An enlarged spleen and liver occurs in about half of all mononucleosis sufferers. Symptoms of liver involvement can be swelling and discomfort below the right rib, fat intolerance, dark rings below the eyes and headaches. Spleen involvement symptoms can be pain below the left rib, although in many cases they are asymptomatic.

Young children tend not to exhibit serious mononucleosis symptoms. This means the infection may be passed off as a simple cold or flu. Older children are more prone to developing a viral skin rash and abdominal pain.

Patients older than 30 years of age do on average suffer more severe mono symptoms and a prolonged length of recovery.

As in any infection, symptoms can vary from person to person in their severity and duration. Most people tend to get over their mononucleosis symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks, although in some cases the symptoms can linger on for months.

If mono symptoms continue beyond 6 months, the infection is then said to be in the chronic stage. Typically chronic symptoms include fatigue, muscle aches and depression. Some people may experience a recurrent sore throat and swollen glands.

If you suspect you have the symptoms of mononucleosis, then please see your doctor in order to confirm your diagnosis. A simple blood test can tell you if you have an active infection, are in the convalescent phase or have had the infection in the past.
Fortunately mononucleosis symptoms, both acute and chronic, can be relieved with adequate rest, plenty of fluids, an immune-boosting diet, supplements and herbs. For further information on natural treatments for mono symptoms

Let’s have a look at the most popular herbal remedies for mononucleosis:

For the acute, initial stage of mono when symptoms like a sore throat, swollen glands, fever and fatigue prevail, the herb of choice is Olive leaf extract. This herb can penetrate infected cells and stop viruses from replicating. It also stimulates phagocytosis, the process by which white blood cells ingest harmful microorganisms and foreign matter.

Another good remedy for mono, particularly in children, is echinacea. This herb has been shown to stimulate the white blood cells to help kill the virus. Echinacea is available in child-friendly versions which are palatable to kids of all ages.

The cheapest and most accessible of the herbal remedies for mononucleosis is garlic. Garlic is a renowned cure-all for infections, and is readily available world-wide. Garlic can be eaten raw or added to soups, stir frys, teas, juices or salads. In the acute stage of mono, I recommend my patients use one clove a day.

Herbal remedies for mononucleosis in the chronic stage can also be very effective. Astragalus is an all time favorite for treating chronic immune conditions like recurrent mono. It should however not be used when there is a fever, an auto immune condition or when immune suppressant drugs are being used.

There are also specific herbal remedies for mononucleosis to help relieve the mono symptoms. For example, to help ease the discomfort of a high fever, the herbs coriander seed and cleavers can be made into a tea.

To eliminate excess mucous from the respiratory tract, herbs like garlic, horseradish and fenugreek are traditionally used. To relieve inflammation and pain like a red, sore throat, inflamed lymph nodes or muscle pain, the anti-inflammatory herbs like cayenne, ginger and turmeric are showing promising results. Mixed into some medicinal honey, these herbs and spices make a powerful throat soother.

Herbal remedies for mononucleosis when the liver and spleen are affected include milk thistle and red root. These remedies can aid in cleansing the lymph, reducing inflammation and protecting the liver from further damage.

Most of these herbal remedies for mononucleosis are available as teas, tablets, capsules or liquids. They can be sourced from your local health food shop, herbalist or online through a vitamin supplier like iherb.com.

Herbal remedies for mononucleosis should be one of the first treatments you try when recovering from this debilitating illness. Results are usually fast and effective, and come with none of the side effects that conventional medications have.
For further information on remedies for mononucleosis