Mononucleosis in adults typically affects the adrenal glands causing fatigue, poor immunity, impaired hormone health and low sex drive. In menstruating women the hormonal balance can result in inadequate progesterone being produced in the second half of the menstrual cycle. Oestrogen remains as the dominant hormone leading to PMT, breast soreness, headaches, irregular periods and heavy, painful periods.

In severe cases of mono when there is a lot of weight loss due to poor appetite, nausea or vomiting, a female’s menstrual cycle may stop altogether for weeks or months.

So what can be done to support hormone health during a bout of mono?

Firstly nutrients like vitamin C, the B complex, vitamin E, zinc, magnesium and the omega 3 fats can nourish the body’s glands and help to re-balance hormones.

Secondly a good liver cleanse can help the body eliminate excess hormones like oestrogen as

well as toxins. Avoiding liver-toxic foods like coffee, alcohol, excess fats, drugs and preservatives will also help.

Lastly there are some good herbal remedies which can be used safely to re-balance hormones. These herbs include Vitex agnus-castus or chaste tree which helps the pituitary gland in the brain to synchronize the female menstrual cycle. To boost sex drive in both men and women, the herb Tribulus is traditionally used. To support adrenal health and to boost energy, ginseng and licorice are showing promising results

Hormone health during mononucleosis in adults can be a diffcult condition to treat however natural treatments offer an effective solution. For more information on treating mononucleosis in adults please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.