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Natural and Alternative Treatments for Epstein Barr and Mononucleosis

A TBYIL guest article by JB Bardot
See other articles by JB Bardot

Epstein-Barr is the virus that causes mononucleosis. Most adults have antibodies providing immunity to mono. Epstein-Barr is often confused with chronic fatigue syndrome because the symptoms are similar. There may be fever, fatigue and weakness along with other symptoms that are unresponsive to antibiotics. Certain alternative treatments may relieve symptoms, although some remedies may also produce side effects. A natural health practitioner should be consulted before if you're unfamiliar with any particular remedy.

Homeopathic Mercurius Solubis

The symptoms of mononucleosis may respond to treatment with the homeopathic remedy, Mercurius solubis. The person needing Mercurius may have a terribly painful sore throat with drooling and salivation. There may be indentations from the teeth along the side of the tongue, and the person's breath and body odor may be offensive. In addition there may be profuse sweating, sensitivity to any change in temperature, weakness and swollen glands in the neck and groin. There may be a strong urge to swallow and great thirst. If Mercurius solubis is not helpful, another remedy may be indicated.

Echinacea Purpurea

The herb echinacea is known as an immune system tonic and a blood cleanser. It has been used world-wide for centuries to treat a variety of diseases both bacterial and viral in nature. Echinacea is available in capsules and as an herbal extract that can be taken in juice or water. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 900mg daily for 5 to 7 days. Echinacea should not be taken for a prolonged period after the illness has subsided.

Astragulus

Astragulus is an herb used in Chinese medicine to build the immune system and as an overall health tonic. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that although there is no scientific research, anecdotal evidence suggests that astragulus has anti-viral and antiseptic properties. Astragulus may be helpful in the treatment of fatigue and weakness, symptoms that are common in Epstein-Barr. Astragulus may act as a diuretic or produce other side effects.

Homeopathic Arsenicum Album

The remedy Arsenicum may relieve certain symptoms of fatigue and weakness associated with Epstein-Barr and chronic fatigue syndrome. The person needing Arsenicum may experience trembling with muscle pain, aching in joints, chilliness and burning pains in the throat, digestive tract and elsewhere in the body. There may be muscle fatigue upon the slightest bit of exertion and a fear loosing control. The person may feel anxious, thirsty for sips of cold water or hot drinks.

Cranberry Juice

Cranberries are high in antioxidants, vitamin C and anthocyanins, all substances that fight free radicals and enhance the immune system. Eating cranberries or drinking cranberry juice may be helpful in fighting off the Epstien-Barr virus and for strengthening your system. Use only unsweetened cranberry juice concentrate and dilute with water to taste. Sweeten with stevia or honey. Cranberry juice is also an excellent flush for the kidneys and help to clear toxins from the blood.

Fish Oil

The University of Maryland Medical Center mentions that fish oil supplements, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, may boost your immune system if you have Epstein-Barr virus. They recommend taking one or two capsules of high-quality fish oil daily derived from salmon, sardines, herring or cod. Fish oil can thin the blood, so if you use blood-thinning medicines, consult your health practitioner before adding these supplements to your daily regimen.

Sources:

Holistic Online: Homeopathy
http://www.holisticonline.com/Remedies/cfs/cfs_homeopathy.htm
“Synoptic Materia Medica“; Frans Vermeulen; 1992
University of Maryland Medical Center: Mononucleosis
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/mononucleosis-000109.htm

Copyright 2012 Jean JB Bardot, all rights reserved worldwide

About the author:

JB Bardot is trained in herbal medicine and homeopathy, and has a post graduate degree in holistic nutrition. Bardot cares for both people and animals, using alternative approaches to health care and lifestyle. She writes about wellness, green living, alternative medicine, holistic nutrition, homeopathy, herbs and naturopathic medicine.

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