Infections
Infection
is a condition caused by the growth of disease-causing
pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi) in the body. These
infectious agents grow in colonies that are invasive
and multiply, damaging cells by various means, including
directly, through release of toxins, or through allergic
reaction.
Symptoms
of infection include redness, inflammation, pain, swelling,
and pus formation (abscess) at the site of the infection.
Fever, cough, sneezing, fatigue, and bowel dysfunction
(diarrhea) can also arise due to infection.
What
To Consider
Although
antibiotics can be effective when used appropriately,
especially for serious or life-threatening bacterial
infections, their indiscriminate use is not advised.
In addition, antibiotics do not protect against viral
infection or inflammatory conditions, although they
are often prescribed for such conditions. Moreover,
antibiotics destroy both harmful bacteria and the beneficial
bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially
causing digestive and gastrointestinal problems and
systemic yeast (Candida albicans) overgrowth.
The
indiscriminate use of antibiotics has produced multiple-drug-resistant
bacterial strains of "super bugs" and is in danger of
rendering antibiotics ineffective against life-threatening
infections.
If
you suspect you have a bacterial infection, ask your
Health Coach to take a culture of saliva or tissues or fluids
from the infected area. If it is a bacterial infection,
samples of different antibiotics can be placed in the
growing bacteria to determine which will be the most
effective in killing that specific bacteria; this is
called a sensitivity test. If you do take antibiotics,
be sure to supplement with acidophilus during
and after the course of treatment.
Caution
If fever and painful joints occur, this may
be a sign of an infectious disease that is spreading
throughout the body. To be sure, seek immediate medical
attention.
Self-Care
Tips
Diet
Increase your intake garlic and unflavored
yogurt, and add infection fighting foods, such as diluted
and organic (no sugar added) orange juice, apples and
apple juice, grapes and grape juice, cranberries, blueberries,
strawberries, raspberries, peaches, plums, figs, cabbage,
onion, kelp, and raw honey to your diet. Avoid sugar
in any form, and drink plenty of filtered water.
Nutritional
Supplementation
The following nutritional alternative to antibiotics
is often effective in treating infection, particularly
in the initial stages: - vitamin A (400,000 IU daily for
five days),
- liquid garlic extract (up to two 4-ounce
bottles a day) or the equivalent in high-quality garlic
in capsules or tablets,
- and vitamin C to bowel tolerance.
Note
This protocol should only be used only
under your Health Coach guidance. The dosages are for an
average 150-pound adult and should be scaled down proportionately
according to weight. The vitamin A should be taken for
a period of at least three days, but no more than five
days. In addition, vitamin A in these doses can cause
headaches in about 1% of those who use it. Should this
occur, decrease the dose.
Other
useful nutrients for dealing with infection include:
colloidal silver, essential fatty acids (EFAs), bromelain
(an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties), calcium,
magnesium, vitamin B complex, vitamin B6, and zinc.
Aromatherapy
For fungicidal infections, cedarwood is effective,
while for infected wounds, frankincense, tea tree, and/or
patchouli can be useful.
Herbs
Herbs that act as anti-infectious agents include
echinacea, goldenseal, garlic Oregon grape, barberry,
and adaptogenic herbs such as Siberian ginseng. Grapefruit
seed extract also has strong antibiotic-like properties
and can be applied topically or taken orally. Olive
leaf extract has both antibacterial and antiviral properties,
making it useful for a wide range of infections.
Hydrotherapy
Constitutional hydrotherapy of alternating
hot and cold water applications one to two times a day
can help boost the immune system.
Juice
Therapy
Combining the juices of carrot, celery, beet,
cantaloupe, and ginger can be helpful.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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