Garlic was used by the ancient Egyptians to treat infections and wounds, by the Greeks and Romans for tumours, wounds and infection, and by the Chinese for fatigue, infections and tumours. In both World Wars it was used in wounds to stop infection, where no other antiseptics were available. It saved thousands of lives helping troops recover from typhus and dysentery and preventing gangrene.

Research shows that garlic oil contains a sulphur compound called allicin which has strong anti microbial properties – perfect for mononucleosis treatment. It can slow the growth or kill more than 60 species of fungi, more than 20 species of bacteria, and many viruses.

When garlic is consumed as a food, a sulphur-type odour can be smelt on the breath or skin as the garlic metabolites are excreted. The recommended dosage is 1-3 cloves a day – preferably raw. Those with a sensitive stomach may need to cook the garlic slightly or use the enteric coated capsules. The odourless garlic capsules may not be as effective as the active compounds may be lessened. If you are worried about the garlic smell on your breath you can chew on a sprig of parsley to take the smell away.

The other option I recommend during mononucleosis treatment, which makes ingestion of garlic a bit easier is to make up ¼ cup each of apple cider vinegar, honey and soy sauce. Pour into a screw top jar and fill to the top with as many peeled garlic cloves as can fit. Alternatively fill a screw top jar with peeled garlic cloves and cover with olive oil. You can take 1 teaspoon of these mixtures every 1 – 4 hours during mononucleosis treatment. These liquids can also be used as dressings on salads or vegetables in everyday cooking. They will last in the fridge for a few weeks after making.

For babies or young children who can’t tolerate garlic or take tablets, a garlic poultice (or compress), can be effective for mononucleosis treatment. Simply crush a clove of garlic, wrap it in gauze and tape it to the soles of the feet. It is a good idea to oil the soles of the feet with some olive oil first, because direct contact with the garlic may irritate the skin. The garlic oil will be absorbed into the blood stream and help fight the infection.

When my boys were younger, I would apply garlic compresses to the soles of their feet at bedtime. By morning, they might have had a slight garlic odour, but the infection had always improved.

Garlic is generally very safe but in some people can cause heartburn or gas when ingested. Because it has a blood-thinning effect it should be used with caution for those on anticoagulant medication or those undergoing surgery.

Garlic for mononucleosis treatment is a safe, cost effective option for those struggling with this nasty virus. For further information on natural mononucleosis treatment please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Here’s some of the health benefits of whey protein for mono treatment:

• supports the immune system as it contains valuable immunoglobulins
• boosts your body’s production of glutathione – a powerful antioxidant which helps remove toxins from your body
• helps you preserve and build muscle mass. Whey is excellent for rebuilding muscle mass during mono treatment as it delivers bio available amino acids like cysteine
• helps stabilise your blood sugar and insulin production
• accelerates the fat burning process
• prevents bone loss so is particularly useful in the elderly

Whey protein is readily available as a powder from health food shops, naturopaths and online retailers. It is important to choose non-denatured whey protein. Look for a brand that does not expose the whey to high temperatures. This will ensure the vital whey protein fractions like immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and glycomacro peptides are retained. Avoiding whey protein with added sugar is vital during mononucleosis as sugar acts as an immune suppressant. You can get healthy whey protein powders which are naturally sweetened with a non-glycemic extract like stevia.

Whey protein can be simply blended with milk, soy milk, rice milk, yoghurt or water for a delicious smoothie. You can add some frozen berries, banana or fresh fruit for extra taste. Some of my patients who are undergoing mono treatment like to add a raw egg, flaxseed oil or raw coconut oil for an added immune boost.

Whey protein is an excellent protein source that can be used in your mono treatment plan. For further information on whey protein plus recipes please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. The e-book reveals how to boost your immunity with the use of nutritional supplements, herbs, homeopathics, aromatherapy oil, diet, graded exercise, stress management and detoxification. Elizabeth offers 30 days of personal email support if you need advice or guidance on your individual concerns.

Nuts and seeds
Raw nuts and seeds are a good source of healthy fats and protein. They should be eaten in moderation. A small handful a day is a good guide. Try almonds, brazil nuts, cashews, pine nuts, walnuts, macadamias and hazelnuts. Seeds are also a wonderful food. Experiment with pumpkin, sunflower, sesame and linseeds. They make a nice topping for a stir fry, salad or yoghurt dish.

During mononucleosis treatment use the unsalted, raw varieties of nuts and seeds, or you can dry roast your own for a lovely crunchy texture. Nut and seed butters are good as spreads or you can make them into creamy dressings with lemon juice and water. When buying nut butters make sure they are sugar-free as sugar can suppress immunity during mononucleosis treatment.

Oils
The healthiest oils to buy are the cold pressed varieties, especially olive oil, canola oil and linseed (flaxseed) oil. They contain the healthy essential fatty acids which are vital in repairing the cell membranes during mononucleosis treatment. Linseed oil and virgin olive oil can be used in a salad dressing, in smoothies or on toast or cereals. They should not be used for cooking which destroys  their valuable nutrients. The essential omega 3 fats are highest in the fish oils. Deep sea oily fish like salmon, tuna, sardines and herring or a fish oil supplement should be eaten at least three times a week.

Butter and spreads
Butter is made from milk products and contains Vitamins A and D. It is high in healthy short chain saturated fat. Tasty alternatives to butter are avocado, tahini, hummus, linseed oil, olive oil and nut butters. Do not use margarine – the process of converting a liquid vegetable oil into a solid mass generates trans fatty acids – a dangerous source of free radicals. Margarine is not recommended during mononucleosis treatment.

Eating healthy fats is an important part of your mononucleosis treatment plan. For food lists and recipes please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

So what mononucleosis treatments can you undertake to help relieve these painful conditions? Here’s a few to get you started…

• Firstly in the acute stage of mono when symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands, fever, muscle aches and joint pain are common, the best remedy is best rest. Lie on a firm but comfortable mattress that allows you to rest and sleep well. If your back is sore, you can elevate your legs to take pressure off your back. Simply place a small pillow under your knees when lying on your back. If lying on your side, then place the pillow between your knees.

• If you can manage to get into a bath, a hot Epsom salt bath, which is high in magnesium can improve circulation, relax muscles and bring prompt pain relief.

• For a specific area of pain, you can apply a hot water bottle or heat pack to that part of the body. Some people prefer an ice pack, especially for a recent injury, or alternating heat and cold.

• A crucial part of mononucleosis treatment is the use of nutritional supplementation to support the healing process. For back, muscle and joint pain and inflammation, the most important nutrients are magnesium, the B complex, zinc, vitamin C and the essential fatty acids. For longer term problems like arthritis, torn cartilage or damaged ligaments, the use of chrondroitin or glucosamine are beneficial. These supplements can help to re-build damaged tissues.

• Diet plays a vital role in mononucleosis treatment. Aim for a high protein, low carbohydrate diet that includes plenty of alkaline vegetables and fruit. The use of the essential fats like those found in fish oils, flaxseed oil and raw nuts and seeds can help to reduce inflammation.

• When you are over the acute infection, mononucleosis treatment needs to address graded exercise. To start with, low impact exercises like yoga, tai chi, swimming or elliptical training are suitable. As you get stronger it is important to build up muscle tone, particularly in the abdomen and back. If you have a good, strong muscle tone, you are less likely to injure your back in the future. Exercises like sit ups, push ups, weight lifting, yoga, walking, swimming, jogging and cycling are good choices.

• Before you incorporate exercise into your mononucleosis treatment plan, it is advisable to get the all-clear from your doctor. Sometimes the spleen can remain enlarged. This increases the risk of exercise rupturing the spleen and causing further complications.

Natural mononucleosis treatment can go a long way in alleviating back, muscle and joint problems associated with this nasty illness. For further information on these therapies plus more, please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Sluggish bowels and constipation are the bane of modern civilisation. When the bowel is under- functioning, it causes toxins to be reabsorbed back into your blood stream making you feel ill and off colour, giving you bad breath, bloating, headaches, low energy and bad skin. It will also make your mononucleosis treatment plan ineffective.

With chronic constipation you slowly poison the system and may contribute to chronic disease like diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, poor immunity and bowel cancer.

I have met patients who only pass a stool motion once every week! Some patients think they are regular. Going to the toilet to pass a stool every second or third day may be regular but it is not healthy. It is still constipation. You should be passing a stool at least once a day.

The easy answer for constipation is not a laxative. This will just make your bowel lazy so it becomes reliant on higher and higher doses of laxatives to get it moving.

Tho best way to cure constipation during mononucleosis treatment is to do a natural bowel cleanse. This involves removing any bad bacteria and parasites with a gentle anti-microbial supplement. Replenishing the healthy gut flora like acidophillus and bifido is the next step. A healthy fibre rich diet, lots of pure water and specific foods like paw paw, pineapple, kiwi, peppermint, ginger, psyllium and slippery elm will also support the digestive system to remain healthy.

Addressing liver function is also essential, particularly during mononucleosis treatment when the liver is under stress from the Epstein Barr virus. The liver plays an important role in digestion as it produces bile which breaks down dietary fats in the intestines.

During mononucleosis treatment, I recommend all my patients do a liver and bowel cleanse. This can be repeated yearly to ensure that your health stays in tip top condition. You can purchase a good bowel and liver cleanser from a naturopath or purchase a reputable brand like the Blessed Herbs Internal Cleansing Kit online :

http://blessedherbs.com/?af=1254&d=single&item_id=3882

For more details on how to do a bowel and liver cleanse during mononucleosis treatment please refer to my e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures”. Supercharge your digestive system and reap the benefits of improved immunity, terrific well being and improved health.

In the initial phase of the illness it is advisable to avoid exercise altogether. Typically in the first couple of weeks of infection, symptoms like fever, fatigue, swollen glands and a sore throat make exercise uncomfortable. These symptoms are best treated with lots of rest and quality sleep. If you continue to exercise in this stage you may worsen your symptoms or prolong your recovery.

In weeks 2 and 3 of the infection, about 50% of mono patients will suffer from an enlarged spleen. When treating infectious mononucleosis at this stage it vital to avoid exercise as it can rupture the spleen with dramatic complications. The liver can also be enlarged causing pressure and discomfort in the abdominal area. If you are an athlete, weight lifter or play contact sport it is a good idea to consult with your doctor before returning to your sport so they can check your spleen is fine.

When you get the go ahead to resume exercise from your doctor it is recommended that you start a graded exercise program starting with some gentle stretching or walking. Even 10-15 minutes a day is a good start. As you get stronger you can gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts till you are up to 3 – 6 sessions of at least half an hour every week.

When treating infectious mononucleosis, if you find exercise worsens your mono symptoms or causes muscle cramps, extreme exhaustion, swollen glands or headaches then your body may still be fighting the virus and it is best to slow down.

To help your body recover from exercise when treating infectious mononucleosis, it is worthwhile adding some nutrients like magnesium and the B complex. The use of vitamin C, zinc and the omega 3 fats can help quell inflammation like muscle soreness and pain. The herb ginseng can be helpful to fortify your adrenal glands and increase your exercise tolerance.

Keeping yourself well hydrated before, during and after exercise is important whether or not you are treating infectious mononucleosis. Aim for 2-3 litres a day. If you overdo your exercise and end up with sore muscles or fatigue then you can aid your recovery by having an Epsom salt bath (2 cups to a hot bath) before bed. Epsom salts are naturally high in magnesium which acts as a muscle relaxant on aching muscles.

For more information on treating infectious mononucleosis and when to exercise please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Nutrients to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

The mineral magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant that is showing promising effects on the pain and inflammation seen in mono. Magnesium should be taken as a powder or capsule along with magnesium-rich foods like fish, avocado, raw nuts and seeds, soybeans, green leafy vegetables, brown rice, apples, apricots and grapefruit.

Anti-inflammatory nutrients like high dose vitamin C, fish oil and zinc should be an essential part of your regime. The B complex is recommended to optimize nerve function and help relieve the fatigue that is so common during this illness.

Quality sleep to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

Restoration of normal sleep patterns is an essential part of the mono recovery process. Herbs like valerian, skull cap, hops and chamomile are excellent to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Epsom salt baths which are naturally high in magnesium should also be taken nightly before bedtime. These baths reduce muscle pain and tension and help you sleep well. Gentle exercise during the day – either a walk, swim or stretching exercises can also help you sleep better at night.

Chiropractic therapy to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

My mononucleosis treatment approach always ascertains if a patient’s hips or spine are out of alignment. This is best done by a referral to a chiropractor, osteopath or physiotherapist. If a nerve is being compressed then realigning the spine can give effective pain relief.

Diet to relieve pain and inflammation during mononucleosis treatment

I recommend my mono patients follow a low carb, high protein diet based around good quality protein foods and plenty of fresh leafy greens and other vegetables. Sugar, grains and the nightshade family of foods like tomatoes, eggplant, chilli, potatoes and capsicum, should be eliminated as they can trigger pain and soreness in sensitive people.

Anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, berries and the omega 3 fish oils (at least 5g a day), should be included in the diet. Remember too to drink plenty of pure water – at least 2-3 litres a day to help flush the acids and toxins out of your body.

If your headaches or body pains are prolonged or severe, it is important that you get a check with your doctor. There may be other conditions like allergy, nerve problems, low blood sugar, hormonal imbalances, fibromyalgia or anemia that may be contributing to your condition.

Headaches and muscle aches need to be addressed during your recovery from mono. They can be a life-draining and debilitating part of this illness. If you need further information on natural mononucleosis treatment then please refer to my e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures”.

So how do you go about optimizing levels of brain chemicals and hormones in order to regulate your appetite and stop cravings in their tracks? There are 5 strategies which I use effectively with my patients.

Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 1 – Stabilize your blood sugar
By following a pattern of regular, balanced meals, you will be providing a constant supply of fuel and nutrients to your brain. Remember never to skip meals or go too long between meals. This just perpetuates the cycle of food cravings and overeating.

Ensure you are eating a protein with a low glycaemic carbohydrate for each meal. Protein supplies the amino acid tryptophan which helps produce serotonin – a “feel good” chemical. Carbohydrate, preferably in a complex form like vegetables or whole grains, helps to move tryptophan into the brain.

By eating to stabilize your blood sugar, the effects of other hormones which act to control appetite are optimized. For example, the hormone cholecystokinin is released from the small intestine as a response to food, and acts to reduce appetite. This message takes time – at least 20 minutes before the brain registers, so eat slowly!

Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 2 – Nutritional supplementation
The brain needs a good supply of magnesium, zinc, folic acid, and the vitamins B6 and B12 to make serotonin and the other brain chemicals. The Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids are also essential for optimal brain function. Herbs to use as alternatives to prescription drugs include Hypericum perforatum (St Johns Wort), Gingko biloba and Passiflora incarnata.

Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 3 – Manage your stress
Since we know that a high stress lifestyle will reduce your levels of serotonin, it is essential to manage your stress effectively. Techniques like meditation, yoga and visualization are good starting points.

Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 4 – Exercise regularly
Exercise has been shown to boost levels of brain chemicals including beta-endorhin and serotonin. Do it regularly!

Mononucleosis Treatment and Cravings Strategy 5 – Detoxify your body
Toxins in the body upset the delicate hormonal balance of your body and must be dealt with in an optimal mononucleosis treatment plan. Gastrointestinal and liver toxicity affect brain function adversely. If left untreated it will lead to food intolerances and allergies which perpetuate the cycle of craving and overeating.

For further information on mononucleosis treatment and how to reduce cravings please refer to the ebook “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Antibiotics
Antibiotics are of no use in treating viruses like Epstein Barr – the virus which causes mono. In fact using antibiotics like amoxicillin and ampicillin in mono patients may cause a measle-like rash.

Occasionally antibiotics may be prescribed when treating mononucleosis if a secondary bacterial infection like strep throat develops. In these cases it is worth getting a swab and culture done to confirm if you have developed a secondary infection. If you do test positive for a bacterial infection, then amoxicillin and ampicillin should be avoided.

Viral skin rash

A skin rash in the early, acute stage of mono can be a viral rash which normally resolves itself within a couple of days. This skin rash is commonly seen in children.

Allergy or intolerance to medication or foods

A more extensive and prolonged skin rash can be an allergic reaction or an intolerance to a medication or food that you have been taking. Many drugs can be hard for the body to metabolise. If liver function is impaired, as it often is with mono, the rash may be itchy, red and raised. It may be accompanied by nausea, poor appetite, headaches and malaise.

Natural remedies for a mono skin rash

If a skin reaction does appear when you are treating mononucleosis there are a few remedies you can try. Topically you can try some healing gels like paw paw ointment or aloe vera gel which can take the itch and redness out of the rash.

Exposing the skin to sunlight may enhance healing – just don’t get sun burnt. If using sunlight when treating mononucleosis it is advisable to test how your body reacts first for a few minutes. Although most of my patients find sunlight helpful, some individuals seem to get an adverse reaction to sun which can worsen their symptoms.

When treating mononucleosis patients with a skin reaction, I have found the nutrients vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc and the omega 3 fats can reduce the inflammation and discomfort. Anti-inflammatory foods in the diet like turmeric, ginger, garlic, deep sea fish, pineapple and paw paw are also excellent.

Doing some gentle liver cleansing with lemon juice in warm water on rising, plus plenty of fluids throughout the day is essential to flush the virus and toxins out of the body.

For more information on treating mononucleosis naturally with nutrients, herbs, a healthy diet, liver cleansing and lifestyle changes, then please refer to my e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures”.

Some studies show that patients with mono improve after dosing with Acyclovir, although sometimes it takes 6 months of continuous treatment. Patients report they feel better and there is also a decrease in antibody titers after treatment.

Other studies have shown that the drug treatment groups had decreased shedding of Epstein Barr virus from the throat. However Epstein Barr virus replication resumed when anti viral therapy was discontinued. Duration of symptoms did not differ between acyclovir and placebo groups.

If you are considering treating mononucleosis with Acyclovir, it is important to be aware of the adverse side effects. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or headache. Some people have reported hair loss from prolonged use. Others have reported dizziness, fatigue, skin rash, anorexia, leg pain, medication taste and sore throat.

From my personal experience in treating mononucleosis, I prefer to build up the immune system naturally so the body can get the virus under control itself. Sometimes the use of drugs actually covers up the reason why you are sick in the first place. If you don’t address the causes of why your immune system is impaired like stress, poor diet, malnourishment, or some other illness or condition, it is likely that the body will continue to pick up other viruses or bacteria in the long term.

Treating mononucleosis naturally is aimed at boosting the immune system with nutrients, herbs, healthy diet, stress management, lifestyle adjustments, graded exercise, restoration of normal sleep patterns and strategies to overcome the frustration, depression and social isolation that this illness so commonly causes.

These comprehensive treatments are discussed in my e-book “Natures Amazing Mono Cures”.