Natural Remedies for Scurvy

Scurvy is a disease that is often associated with tales of sailors and pirates, and this period in human history is probably when the disease was most common. Scurvy is essentially caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, and for a long time, it was difficult to stock much of vegetables and fruits on ships. As a result, it was common for sailors to develop scurvy after a few months at sea, with the typical symptoms of paleness, depression, fatigue, and body ache. Scurvy also affects the skin, causing roughness and spots, as well as easy bruising. The gums too become weak and soft, often bleeding, and the teeth tend to become loose. Eventually, if its progress is unchecked, scurvy can lead to jaundice, fluid retention, convulsions, and finally death.

Today of course we know the cause of scurvy, and we know that it can be cured easily. However, this does not mean that the condition has been completely eradicated. In nations affected by war or natural disasters, malnutrition is often widespread, and one of the results is scurvy. In more prosperous, modern societies, scurvy is quite rare, but it does occur. People who smoke and drink heavily may sometimes be deficient in vitamin C, because absorption and metabolism of this vitamin is affected by such habits. In other cases scurvy may occur simply because a person’s diet is extremely unbalanced and deficient. However, most cases are probably found among infants. This tends to affect only infants fed pasteurized, bottled milk without any vitamin supplements or other foods. Breast milk is a natural source of vitamin C, but most bottled milk does not contain this vitamin because it is destroyed in the process of pasteurization. The simplest and most effective way to solve this problem is to provide the child with vitamin C supplements – however, this should be done in consultation with a doctor, so as to determine the appropriate dosage, and the need for any other nutritional supplements.

In adults too, the best and simplest way to treat scurvy is to address the deficiency. Fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, lemons, strawberries, tomatoes, and carrots, should be consumed in plenty. Some animal foods are also rich in vitamin C, particularly oysters and beef liver. In rare, severe cases, artificial supplements in the form of tablets or capsules may be needed – this will usually be decided by the doctor treating the patient.