Malaria is a deadly disease that affects a huge section of the world’s population  |  Photo Credit: Thinkstock

New Delhi: As many as 29 cases of malaria have been reported in the first three weeks of July in Delhi. The latest report released by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates data on vector-borne diseases for the city, showed that the total number of people affected by the mosquito-borne disease in the national capital this season has risen to 75. At least, 43 cases of dengue and 34 cases of chikungunya have been reported in the city this season.

The monsoon season is synonymous with a number of infections, including mosquito-borne diseases like malaria. Malaria is a deadly disease that affects a huge section of the world’s population, especially in Africa, South and Central America and Southern Asia. It is said that in India, about 20,00,000 people are infected by the mosquito-borne disease every year with 1000 deaths. Malaria cases in India are reported to account for 70% of infections in South East Asia.

Malaria, which is transmitted through the bites of female Anopheles mosquitoes, brings high fever along with chills, pain, shivering limbs, and headache. But it is preventable and curable. In fact, people can protect themselves from malaria by taking mosquito control measures, such as taking care of water stagnation, spraying insecticides in mosquito breeding sites, using mosquito nets and mosquito repellant creams, wearing fully covered clothes, etc. Read - Monsoon health tips: How to protect yourself from dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases 

Of course, you must seek proper and complete treatment from a qualified medical practitioner (doctor) for treatment of malaria. But here are a few things you can do until you are able to reach the doctor and add to your treatment scehdule if he/she agrees.

Home remedies for malaria

Anti-malarial medications like artemisinin, quinine are used to treat the disease. However, there are many home remedies that can help cure malaria. Here are five effective natural cures for malaria:

Ginger

Ginger can help boost your immune system and speed up the recovery process after an infection. Gingerol, the active ingredient in ginger, contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it one of the most effective natural remedies for treating a host of ailments, including malaria.

Cinnamon

The cinnamaldehyde, procyanidins, and catechins present in cinnamon produce antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, making a great home remedy to treat malaria symptoms. For centuries, the spice has been a part of traditional remedies to treat malaria besides many other health issues.

Citrus Limetta Fruit

Also known as Mosambi in Hindi, Citrus limetta and other citrus fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidant compounds, which can help speed up the healing process. Apart from being a powerhouse of vitamin C, sweet lime is also easily digestible and has immense health benefits.

Holy Basil

Many people are turning to holy basil to reduce the symptoms and severity of malaria. It is believed that holy basil has antimalarial and antibacterial effects when ingested regularly. The leaves of holy widely used as a herbal remedy for various diseases.

Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds have medicinal properties. Studies have shown that consumption of fenugreek seeds can help boost immunity and fight the parasites in the body, thereby aiding in quick recovery from malaria.

Note: The content, including the suggestions, is purely for educational purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice.