Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis or "mono," is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This illness primarily affects adolescents and young adults, but it can occur in people of all ages.

Glandular fever is transmitted through close contact with bodily fluids, like saliva, primarily through kissing, sharing utensils, or coughing. The most common symptoms include extreme fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands in the neck, fever, and general flu-like symptoms.

While most individuals recover from glandular fever within a few weeks or months with proper rest and care, some may experience prolonged fatigue and other complications known as Chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia which may persist for years. 

Outsmarting glandular fever naturally requires a holistic approach that goes beyond simply relying on traditional treatments. While medications and rest play a crucial role, incorporating unconventional strategies can support a full recovery. Using a naturopathic or holistic approach involves building on mitochondrial function, reducing systemic inflammation, incorporating herbal medicine, optimising nutrition and using a tailored, personal approach.

Nutritional Medicine for EBV

Prioritising a nutrient-rich diet is essential to boost the immune system and help the body combat the virus. Including foods high in vitamins C and B-complex, as well as zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, can help to reduce inflammation, improve energy levels, and strengthen overall health.

Incorporating vitamin C into the treatment plan can aid in relieving these distressing symptoms and promoting a speedier recovery. Vitamin C not only supports the immune system by enhancing the production of white blood cells but also exhibits powerful antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation and combating the harmful effects of free radicals.

Additionally, studies have suggested that vitamin C intake during glandular fever may play a crucial role in alleviating the severity and duration of symptoms, making it a valuable adjunct therapy for patients battling this infectious disease.

A vitamin B complex, consisting of eight different B vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12. Each type of B vitamin has been shown to play a crucial role in supporting the immune system, enhancing energy levels, and promoting overall well-being. These vitamins are known to assist in maintaining healthy nerve function, synthesising energy from food, and combating stress. Therefore, incorporating a vitamin B complex supplement into the diet might prove beneficial for individuals recovering from glandular fever, providing them with a natural boost of essential nutrients to help restore their energy levels and support their immune system during their recovery journey.

Herbal Medicine for Glandular Fever

There are many excellent herbs that help the body combat EBV effectively.
Some herbal medicines act more as immune boosters such as Andrographis, whereas some herbs are more modulating such as Echinacea.
Furthermore blending herbs create a synergetic effect boosting the benefit even higher. Most importantly though, herbal medicine must be the best quality and ideally standardised to be sure it will actually be effective.

Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, cordyceps, coriolus and shiitake have been used in traditional Chinese medicine over many centuries to help with chronic viral and bacteria infections also. Over the past 5 years, there has been a boom in popularity in powdered combinations which can be added to smoothies or foods for an immune  tonic effect.

Convalesce In Glandular Fever

Almost always, a doctor will tell you to "take it easy", but it can be hard to stay still when the rest of the world isn’t slowing down. You might have children to care for or a business to run while trying to recover!

Eventhough life might still be demanding you to get out of bed and complete "necessary" tasks, nothing is more important than allowing yourself time to convalesce. In the 21st century most people might not even know what this means because society almost does not allow it. 

Without adequate time to rest the body, your immune system can suffer, and this leads to a longer recovery time.

Taking the time to rest can mean many things, including:

• Taking time off work or school wherever possible;
• Adding relaxation/meditation time into your schedule;
• Setting boundaries and avoiding over-extending yourself; and
• Achieving between seven and eight hours of sleep per night, getting to bed by 10 pm at the latest.

Try making these pointers daily goals, so that you can properly convalesce and move forward in your healing journey

Additionally, alternative therapies such as, aromatherapy, and acupuncture have shown promising results in reducing symptoms and promoting faster healing. Finally, engaging in gentle exercise, such as yoga or tai chi, can help to reduce fatigue, improve circulation, and support overall well-being. By combining these unconventional strategies with conventional treatments, individuals can increase their chances of recovering fully from glandular fever and regain their vitality.

For personalised support from an expert naturopath practitioner, get in touch or schedule an appointment now.