Effective Home Remedies to Prevent and Treat Malaria
Malaria, a treacherous and life-threatening disease, is caused by a female Anopheles mosquito carrying a Plasmodium parasite. Since 2010, cases of Malaria in India have been on the rise, with India having the fourth highest rate of infection and deaths due to Malaria in the world, according to a WHO report in 2017.
There are five main subspecies of Plasmodium that cause Malaria, namely, P. Falciparum, P. Vivax, P. Ovale, P. Malarie, and P. Knowlesi. Among these, P. Falciparum is a major contributor to death due to its severe symptoms, while P. Vivax is the most common cause of Malaria but is less severe. P. Ovale causes a rare type of Malaria known as tertian malaria, P. Malarie causes chronic infection, and P. Knowlesi can progress from a slowly progressing to a complicated severe malaria infection.
The symptoms of Malaria can include mild fever, nausea, headache with chills, muscle pain, tiredness, and difficulty coping with daily routines. Malaria can be categorized into uncomplicated Malaria and severe Malaria. Uncomplicated Malaria may show mild symptoms and may resolve on its own, but if left untreated, it can progress to severe Malaria.
The symptoms of severe Malaria may include sweating, cold sensation in the body, fever, nausea, seizures, impaired consciousness, kidney and heart failure, breathing difficulties, abnormal bleeding, and signs of anemia and jaundice. Severe Malaria can be life-threatening and requires timely and proper treatment.
The main treatment for Malaria recommended by the WHO is Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT), which involves using Artemisinin, a compound derived from sweet wormwood, in combination with other antimalarial drugs. ACT helps to reduce the number of parasites in the body in the first three days of treatment, followed by other drugs to clear the remaining parasites.
In conclusion, Malaria is a dangerous disease caused by infected mosquitoes, and its symptoms and treatment should be well understood to prevent its spread and ensure timely and effective treatment for those affected. It is important to take preventive measures such as using mosquito repellents and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms of Malaria are suspected.
Home remedies for preventing and treating malaria include neem leaves, ginger and lemon, papaya leaves, cinnamon, grapefruit, herbal teas, and garlic. These remedies have natural anti-malarial properties and can be used as complementary measures, but should not replace medical treatment. Seek professional medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
