World Sickle Cell Anemia Day, celebrated every year on June 19, highlights one of the most common inherited blood disorders. It affects millions of people worldwide, and this day is dedicated to raising awareness, offering support and advocating for better treatments and care for those living with sickle cell disease. 
Also read: World Sickle Cell Day 2023: How to manage the problem and stay healthy
World sickle cell anemia day theme
The theme of World Sickle Cell Anemia Day 2024 is “Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally” and will primarily focus on raising awareness, promoting education and advocating for improved access to healthcare services for people with sickle cell disease worldwide. The event will be an opportunity to highlight the challenges faced by people living with the disease and encourage efforts aimed at improving their quality of life.
Also read: World Sickle Cell Day: Surprising ways nutrition can help manage this genetic disease
The Significance of World Sickle Cell Anemia Day
World Sickle Cell Anemia Day is extremely important as it raises global awareness about this inherited blood disorder and promotes early diagnosis, treatment and support for affected individuals and families. It serves as a platform to promote better health services, access to treatment and continued research initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people with sickle cell anemia.. The day highlights the importance of ongoing scientific research, highlights the challenges experienced by people with sickle cell anemia and promotes research and innovation to stimulate investment in cutting-edge technologies for the control and treatment of sickle cell anemia.
What is sickle cell anemia?
Sickle cell anemia It is an inherited blood disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells. Normally, red blood cells are flexible and round, enabling them to move easily through blood vessels and carry oxygen throughout the body, but in sickle cell anemia, red blood cells become stiff and crescent- or sickle-shaped.
This abnormal shape makes it difficult for sickle cells to pass through small blood vessels, which can lead to blockages and cause pain, organ damage, and other complications. Additionally, sickle cells have a shorter lifespan than normal red blood cells, leading to anemia (a lack of red blood cells) and related symptoms such as fatigue. There is currently no cure for sickle cell disease, but Ayurveda An ancient holistic healing system from India, Aloe offers a complementary approach to managing symptoms and supporting overall health and well-being.
Here are five Ayurvedic herbs known to potentially help manage symptoms related to sickle cell anemia:
5 Ayurvedic Herbs to Manage Sickle Cell Anemia
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha It is known to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to stress and supporting overall vitality. It may help increase energy levels, reduce fatigue and support immune function, making it beneficial for those with sickle cell disease.
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)
Guduchi Guduchi is valued in Ayurveda for its immunomodulatory properties. It may strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support overall health and well-being. Regular use of Guduchi may help people with sickle cell disease manage recurrent infections and speed recovery.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Turmeric is one of the most powerful herbs known for its strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. Some of these important properties of turmeric come from the presence of the bioactive compound curcumin. This herb may help reduce inflammation, relieve pain and support overall joint health, making it beneficial for those suffering from pain and discomfort due to sickle cell anemia.
Shatavari (Asparagus)
Shatavari is a rejuvenating herb known for its nourishing and cooling properties that may support healthy body function. Blood circulation, Improves energy levels and promotes overall vitality. Shatavari may be especially beneficial for sickle cell disease patients who experience feelings of fatigue and weakness.
Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa)
Punarnava is highly valued in the holistic world of Ayurveda for its powerful diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help support kidney function.It reduces fluid retention and promotes detoxification. Punarnava may be beneficial for sickle cell disease patients who suffer from complications such as kidney problems and fluid accumulation.
prevention
If you use Ayurvedic herbs for sickle cell anemia, consult with a medical professional about dosage and interactions with medications. Choose high-quality, reputable products, monitor for side effects, and be aware of individual differences. These herbs can complement, but not replace, conventional treatments.
Conclusion
World Sickle Cell Anemia Day is a reminder of the challenges faced by people living with this inherited blood disorder and the need for ongoing support, education and advocacy. Ayurvedic herbs offer promising adjunctive support in the management of sickle cell anemia. When incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan under the guidance of a medical professional, these herbs can contribute to improving the health and quality of life of people living with this inherited blood disorder.
(This article was reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy and has a keen interest in Ayurveda, Home Remedies, Yoga, Fitness, Diagnostics and Beauty. With around 6 years of experience, she creates evidence-based health content including articles, videos and infographics, providing valuable insights to her audience.
References:
1. Normative study of the components of Niprisan, a traditional Chinese medicine for sickle cell anemia
Authors: Obiageli O Obodozie 1, Sunday J Ameh, Ernest K Afolabi, Eunice O Oyedele, Theophilus A Ache, Cordelia E Onanuga, Martha C Ibe, Uford S Inyang
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22435571/#:~:text=Niprisan%C2%AE%20is%20an%20herbal,%5BPterocarpus%20osun%20(L.)
2. Traditional Herbal Treatment for Sickle Cell Anemia: Lessons from Nigeria
Authors: Sunday J Amer 1, Florence D Tarfa, Benjamin U Ebesi
References
Disclaimer:
The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned in the blog.
