Natural Therapies for Glandular Fever Treatment

Healthylife Pharmacy20 February 2017|3 min read

What is glandular fever?

Glandular fever, or mononucleosis, is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This virus is a member of the herpes virus family and is one of the most common human viruses worldwide. 

It is estimated that up to 95% of adults between the ages of 35 and 40 years have been infected. Children can also have an EBV infection and may have no symptoms or symptoms that are hard to differentiate from other common childhood illnesses. 

However, when EBV presents in teenagers and people in their 20’s, it may lead to the more serious infectious glandular fever in 35-50% of cases.

How do you get glandular fever?

Glandular fever is commonly referred to as the “kissing disease”. This is because the virus is commonly transferred by saliva. Less common forms of transferring the virus include sexual intercourse, blood transfusion or organ transplant.

Once infected, the virus persists in the body for life. It may be reactivated without causing symptoms and contaminate saliva in otherwise healthy individuals. Therefore, it may be unknowingly passed on to the next person through kissing or sharing food.

Signs of glandular fever

Signs and symptoms of glandular fever typically develop 4-6 weeks after coming into contact with the virus. Early symptoms resemble that of the flu, but characteristically symptoms of fatigue may linger for many months. Some symptoms may include:

  • Swollen glands and tonsils
  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Severe fatigue
  • Spleen enlargement 
  • Skin rash
  • Hepatitis and jaundice

When should I see my doctor?

Those experiencing any of the following should speak to a healthcare professional:

  • Extreme or prolonged fever
  • Severe abdominal pain 
  • Severe headache 
  • Difficulty breathing and swelling of the airways
  • Jaundice 

Lifestyle and dietary recommendations for treatment of glandular fever

The Epstein-Barr virus may reside in the body and can reactivate when the immune system is compromised during times of stress, malnutrition, and inadequate rest. Its "flu-like" symptoms can come and go and may last for months. Adequate rest helps to support the immune system so that you can recover quicker.

Nutrition is an important part of supporting the body through illness. Nourishing and fresh wholefoods, such as fruit, vegetables, and wholegrains are recommended to supply the body with an abundance of vitamins and minerals. 

Good quality protein may help to support the immune system. Protein-rich foods include chicken, turkey, fish, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Stay well hydrated by drinking 2-3 litres of water throughout the day. Soups, broths, and herbal teas can also help with hydration while providing essential nutrients in an easy-to-digest form.

Natural support for glandular fever 

Herbal medicines may be an effective way to support the body during acute infection.

Echinacea root is a herb that may support the function of the immune system.

Other herbs to consider include:

  • Astragalus
  • Andrographis
  • Olive leaf
  • Medicinal Mushrooms - Cordyceps, Coriolus and Reishi.

The active constituent in the herb Andrographis has been shown to inhibit replication of the virus and has been suggested as a potentially useful compound used for an EBV infection. A similar finding was found in an active constituent in green tea. 

In summary

Avoid contact with people who are sick, and ensure adequate rest, relaxation, good quality sleep and consume a nourishing diet. 

Related Reads:

References

  1. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/glandular-fever 
  2. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/glandular-fever#:~:text=spread%20of%20infection.-,Complications%20of%20glandular%20fever,of%20damage%20to%20your%20spleen 
  3. Childs, C., Calder, P., & Miles, E. (2019). Diet and Immune Function. Nutrients, 11(8), 1933. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6723551/
  4. https://www.cdc.gov/epstein-barr/about-ebv.html#:~:text=After%20you%20get%20an%20EBV,develop%20symptoms%20if%20EBV%20reactivates.
  5. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/echinacea 
  6. Malat, P., Ekalaksananan, T., Heawchaiyaphum, C., Suebsasana, S., Roytrakul, S., Yingchutrakul, Y., & Pientong, C. (2022). Andrographolide Inhibits Epstein–Barr Virus Lytic Reactivation in EBV-Positive Cancer Cell Lines through the Modulation of Epigenetic-Related Proteins. Molecules, 27(14), 4666. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9316603/
  7. Ben-Amor, I., Gargouri, B., Attia, H., Tlili, K., Kallel, I., Musarra-Pizzo, M., Sciortino, M. T., & Pennisi, R. (2021). In Vitro Anti-Epstein Barr Virus Activity of Olea europaea L. Leaf Extracts. Plants, 10(11), 2445. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8622071/
  8. Phillips, J. M., Ooi, S. L., & Pak, S. C. (2022). Health-Promoting Properties of Medicinal Mushrooms and Their Bioactive Compounds for the COVID-19 Era—An Appraisal: Do the Pro-Health Claims Measure Up? Molecules, 27(7), 2302. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9000601/


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This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health you should consult with a health professional.