Mumps – A Childhood Illness and Trustworthy Herbal Remedies
Mumps is one of the most ,common viral childhood infections. Because of vaccinations, outbreaks of Mumps are rare, but do occur occasionally. Some symptoms are swelling of the salivary glands, and can include a rash. Generally, with a little patience, Mumps will run it’s course, and the body will fight the disease and heal itself. Usually, pain medication is given, as it can be quite painful at times.Dry mouth, fever, sore face and ears, and occasionally, loss of voice,headache, and loss of appetite, are other symptoms of Mumps. Commonly, Mumps will take approximately 16-18 days to run its course. Although the symptoms may be gone, after this period, you may still be able to spread the virus to others.Mumps is less contagious than Measles or Chickenpox, however. Here are a few herbal remedies and ideas to help the Mumps process go smoother, and offer more comfort.
Herbs for the Pain
Because Mumps is known to give mild to severe headaches, herbs and oils that help relieve cranial pain, are going to be very beneficial. Peppermint, Arnica, or Lavender Oil, are two that are known to help headaches.For sleeplessness associated with Mumps, a relaxing Chamomile, or Red Raspberry Tea can be made. Herbal teas that can help boost the immune system are also beneficial. Echinacea, Nettle, Goldenseal, Cat’s Claw and Plantain, are all very good herbs that contain a good amount of vitamins and minerals, essential to a body fighting off an infection. Garlic, a natural anti-biotic, is also recommended as an addition to the diet, and Ginger might help calm stomach issues, as well as make it possible for one to regain an appetite. Shiitake Mushrooms have also been recommended for Mumps. These mushrooms are exceptional for boosting the immune system, and have been used for thousands of years in Japan, China and Korea. Another remedy is Asparagus seeds, ground up with Fenugreek seeds to form a paste. This paste is applied topically to the swollen areas. Red Clover is a great anti-inflammatory, and could help ease the pain of swollen glands. Wild Indigo, also known as Horsefly Weed, has been used for Mumps for many years because of its antiseptic properties.Lobelia, also known as Indian Tobacco, has been used for many years by the Chinese for swelling and dysentery.,Mugwort can be used for fevers, and can either be combined with juice and taken internally, or added to a bath. Mullein is a beneficial herb that is commonly used for problems with the ears. Because Mumps can cause a sore face and ears, a Mullein ear oil can be made with clover that can help alleviate the pain in the years. Making this oil is relatively simple. Start with a clean, mason jar. Add approximately 3 heaping tablespoons of Mullein and one clove of garlic. Cover the Mullein and garlic with Olive oil, about 1/3 the size of the jar. Place the jar, with a cover, in a slow cooker. Fill the slow cooker up with water, making sure the entire jar is covered. Replace lid, turn on high for 4 hours. After the infused oil has cooled, strain the Mullein and the garlic clove from the olive oil. Taking an ear dropper, place about four drops in each affected ear. I’ve done this many times, and works very well. Poke Root, when applied externally, and combined with oils, can help reduce swelling, earaches, and all other symptoms of Mumps. Poke Root is best when not taken internally, because by nature, Poke Root is poisonous if taken internally. St. John’s Wort is another herb that has a great, many uses.For those who are suffering from Mumps, St. John’s Wort could provide a relief from any negativity associated with being sick, as it is a nervine and is commonly used to treat depression.
Caution
While the intended use of most of the herbs mentioned here is internal, there are a few that are dangerous to ingest internally. If you are apprehensive about trying any of these, please do your research and also talk to your doctor before taking. These herbs have been used for hundreds, if not thousands of years for common illnesses, such as Mumps. In the majority of cases of those who have been diagnosed with Mumps, take comfort in knowing after it has run its course, that no lasting side effects usually occur. However, adults who are diagnosed with Mumps, stand a greater risk of serious side effects, so catching the illness in its early stages is vital. Most complications from Mumps happens after the swelling has gone down in the body. It is important that you have your condition assessed by a healthcare professional, as Mumps affects men and women, boys and girls differently, and can have lasting effects on the reproductive system if complications are occurring and not being addressed. Sterility could be a real side effect if Mumps complications are left untreated.
Category: HERBAL REMEDIES
