Herbal Remedies for Scurvy
December 19, 2008
Scurvy is one of the oldest nutrient deficiency diseases known to human beings. It was prevalent in sailors of ancient time. But today also it occurs in large population of the developing countries due to ignorance. It is caused due to deficiency of Vitamin C in the diet. Scurvy can be cured only by meeting the adequate requirement of vitamin C in the diet. The symptoms of this disease are very painful. It can affect people of all ages irrespective of the gender. The main symptoms of the disease are bleeding and swelling of gums, slow wound healing ability, pain in muscles and joints, dry skin and hair and a feeling of nausea and discomfort. The joints and fingers of hands and legs become stiff and sores appear on them.
The symptoms of scurvy become worse due to stress. A stressful condition releases toxins in the body which decreases absorption of vitamin C and increases its excretion. Therefore, the first step to cure scurvy is to prevent stress. Meditation, walking, deep breathing exercises and yoga helps in reducing stress level. Add sufficient amount of citrus fruits like oranges in your diet. Try to balance your diet with well nourishing food. To fasten recovery from the disease, tablets of vitamin C and many herbal supplements can be taken daily at regular intervals.
Herbal remedies can prove effective in providing relief from acute conditions of scurvy. Amla is the most valuable source of Vitamin C. Taking amla daily helps in quick recovery from scurvy. Amla can be used in various forms. It can be eaten fresh or in combination with other herbs after drying it. This herb can also be used in the form of pickles and murabbas. Amla has the ability to retain large amount of vitamins even in the processed forms. Dry powder of amla can be taken with milk everyday to get relief from scurvy.
Lemon is other beneficial source for vitamin C. A glass of water containing lime and honey in equal amounts can be helpful. Mango powder popularly known as aamchur containing dried unripe green mangoes is also a useful herbal remedy for scurvy. Potato contains 17 mg of vitamin C and so is one of the best treatments for scurvy. The leaves of jaundice berry are anti-scurvy. The leaves can be boiled in the water and can be taken as a remedy at regular intervals. The simple thing to take care is to meet daily requirement of Vitamin C which is 30mg. This will help in keeping body healthy and scurvy at bay.
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