The viral infection mononucleosis, more commonly referred to as mono, causes significant fatigue and weakness. Most commonly spread through infected saliva, it has been nicknamed the ‘’kissing disease.’’ Mono can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months, with most people recovering in two to six weeks, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Treatment typically involves self-care, such as getting plenty of rest. Holistic treatments that help strengthen the immune system could potentially shorten the course of the disease and reduce symptoms. Talk to your doctor before experimenting with any natural supplements.
Diet
A healthy diet forms a cornerstone of any holistic approach to better health. It might sound cliché, but eating plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins will maximize the health of your immune system. These foods contain rich stores of antioxidants and other substances that your body requires for proper immune function. Eating these foods on a consistent basis ensures you never lack sufficient amounts of these nutrients. The Cleveland Clinic reports that even slight deficiencies can impair the immune system.
Inflammation can impair immune function. Eat more foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as coldwater fish, nuts and seeds and cut back on omega-6 fatty acids, found in various vegetable oils, such as corn, safflower and sunflower. The saturated fat in animal products – especially red meat -- also promotes inflammation and the Cleveland Clinic recommends eliminating red meat or only eating it every 10 days and reducing your intake of other animal foods.
Meditation
While meditation is definitely a spiritual pursuit for many, it might also have applications for your health. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin conducted a study testing the effects of mindfulness meditation on immune function and brain activity. Compared to the control group of non-meditators, individuals in the treatment program experienced an increase in the number of antibodies – substances that fight off infections and other illnesses. They published their results in the July 2003 issue of ‘’Psychosomatic Medicine.’’
Mindfulness meditation focuses on being aware of the present moment. Sit in a quiet environment with your back straight – either on a chair or on the floor -- with your eyes closed and follow your breath. Thoughts will come up – simply observe them without judgment and go back to your breath.
Supplements
Specific natural supplements might help treat mono by helping the body fight off the infection that causes it, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fish oil, probiotics and echinacea may boost general immune function. Astragalus, widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for immunity and fighting infection, has anti-viral properties. UMMC found combining Chinese herbs with homeopathic treatments might improve symptoms of mono. Unlike Western medicine where the same treatments are typically prescribed for everyone with a specific condition, Traditional Chinese Medicine determines the appropriate treatments based on many individual factors -- two people with the same condition might take completely different preparations. Because of the highly individualized nature of treatments, you should work with an experienced practitioner for guidance.
Acupuncture
The effects of acupuncture on mononucleosis have not been studied specifically. It has however, been found to boost immune function, according to the National Cancer Institute. Given mononucleosis results from a virus, this ancient Chinese treatment might give the immune system a boost and help it fight off the infection.
References
- The Cleveland Clinic: Diet, Exercise, Stress and the Immune System
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Mononucleosis
- ''Psychosomatic Medicine''; Alterations in Brain and Immune Function Produced by Mindfulness Meditation; R.J. Davidson, et al.; July 2003
- National Cancer Institute: Questions and Answers about Acupuncture
