The National Capital is currently battling the surge in swine flu with as many as 1,011 cases of H1N1 virus reported from various hospitals since January 1. Although the data released by the government does not report any deaths due to swine flu, some city hospitals claim that at least 11 persons had succumbed to the infection last month. The Delhi’s Directorate General of Health Services has issued a health advisory, which states that H1N1 is a self-limiting air-borne viral, and the disease spreads from person to person through coughing and sneezing, indirect contact by touching a contaminated object or surface, and close contact including handshakes, hugging and kissing.
The signs and symptoms of swine flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and difficulty in breathing. Other symptoms may include body ache, headache, fatigue, chills, diarrhea and vomiting, and blood-stained sputum.Swine flu is treatable as well as preventable by vaccine. Other ways to prevent or reduce your risk of catching flu, as well as spreading it to others include – practicing good hygiene, staying home from work or school if you’re unwell, avoiding the crowd, etc. A healthy diet rich in nutrients and antioxidants that boost your immune system can help prevent swine flu or speed up the healing process. Fortunately, there are many herbs and spices that have been shown to effectively treat a number of ailments, including flu, and turmeric is one of such wonderful food.
How does turmeric help?
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been found to have a number of amazing medicinal properties. Here are four ways turmeric can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of influenza.
Has anti-viral properties: Studies showed curcumin in turmeric reduced viral replication of 90 percent and more of cells infected by influenza virus. Curcumin also found to display an ability to protect infection from spreading to other cells.
Inhibits viral growth: Accumulated evidence indicated that curcumin plays an inhibitory role against infection of numerous viruses. It is claimed that curcumin acts against influenza A and B viruses. It is said that swine influenza is believed to be caused in pigs mainly by 3 influenzas A subtypes H1N1, H3N2, and H1N2.
Fights free radicals: Curcumin is also a powerful antioxidant that can fight free radicals which damage the immune system. People with a compromised immune system are more vulnerable to infections, including swine flu. So, eating a diet that promotes immunity can help you stay healthy and protected from flu.
Natural antibiotic: According to Ayurveda, turmeric is a natural antibiotic that can reduce the symptoms of respiratory tract infections such as a common cold and flu. Hence, it can be a perfect alternative to antibiotics that can come with many side effects.
