The name ‘malaria’ instantly brings to mind the disease transferred by mosquitoes and the Nobel Prize winning laureate, Sir Ronald Ross. In extreme case, malaria can have symptoms such as yellow skin, fever, fatigue or seizures, or death. If suitable treatment is not given, chances of recurrence of the disease are common. In this article on home remedies for reducing symptoms of malaria information will be given on the causes, symptoms and simple methods by which you can get relief.
Causes
The mosquito responsible is known as Anopheles and the protozoa causing the disease is called as Plasmodium. There are four types of Plasmodium, but the infection with P.Knowlesi may prove fatal.
The disease is spread when the mosquito bites an infected person. When the blood is drawn, the parasite is also drawn. If the mosquito bites a low immunity person, the disease is transmitted. Although cases of malaria are rare in the US, persons traveling to other areas where there was an outbreak of this disease have become affected.
Humans can bask in the relief that malaria is not contagious (it is not spread from person to person), except in rare situations where it was transmitted from the mother to the baby, blood transfusion, drug abuse share needles.
Symptoms
The symptoms of malaria will be similar to that of flu. The symptoms can be noticed in various duration. For P. falciparum, the duration will be 9 to 14 days and for the other three types, the appearance of symptoms will vary. The maximum duration will be more than a month for P.malariae.
The immunity of the individual plays a major role in the development of symptoms. They are chills, fever, sweats, fatigue, headache, bitterness in the tongue, nausea and vomiting.
Some of the other common symptoms of malaria are enlarged spleen, dry cough, back pain. Only in rare cases, malaria has causes seizures, loss of consciousness or impaired function of the spinal cord or brain.
7 Best Home Remedies For Malaria
Here are the ten best remedies to make a note of:
1. Grapefruit
Known as a hybrid of two vitamins packed fruits, the orange and pomelo, one of the advantages of grapefruit is it is available all the year around.
- Step 1: Take a grapefruit and cut it to pieces.
- Step 2: Select a quarter and boil it in a bowl of water.
- Step 3: You can consume the mixture.
How Does It Work?
As it has large amounts of Vitamin C, it can successfully combat free radicals and harmful pathogens. The other essential nutrients, minerals and vitamins present in minor amounts are niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin E, potassium, pantothenic acid, copper and zinc.
The bitter properties of grape fruit are attributed to the presence of ‘naringin’ as this component assists the digestive process. Naringin is usually a flavonoid, considered as an excellent antioxidant.
However, the wonder part that works for malaria is known as ‘quinine’ for effective treatment against malaria. Not a component to be found in many foods, so having grape fruit is advantageous.
Another important component in grapefruit is known as ‘nootkatone’ which improves the metabolism of the human body. The process promotes energy and endurance, thereby decreasing the effects of malaria.
Not Good, If:
You have hormone problems. You should avoid grape fruit.
2. Basil leaves
Juice of basil leaves has been known to reduce fever.
- Step 1: Take two teaspoons of basil leaves and half a teaspoon of pepper.
- Step 2: Join both of them and put them in a blender.
- Step 3: Boil the mixture for ten minutes and steep the mixture.
- Step 4: Let the mixture become warm and drink the mixture for four times a day.
How Does It Work?
For measles, the medicinal components in basil leaves are the flavonoids (vicenin and orientin). These components prevent damages to blood cells. The other medicinal compounds to make an impact are the oils such as linalool and estragole, having antibacterial properties. The symptoms of malaria are reduced by using home remedy of basil leaves.
Black pepper on the other hand can induce sweating of the body to bring down the temperature.
The capsaicin in pepper can reduce swelling however, use only the required dose. Capsaicin can flush out toxins and other infection-causing agents from the body.
Not Good, If:
You are pregnant, basil and its supplements should be avoided. Basil is taken in oil form, it can prove carcinogenic in some individuals. In its natural form, basil is considered a natural herb.
3. Fever Nut
You can also make use of fever nut seeds to reduce symptoms of malaria.
- Step 1: Mix six grams of these seeds in one cup of water.
- Step 2: Let the seeds remain in water for fifteen minutes.
- Step 3: Consume the mixture two hours before if you are expecting a fever. If you are affected with fever, you can consume the same after one hour.
How Does It Work?
The medicinal properties against malaria are attributed to the alkaloid caesalpinine, and bitter compounds such as saponins, fixed oil and bonducin.
4. Fenugreek Seeds
If you are affected with malaria, you feel worn out because of fever. Fenugreek seeds can be regarded as a suitable home remedy from the kitchen for decreasing the symptoms of malaria. The immune system gets boosted and the parasites are eliminated.
- Step 1: You can take one tablespoon of fenugreek seeds and one cup of water.
- Step 2: Boil the mixture for ten minutes.
- Step 3: Steep the mixture. Allow it to become warm. Consume when you get the symptoms such as fever or stomachache.
How Does It Work?
The seeds contain mucilage, the gel-like substance that acts as a coating to the lining of bowel. This process soothes gastrointestinal inflammation. The medicinal properties of fenugreeks are yamogenin, tigogenin, neotigogens and choline. Also, due to fever and sweat, essential nutrients and minerals are eliminated in the form of sweat.
Fenugreek seeds contain excellent sources of minerals such as potassium, iron, zinc, selenium, copper and magnesium. Iron is responsible for production of red blood cells and all these components combine to give relief by lessening the symptoms of measles.
Not Good, If:
You are suffering from diabetes. These seeds can lower blood sugar (hypoglycemia) if you have a similar condition. You are pregnant. The seeds can cause contractions (early).
5. Cinnamon
Cinnamon can make your saliva buds work because of its spicy nature. The spice in concern is known for its antimicrobial properties and it can prevent bacteria.
- Step 1: You can take one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and mix in one bowl of water.
- Step 2: Boil the mixture. After the mixture is warm, add a spoon of black pepper powder with honey.
- Step 3: Taking this mixture three times a day can provide relief to various symptoms of malaria.
How Does This Work?
The main medicinal compound is cinnamaldehyde; the other medicinal compounds are eugenol, linalool, fiber, methyl chavicol etc. Eugenol and cinnamaldehyde are known for their antimicrobial properties. The fiber and granules in cinnamon prevent constipation.
Not Good, If:
You are pregnant. Cinnamon should only be taken in doses. So refrain from using this spice. You are undergoing menopause. You are under medication for diabetic drugs.
6. Artemisia Annua
The herb also known as sweet wormwood is used in the treatment of malaria. However, you have to steep the herb only in cold water to get maximum benefits.
How Does It Work?
The wonder compound in this herb is known as artemisinin, which can reduce symptoms of malaria, provided the patient get the perfect dosage. However, this compound can be extracted from all parts of the herb plant such as stems, buds, seeds, flowers and leaves. Similar to grapefruit, the extract of the herb is used for anti-malarial drugs.
Not Good, If:
You are allergic to pollen of this herb. You take overdose of this herb. You can take the guidance of a physician before opting for this method. Overdose can lead to vomiting, nausea or restlessness etc.
7. Datura
An ancient herbal remedy for treatment against symptoms and signs of malaria. However, kindly seek the advice of a physician before opting for this method.
- Step 1: Take two and a half fresh Datura leaves and a little jaggery.
- Step 2: You have to rub the leaves with jaggery to make them into balls or pills for consumption.
Kindly note, if you feel you are getting symptoms of fever, take this pill as soon as possible before two hours.
How Does It Work?
The saponins, alkaloids (atropine, hyoscyamine and scopolamine) are responsible for the therapeutic properties of the plant and giving relief for symptoms of malaria.
Not Good, If:
Consult a physician before opting for this method for malaria. This plant is very toxic and can give rise to stress, discomfort and even death.
Valuable Prevention Tips
Water should not be allowed to stagnate (breeding ground for mosquitoes). In case of water bodies, they can be sprayed with effective chemicals to stem the reproduction of mosquitoes.
The use of disinfectants in the rest room and other areas of the house will prevent the mosquito population from growing in numbers.
The other best way is to make use of mosquito coils or repellants during sleep. In case you are allergic, make use of mosquito nets.
Diet
The affected person should avoid canned and refined foods, processed foods as they do not contain enough nutrients to maintain the already damaged immune system. For the next few weeks, the diet can include raw vegetables and fresh fruits.
People living in areas where infection is common have been found to have natural immunity. However, if a traveler is going to a place where there can be infection, he/she needs to chat with the health care provider. The treatment may be initiated two weeks before the trip.
There can be different types of medications based on the topography of the area. However, kindly note these medications will not prevent anyone from becoming a ‘victim.’ Mosquito bites can be avoided by usage of creams, repellants and wearing protective clothes. Mosquitoes grow in multiples in swamps and drainage water.
Malaria Prevention Tips
Those who have not yet suffered from the disease always ask themselves the question: how to prevent malaria?
There are many ways in which an individual can protect himself in a rainy season from being bitten by a malaria insect.
Bed nets – Cover the entire room with an insecticide-treated net.
Cover yourself – In these seasons, it is recommended that you wear full clothing so that your body is not exposed to mosquitoes and remains safe. Or, apply a thin layer of natural mosquito repellent cream.
Mosquito Repellent Spray – Specially sold for mosquito repellent sprays on the market to prevent mosquito bites are a common choice for people.
Mosquito Repellent Lotion – Full-body lotion is a great way to prevent infection. This mosquito cream is very effective in taking care of people. This is a good mosquito repellent for children and adults.
Odomos is the brand that has made the most effective mosquito repellents such as lotions and sprays to keep mosquitoes away and, most importantly, is available in various sizes such as cream, lotion, spray, gel, bracelets and roll-on.
When To See A Doctor?
If you have doubts about a malarial infection, it is mandatory to pay a visit to the doctor. He/she can take a blood sample for analysis. Kindly note the first blood smear may turn negative, but the test will be repeated every 8-12 hours for the next one and half days.
Talk to a physician if you are noticing symptoms of high fever in your area or during travel in a region where there is an outbreak of malaria. Kindly note, malaria-causing organisms can lie dormant for months and make an appearance. When in need, seek suitable medical condition.
Natural Remedy Vs. Pharmacy
The preferred medicine for malaria is chloroquine, doxycycline (use only under instructions from the doctor), Malarone, mefloquine, and primaquine.
