Healing with Nature: Herbs That Inhibit Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Support Immunity

I enjoy using herbs in my practice. I originally learned about naturopathic medicine through botanical medicine and it’s what I got my undergrad in. Herbs have an intelligence to them and can often help more than one body system at the same time. They modulate the immune system whether it’s over or  underactive, have broad spectrum antimicrobial activity, and can support other body systems like the liver or adrenals, which often need it during chronic illness. 

Here are a few herbs that you’ll want to know about when it comes to fighting EBV.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) - Many people are familiar with this popular herb because it has so many benefits including being anti-inflammatory and antiviral. It can inhibit an immune regulator called nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) that EBV uses to take over B cells. If NF-kB is too high, it can stimulate inflammation so turmeric can keep it at beneficial levels.  

One thing that EBV does is cause oxidative stress that weakens the immune system, which causes a lot of inflammation and cellular damage. Turmeric can inhibit this stress on the B cells and help them self-destruct when EBV has taken over and prevented them from doing so. 

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) - This herb has so many wonderful benefits for not only the immune system but also the digestive and adrenal systems. Flavonoids contained in licorice act as antioxidants and decrease the damaging free radicals. Glycyrrhizic acid is responsible for the antiviral properties and can inhibit early viral replication. It increases interferon gamma, a key immune modulator that helps to eliminate viruses from the nervous system. 

I also like to use this herb as adrenal support when there is low cortisol. Long term illness can deplete the adrenals leading to fatigue, insomnia and low blood pressure. Licorice can prolong the activity of our own cortisol providing more energy and a balanced circadian rhythm. It can also be a wonderful soothing, anti-inflammatory for the gut. 

Caution: Licorice may lower testosterone and estrogen. It may raise blood pressure by shifting our electrolytes so avoid it or increase fruits and vegetables and monitor your blood pressure at home. 

Boswellia (Boswellia sp.) - This herb is better known as frankincense. It reduces the production of inflammatory compounds and can inhibit EBV activation. 

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) - This contains compounds that inhibit EBV and beta glucans that stimulate immune cells to fight the virus. It also modulates an important immunoglobulin found in the gut and respiratory tracts called IgA that protects us from pathogens including viruses like EBV. Caution if you are sensitive to fungus, mold or Candida. 

Berberine - This compound is found in herbs like Oregon grape, goldenseal, and barberry. It’s antimicrobial and inhibits EBV replication. It can help infected B cells go through programmed cell death. Caution if you have blood sugar dysregulation.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) - This herb is effective against herpes family viruses, including EBV, which is herpesvirus type 4. It’s antibacterial, making it helpful in co-infections and good for stress. Others in this same family including peppermint, rosemary, thyme and sage may also be antiviral.

Caution with thyroid disease as those with these issues may not feel well on it. 

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) and Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) - Both of these herbs are powerful antivirals and immune modulators. Be cautious with autoimmune diseases as some feel worse using these herbs. 

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) - This is a safe and effective antiviral that also tastes good in syrup. 

In Summary…

Herbs play a key role in fighting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) by modulating the immune system, providing antimicrobial benefits, and supporting various body systems. Several are particularly effective against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), including turmeric, licorice, boswellia, reishi mushroom, berberine, lemon balm, astragalus, echinacea, and elderberry. However, some herbs have cautions, such as potential effects on blood pressure, hormones, or autoimmune conditions.

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Thanks for reading and I’ll see you next time!

-Dr. Jamie 

Resources

Kines, K. (2018). The Epstein-Barr virus solution: The hidden undiagnosed epidemic of chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune disease - how to heal and regain your life. Holistic Nutrition Press

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