Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis, is a viral infection most common in teenagers and young adults. It is caused by either the Epstein-Barr virus or the cytomegalo virus. Both viruses are spread in saliva, and this has earned glandular fever the nickname ‘the kissing disease’. Symptoms include a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes (glands), headaches, a fever and exhaustion. Glandular fever usually lasts for about 6 weeks, although it can take months to restore energy levels and some people experience recurrent attacks of fever and weakness.
Dietary Advice For Glandular Fever
A short fast can help activate the immune system to fight the virus. Drink plenty of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, water with a dash of fresh lemon juice and herbal teas for 24 hours. Over the next 24 hours continue with the fluids and eat only fruit, salads, lightly steamed vegetables, small amounts of wholegrain cereals and a little fish, poultry and eggs for protein. Exclude all refined and sugary foods from your diet, and avoid alcohol and caffeine until you have recovered.
Supplements that can speed recovery include 1 to 2 one-a-day garlic capsules and 500 to 1000 mg vitamin C a day.
Complimentary Remedies For Glandular Fever
As soon as you feel ill start taking echinacea tincture to enhance immunity.
To support the immune system and relieve aches and pains take an aromatic bath using 6 to 8 drops of any of the following essential oils, or a combination of 2 or 3: lavender, juniper berry, tea tree (6 drops max), Scots pine (6 drops max), rosemary, helichrysum.
For additional benefits briskly rub the following mixture into your skin after your bath: 25 ml grapeseed or sweet almond oil, 3 drops tea tree, 4 drops lavender.
You could also add 2 drops tea tree, 2 drops lemon, 4 drops helichrysum (or rosemary) to 2 tsp carrier oil and apply to swollen lymph nodes (glands) 2 to 3 times a day. This mixture is quite strong, so do not apply to the whole body.
To ease a sore throat and help kill the virus, gargle with the following 2 to 3 times a day, making a fresh mixture each time: 1 teacup warm water, 2 tsp cider vinegar, 1 drop lemon essential oil, 1 drop tea tree, ½ to 1 tsp clear honey. Stir well.
Professional herbal, homeopathic or traditional Chinese medicine may help.
