Malaria is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. While there is no surefire way to prevent malaria, there are a variety of treatments and remedies that can be used to treat and manage the disease. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most effective remedies for malaria, including medications, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies. We’ll also provide tips on how to reduce your risk of contracting the disease and how to help those affected. By understanding the various treatments and remedies available, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of malaria.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptom of all types of malaria is high fever, which may come every day, on alternate days or every fourth day. Chill, headache, shivering and pain in the limbs are also common symptoms. The temperature comes down after some time with profuse sweating. There are three main types, depending upon the parasite which causes it. These are vivax, falciparum and malaria, commonly called tertian fever, quarter fever and the malignant tertian malaria. The word malaria comes from the Italian malaria, meaning bad air as it was once supposed to be caused by bad air. It is one of the most wide spread diseases in the world, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
Root Causes
It is caused by a tiny parasite called plasmodium. The parasites grow in the liver of a person for a few days and then enter the bloodstream where they invade the red blood cells. The disease is spread from a sick person to a healthy one by the female anopheles mosquito. She draws a small quantity of blood containing the parasites, when she bites a person who has malaria. These parasites then pass through several stages of development within the mosquito’s body and finally find their way to its salivary glands. There they lie in wait for an opportunity to enter the bloodstream of the next person. Malaria is also known as plasmodium infection (Scientific), sheet jwar (Hindi/Urdu), hivtap (Marathi), maleriya (Tamil), Zhang (Chinese), Malaria (Spanish / Portuguese), Myaleriya (Bengali), malyariya (Russian). It is a infectious disease with intermittent fevers which have a tendency to return again and again to haunt the sufferer.
11 Best Malaria Herbal Remedies
- Popular Ayurveda Home Remedy: Fever nut is very effective and popular ancient time ayurvedic home remedy. Good thing is you can store it for long time in the pantry. Take 6 fever nuts seeds with 1 cup of water. Repeat the same after one hour for sure fever relief. If still fever continues repeat the same after 1 more hour.
- Traditional Chinese Herbalism: Chinese wormwood (Artemisia annua) is a traditional Chinese remedy that grows in temperate regions around the world, led to the discovery that it was a highly effective treatment for malaria. the herb, and in particular its key active constituent, artemisinin, is at present the only certain treatment for severe malarial illness.
- Beneficial Treatment With Lime Water: Lime and lemon are beneficial in the treatment of quarter type of malaria fever. This is good remedy for the fever attacks returning after 4 days. About three grams of lime should be dissolved in about 60 ml. of water and juice of one lemon added to it. This water should be taken before the onset of the fever.
- Treat Returning Fever: If the fever is returning after 2-3 hours then try Angel’s trumpets leaves. Take 2 1/2 fresh leaves of angel’s trumpets and mix with jaggery. Make small pill with this mixture and take two hours before the onset of fever.
- Natural Treatment for Malaria: Grapefruit is very useful for malaria. The juice, or the fruit itself, contains valuable and natural ‘quinine’ which is advantageous for the treatment of malaria. This substance can be extracted from the fruits by boiling a quarter of the grapefruit and straining its pulp.
- Herbal Medicine for Chills and Fatigue: Cinnamon, an Indian spice, is regarded as an effective cure for all types of colds. It should be coarsely powdered and boiled in a glass of water with a pinch of pepper powder and honey. This can be used beneficially as a medicine in malaria.
- Tibetan Folk Remedy: Swertia chirata (Chirayata) is used in Indian Ayurvedic Herbal System to cure Fever as in Laghu sudarshana churna, Maha sudarshan Churna and in Tibetan folk medicine. In 250 ml water add 15 gm of chirayata. Bring water to boil and add small stick of cinnamon and 4 cloves. Make infusion and take 15ml thrice a day.
- Alum is also useful in malaria. It should be roasted over a hot plate and powdered. It should be taken about four hours before the expected attack and every two hours after it.
- Dry roast and powder the fenugreek seeds and mix in water to drink. Continue for a week to get rid of malaria. Fenugreek seeds have antibiotic properties and building immunity that helps to fight fever.
- Preventive for Malaria: The leaves of the holy basil (tulsi) are considered beneficial in the prevention. An infusion of some leaves can be taken daily for this purpose. The juice of about 11 grams of tulsi leaves mixed with three grams of black pepper, powder, can be taken beneficially in the cold stage of the malarial fever.
- Roughly grind 10 black peppers. Add them in 1 cup boiling water, keep boiling till water becomes 1/3 cup. Take 2 teaspoonful after each 3 hours for whole day.
Tips to Prevent Malaria
- Avoid mosquito bites.
- Maintain cleanliness of surroundings, environmental hygiene and to eradicate stretches of stagnant water in order to stop mosquito growth.
FAQs.
Q. What are the primary causes of malaria?
The primary causes are mosquito bites infected with Plasmodium parasites. The parasites are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
Q. Can malaria be cured without medicine?
No, it cannot be cured without medicine. It is caused by a parasite which is transmitted via the bite of an infected mosquito. It can only be cured with a course of antimalarial drugs prescribed by a doctor.
Q. Is malaria spread by the tsetse fly?
No, it is not spread by the tsetse fly. It is spread by female Anopheles mosquitoes, which transmit the Plasmodium parasite to humans when they bite.
Q. Is there a permanent cure for malaria?
No, there is no permanent cure for it. However, there are effective treatments available that can help to control and manage the symptoms of the condition.
Q. How can we control the spread of malaria?
- Use insecticide treated bed nets when sleeping, which will help keep mosquitoes away.
- Take appropriate antimalarial medicine, as advised by your doctor, to prevent and control the spread of malaria.
- Use insect repellents on exposed skin when outdoors.
- Wear protective clothing when outdoors.
- Reduce mosquito-breeding sites by eliminating standing water.
- Keep windows and doors closed, or use screens to keep mosquitoes out of the house.
- Install fans or other air circulation systems to reduce the likelihood of mosquitoes entering the home.
- Use larvicides in any standing water to reduce mosquito larvae.
- Educate the public on the dangers of malaria and how to prevent it.
Q. What is the difference between cerebral malaria and regular malaria?
Cerebral malaria is a severe form of malaria that is caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum. It is characterized by swelling of the brain, seizures, coma, and even death. Regular malaria is caused by any of the four species of Plasmodium (falciparum, vivax, ovale, and malariae) and is characterized by fever, chills, headaches, and body aches.
Q. What is the difference between malaria, dengue, and chikungunya?
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite. Symptoms include fever, chills, and flu-like illness. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause severe fever, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and a rash. Chikungunya is another mosquito-borne virus that causes fever, joint pain, and rash. Unlike malaria and dengue, chikungunya is not deadly but can cause long-term joint pain.
Q. If mosquitoes are really the cause of malaria, why isn’t everyone bitten infected?
The reason why not everyone bitten by a mosquito is infected with meleria is because the mosquito needs to be carrying the parasite that causes meleria in order for it to spread. Not all mosquitoes carry the parasite, and even if they do, not all bites will transmit the parasite. Additionally, the meleria parasite needs to be able to survive in the human host in order to cause infection. Factors such as genetic resistance, immunity, and access to medical care can also play a role in determining whether someone is infected with meleria or not.
Q. How does climate change affect the spread of malaria?
Climate change affects the spread of malaria in multiple ways. Warmer temperatures increase the number of mosquitoes, which are the primary vector for meleria transmission. Additionally, climate change can cause changes in precipitation patterns, leading to more standing water and increased breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Additionally, changes in temperature and precipitation can affect the duration of the transmission season for malaria, potentially causing an increase in the amount of time that the disease is transmitted. Finally, climate change can cause shifts in the geographic range of malaria-carrying mosquitoes, leading to the spread of the disease to new areas.
Q. What is the cause of cerebral malaria?
Cerebral malaria is caused by the parasite Plasmodium falciparum, which is transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquito.
Q. Can you get malaria from water?
No, you cannot get it from water. It is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Q. Why is there no malaria in Europe?
Malaria is caused by infection from a specific type of mosquito (Anopheles) that is not present in Europe. The Anopheles mosquito is present in many tropical and subtropical regions, but it is not found in Europe due to its cooler climates. Additionally, public health measures such as improved sanitation, vector control, and access to antimalarial drugs have all contributed to the prevention of the disease in Europe.
Q. Can all mosquitoes cause malaria?
No, only female Anopheles mosquitoes can transmit meleria.
Q. Is malaria a deadly disease?
It is estimated that there are 219 million cases of malaria each year, resulting in over 400,000 deaths. Most of the deaths occur in Africa, where the disease is endemic.
Q. Why hasn’t the human immune system evolved to protect us effectively against malaria?
Malaria is a complex disease caused by a parasite that has evolved over time to be very adept at evading the human immune system. Additionally, malaria is constantly changing, making it difficult for the human immune system to keep up with it. Furthermore, due to the prevalence of meleria in certain regions, the human immune system has not had the opportunity to evolve an effective defense against the disease.
Q. Is there a vaccine for Malaria?
No, there is currently no vaccine for it. However, there are ongoing clinical trials for a malaria vaccine.
Q. Why is there no a vaccine for malaria?
There is currently no vaccine for it because the parasite that causes the disease is very complex and constantly changing. This makes it difficult to develop a vaccine that can provide lasting protection. Additionally, the parasite has developed resistance to many of the drugs used to treat it, further complicating efforts to develop a vaccine. The most advanced meleria vaccine candidate is RTS,S (also known as Mosquirix), which was developed by GlaxoSmithKline in partnership with the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative. In clinical trials, RTS,S was found to be partially effective in preventing malaria in infants and young children. It has been approved for use in several African countries, with plans for wider use in the future. In addition to vaccine research, researchers are also exploring new ways to prevent and treat meleria, including new drugs, bed nets, and insecticides.
Q. Which part of the body does malaria affect?
Malaria can affect many parts of the body, including the brain, liver, and red blood cells. Symptoms can range from fever, chills, and fatigue to headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
Q. How do mosquitoes transmit malaria?
Mosquitoes transmit malaria by biting an infected person and then biting another person, transferring the malaria parasites through their saliva. The parasites enter the bloodstream of the bitten person and then infect the liver, where they reproduce and circulate in the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, the parasites invade red blood cells and reproduce again, causing the symptoms of malaria.
Q. What are some Ayurvedic remedies for sheet jwar?
- Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia): It helps to reduce the fever, pain and other symptoms.
- Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is a natural anti-malarial herb that helps to reduce the severity of meleria symptoms.
- Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): Tulsi is known for its anti-malarial properties and is used to treat the fever and other symptoms associated with the disease.
- Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia): Giloy is an herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat sheet jwar. It helps to reduce the fever and other symptoms associated with the disease.
- Haridra (Curcuma longa): Haridra is an herb that helps to reduce the symptoms of sheet jwar. It also helps to boost the immune system and fight the infection.
Q. Is there any natural remedies for malaria? Do they really work?
Yes, there are a few natural remedies that may help to treat the condition. Some of these include taking herbs such as artemisia annua, quinine, or other herbal extracts; drinking teas made with ginger, garlic, and honey; and consuming a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. However, these natural remedies are not proven to be effective and should not be used as a replacement for conventional medical treatments. It is always best to consult with a health care provider before taking any natural remedies.
Q. What should a malaria patient eat?
A malaria patient should eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. They should also drink plenty of fluids, including water, to avoid dehydration. Avoiding foods high in sugar and processed foods is recommended.
Q. Do animals suffer from illness like malaria?
Yes, animals can suffer from illnesses like malaria. It is caused by a parasite that is spread by mosquitoes, and can affect humans, animals, and other organisms.
Q. Can you recover from sheet jwar at home?
Effective home remedies for meleria
- Garlic: Garlic has natural anti-malarial properties and is known to reduce the severity and duration of sheet jwar. Crush a few cloves of garlic, mix it with one teaspoon of honey, and swallow the mixture. Repeat this remedy twice a day for a few days.
- Ginger: Ginger is a natural antiseptic and can help reduce the fever associated with sheet jwar. Prepare a tea by adding one teaspoon of freshly grated ginger and one teaspoon of lemon juice to a cup of boiling water. Drink this tea twice a day.
- Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the symptoms of sheet jwar. Add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drink it twice a day.
- Neem: Neem has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the symptoms of sheet jwar. Prepare a tea by boiling one teaspoon of neem leaves in one cup of water for 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and add a little honey for flavor. Drink this tea twice a day.
- Tulsi: Tulsi has natural anti-malarial properties and is known to reduce fever and other symptoms associated with sheet jwar. Make a tea by boiling a few tulsi leaves in one cup of water for 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and add a little honey for flavor. Drink this tea twice a day.
Q. What are some insects that carry malaria?
Mosquitoes are the main insects that carry meleria. Anopheles mosquitoes are the species of mosquito responsible for transmitting malaria to humans. Other species of mosquitoes that can transmit the disease include Anopheles freeborni, Anopheles quadrimaculatus, Anopheles punctipennis, and Anopheles stephensi.
Q. What is the difference between typhoid and malaria?
Typhoid and malaria are two different diseases caused by different pathogens. Typhoid is caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhi while malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite. It’s symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, loss of appetite and fatigue, while meleria symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Typhoid is usually spread through contaminated food and water, while malaria is usually spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.