Health Conditions from A to Z

Viral Infection

Symptoms
Symptoms of viral infection vary, but typically include fever, generalized aches, chills, fatigue, and symptoms that are specific for that virus. For example, the cold virus usually produces mucus in the nose and throat, the mononucleosis virus produces severe fatigue and, sometimes, liver enlargement, and the polio virus produces paralysis. Symptoms can be chronic or short-lived, depending on the type of virus, as well as the individual's level of immune function. In some cases, such as HIV, viral infections can be life-threatening.

Types
There are many different types (literally hundreds) of infectious viruses, and therefore viral infections, such as cold and flu viruses, herpes viruses, HIV, etc. Proper treatment lies in determining which type of virus is affecting the system so that it can be effectively dealt with.

Causes
Viruses are naturally occurring microorganisms. They are most commonly spread through respiratory routes and bodily fluids, such as blood and semen. Once they gain a foothold in the body, viruses seek to replicate themselves and then spread to others. Sneezing, touching, and eating infected foods are some of the more common ways in which viruses travel from one person to another.

Note
Viral infections do not respond to antibiotics.

Self-Care Tips

Diet
Eat an organic, whole foods diet that emphasizes plenty of fresh, raw and lightly steamed vegetables, as well as garlic and onions. Also drink plenty of pure, filtered water. Avoid all processed and refined foods, sugar, unhealthy fats, alcohol, soda, commercial fruit juices, milk, and dairy products.

Herbs
Useful herbs for treating viral infections include echinacea, goldenseal, astragalus cayenne, and ginger root.

Homeopathy
Useful homeopathic remedies include Calendula, Chamomilla, Belladonna, Merc sol., and Sulfur.

Hydrotherapy
Contrasting hot and cold water baths or showers can help to stimulate the immune system, thereby boosting resistance to viral infections.

Juice Therapy
Carrot, celery, beet, and garlic is an excellent tonic for dealing with viral infections.

Nutritional Supplementation
The most important nutrient for viral infections is vitamin C taken in therapeutic doses. Other recommended nutrients include vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin B complex, panothenic acid, garlic capsules, zinc, proteolytic enzymes taken between meals, acidophilus, raw thymus glandular, lysine, cysteine, olive leaf extract, and quercetin.

Caution

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