Dengue – How to recover faster and boost platelets naturally? - #16567
Last week, I was diagnosed with dengue, and it’s been a rough experience. The fever was unbearable for the first few days, and I had severe body pain, headaches, and chills. The doctor told me there’s no specific medicine for dengue, just rest and hydration. My platelet count dropped to 90,000, and they kept monitoring it every day. Thankfully, it didn't go too low, and I didn't need hospitalization, but I still feel extremely weak even though the fever is gone now. I’ve been drinking a lot of fluids, like coconut water and ORS, and eating papaya leaves because people said it helps increase platelets. But I still feel exhausted, and my recovery is very slow. I can barely sit for long, and my appetite is not back to normal. Even after eating, I don’t feel energetic. My muscles feel weak, and I keep getting lightheaded. Are there any Ayurvedic remedies that can help in recovering from dengue faster? Are there specific foods, herbs, or tonics that can help boost platelet count naturally and regain strength? Also, I don’t want to rely too much on chemical-based medicines, so I’m looking for natural ways to help my body heal. Is there anything I should completely avoid during dengue recovery? And how long does it usually take for full strength to come back? I need to get back to work soon, but I still feel drained even after sleeping a lot. Please suggest effective Ayurvedic ways to speed up the healing process.
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Doctors’ responses
Dengue drains the body’s energy and affects digestion, immunity, and platelet production, so recovery should focus on restoring strength, boosting blood health, and improving digestion. Since your platelet count didn’t drop too dangerously, Ayurveda can help speed up healing naturally.
Continue drinking papaya leaf juice (1-2 tbsp twice daily) as it supports platelet production. Add Giloy juice (1 tbsp with warm water twice a day) to boost immunity and recovery. Amla juice or Chyawanprash helps restore blood health and energy. To combat dizziness and weakness, drink wheatgrass juice or pomegranate juice daily, as they are rich in iron and antioxidants. You can also take Guduchi and Ashwagandha capsules for faster strength recovery.
Eat light but nourishing meals—moong dal khichdi, vegetable soups, and rice with ghee—to improve digestion and energy levels. Avoid spicy, oily, or heavy foods as your digestion is weak. Drink coconut water, barley water, and tulsi tea to stay hydrated. Rest is crucial, but gentle stretching and slow walks can help rebuild strength gradually. Dengue recovery takes 2-3 weeks, so don’t rush back to work too soon. Listen to your body, and prioritize rebuilding your immunity before resuming a hectic routine. Let me know if you’d like a simple daily Ayurvedic recovery plan!
After dengue, the recovery process can be slow, as your body needs to rebuild strength and restore balance. Ayurveda focuses on restoring vitality and boosting immunity with herbs like Ashwagandha, Guduchi (Giloy), and Amla, which are known for their immune-boosting and rejuvenating properties. You can also try incorporating Punarnava, which helps reduce weakness and aids in detoxifying the body. To support platelet count, herbs like Papaya leaf (which you’re already using), as well as Giloy, can be helpful. Eating easily digestible foods like soups, kichari, and light broths will support your digestive system and give your body energy without overburdening it. Avoid heavy, oily, and cold foods that could slow down your recovery. Additionally, ensure you are getting enough rest and stay hydrated, but don’t overexert yourself too soon. Full recovery may take a few weeks depending on the severity of the infection, and patience is essential. Avoiding stress, getting gentle exercise like walking, and focusing on a nutritious diet will help accelerate your healing.
Dengue recovery can be quite exhausting, but Ayurveda can provide support to your body in a natural and holistic way. Since you’re already drinking plenty of fluids, that’s a great start! Keeping hydrated is really essential. But there are a few other things you may consider to speed up recovery.
Firstly, restoring your agni (digestive fire) is key. A weak agni can make you feel sluggish and reduce your appetite. You might want to start your day with some warm water mixed with a little lemon juice and honey. It’s simple, gentle and can help stimulate digestion. Another remedy is ginger tea; it aids in improving digestion and invigorating your energy levels. Just boil some slices of fresh ginger in hot water and sip it slowly.
For Ayurvedic herbs, consider amalaki (Indian gooseberry), which is rich in Vitamin C and known for boosting immunity and improving strength. You can get it in powder form and mix it with a little honey – consume a teaspoon daily. Also, giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) is effective in managing fever and purifying the blood. Most health stores stock giloy juice or tablets these days.
Diet-wise, stick to easily digestible foods. Porridge, rice gruel, or soups made with moong dal are perfect options. They’re light yet nourishing. Avoid heavy, oily, or spicy foods for now, as they may strain your digestion. Eating small meals throughout the day rather than large meals might also help your body to process and absorb nutrients better.
Regarding your platelet count, papaya leaves are a common suggestion but ensure you’re having them fresh and in moderate quantity. You want to be careful not to overdo it.
About rest, sleep is vital – but also try incorporating some pranayama (breath control) exercises in your routine. Nada Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) can be calming and helps oxygenate your body, giving your systems a gentle revitalization.
It’s normal for it to take weeks or even a month to fully regain strength after dengue. Give it time, listen to your body, and allow it to heal at its own pace. It’s okay to lean on others for support during this period. Avoid any strenuous activities until you truly feel ready. Overexerting yourself too soon might set you back.
With patience and a little help from Ayurveda, you’ll likely see improvements soon. If any concerning symptoms arise, though, please consult your doctor right away.

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