Mononucleosis is a viral infection that is also known as mono, glandular fever and kissing disease. It most commonly affects adolescents and young adults, but it can infect people of any age. Younger children with the infection often don’t experience any mononucleosis symptoms. 1, 2, 3 Because of the nature of mononucleosis causes, college students are at high risk of developing the infection.
A mononucleosis infection typically starts presenting symptoms 4-6 weeks after becoming infected. There is no vaccination against mononucleosis and it isn’t a serious condition. Symptoms usually go away on their own after several weeks. 3 Once a person has been infected with mononucleosis their body will have built up an immunity and they are unlikely to get mononucleosis again.
What Causes Mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis causes are typically due to an infection from the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). EBV is transmitted through saliva which could happen through sharing food, utensils, toothbrushes, or through a cough, sneeze or kissing. 1,3
Mononucleosis causes can also be attributed to other viruses besides EBV. Other viruses that cause mononucleosis can be spread through blood and semen contact through sexual intercourse, blood transfusions or organ transplants. 3
Mononucleosis Symptoms
Mononucleosis symptoms typically include:
Mononucleosis symptoms typically last 2-6 weeks. In some cases, mononucleosis symptoms may last several months. Fatigue, swollen lymph nodes
Because of how generalized the symptoms of mononucleosis are, it may be confused with other conditions such as strep throat. However, a mononucleosis rash that covers the skin is often a telling sign of this condition. In certain cases, mononucleosis symptoms can create complications such as hepatitis and jaundice. 3
Natural Remedies and Herbs for Mononucleosis
Because there are no vaccinations and antibiotics to treat mononucleosis, recovering from the disease requires lots of rest. The following are some mononucleosis natural remedies to try at home:
References
Coconut Oil is the most effective natural product for Mononucleosis CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
Coconut oil has plenty of health benefits including being able to soothe a sore throat and help fight infection by removing toxins from the body. Coconut oil can be added to your diet by using it as a cooking oil. You can also drink 2 tablespoons of coconut oil twice daily.
The natural anti-viral properties of garlic may help to heal the mononucleosis infection. Raw garlic cloves can be eaten daily or by mixing with honey to improve the strong taste. Garlic capsules are also available to take as supplements.
Cranberry juice contains natural antioxidants that help to fight viruses including possibly the virus that causes mononucleosis. Drink 30 ml of fresh cranberry juice daily for up to one week.
Astragalus is a herbal remedy that helps to fight viruses, including possibly the virus that causes mononucleosis. Astragalus can be taken as an herbal tea, a tincture, or as a liquid extract. Add 6-12 drops of astragalus liquid to water, juice or under tongue.
Goldenseal is a natural herbal remedy used as an anti-bacterial or antibiotic treatment. It may help to treat mononucleosis. Golden seal is available as a supplement in tablet or capsule form. You can also take goldenseal in powder or liquid extract form by mixing with water or juice.