Tuberculosis or TB is a highly contagious disease caused by bacteria that infect the lungs. It may also spread to other parts of the body via the bloodstream and lymph nodes. Due to all of these reasons, it is very important for someone with the condition to be checked and treated by a doctor.
Aside from the medications and other modes of treatment recommended by a doctor, there are also a handful of home remedies proven to be effective for tuberculosis. Someone who has the lung infection may also opt for certain dietary changes that may help him or her recuperate from the disease.
If you have tuberculosis or a loved one is suffering from it, continue reading. The following are some tips on how the disease may be combated in various all-natural methods. However, it’s important to remember that the home remedies you will find below should be used only as an addition to the kinds of treatment a doctor recommends.
Garlic
It’s no secret that garlic has superb antibacterial properties. That is why the consumption of this herb, raw or cooked, can actually help kill off the bacteria causing the dreaded and highly infectious lung disease. A very effective way to use garlic to attain cure from TB is by boiling a cup of milk, 4 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of chopped garlic. Once the volume is reduced to 1/4 of the original, it should be cooled and consumed. This should be done 3 times a day.
Green Tea
Because of the impressive amounts of antioxidants in green tea, this well-loved beverage may be taken by someone who is having a bout of TB. Powerful antioxidants in every cup can help in suppressing the multiplication of bacteria responsible for the disease as well as protect healthy cells of the lungs from being infected.
Milk
Calcium is a mineral known to help combat tuberculosis. That is why drinking milk on a regular basis is highly suggested for someone with TB. If weight gain is a concern, there are low- or non-fat milk varieties on the market.
Bananas
Eating bananas is a great way to boost the person’s immune system, allowing his or her body to contain and zap the lung infection more effectively. The nicest thing about bananas is they may be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Add them to smoothies or slice them up and use as toppings for cereals, oatmeal and even yogurt.
Indian Gooseberry
Also known as amla, Indian gooseberry is effective against tuberculosis because of its superb anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It also boosts your energy and immune system, allowing you to fight off tuberculosis much better. Remove the seeds and extract the juice using your favorite juicer. Add some honey to taste and drink every morning before breakfast. You may also take Indian gooseberry powder which is available at most health food stores.
Custard Apple
The inclusion of custard apples in your diet is said to help in dealing with the lung disease. You may also boil the juicy flesh of a couple of custard apples together with about 25 pieces of seedless raisins and 1/2 cup of water. Once the volume is reduced to about 1/3 of the original, allow to cool and add some honey. Drink this twice a day.
Good Nutrition
Supplying the body with the right nutrients is of utmost importance most especially for a person afflicted with tuberculosis. This allows him or her to have all the energy necessary to fight off the condition as well as bounce back from it. See to it that the daily diet includes a variety of the following:
- Dark green leafy vegetables that are high in iron and B-vitamins
- Whole grains that provide energy
- Brightly colored fruits like berries and oranges as they are high in antioxidants
- Healthy fats like nuts, seeds and olive oil
- Lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, beans and tofu
