QUESTION: Dear Jamaican Herbalist,
I’m think I am having Dengue Fever symptoms, and I really cant go in to the doctor right now.
Baba
Dear Baba,
When experiencing any symptoms you suspect as relating to Dengue Fever, a visit to the trained medical physician is a must. This is because clinical presentation and a blood test is the only way to correctly diagnose the virus.
There are herbs found in Jamaica that persons have claimed success in removing symptoms related to Dengue however, so I’ll list a few here. If you can find them, take in moderation. At most they must be had frequent enough to increase white platelets. However according to one Professor Samdani, “it’s not the drop in platelet count that’s more dangerous; it’s the rise in hematocrit and hemoglobin that can lead to more complications,” “It’s important they drink more liquid and look for signs of bleeding rather than concentrating on these small home remedies for dengue.” In conclusion prevention is the best cure, and if you do get dengue, drink lots of fluid, and consume large amounts of vitamin C which is best taken long before you are bitten by the infected mosquito.
Also be sure to uphold proper hygiene. Here is a list of herbs found in Jamaica thats useful.
NEEM
Neem leaves have shown to increase both blood platelets and white blood cell platelet count, two of which are the worst side effects of dengue fever.
Chirayta
Chirayta is mostly taken as a bitter tonic to boost ones immune system, esp for health conditions like fever, and loss of appetite, both of which are symptoms of dengue fever. Chirayta is also available in many forms like raw, powder and capsule.
Giloy
Giloy, or Guduchi is a popular herb used in medicines.Its a perennial climbing herb known as one of the amritas (roots of immortality). The paan-shaped leaf has antioxidant properties that boost ones immune system, help protect against free radical damage, reducing fever and increasing blood platelet count. It is highly alkaline and has anti-inflammatory effects and is available as powder, capsules or juice.
LEAVES of PAW PAW – Papaya
LEAVES OF BASIL
KIWI FRUIT AND LEAVES
LEAVES OF CORIANDER
POMMEGRENATE FRUIT AND LEAVES
WHEAT GRASS
PRESCRIBED
As for medicine, Paracetamol is usually medication recommended or prescribed.
SUMMARY – Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms show after four days average after being bitten. The fever can begin within 3 days.
The disease has a sudden onset and symptoms may include:
– fever (105°F (40.5°C)) for 3 to 7 days
– intense headache and pain behind the eyes
– muscle and joint pain
– loss of appetite
– vomiting and diarrhoea
– skin rash flat and red which blanches when pressure is applied
– bleeding, usually from the nose or gums.
Recovery is sometimes associated with prolonged fatigue and depression.
Although repeated episodes of dengue fever can lead to (dengue hemorrhagic fever) excessive bleeding and shock but, with appropriate treatment, dengue fever is rarely life threatening or fatal.
Jamaica Herbalist
USEFUL LINKS
Denguedengue hemorrhagic fever
EDITOR’S NOTES:
The above is NOT to be construed as professional medical advice. If you are on prescribed medication, please use caution when considering herbs. At best consult your physician, and inform the herbalist with whom you are in discussion as well. Some herbs contain chemicals and toxins which can prove harmful if not used correctly. Email us jamaicaherbalist@yahoo.com.
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- .... a team of herbalist with experience in Jamaican herbology and proven record of their recommended cures using plants, herbs, fruits naturally grown in Jamaica. They are not necessarily trained medical doctors and recommend that consultation be had especially if prescribed medication. Click here to contact me. ...or email me here
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