(Infectious Mononucleosis)
Contents:
Definition | Causes | Symptoms | Nutrients
Herbs | Recommendations | Suggestions | Resources | Bibliography
Definition
Mononucleosis is the presence of an abnormally high number of mononuclear leukocytes in the blood. Infectious Mononucleosis is an acute infectious disease that affects lymphoid tissue primarily. Characterized by enlarged, often tender, lymph nodes and enlarged spleen with great increase of atypical or abnormal mononuclear leukocytes in the blood. Abnormal liver function test will be found in about 90% of cases.
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Causes
The disease is associated with the
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Symptoms
Blood contains heterophile antibodies. There is no specific therapy, but for serious complications (for example: anemia, pharyngeal swelling interfering with swallowing), cortisone is indicated.
This infectious viral disease affects the respiratory system and the lymph tissues and glands in the neck, groin, armpits, bronchial tubes, spleen, and liver. Symptoms include: fever, sore throat, swollen glands, fatigue, headache, jaundice, and generalized aching. Often mistaken for the flu.
Bed rest is essential during the acute phase. Antibiotics are of no use unless there is a secondary infection.
Adequate rest, exercise, and good nutrition are essential in prevention of mononucleosis. Protein is needed to stimulate formation of antibodies, which protect against jaundice and hepatitis that may complicate mononucleosis.
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Nutrients
Germanium, 100 mg. twice a day, is essential for the immune system.
Acidophilus, taken as directed on the label, provides “good” bacteria, especially while taking antibiotics.
Proteolytic enzymes,
Multivitamin and mineral complex, taken as directed on the label, is necessary for normal cellular function and repair.
Calcium,
Magnesium,
Potassium,
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Herbs
- Burdock root
- Cat’s Claw
- Dandelion
- Echinacea
- Elderberry
- Garlic
- Ginkgo
- Goldenseal
- Honeysuckle
- Lemon Balm
- Licorice Root
- Nettle
- Pau d’arco
- Red Clover
- Turmeric
- Valerian
- Wheatgrass
Recommendations
Plenty of rest and proper diet are essential for rapid healing. A diet of 50% raw foods in recommended.
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Suggestions
Avoid sugar, processed foods, soft drinks, stimulants, coffee, tea, and white flour products. They often are toxic and depress the immune system. Drink
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Resources
Medical Medium Blog: Epstein-Barr Virus
Bibliography
The Nature Doctor: A Manual of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, by Dr. H.C.A. Vogel; Keats Publishing, Inc., 27 Pine Street (Box 876) New Canaan, CT. 06840-0876. Copyright Verlag A. Vogel, Teufen (AR) Switzerland 1952, 1991
Planetary Herbology, by Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., O.M.D., Lotus Press, PO Box 325, Twin Lakes. WI 53181., Copyright 1988, published 1992
Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Fifth Edition: A Practical A-to-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs & Food Supplements, by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., Avery Publishing Group, Inc., Garden City Park, NY
Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary, 15th Edition, F. A. Davis Company, 1915 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103