Turmeric as natural remedy for meningitis.

The current outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis, CSM, in Nigeria is alarming as death toll rises to 336. The Federal Ministry of Health explained that for the first time, the meningitis epidemic is being caused by Neisseria Meningitides type C rather than the known Meningitides Type A. Death can occur in as little as a few hours, and even though most people recover from meningitis, however, permanent disabilities such as brain damage, hearing loss, and learning disabilities can result from the infection. The common aetiological agents causing meningitis are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Group B Streptococcus, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae and Listeria monocytogenes. The spread is mainly by coughing,sneezing and contact with saliva of infected persons. inhalation of infective droplets is more pronounced in highly congested living areas and especially overcrowded sleeping quarters. Meningitis can also be caused by viruses,fungi and certain parasites so treatment will depend on causative agent. Signs of meningitis are Fever, persistent headache,neck stiffness and pain ,confusion and disorientation drowsiness or sluggishness and sensitivity to bright light. The conventional treatment is use of antibiotics if of bacterial origin,but a school of thought has described the potency of turmeric to treat meningitis. The medicinal properties of this spice are numerous,it has anti-inflammatory , antibacterial,antiviral and antiinflammatory properties. A lot of recent research has revealed that turmeric is beneficial in the treatment of many different health conditions from cancer to Alzheimer's disease. Turmeric can prevent strokes, brain hemorrhages, and lessen the risk of cancer and Alzheimer's disease, according to scientists from the University of Georgia. Turmeric in oriental medicine is used to treat meningitis , rheumatism and high blood pressure,by using this recipe mix 100g fresh turmeric with 250ml water and boil until 150ml of the water evaporates. Drink the remedy three times a day until symptoms cease. The ability of turmeric to cross blood-brain barrier, makes it beneficial and also used to treat depression. The incorporation of the spice in food or preparation of turmeric milk is an easy and effective way to use the spice as medicine. see more