Also known as varicella, chicken pox is a common childhood disease that is easily spread by direct contact, through the air, or via contaminated linen. Chicken pox is most common in the winter and spring in temperate climates, yet it occurs year round in tropical climates. At the onset, your child may feel fatigued, have a headache, fever, and cold-like symptoms. An outbreak is most likely from 10 to 21 days after exposure. Lesions appear first like small insect bites and then become blisters, which will eventually form brown crusts. New lesions may appear for 4 or 5 days as the old ones recede. Lesions may even appear in the mouth, vagina, rectum, and urethra. For some kids, the disease is mild, but for those over 10 years old, it’s more likely to be severe. Here’s how to benefit from natural cures.
Cures from Grandma’s Kitchen
Using 1/2 teaspoon each of apple cider vinegar and raw honey in a glass of warm water to acidify the urine and prevent bacterial growth, which in some cases can contribute to incontinence. Avoid carbonated drinks and orange juice, which can irritate the bladder.
NATURAL REMEDIES THAT SOOTHE THE SYMPTOMS
Give your child a 30- to 60-minute hot bath when you first notice the symptoms of chicken pox. Doing so at the outset will help to bring on the pox by being diaphoretic (causing perspiration), thus releasing and eliminating toxins. After that, frequent baths to which 1 pound (455 g) of baking soda or 1 cup (235 ml) of apple cider vinegar has been added will provide comfort and reduce itchiness. Two handfuls of oatmeal (which has soothing qualities) can be securely tied into a washcloth and added to the tub. After a bath, pat the skin dry rather than rubbing it.
Scratching may lead to infection and possible scarring. After bathing, apply calamine lotion or a paste of baking soda mixed with apple cider vinegar made by simply mixing together until it is wet enough to apply and stick to the skin. Aloe vera gel can help cool the inflammation and is also antibacterial and antiviral. To prevent scratching, keep the nails short.
If your child has mouth sores, use saltwater mouth rinses by stirring 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of water, swishing it around in the mouth, then spitting, repeated 3 or 4 times to help dry up the mouth ulcerations. Do this 3 or 4 times daily.
Also offer your child detoxifying herb teas of burdock root, red clover blossoms, cleavers, calendula, and chickweed, all of which help open the body’s normal cleansing channels such as the lymph glands, colon, and kidneys. Steep for a few minutes before serving to increase effectiveness. Aim for a cup or two each day.
NATURAL REMEDIES THAT PREVENT SCARRING
Give your child supplements of vitamin C (250 to 500 mg), vitamin E (100 to 200 IU), and beta-carotene (10,000 IU) to promote healing and to prevent scarring as these antioxidants help promote skin regeneration. A study in the medical journal Free Radical Biology and Medicine in 2004 showed the protective antioxidant effects of beta-carotene on the skin.
To help speed healing of lesions and prevent scarring on the eyelids, apply a salve made with comfrey and calendula, available at natural food stores. Place carefully on eyelids (not eyes) or any other part of the body needed.
BEST FOODS FOR CHICKEN POX
Keep the diet light and simple, as there may be sores in the mouth that will be stung by salt or acids. Fare such as applesauce, fruit kantens (see sidebar), soups, and fare that is not too spicy, salty, and acidic is best. Avoid citrus fruits as they can also sting the inside of the mouth.
KEEP IN MIND
Change the bed linen daily and clothe your child in light natural fibers that are warm but allow the skin to breathe. Do everything you can to make your child more comfortable. Stories, picture books, uplifting videos, and foot massages can all help your child feel better.
Skip This!
Never give aspirin to children under 19 as this may increase the likeliness of Reye’s Syndrome.
WHEN TO SEE YOUR M.D.
Get medical attention for the following situations:
• Fever lasts more than four days or goes above 102°F (39°C).
• There is a severe cough or breathing difficulty.
• An area of the rash leaks pus or becomes red, warm, swollen, or sore.
• Lesions are on the eyeballs.
• The patient has a severe headache, is unusually drowsy or confused, experiences extreme light sensitivity, has problems walking, is very ill, vomits, and/or has a stiff neck.
This Treatment For Chicken Pox article is taken from :
The Country Almanac of Home Remedies - Brigitte Mars
