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Natural remedy for the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis.

Mono

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What is Mono?
Diagnosing Mono
What Causes Mono?
Help for Mono

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What is Mono?

Mono (also known as Infectious Mononucleosis) is a viral infection often affecting young adults from 12-35 years old. It can also be referred to as Glandular Fever.

Diagnosing Mono

If you are suffering from symptoms of Mononucleosis it is important to consult a health care provider who will perform a physical exam. If after observation Mono is still suspected, a blood test will be done to confirm the diagnosis.

What are the Symptoms of Mono?

Symptoms of Mononucleosis arise three to seven weeks after infection with the virus. Some people may have no symptoms at all but most typically symptoms include:

Fatigue
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Sore throat
Enlarged glands

What Causes Mono?

Infectious mononucleosis is most commonly caused by a virus known as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Mono is usually spread through infected saliva - that is why it is often called "the Kissing disease". Transmission of the virus requires prolonged and repeated exposure to infectious saliva – and often people have no idea how they contracted Mono.

People with infectious mononucleosis are contagious for months after the virus! Once a person has been infected with the Epstein-Barr virus it stays in the body even after recovery and although that individual could develop Mono again this is not common. The best way to prevent the spread of the virus is to not kiss or share food, drinks or eating utensils with an infected person.

Help for Mono

Since it is a viral illness, antibiotics are not effective in treating Mono. If a secondary infection develops, such as a strep throat or sinus infection, then antibiotics can be prescribed for treatment. Tylenol or Advil may be used for fever, body aches or throat pain. Extra rest is highly recommended. Most symptoms of Mononucleosis usually resolve in one to two weeks, but it may take several weeks to months for full recovery.

Students may attend classes as tolerated but sports with a lot of physical contact are not recommended for 4-8 weeks since the virus can also affect the spleen causing it to become enlarged. If an enlarged spleen is hit or strained it could rupture causing severe internal bleeding. Additionally, mono may cause liver inflammation. It is, therefore, important not to drink alcohol since this could further damage the liver.

Natural Remedies for Mono

Natural and holistic treatments have proven to be a wonderful alternative to traditional medicines in providing relief for the symptoms of viral infections, including Mono. Herbal and homeopathic remedies can be greatly beneficial in restoring balance in the body and harmonizing body systems.

Herbs such as Silybum marianus (Milk Thistle) can be used to maintain healthy liver functioning and give additional support to the liver when it is put under strain as in the case of Infectious Mononucleosis.

Herbs such as Hypoxis Rooperi (extract of African Potato) contain phytosterols and Sterolins, which help to modulate the effect of the immune system and enhance its performance – and double as a convalescent or strengthening tonic when the body is run down due to illness.

Olea europea (extract of olive leaf) contains a proven compound called oleuropein acid that can assist the fight against numerous viruses, bacteria and fungi. It has been beneficial in the treatment of people with viral illnesses such as Epstein-Barr disease, Infectious Mononucleosis and Glandular Fever.