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Ayurvedic view of malaria as Vishama Jwara: traditional herbs, limited evidence and why antimalarial medicine comes first.
Ayurveda describes intermittent fever with chills as Vishama Jwara. Malaria is a parasitic infection confirmed by a blood test, so Ayurvedic care here is an adjunct, never a substitute for antimalarial medicine.
What the classical texts say
Classical texts such as Charaka Samhita discuss fevers that come at fixed intervals and link them to Dosha imbalance and weak digestion. Some texts describe bitter plants used for fever. This is a traditional framework. Modern trials do not show that these herbs can cure malaria.
Herbs mentioned in tradition
Evidence for these in malaria is limited. Neem and some others can harm the liver or interact with medicines in some people. Ask a qualified Vaidya, and tell your doctor about anything you take.
Where Ayurveda may help
Safety
Key point
Get the diagnosis and the antimalarial course first. Ayurvedic advice can sit alongside it for comfort and recovery, with your doctor aware.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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