Dengue is a well-known disease that can be fatal. Dengue is spread by a mosquito carrying the dengue virus. Dengue virus is mostly found in tropical and subtropical places worldwide, including parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands, Africa, Eastern Mediterranean and Central and South America. Dengue is not transmitted from person to person. However, it can be transmitted from pregnant mothers to their children.1
Knowing the signs and symptoms of dengue might help with early detection and fast recovery. Continue reading to learn the basic facts and tell-tale signs of dengue.
If you suspect that you or someone around you might be suffering from dengue, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. Timely intervention can help you recover quickly.
Dengue is caused by a virus called Dengue virus. This virus enters the human blood through the bite of a mosquito. The mosquito carries the virus in its saliva. The virus starts to multiply after entering your blood. Finally, the virus along with the immune system’s response make you feel sick.1
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One of the most important aspects of managing Dengue fever is hydration- the patient must take lots of oral fluids to maintain BP, as the most common complication of dengue is low BP.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
In most cases, one might not experience any symptoms of dengue fever.1 However, high fever is the most common symptom of dengue. Other possible symptoms of dengue include:
One might start experiencing the symptoms only four to ten days after the mosquito bite. These symptoms may last for three to seven days. 1
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Here are some remedies you can use at home to take care of your symptoms.
Neem leaf extract could stop the growth of the dengue virus in lab studies conducted on animals.2 Therefore, you may use neem leaves to help contain your infection.2 Boil some fresh neem leaves in water. Drinking this water may help you recover quickly. You can also drink the juice of neem leaf. To make neem juice, grind some fresh leaves with a cup of water. Strain this liquid in a cup and your juice is ready. You can add some honey or lemon juice to taste.
Papaya leaves have been used for the treatment of dengue fever. It is recommended to bring down fever in dengue in traditional medicine. The ability of papaya leaves to treat dengue has been investigated. The results showed that papaya leaf could help increase the platelet count, white blood cells and neutrophils in people. Increased platelet count could help prevent the bleeding, thereby preventing the progression of the disease.2 You can consume papaya leaf juice to help with the fever and restore normal platelet count.3 The juice is prepared by grinding fresh papaya leaves with a cup of water. Strain the liquid in a cup and papaya juice is ready to use.
Kalmegh, also known as Andrographis peniculata, is a medicinal herb effective in a range of disease conditions. For example, in lab trials, an extract of kalmegh showed antiviral activity against the dengue virus. Therefore, you may use kalmegh to prevent the condition from getting worse.2 You can drink kalmegh juice with a glass of water to relieve dengue symptoms.
Asthma weed, known as Dudhi in Hindi, is an essential medicinal herb with many beneficial properties. It may help with dengue fever and increase the platelet count in people suffering from Dengue. To use dudhi, you need to boil the paste of Dudhi leaf in water. Reduce the water to 1/4th of its volume and consume as necessary3
Guduchi is a common herb used as a remedy for many health conditions. Guduchi is known to boost the immune response and fight off viral infections in humans. You can drink Guduchi juice daily to help with the symptoms of dengue.3 Guduchi juice is made by blending freshly chopped Guduchi with a glass of water into a smooth consistency. Strain the blended mixture to remove any solids and your Guduchi juice is ready.
Golden eye grass or Kalimusli is a medicinal herb effective in many conditions. The roots and rhizomes of kalimusli are used in many disease conditions. Its use may boost the immune response. You can take kalimusli powder with milk to help fight off infection.3
Momordica charantia, known as karela in Hindi and bitter melon in English, possesses many health benefits. Karela extract showed inhibitory action against the multiplication of dengue virus in lab studies.2 You can use karela as a vegetable and use it in foods and dishes. You can also make karela juice to help with dengue. To make karela juice, peel the skin, chop it into pieces, add a glass of water and blend this mixture. Once it’s blended, strain the liquid. You can add more water to balance the taste, and your karela juice is ready.
Ocimum sanctum, known as Tulsi in Hindi, is an aromatic herb native to tropical regions of Asia. Tulsi leaves have been used to prevent dengue fever traditionally. The inhibitory action of Tulsi leaves against the dengue virus has been observed in lab studies.2 For making tulsi tea, boil few fresh tulsi leaves in water. Let it simmer for a while and strain it in a cup. You can add a few drops of lemon juice or a teaspoon of honey for taste.
Though some studies show the benefits of the herbs and home remedies in Dengue, these are insufficient. Therefore, there is a need for large-scale human studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these home remedies on human health. Thus, these should only be taken cautiously and never as a substitute for medical treatment.
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You need to contact your healthcare specialist if you experience any symptoms of dengue.
However, you need to contact your nearest hospital or healthcare provider immediately1 if you notice any signs of dengue worsening, such as
It would be best if you did not rely on home remedies alone for dengue treatment. Instead, you should consult a qualified doctor for advice on the condition if the symptoms do not improve with home remedies.
Dengue is an infectious disease spread through mosquito bites. If not treated in time, dengue can progress to a severe form of infection which can be fatal. There are some herbs like kalmegh, tulsi, neem, papaya leaves, dudhi and guduchi that you can use to relieve your symptoms at home. However, these herbs should not be used as an alternative to medical treatment provided by the doctor. If you or someone around you is suffering from dengue, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. Taking timely treatment and precautions can help prevent the infection from getting worse.
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There are herbs that you can use to relieve symptoms of dengue. Herbs like neem, tulsi, kalmegh, karela, guduchi, dudhi, papaya and kalimusli can improve symptoms experienced in dengue.2,3 However, before using these herbs to relieve dengue, make sure you have consulted your healthcare provider. Dengue can get worse if not treated in time. Do not use any herbs or remedies without consulting your doctor.
You can use herbs like papaya leaves, dudhi and Tulsi leaves to control dengue fever. 2,3 However, you should avoid using herbs to help with dengue fever without consulting your doctor first.
You can use papaya and dudhi leaves to increase the platelet count in dengue. These leaves have shown improvement in the overall platelet count in the blood.2,3 However, you are advised not to use any herbal remedy for dengue without consulting your healthcare provider first.
Timely treatment of dengue prevents it from progressing to a life-threatening stage. If you are experiencing symptoms of severe dengue infection such as blood in vomit and stool, stomach pain, extreme fatigue and nosebleed, head to the nearest hospital or clinic immediately.1
1. Cleveland Clinic. Dengue Fever: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment [Internet]. [cited 2022 Jul 14]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17753-dengue-fever
2. Abd Kadir SL, Yaakob H, Mohamed Zulkifli R. Potential anti-dengue medicinal plants: a review. Journal of Natural Medicines [Internet]. 2013 Oct [cited 2022 Jul 14];67(4):677. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3765846/
3. Ayush Division. Ayurveda offering Herbal healing. Available from: https://www.esic.nic.in/attachments/publicationfile/7d11b02e5abb4717d53b4ce05efabd21.pdf
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Apart from a host of allergies and infections, monsoons provide perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can lead to diseases like malaria, chikungunya, and dengue, which can prove to be fatal. Some of the symptoms of dengue are high fever, headaches, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, exhaustion, skin rash, and low pressure. You cannot cure dengue fever with home remedies, but you can alleviate the symptoms of the fever through them. Here are some of them.
Ayurveda makes use of Giloy herb to control any fever. For dengue, it is quite effective in bringing down the temperature. It enhances immunity and combats infections. Giloy concentrate and tablets are available in most Ayurveda shops.
Methi leaves are useful in reducing elevated body temperature and decrease muscle pain. They promote sleep and allow the body to rest and heal. Methi seeds also can be used. Just soak overnight and have on an empty stomach in the morning.
Papaya leaves are beneficial if you want to increase your platelet count. In dengue fever, the platelet count decreases and can lead to complications. They are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that reduce stress on the body. They also reduce other symptoms like chills, body ache nausea, and fatigue. Crush the leave and take out the juice. About two tablespoons should be had daily.
Turmeric is an important spice to heal the body. It is antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory. It boosts metabolism and initiates inner healing. Consume a pinch of turmeric in your milk for the best results. Also, read 10 health benefits of turmeric.
Tulsi or the holy basil is almost a wonder herb if you want to increase your immunity. Boil tulsi leaves with some black pepper and has it daily. This will fight off infections and build up immunity. Read more about the health benefits of tulsi (Basil)
Dehydration is a common problem in dengue. Ensure that you have plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. This detoxifies the system and also alleviates headaches and muscle cramps.
Neem leaves serve many purposes. Boil water and let neem leaves seep in it for some time. Drinking this water increases the blood platelet and white blood cell count. Having neem water concoction increases immunity and strengthens the body. Also, by burning the dried leaves, you can ward off mosquitoes in your vicinity.
Citrus fruits are very beneficial when suffering from dengue fever. Vitamin C present in these fruits, especially organs and orange juice, helps improve immunity, detoxifies the body, initiates cell repair, and combats infections.
Goldenseal is a herb that has a similar action as papaya leaves. The dried roots of this herb are very effective against dengue fever. It helps to eliminate the virus from the body.
To avoid falling prey to dengue fever, use mosquito repellents. These could be in the form of ointments or by using mosquito nets. Read more on the home remedies for mosquito control.
While it is important to know what food you need to have if you are suffering from dengue fever, it is also important to know what foods you need to avoid during this time. Here is a shortlist of the food items to avoid during dengue fever:
Fried and oily foods contain significant amounts of fat and bad cholesterol. These may lead to increased blood pressure and fat deposition in the blood vessels. It is best to avoid these kinds of food which may affect the immune system and introduce other health conditions, and opt for a lighter diet.
Spicy food items are strictly not recommended for patients suffering from dengue, since these types of food cause stomach acid to accumulate, irritate the digestive system inner lining, and may even cause ulcers and damage. This can slow down the recovery process.
While recovering from dengue, it is necessary to keep the body hydrated by drinking lots of fluids. However, caffeinated beverages are not among them since they typically increase blood pressure and heart rate and can cause muscle breakdown, which can be fatal during dengue fever.
Consuming non-vegetarian food is best avoided during your recovery from dengue fever since digesting these types of food take longer to digest and place more stress on the resources of the body. Try to stick to simple and vegetarian foods.
Also Read: 5 Effective Preventive Measure for Dengue
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
