17 June,2009 08:59 AM IST | | Swati Kumari
Swati Kumari investigates if alternative medicines can treat the influenza
Homoeopathy
This form of alternative medicine believes in strengthening our immune system to prevent any virus attack. "One can take Influenzinum (five pills twice daily) to build immunity against the swine flu virus. This medicine is affordable and easily available," said Dr Mukesh Batra, CMD, Dr Batra's Positive Health Clinic.
"The most recent use of Homoeopathy was in 1918 when the Spanish flu pandemic killed about 100 million people worldwide. While the mortality rate of patients treated with conventional medicine was nearly 30 per cent that of Homoeopathic treatment was only 1.05 per cent," said Dr Batra.
Considering the swine flu virus produces symptoms similar to the human influenza virus, Dr Prafull Vijayakar of Prafull Homoeo Clinic, suggests medicines that control the latter. "But seek professional help," said Dr Vijayakar.
Ayurveda
Ayurvedic experts claim tulsi, the miracle herb; cannot only keep the dreaded swine flu at bay but also speed-up a patient's recovery. "Juice or paste of at least 20-25 medium-sized fresh tulsi leaves should be consumed twice a day on an empty stomach. Also, Sanjivani vati (herbal tablets) can be taken. These will take a week to cure," said Dr Ravinder Kaur of Maharishi Charak Ayurved Bhawan.
Acupressure
"We cannot cure the disease but by pressing certain points in hands, legs and the backbone of a patient we can enhance immunity levels," said Dr Akhilesh Agarwal of Aatman Holistic Medicare Centre.
