plant has been used in ayurvedic medicines to treat fever and other illnesses associated with it. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties, together with its immunomodulatory and antiarthritic properties, may help relieve the symptoms of Chikungunya.
Cold compress. This reduces inflammation and helps with relieving pain and joint damage. It does all this by slowing down the flow of blood to the areas.
Turmeric. This is one of the most effective home remedies to treat Chikungunya and other diseases. The curcumin content of turmeric is a powerful antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties.
Coconut water. This is a good remedy for liver issues, and, as some people claim, is also beneficial in treating the symptoms of Chikungunya. How? Coconut water detoxifies the liver and relieves joint pain.
Papaya leaves. Both dengue and Chikungunya are signified by a low platelet count. Consuming or ingesting papaya leaves has shown to increase the number of platelets in the blood.
Homeopathy Medicine for Chikungunya
Most homeopathic medicines are made of natural substances and have no after effects. Here are some of the most common homeopathic medicines that people use:
Phosphoric Acid. This treats extreme weakness in patients during and after viral infections.
Arnica. If you experience joint pains accompanied by blue-black marks and soreness, you must use arnica. It is commonly used to treat bruises.
Merc Sol. Use this when your joint pains worsen during the night.
Eupatorium Perfoliatum. Homeopathic doctors prescribe this medicine to those patients who have severe body pain, vomiting and chills that might be related to Chikungunya.
Rhus Tox. This helps reduce back and joint pain.
Precautions for Chikungunya
The following are steps to take to avoid contracting Chikungunya:
– Do not let stagnant water accrue in pots, water coolers or buckets.
– Keep all food covered.
– Wear long shirts and pants when sleeping in dark places.
– Use mosquito repellants at night and during the day.
– Use mosquito nets when sleeping.
There are a lot of things that you can do to prevent Chikungunya from affecting you. You just need maintain a clean environment, and never ignore your symptoms or those around you. Always remember the old saying: prevention is better than curing.
