Swine flu (swine influenza A) is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses that usually infect the respiratory tract of pigs. Swine flu viruses have the capacity to mutate so that they are easily transmissible among humans. Symptoms in humans are similar to most influenza infections: fever, cough, nasal secretions, fatigue, headache, and gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Two antiviral agents, Zanamivir and Oseltamivir are known to be effective in this condition, if taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Herbal medicines with antiviral activity can be used to prevent or reduce the effects of the viral infection. These medicines include Yashtimadhuk (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Tulsi, Bhumiamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri), Haridra, Daruharidra (Berberis aristata), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis). In the case of swine flu, the earlier these medicines are started, the better the therapeutic effect.

It is also important to boost the immune status of the body in order to bring about a faster recovery and prevent complications. This can be done by using medicines like Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bala (Sida cordifolia), Naagbala (Grewia hirsuta), Abhrak-Bhasma, Suvarna-Bhasma, Laghu-Malini-Vasant, Madhu-Malini-Vasant, Suvarna-Malini-Vasant and Suvarna-Parpati. These medicines can also be used for preventive purposes, both by the normal, unaffected population and also by those who are at special risk; for example, close contacts of affected individuals, and medical and para-medical staff.

The medication known as “Vardhmaan-Pippali-Rasayan” can be used to prevent serious damage due to swine flu infection, or as a swine flu treatment and preventive medication in individuals at risk.

It is important to take adequate preventive measures to keep the swine flu infection from spreading. Symptomatic individuals should observe voluntary quarantine for a period of seven to fourteen days, which is usually the time the contagious stage lasts. Simple measures like using tissue paper for nasal secretions, and disposing off these, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission to others.

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