What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis? – Causes, Symptoms and Ayurvedic Treatment

ABSTRACT

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is a viral infectious disease which involves the central nervous system. Viral Infections is an illness which is caused due to tiny organisms which get copied and make new viruses. The virus is a type of germ pathogen which can be seen only with a microscope and these viruses carry a piece of genetic information which is covered with a coating. Viruses are unicellular organisms which proliferate the harmful virus within the body. There are various types of viral infections- Respiratory viral infections, Rhinovirus and Seasonal influenza. Viruses lead to sepsis (it is the blood poisoning which threatens life in response to infection /injury). Viruses Hijack the normal living cells which replicate, multiply and destroy the host cells. Viruses spread in many ways, one transmission is through vectors such as a virus spread from plant to plant and sometimes it gets spread in animals by sucking of blood. In this article, we are going to discuss the causes, symptoms and the Ayurvedic Aspect of Tick-borne Encephalitis which is spreading through the virus in detail.

INTRODUCTION

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is a viral infection which is spreading through tick bites and is mainly found in parts of Europe (which includes the UK and Asia). It is more common in adults than in children. Tick-Borne Encephalitis is usually spread through eating or drinking raw milk and cheese from infected cows, goats and sheep. The tick- Borne Encephalitis virus infects a range of hosts which includes Rodents, horses and humans. The spread of the ticks virus is most active in the months of April and In November. Tick-Borne is a member of the family Flaviviridae. Tick-borne Encephalitis is the inflammation of the brain and meninges which gets transmitted to human beings and other animals. It is mainly caused by the Far-Easter, Siberian and European subtypes of Tick-borne Encephalitis virus (TBEV).

ETIOLOGY

1. The neurotropic TBEV is the first cause of Tick-Borne Encephalitis by Zilber.
2. It is a spherical Lipid covered with RNA Virus with a variety of  Flavivirus in the Flaviviridae family.
3. Protein E is the major antigen which induces the production of neutralizing antibodies.
4. This virus can be inactivated with Pasteurization.

PATHOGENESIS

1. When an infected tick bites it gets replicated, Dendritic cells of the skin (Langerhans cells) are the first cell of viral replication which gets transported to the local lymph nodes.
2. TBEV spreads to the extraneural tissues such as Spleen, Bone marrow and maintains the viremia for several days. 
3. During this phase, the viruses reach the brain and four routes have been postulated such as-
4. Peripheral nerves
5. Susceptible olfactory  nerves
6. Transcytosis diffusion of the capillaries
7. Diffusion of the virus. 

CAUSES

1. It is first isolated in 1937 and there are 3 subtypes of virus which cause Tick-Borne Encephalitis-
2. Western Tick-Borne Encephalitis (which is transmitted by Ixodes ricinus).
3. Siberian Tick-Borne Encephalitis (transmitted by Ixodes Persulcatus)
4. Far Eastern Tick-Borne Encephalitis which are Russian spring Encephalitis virus (Caused by Ixodes persulcatus).

SYMPTOMS

The incubation period is usually about 7-14 days which can range from 4 to 28 days. A shorter Incubation time is seen in Milk-borne exposure.

There are 2  phases such as

1. First Phase- It is the nonspecific febrile illness which includes such as
2. Headache
3. Myalgia
4. Fatigue
5. Vomitings
6. Fever

Second Phase- It includes Central Nervous System which involves results in-

1. Aseptic meningitis
2. Encephalitis
3. Myelitis
4. Ataxia
5. Tremors
6. Cranial nerve palsy
7. Limb paresis 

DIAGNOSIS

In First Phase, it includes

1. Low white blood cell (leukopenia)
2. Low platelet (Thrombocytopenia)
3. Elevation in liver enzymes 

In Second Phase, it includes

1. In the second phase, there are increased white blood cells in CSF (Cerebrospinal fluid)
2. Isolation of virus in the first phase, CSF in the second phase
3. Moderate Pleocytosis with increased cerebrospinal fluid albumin

LABORATORY DIAGNOSIS

1. RT-PCR
2. MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)
3. EEG

TREATMENT

1. There is no medication for the tick-borne infection so one can prevent it by having proper vaccination which will give you 95% protection
2. Rest, fluids and pain medications will relieve symptoms
3. Intubations and corticosteroids
4. CNS Depressants and analgesics

PREVENTIONS

1. Avoid consuming Unpasteurized dairy products
2. Use insect repellents and protects the skin from tick bites
3. DEET (Diethyltoluamide) as an insect repellent
4. Wear light color clothes

AYURVEDIC ASPECT

Ayurveda is an alternative system of medicine with historical roots and the main classical ayurveda text begins with the transmission of knowledge from God to sages rather than to human physicians. Ayurveda treatment describes three elements (Vata, Pitta and Kapha). It originated in India about 3000 years ago and is the oldest holistic healing system. It is the balance between the mind, body and spirit and its main goal is to promote good health. In ayurveda, the microorganisms which are microbes such as bacteria, viruses and parasites come under Krimi which stands for ‘worms’.  The Krimi are of various types on the basis of their origin- Kaphja Krimi, Raktaj Krimi and Pureeshaj Krimi. There is neurological involvement which is due to the vitiation of Vata doshas, so the main aim of treatment is to eliminate the Krimi (bacteria) and strengthen the immune system, restoring harmony and balance. 

CLASSIFICATION OF KRIMI

1. Bahya Krimi (habitat krimi)- External worms
2. It originates externally and occurs on the hairy parts of the body
3. Abhyantara Krimi–  Internal worms
4. It occurs due to the production of Ama doshas and excess consumption of a Sweet & sour diet. 

CHIKITSA

1. Apakarshana Chikitsa
2. Prakruti Vighata Chikitsa
3. Nidana Parivarjana Chikitsa
4. Apakarshana Chikitsa- It is the extraction of krimi by following methods-
5. Hasta/Yantra (manual extraction)– It is extracted manually using Yantra such as Sandamsha.
6. Bhesaja Apakarshana (therapeutic extraction)– It is the Shodhana chikitsa which forcefully extracts the Krimi. Shodhana Therapy includes- Virechana, Asthapana Basti and Virechana. 
7. Prakruti Vighata Chikitsa- In this the use of Krimigna Drugs which possesses Katu, Tikta and Usna properties. This therapy inhibits the growth of Krimi. 
8. Nidana Parivarjana- It involves the avoidance of Vihara-Ahara, maintenance of Hygienic conditions and avoiding eating undigested food.  

HERBS USEFUL FOR TICK-BORNE ENCEPHALITIS

1. BRAHMI

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is a non-aromatic herb which is the most powerful brain tonic which promotes brain-related disorders and enhances intelligence. It is helpful in balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. Improves voice and memory and promotes the regeneration of cells of the brain. Paste of Brahmi is applied to maintain healthy skin and proper healing of wounds. Is the best stress buster which overcomes sleep disorders.

2. TULSI

Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum) is a smooth muscle relaxant and has cardio-protective and larvicidal properties. Tulsi is helpful in balancing Vata and Kapha doshas, which is useful in promoting digestive fire and managing various skin disorders. Is rich in antioxidants which repair the free radicals damage and relieve congestion and facilitate smoother breathing. Cures microbial infections and hence treats various types of fever.

3. ASHWAGANDHA

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most potent Ayurvedic healing herbs which provides strength and the immune system. Balances tridoshas of the body especially Kapha and Vata doshas. Is rich in antioxidants and combats against allergies. Is the best nervine tonic which pacifies the nervous system and also provides strength to the respiratory system.

4. GUGGUL

Guggul (Commiphora mukul) is shiny, yellowish white colour bark and balances Vata doshas and is useful in removing Ama from the body which treats various skin disorders and balances Vata, Pitta and Kapha doshas. Enhances Complexion and is helpful in the digestion of Oil and Ghee.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR TICK-BORNE ENCEPHALITIS BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a renowned GMP-Certified, ISO 9001-2015 certified US-FDA registered Ayurvedic company, which adhered to the main aim of manufacturing various Ayurvedic formulations as described in the ancient system of Ayurveda. These products which are manufactured are made up of pure herbs without any additives and preservatives which cause no side effects on the human body. Planet Ayurveda provides many herbal supplements for treating the disease and its health-related problems. For Tick-Borne Encephalitis there are many supplements which will be helpful without causing any side effects.

PRODUCTS LIST

1. NEUROGENIE CAPSULES 
2. BOSWELLIA + CURCUMIN
3. TULSI CAPSULES 
4. MANJISHTHA CAPSULES
5. ASHWAGANDHA CAPSULES

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. NeuroGenie Capsules

Neurogenie Capsule is a poly-herbal capsule which is made by planet Ayurveda using Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). It is helpful in improving memory and mental power. Has anti-diarrheal properties which are laxative in nature. Improves the absorption of nutrients and aids digestion. Controls the Vata doshas and nourishes neurons.

Dosage–

1. 2 capsules twice daily after meals with plain water
2. 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water (in children)

2. Boswellia+Curcumin

Boswellia Curcumin is a polyherbal capsule which is formulated by planet ayurveda using Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). It is helpful in supporting and maintaining healthy joints. Rich in antioxidants and has cardioprotective properties. Relieves morning stiffness and reduces pain and swelling in the back.

Dosage-

1. 2 capsules twice daily after meals with plain water
2. 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water (in children). 

3. TULSI CAPSULES

Tulsi Capsule is a single herbal capsule formulation which is made by planet ayurveda using a standardized extract of Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum). It is helpful in improving the immunity of the body and makes the skin look radiant, smooth and acne free. Treats fever, has anti-oxidant and antiseptic properties. Helpful in fighting against free radical damage and regulates cholesterol levels

Dosage-  

1. 2 capsules twice daily after meals with plain water
2. 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water (in children).

4. Manjishtha Capsules

Manjishtha Capsules is a single herbal capsule which is formulated by planet Ayurveda using a standardized extract of Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia). It is helpful in maintaining the health of the skin and is an excellent blood purifier. Has antiseptic and detoxifying agents. Promotes detoxification and manages the healthy flow of urine and blood.

Dosage–

1. 2 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water
2. 1 capsule twice daily with meals with plain water (in children)

5. Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha Capsules is a single herbal capsule formulation which is made by planet ayurveda using a standardized extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). It is helpful in nerve-related problems and improves stamina and strength. Supports immunity and nourishes the nervous system. Is a powerful revitaliser.

Dosage–

1. 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals
2. 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals (in children)

CONCLUSION

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is a viral infectious disease which involves the central nervous system. Viral Infections is an illness which is caused due to tiny organisms which get copied and make new viruses. The virus is a type of germ pathogen which can be seen only with a microscope and these viruses carry a piece of genetic information which is covered with a coating. Tick-Borne Encephalitis is usually spread through eating or drinking raw milk and cheese from infected cows, goats and sheep. In ayurveda, the microorganisms which are microbes such as bacteria, viruses and parasites come under Krimi which stands for ‘worms’. There is neurological involvement which is due to the Vitiation of Vata doshas, so the main aim of treatment is to eliminate the Krimi (bacteria) and strengthen the immune system, restoring harmony and balance. We later discussed herbal remedies by planet ayurveda which are helpful in this disease without causing any side effects.