Scurvy

Scurvy is an old-world disease that is caused by a deficiency to ascorbic acid. It was often mistaken for rickets, rheumatism or paralysis for children. Prolonged consumption of meat, fish, salt and bread while being deprived of fresh food sources will make any individual prone to scurvy. Taking lime or lemons will prevent the onset of this deficiency. During the 19th century, this disease is widely prevalent on sailors on board a long journey.

Symptoms
Initial symptoms appear gradually. The patient is often exhausted or the body is generally weak. Final stages make the gum bleed due to lack of vitamin C or ascorbic acid where it leaves the capillaries fragile and prone to ruptures.

Further complications can lead to hemorrhaging.

Causes
Deficiency in vitamin C or ascorbic acid is the main cause of scurvy. Stress drains away the body’s absorption of ascorbic acid.

Lack of consumption of vegetables and fresh fruits can worsen this condition.

Home Remedies
Indian Gooseberry: Powder dry Indian gooseberry and mix it with equal quantity of sugar. Take 1 teaspoon with milk 3 times a day.

Lemon and lime: Mix juices extracted from 1 lime or lemon in a glass of water and add a teaspoon of honey. They are superbly rich in vitamin C which is an excellent treatment for this condition. They are also invaluable for crews and passengers on board an ocean liner or vessels.

Mango powder: Aamchur are green mangoes that are skinned, stones, cut into pieces, dried in the shade then powdered. Taking 15 gm of aamchur is equivalent to 30 gm of lime with quality vitamins.

Potato: Take 100 mg of potatoes as often as you can. It contains at least 17 mg of vitamin C.

Jaundice berry: Jaundice berry is anti-scorbutic. Boil 15 gm of dried leaves in 500 ml water until it is reduced to a third. Take 150-175 ml at a time. 2-4 ml of jaundice berry juice can be taken alternately.

Diets
For children:
Breastfeed newborn children as often as possible. It contains all of the essential nutrients needed for the growth and development of the child. Cow’s milk or milk formulas can be given as a substitute.

For one-year olds, drink fruit and vegetable juices, aside from milk and whole wheat bread. After 2 years old, the child can be allowed to eat fruits, steamed vegetables, whole grain cereals and milk.

For adults:
Eat plenty of nuts, grains, seeds, fruits and vegetables. Supply with honey, milk, and vegetable oils.

Eat liberal amount of foods that are rich in vitamin C such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to reach the recommended allowance of 10-20 mg daily. Tablets can also be taken as a substitute.