How to Treat Snake and Rabid Dog Bites with a Natural Remedy

Snake bites and rabid dog bites are common accidents, especially in rural and mountainous areas. If not properly treated, they can lead to serious complications, resulting in disability or even death.

Each year, between 30,000 and 40,000 people worldwide are bitten by venomous snakes, with around 2,000 fatalities. In the United States, 6,000 to 8,000 people are bitten by snakes annually, with 9% of fatalities caused by cobra bites and 0.2% by pit viper bites.

At the Emergency Intensive Care Unit of Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi, the death rate from cobra bites between 1987 and 1991 was 20%, between 1991 and 1993 it was 11.9% (out of 71 patients), and from January to October 1998, it was 7% (out of 86 patients). There were no fatalities due to pit viper bites.

The Medicinal Plant That Detoxifies Wounds

A remedy to neutralize toxins from snake and rabid dog bites is the Plantago asiatica (commonly known as plantain). This plant is effective in drawing toxins out of wounds caused by bites.

Plantain, scientifically named Plantago asiatica L., is a perennial plant with short stems and leaves that grow in clusters at the base. The leaves have a spoon or egg-shaped appearance with distinct veins running down the middle. The flowers are arranged in spikes, with four sepals and a brownish corolla.

Modern research has shown that plantain contains a chemical compound called aucubin, which is known for its detoxifying properties and its ability to protect the liver. This makes it highly effective in absorbing toxins and even small glass shards from the skin. Plantain leaves are also used to soothe insect, dog, and snake bites.

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Traditional Remedy for Snake and Rabid Dog Bites:

1. Immediately After the Bite:

   • Take about 10 fresh plantain leaves (including the stems) and have the victim chew them thoroughly in their mouth, swallowing the juice. The leftover plantain pulp should be used as a poultice and applied directly to the wound.

2. If the Victim is Unconscious:

   • In case the person is unconscious, mash the plantain leaves, extract the juice, and pour it into the victim's mouth. The pulp should be applied to the wound to help detoxify the bite area. The aucubin in plantain will quickly absorb the toxins and provide effective relief.

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Important Notes:

• This remedy can be used for both adults and children over the age of 1. However, the dosage varies depending on age.

• After administering first aid with plantain at home, it’s crucial to take the victim to the nearest medical facility for further treatment.

Plantain's detoxifying and healing properties can provide a natural, effective way to treat snake and rabid dog bites, offering a safer alternative to conventional methods.