Dengue fever cases have surged in India, with alarming statistics emerging from Lucknow. In the past 24 hours alone, 31 fresh cases of dengue have been reported, bringing the total number of cases in the city to 460 since January this year. These figures were released by the Chief Medical Officer’s office on Sunday, signaling the growing threat of the mosquito-borne disease in the region.
The spike in cases has largely been observed in the months of August and September. On Saturday, the city saw an additional 39 fresh cases of dengue, further exacerbating the situation. Unfortunately, last week Lucknow recorded its first official death due to dengue this season. Shreyansh Srivastava, an 18-year-old resident of the city, succumbed to the disease while undergoing treatment in a local hospital. His death has raised concerns among health officials and citizens, especially given the rapid increase in dengue cases this year.
Dengue fever, primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, can lead to severe complications, one of which is a significant drop in platelet levels. Platelets are crucial for blood clotting, and a drastic reduction can lead to life-threatening situations. For those suffering from dengue, maintaining an adequate platelet count is critical to recovery.
The Role of Platelets in Dengue Recovery
Platelets play a key role in the blood clotting process, helping to prevent excessive bleeding. In cases of dengue, the virus attacks the body’s immune system, leading to the destruction of platelets, which can cause hemorrhaging and internal bleeding. As platelet counts drop, the risk of severe dengue complications increases.
Health experts and doctors often recommend natural remedies to aid in boosting platelet counts. Alongside medical treatment, there are certain juices that have been known to improve platelet production and support the body's recovery from dengue fever.
Here are five juices that can help increase platelet count naturally during dengue recovery:
1. Papaya Leaf Juice
Papaya leaf juice is perhaps the most well-known remedy for increasing platelet count during dengue fever. Papaya leaves contain powerful compounds like papain, which can help in boosting platelet levels. Research has shown that papaya leaf extract helps stimulate the production of platelets in the body and has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that aid in faster recovery.
To prepare papaya leaf juice, crush fresh papaya leaves and extract the juice. Drinking two tablespoons of this juice twice a day is recommended for improving platelet count.
2. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate is rich in iron and antioxidants, both of which are essential for maintaining healthy blood cells. Drinking pomegranate juice can help improve the platelet count and provide a boost of energy to fight off fatigue, a common symptom of dengue. The fruit is also packed with nutrients that can support the immune system and speed up the recovery process.
A glass of fresh pomegranate juice daily can have a positive effect on platelet production and overall health during dengue.
3. Wheatgrass Juice
Wheatgrass is a superfood known for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to increase platelet count. It is high in chlorophyll, which helps in the production of red blood cells and platelets. Wheatgrass juice can also boost the immune system, aiding in the body’s fight against the dengue virus.
Consuming 30-50 ml of wheatgrass juice daily can support platelet regeneration and contribute to a faster recovery.
4. Giloy Juice
Giloy, also known as "Guduchi," is a medicinal herb used in traditional Ayurvedic practices. It is revered for its immune-boosting properties and its effectiveness in treating fevers and infections. Giloy juice is believed to improve platelet levels and enhance the body’s natural defence system against the dengue virus.
Regular consumption of Giloy juice during dengue can help restore platelet levels and reduce symptoms such as fever and body aches.
5. Beetroot Juice
Beetroot is another powerful natural remedy that can help increase platelet count. It is rich in antioxidants, particularly betalains, which can help in repairing damaged blood cells and boosting the immune response. Drinking beetroot juice can increase the production of blood cells, including platelets, and help the body recover more quickly from dengue fever.
A glass of beetroot juice every day can work wonders in supporting the body’s ability to restore platelets and maintain overall health during dengue recovery.