The number of swine flu deaths in India has already hit 1,075, with close to 20,000 people infected nationwide. Experts suggest that the sudden rains in the country may cause the virus to get overactive. In order to avert the epidemic, people have started to depend on more natural and Ayurvedic measures than allopathic medicines. We take a look at some home remedies for swine flu.

Home Remedy 2 Camphor
A message trending on socil media suggests mixing camphor or kapoor powder with cardamom and sniffing the powder every few hours. WebMD lists the health benefits that camphor has to offer, saying ‘People use camphor topically to relieve pain and reduce itching. It has also been used to treat fungal infections of the toenail, warts, cold sores, hemorrhoids, and osteoarthritis. Some people use camphor topically to treat respiratory tract diseases and to treat heart disease symptoms. Camphor is also used topically as an eardrop, and for treating minor burns.'

Another way to use camphor is to burn a little bit of it at home to kill the air borne H1N1 Influenza-A virus that causes swine flu.
 
Home Remedy 3 Amla
Amla is as a good source of Vitamin C. It is an Ayurvedic super food because of its antioxidant properties. It has beneficial effects on almost all the organs and systems of the body. It is a strong immunomodulator and protects against many diseases if taken regularly. One way to include amla in your diet is to consume it raw, with a pinch of salt to taste.
 
Home Remedy 4 Kada
Kada is basically a concoction made of tulsi, turmeric powder and other ayurvedic herb that helps ward off illnesses. How it is connected to swine flu is still not confirmed, but it is recommended that you drink it every morning to prevent the disease.
 
While none of the above home remedies have been tested and proved, experts suggest that maintaining basic hygiene and taking preventive measures will help Indians forestall the danger, so the choice is yours. But do stay away from misleading pharmaceutical ads and products that claim to prevent swine flu. If there was any truth to them, the health ministry would have adopted them long back. Also refrain from buying questionable herbal medicines from babas or herbal healers who are out to earn a quick buck.
 
Disclaimer The nutritional supplements and herbal remedies mentioned are only indicative and should not be taken without medical supervision. If you believe you are at risk, consult a medical practitioner immediately.
Images courtesy © Thinkstock photos Getty Images
 
Sources
People resort to various methods to prevent swine flu
Alternative medicines can prevent Swine flu

BDST: 2024 HRS, MAR 02, 2015