Mononucleosis Treatment – Herbs

It is a fact that prescription drugs can cause more harm than good during mononucleosis treatment. Fortunately, there are some fantastic herbs you can take to boost your immune system and relieve your symptoms naturally.

Let’s take a look at the most popular:

Echinacea

Echinacea stimulates the immune system by increasing the activity of white blood cells. It has been shown to support the lymphatic system and relieve glandular inflammation.

Echinacea is usually taken as a tincture (in an alcohol base). It is also available in capsule or tablet form for those who do not like liquids. During mononucleosis treatment, you can take echinacea every 2 hours, gradually decreasing the frequency to three times a day as symptoms improve.

When shopping for echinacea, try to get a mix of Echinacea purpurea root with Echinacea augustifolia. This appears to be the most effective combination for monotherapy.

olive leaf extract

One of the most effective herbs for mononucleosis treatment is olive leaf extract. This wonder herb stimulates phagocytosis, the process by which white blood cells ingest harmful microorganisms and foreign matter.

Olive leaf extract can be taken in capsule or liquid form three times a day.

Astragalus

Astragalus is particularly useful for the treatment of chronic mononucleosis, as it strengthens the immune system and rebuilds strength and stamina. It is the herb of choice for persistent or recurring infections.

Astragalus should not be used in children with a fever because, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, it can make the fever last longer or become more intense. The effects of astragalus on the immune system make it inappropriate while taking corticosteroids, antivirals, or immunosuppressive drugs.

Herbs to reduce mucus.

If you have a lot of mucus in your respiratory tract, garlic, horseradish, fenugreek, goldenseal, and licorice are particularly good. Sage or thyme are also excellent when made into a tea and drunk three times a day.

Herbs to reduce fever

For high fever, coriander tea or cleavers can bring the temperature down and make you feel a little more comfortable. A tea can be made from 2 teaspoons of filtered crushed coriander seeds in 1 cup of boiling water for 20 minutes. For cleavers tea, use 2 to 3 teaspoons of the dried herb (stems and small leaves) per cup of water. Drink 1 cup three times a day.

Herbs for anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Certain herbs called “nervines” may help reduce anxiety, tension, and stress associated with mononucleosis treatment. Valerian is the best known nerve reliever and a mild, non-addictive sedative. Skullcap, hops, and passion flower are also helpful. St. John’s wort (Hypericum) is particularly good for mild depression. Ginseng is an herb famous for protecting the body against stress and fatigue. It is particularly useful for the treatment of mononucleosis, as it works on strengthening the adrenal glands, which are often exhausted or depleted in this disease.

buying your herbs

You can buy your herbs alone or combined in a commercial preparation at your health food store. They can also be made specifically for you by an herbalist. Most herbs are available in tea, liquid, tablet, or capsule form.