Meningitis is an infection that affects the membranes of the brain and spinal cord (meninges) [1].
The swelling of meningitis triggers symptoms such as a headache, fever and a stiff neck [2].
It is prevalent among many teens, adults and even young children. [2]
There are several types of this disease, including bacterial, viral, and fungal meningitis.
There are antibiotics for treating meningitis such as cephalosporins, Claforan, Rocephin, and so forth. [3]
But these traditional drugs might cause some side effects if you take them for a prolonged period.
A natural remedy for meningitis may prove to be both effective and safe.
Essential oils for meningitis may reduce the recurring symptoms of the disease to a great extent. [4]
Keep reading to learn more about the efficacy and uses of essential oils for meningitis treatment.
The article also reviews the causes, types, and symptoms, and preventative measures of meningitis.
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Why Use Essential Oils for Meningitis?
Essential oils, considered to be one of the most wonderful natural products, are widely used for medical purposes [9].
Many essential oils are famous for their use in dermatology, the development of antimicrobial resistance and even commercial essential oils are often an option for therapy.
A study conducted in 2004, prepared specific dosages of essential oil to see their effect in the therapy of children’s infectious disease [10].
The microbial properties of the essential oils were studied to see the inhibitory data of children pathogens.
The study found that a few selected compounds from higher plants showed moderate effectiveness against gram-positive bacteria, yeast, and fungi.
This study also found that topical application or inhalation of selected compounds for the treatment or additional treatment of mild infections were useful.
The results proved that essential oils could be used to kill certain bacteria and fungi that cause meningitis.
Best Essential Oil Remedies for Meningitis
1. Lemon Oil
Lemon, also known as Citrus limon, is a flowering plant belonging to the Rutaceae family.
Citrus plants, grown in many countries all over the world, especially among the major citrus-producing African nations, are one of the main valuable sources of essential oil used in foods and medicinal purposes.
An article published recently showed the effect of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of C. lemon essential oil with its preservative effect against Listeria monocytogenes [11].
This article used minced beef to see the inhibitory growth pattern of lemon essential oil against the bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes.
The result showed that specific components in lemon essential oil successfully inhibited the development of L. monocytogenes in minced beef meat.
As a result, the study suggested that lemon essential oil might be a new potential source as natural antimicrobial and antioxidant for the treatment of various health problems as well that’s infected by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. [11]
Another study has also shown that a vapor containing lemon oil may kill the deadly bacterium that causes meningitis in just 15 minutes.
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2. Garlic Oil
The use of garlic for therapeutic purpose dates back to the ancient times.
Many cultures have recognized the potential benefits of garlic in preventing many disease, meningitis, being one of them.
Different compounds in garlic are found to reduce the risk for cardiovascular diseases, have antitumor and antimicrobial effects, reduces the of cancer risk, antioxidant effect, enhancement of detoxification foreign compound and hepatoprotection and even show the benefit of high blood glucose concentration [12].
For medicinal use, garlic oil is mostly prepared by the steam-distillation process.
After steam-distilled, garlic oil consists of the compounds such as diallyl, allyl methyl, and dimethyl mono to hexa sulfides.
A study published in 2014, showed that one of the active compounds found in garlic, diallyl trisulfide, is found to be effective against cryptococcal meningitis. [12]
Apart from diallyl trisulfide, allicin, another compound in garlic also acts as a powerful antioxidant that is very beneficial in treating patients suffering from meningitis.
3. Olive Oil
Olive leaf extract is traditionally used as a herbal supplement since it contains polyphenolic compounds [13].
It provides many beneficial properties ranging from increasing energy levels, lowering blood pressure, and supporting the cardiovascular and immune systems.
Also, along with beneficial effects on human health, olive oil has antimicrobial properties.
An article published in 2017, investigated the antimicrobial effect of olive oil extract on pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella Enteritidis [13].
The study proved that the crude olive oil extract was effective in inhibiting the growth of such pathogens, providing support that this extract alone or in conjunction with other antimicrobials could kill or control the pathogen levels.
As a result, due to its antiviral and antioxidant properties, in addition to its proven anti-inflammatory abilities, olive oil helps in treating meningitis.
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How to Use the Essential Oils for Meningitis?
Since the early symptoms of meningitis include headaches, fever, and a stiff neck, you could apply the essential oils in two ways for instant relief.
Here are some of the simple ways to use the essential oil to relieve meningitis:
1. Massage the Essential Oils On the Head
What you’ll need:
- Four drops of lemon oil
- Four drops of chamomile
- Four drops of olive oil
Recommended directions:
- Put all the oils in a bowl
- Stir well to combine all the essential oils
- Apply a small amount on your head and scalp
- Massage gently for a few minutes
- Repeat every time you have a headache or fever
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2. Inhale The Vapor of the Essential Oil
Apart from directly applying on your head and scalp, you could also inhale the vapor of the essential oil.
What you’ll need:
- Ten drops of lemon oil
Recommended directions:
- Pour lemon oil in a diffuse
- Fill the room with its scent
- Inhale deeply
- Repeat this remedy once or twice daily
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Types, Causes and Symptoms of Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is the most life-threatening among the three types of meningitis as it quickly spread through direct contact or between people who are in close contact with each other.
The bacteria that cause meningitis include Streptococcus pneumonia, Neisseria meningitides, Haemophilus influenza, and Listeria monocytogene [5].
These bacteria enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain and spinal cord, causing acute bacterial meningitis.
Apart from spreading through the bloodstream, such bacterial infection may also occur due to the ear or sinus infection, a skull fracture, or after some surgeries [6].
Viral Meningitis
Viral meningitis, when compared to bacterial meningitis tends to be less severe as many people recover without treatment [7].
Enteroviruses are a group of viruses that mainly cause viral meningitis, which is very common during late summer or early fall.
Along with enteroviruses, herpes simplex virus, HIV, mumps, West Nile virus and others also can cause viral meningitis.
Fungal Meningitis
Fungal meningitis is very uncommon and causes chronic meningitis, but it may mimic acute bacterial meningitis. [7]
Unlike bacterial meningitis, fungal meningitis isn’t contagious and doesn’t spread from one person to another.
It happens in people who have a weakened immune system.
Cryptococcal meningitis is a fungal form of meningitis that mainly affects people with AIDS. [7]
However, it’s life-threatening if not treated with an antifungal medication.
Symptoms of Meningitis
Early meningitis symptoms include the flu (influenza).
The symptoms of meningitis may develop over several hours to a few days.
Possible signs and symptoms include: [8]
- Sudden high fever
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- A severe headache that seems different than normal
- Sensitivity to light
- Stiff neck
- A headache with nausea or vomiting
- No appetite or thirst
- Seizures
- Sleepiness or difficulty waking
- Skin rash (sometimes, such as in meningococcal meningitis)
Some Preventive Measures for Meningitis
Some bacteria or viruses that cause meningitis can spread through direct contact, coughing, sneezing, or sharing and eating from the same utensils, sharing a toothbrush or a cigarette.
However, the following steps may help prevent meningitis: [14]
- Wash your hands before and after a meal.
- Practice good hygiene.
- Stay healthy
- Cover your mouth.
- Cook meat at high temperature
When to See a Doctor
You shouldn’t take meningitis lightly. The condition affects the brain and poses risks to the central nervous system.
Essential oils may not work all the time and for everyone.
Visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment if you experience the following symptoms. [15]
- Frequent high fever
- Acute headache
- Sensitivity to light
- Vomiting, nausea and appetite loss
- Stiff neck and skin rashes
If it’s a bacterial meningitis you should be more careful. It is deadly. In case you don’t treat it in time, the condition may damage your brain and nervous system permanently.
It is recommended that you consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment as early as possible.
EndNote
Meningitis is a rare disease. But it can spread very quickly when you are in contact with a diseased person. The disease transfers mainly through bacteria, virus, and fungus.
By using essential oils, you may effectively reduce some of the symptoms of meningitis.
However, in case of severity of the condition you need to consult a doctor. It’s also best to prevent the cause of the disease as ‘prevention is better than cure.’
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