Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness caused by the bite of Aedes Aegyptus mosquitoes.

These mosquitoes are day biting insects, which means the mosquito is active approximately two hours after sunrise and several hours before sunset, spreading the deadly dengue virus. 

An acute illness with sudden onset of symptoms such as a headache, fever, exhaustion, severe muscle and rash, dengue fever remarkably reduces the platelet count.

In few rare cases, dengue fever can damage lymph and blood vessels, enlargement of the liver, failure of circulatory system and bleeding from gums and nose.

If not treated on time, Dengue fever can lead to Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS) which is fatal.

Young children, people with weakened immunity are at the risk of developing dengue haemorrhagic fever.

The first and foremost treatment in dengue is to improve the platelet count besides bringing down the temperature for a faster recovery. Doctors recommend a strong combination of medications and platelet improving natural foods for those on the path to recovery.

We bring you few easily available natural foods, that will improve platelet count drastically.

Papaya Leaves

Papaya leaves are perhaps the most preferred choice of food for those with low platelet count. Loaded with vitamin A and C, the leaves, fruit work wonders with dengue patients. Several studies have proven beyond doubt that complex protein in papaya leaves helps the bone marrow increase the production of platelets. The right way is to crush three fresh leaves of papaya without the fibrous parts to make a glass of juice and consume two tablespoons every six hours in a day.

You can also choose papaya leaf extract available in the form of tablets to spike the platelet count.

Wheatgrass

A study published in International Journal of Universal Pharmacy and Life Sciences, reveals that wheatgrass is beneficial in increasing the platelet count. Wheatgrass, piled up with chlorophyll helps in increasing the haemoglobin level and total white blood cell counts, thus improving platelets.

Drink wheatgrass juice or take supplements as per your doctor’s advice.

Pumpkin

Orange pumpkin is a rich source of vitamin A and C that helps to cure dengue and boost the immune system by improving the platelet count. Take pumpkin soup, salads, curry or pumpkin granola snack bars regularly to improve platelet count.

Vitamin C

As per the study published in the Journal of Haematology, vitamin C plays a vital role in improving the platelet count. It is a potent antioxidant that prevents free radical damage of the platelets. Some of the richest sources of vitamin C include lemons, oranges, tomatoes, muskmelons, spinach, bell peppers and broccoli.

Amla (Indian Gooseberries)

Amla is extensively used in traditional Ayurvedic medicines to treat various health disorders. It also improves the platelet counts and boosts your immune system, besides keeping other contagious infections at bay.

Drink amla juice, take amla supplements and extracts for building immunity.