Amoebiasis, also referred to as traveler’s diarrhea is a condition which is characterized by infection of the large intestine. The primary symptom associated with this condition is diarrhea. The condition is more frequently observed in developing countries and primarily associated with poor hygiene and poor sanitation.
Estimates suggest that about 10% of the world’s population is infected with the condition.
The parasite causing the infection is called Entameba Histolytica. This parasite is a one celled organism and microscopic in size. The amoebas are transmitted from an infected person through faeces, in the form of infective cysts (i.e. group of amoeba surrounded by a protective cyst). These infective cysts may contaminate water or food and get transmitted to another person, via the oral route.
Once in the body of its host, the E hisolytica, invades the walls of the intestine, resulting in ulceration. These ulcers can lead to dysentery and digestive disturbances. In rare cases, the amoebae may travel through the blood stream to the liver or the brain, leading to localized abscess.
Amoebiasis is transmitted through the feco-oral route. Some of the common causes for the spread of the amoeba include,
- Consumption of fruits and vegetables that have been grown using human feces as fertilizers.
- Infection may spread via dirty hands of infected people due to poor post defecation hygiene.
The symptoms associated with the condition may vary from mild to severe. The symptoms can become life threatening especially in individuals with lowered immunity due to a major surgery or suffering from HIV.
How To Treat Amoebiasis With Natural Remedies?
Maintaining personal hygiene is imperative to prevent the spread of the infection. It is recommended to wash raw fruits and vegetables food thoroughly with warm water before consuming them. These simple measures will help prevent the recurrence of the infection, however there are some essential home remedies that can help deal with the symptoms of the condition,
- Mango is known to be loaded with anti-bacterial agents that can help prevent the spread of the amoeba. Mangos are seasonal fruits but are very beneficial in controlling this condition.
- Consume the mixture of turmeric and raw honey, twice a day. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory agent, while honey has anti-microbial properties that can help fight the infection.
- Ensure you consume adequate amount of water. Dehydration due to frequent diarrhea can complicate the symptoms. Add a pinch of salt and lemon juice to the water to replenish lost electrolytes.
- Garlic is very useful in dealing with gastric disturbance and abdominal distension. Garlic is also helpful in alleviating abdominal pain and tenderness. Local application of asefotedia on the abdomen can also help in release of gas.
- Dandelion roots and ginger are known to boost liver functions and thereby improve digestion. Enlargement or damage to the liver is common symptom associated with amoebiasis.
- Homeopathy can be used effectively to deal with amoebiasis. Drugs namely Nux Vomica and Arsenic Album taken in low potency and repeated about four times a day can be very effective. These drugs should be taken on empty stomach to enhance their efficacy.
If the symptoms continue to persist, it is recommended to consult a medical professional immediately.