Bird flu (Avian influenza) is a viral disease that not only affects birds such as chickens, ducks, and geese but also animals and humans when they come in direct contact with this infected poultry. When infected, humans get symptoms in around 2-8 days ranging from mild to severe.
The mild symptoms of bird flu include fever, chills, runny nose, sore throat, and headache while severe symptoms include bleeding from the gums, shortness of breath, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and sleeping difficulties.
Herbal home remedies help defeat the mild symptoms of bird flu. They also help strengthen the immune system, so that the body can fight the infection better. Take a look at a few herbal home remedies that help fight bird flu or avian influenza. Also, remember to consult a medical expert if the symptoms get severe or persist for several days.
Also, Read► Avian influenza in poultry birds confirmed in 5 states: Govt
1.Turmeric
Curcumin, the principal curcuminoid in turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory property. It helps stimulate the immunoprotective agents and reduce the risk of avian flu inflammation. Also, the antiviral properties of turmeric may help combat avian influenza and reduce the symptoms.
What to do: Either add a pinch of turmeric in a glass of warm water and consume or add a pinch of it to honey and consume daily.
Also, Read►Bird flu: Unnatural bird deaths reported from J&K, Jharkhand
2.Ginger
A study has shown that ginger may have anti-avian influenza potential. The compounds such as gingerols and zingerone in ginger prevent the growth of influenza in the body as well as help boost the immunity to fight against the pathogens.
What to do: Consume ginger tea every morning. You can also add honey or lemon to the mixture and consume it for added benefits.
Also, Read►Bird flu scare: Chicken sales dip by 50-75% in Bihar
3.Astragalus
Astragalus is known as an immune-enhancing herb that supports the bone marrow by increasing the production of interferon. These signaling proteins help fight pathogens and resist their entry into the body. A study shows that astragalus reduces replication of influenza and promotes an early immune response.
What to do: Astragalus roots are either boiled for tea or added to soups. Caution: astragalus should be taken only after proper consultation with a medical expert. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid its consumption.
Also, Read►Gurugram administration issues advisory amid the spread of bird flu
4.Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid or vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps in eradicating various influenza viruses. Adequate consumption of vitamin C daily helps enhance immunity and fight multiple pathogens entering the body. A study says that vitamin C may help provide effective containment against avian influenza.
What to do: Boil a few dried or fresh echinacea flowers and prepare a tea. Consume it at least three a day but not on an empty stomach. It is better to consult a medical expert before its consumption.
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5.Echinacea
Echinacea is known as a blood purifier and a natural immune system booster that helps in strengthening the system against this virus. A study has shown that the ethanol extracts of the herb can be effective against avian strains of influenza.
What to do: Include vitamin C rich foods in your diets such as lemon, orange, broccoli, spinach, tomato, and other leafy greens.
Also, Read►No evidence of bird flu transmission to humans via contaminated poultry consumption
6.Steam
Inhaling steam helps ease the nasal congestion and loosen the mucous. This is the best way to clear the respiratory passage that gets blocked when a person is suffering from avian influenza symptoms.
What to do: Try to include cayenne pepper every day in your diet.
Also, Read►Himachal sets up teams to contain bird flu, monitoring situation
7.Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper helps dilate the pores of the body and allows sweating. This encourages the release of toxins which further helps fight against the bird flu virus. Cayenne pepper also strengthens the immune system and consuming the herb every day is considered the best bird flu prevention measure.
What to do: Boil water, cover the head with a towel, and inhale the steam. Repeat the process twice or thrice a day.
Read more►Bird Flu: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors, and Treatment
Common FAQ's
Q1. Does bird flu spread by eating chicken?
A. No, bird flu is not spread by eating chicken or eggs. However, one should cook chicken up to at least 74 degree-Celcius and boil eggs until both the whites and yolk get firm.
Q2. Can bird flu be cured?
A. Mild symptoms of bird flu such as runny nose, cough, headache, sore throat can be cured by herbal or home remedies such as ginger, essential oils, or steam inhalation. Severe symptoms of avian influenza or bird flu need medicinal treatments.
Q 3. What is the fastest way to cure bird flu naturally?
A. By taking vitamin C rich foods, keeping the body hydrated, taking rest, aromatherapy, and including herbs in diets such as ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper, one can treat bird flu symptoms in the fastest way.
