Meningitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the membranes that surround the spinal cord and brain as a result of either a viral, bacterial or fungal infection, according to MayoClinic.com. Of the three infection types that can cause meningitis, bacterial meningitis is the most serious, as it can lead to brain damage, hearing loss and possibly death. The type of meningitis you have will determine the course of your treatment. Certain herbs such as cat's claw and garlic may help boost the immune system, fight bacteria and reduce inflammation. Speak with your health care provider before using herbs to treat meningitis.
Symptoms
Due to the similarity of symptoms, meningitis symptoms may easily be mistaken for those of the flu, according to MayoClinic.com. Some common symptoms for people over the age of 2 include fever, light sensitivity, seizures, nausea or vomiting, headache, confusion, stiff neck, and difficulty concentrating.
Cat's Claw
Cat's claw is an herb that is native to tropical areas such as the Amazon rain forest and has been used to treat an array of health conditions ranging from arthritis, stomach ulcers, inflammation and fever, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. To use this herb as an alternative treatment for inflammation due to meningitis and for immune stimulation, UMMC suggests taking 20mg of standardized extract up to three times per day.
Garlic
Garlic is commonly used to treat cold and flu symptoms and high cholesterol, prevent heart disease, and boost your immune system. Garlic is rich in antioxidants that help destroy free radicals and protect cells from damage. Aged garlic is fermented, which breaks down allicin -- the main compound found in garlic that the human body cannot effectively absorb -- to usable compounds, according to UMMC. To boost antifungal, antibacterial and immune activity, UMMC recommends taking 600mg to 1,200mg of standardized aged garlic extract per day.
Prevention
Some of the common types of bacteria that cause meningitis can be easily spread through kissing, sharing food or drinks, sneezing and coughing. Washing your hands after eating and using the restroom may reduce your risk of developing this condition.
