Nov 24 2009
Epstein Barr Syndrome Treatment – Pain and Inflammation
Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment needs to address how to relieve pain and inflammation in both the acute and chronic stages of this illness.
A lot of pain and soreness associated with the Epstein Barr virus comes from inflammation of the throat, glands, liver and muscles. Inflammation is characterized by pain, heat, redness and swelling. There is also a reduction in function of the affected area. In some people, complete healing from Epstein Barr Syndrome never occurs, and chronic inflammation sets in.
The good news is that there are some fantastic foods that you can use during Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment to naturally reduce inflammation and to ease the discomfort of being sick. The beauty of these foods is that, unlike conventional medication, there are no side effects and it is impossible to overdose on them.
Let’s have a look at the foods I prescribe for my patients during Epstein Barr Syndrome Treatment…
Turmeric
Turmeric is a pungent, astringent spice that acts as a potent anti-inflammatory and antibiotic. It is also strengthening and energizing. Turmeric has a lovely yellow color and is the main ingredient in curry powder.
You can buy turmeric fresh as a root, which looks a bit like ginger, or you can get it as a powder from the spice section of your supermarket. Turmeric can be taken as a tea, or added to soups, curries, stir fries or casseroles. It should be included in your diet daily during Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment.
Ginger
Ginger is a pungent spice known for its warming properties and its anti-inflammatory action. It is ideal for soothing sore throats and aching muscles and to help quell the nausea that sometimes occurs during Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment.
Fresh ginger root is readily available and seems to be more effective than the powder. Ginger root can be juiced in small amounts and diluted into fresh vegetable or fruit juices (it goes well with carrot and celery). It can also be finely grated and used in teas, soups or stir fries. Some health food shops stock Ginger Syrup – a combination of ginger mixed with medicinal honey and apple cider vinegar. It acts as a soothing throat tonic and tastes delicious!
Garlic
Garlic is a tremendous cure-all for any infection. It is excellent for Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment as it supports the liver and helps digestion. Garlic is also a powerful preventative that stops secondary infections like strep throat from developing.
During Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment I tell my patients to take a clove of garlic a day, preferably raw. The easiest way to eat a clove a garlic a day is to crush or dice it finely, and add it to salad dressings or a couple of tablespoons of natural yoghourt with some diced cucumber to make a tasty tzatziki. You can also drink crushed garlic as a hot tea, or add a clove to your daily juice.
Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper is a renowned anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. It depletes the pain-causing chemicals produced by nerve endings in the throat, so is invaluable during Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment.
Cayenne is typically used as a throat gargle. Just mix a pinch of cayenne pepper in 1/4 cup warm water. Gargle as needed. Cayenne can also be taken internally, although care should be taken as it can irritate sensitive tissues. You can make an effective cayenne tea by adding 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper and ½ teaspoon grated ginger into boiling water. Add a little honey to taste if needed and sip slowly.
Sea salt
Sea salt promotes salivation and sweating and can help improve digestion. Mixed with a small amount of warm water, sea salt is a powerful throat gargle that soothes an irritated throat and helps wash away the mucous, toxins and microbes from the throat.
For relieving a sore throat during Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment, gargle with ¼ teaspoon sea salt in ¼ cup of warm water. Repeat 3 times a day or as often as needed.
Fish oil
Deep sea oily fish, like salmon, sardines, tuna, mackerel and herrings, are a rich source of Omega 3 fats. These fats are essential for optimal immune function, and act as natural anti-inflammatories. They should be included daily as part of an Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment plan.
Eating deep sea fish three times a week, or taking at least 2000 mg of a contaminant-free fish oil capsule daily, is recommended. Cod liver oil is also an excellent option as it combines the vitamin A and D with the essential fish oil.
For further information on Epstein Barr Syndrome treatment please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.
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