Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus, and the infection usually results in such severe joint pain that it temporarily disables people, and fever, and also one feels so drained out. Though there’s no specific cure for the virus, there are still many home remedies that help reduce the symptoms as well as recover faster.
The cases have seen a recent surge, specifically in Pakistan. Almost one out of every ten person is catching the symptoms for this hazardous virus. It is just beyond the fever, lasting for 10-12 days, leaving its effects for long-term.
However, one can minimize these symptoms with good care. Here are some of the most effective home remedies for chikungunya, which may be easily adapted for daily use.
Helpful remedies for chikungunya
1. Giloy (Guduchi)
Giloy, known as a worker with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, has also been very widely used to reduce fever that occurs as a part of chikungunya. Its juice or powder can be consumed. Giloy helps to upgrade the immunity level and also reduces inflammation caused due to infection. Regular usage is good during recovery process.
2. Papaya Leaf Juice
This papaya leaf extract is considerably used to increase the count of platelets, which can drastically fall during chikungunya. Consumption of fresh juice from papaya leaf on a regular basis may be helpful for the patients to recover quickly, especially in improving their platelet levels. In all, it is one of the most trusted medicines used for both dengue and chikungunya.
3. Tulsi or Holy Basil
Tulsi is also a natural product which acts as an antibiotic that eradicates fever and boosting immunity. You can prepare some relief by boiling few leaves of tulsi in water and sipping that concoction during the whole day. Detoxifying of body is also improved with tulsi thus gives speedy recovery.
4. Turmeric Milk
Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory agent because of its active compound called curcumin. Intake of warm milk mixed with turmeric reduces joint pains and inflammation, which is among common complains in a person infected with chikungunya. This home remedy can be taken two times a day to reduce your pain and discomfort.
5. Ginger Tea
Ginger is another potent anti-inflammatory agent. Ginger tea can alleviate the swelling and joint aches that occur due to chikungunya. It also strengthens the immune system with its antioxidant properties, facilitating overall recovery.
6. Garlic Paste
Garlic is an excellent agent for the relief of joint pain caused due to chikungunya as it is an anti-inflammatory agent. A paste prepared from crushed garlic applied on the affected joints brings miraculous relief from stiffness and discomfort.
7. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress is one of the best remedies for chikungunya. This can relieve pain quickly, particularly in the joints, because it reduces swelling and fights inflammation. You can use an ice pack covered with a towel or applied crushed ice directly to the inflamed areas several times a day.
8. Coconut Water
Coconut water is indeed a great natural fluid replacement solution. Not only drinking coconut water during the recovery phase does assist in flushing out toxins and reducing hydration, this particular drink also contains key electrolytes that can work well in enhancing the energy levels of patients suffering from chikungunya.
9. Massage using Castor Oil
Apply warm castor oil, mixed with a pinch of cinnamon powder on the joints for pain and stiffness. Warmth of oil plus the anti-inflammatory action of castor oil combines to bring chikungunya-related joint discomfort relief.
10. Rest and Hydration
Though some home remedies alleviate the symptoms, it is essential to get proper rest and hydration. Drinking copious amounts of fluids such as herbal teas and coconut water will hydrate the body and help get back on one’s feet quickly. Ample sleep also helps the immune system fight off the infection.
Final Thoughts
Although these home treatments for chikungunya reduce symptoms, the condition requires good observation. If symptoms persist or worsen, then going to the doctor is necessary. This natural treatment coupled with proper professional advice makes recovery easier and smoother. These remedies not only work in decreasing pain and fever but also enhance general body immunity, thus aiding rapid recovery.
These home remedies should be taken in combination with rest and hydration for effective management of chikungunya symptoms. Be observant and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or intensify.
