Mumps are caused by a viral infection that attacks the saliva and parotid glands. The incubation period is fourteen to twenty-one days, and the illness lasts about a week. Symptoms include fever, headache, and pains in the neck area. Swelling occurs on the sides of the face, and there will be pain on swallowing. Any acidic foods, such as tomatoes or oranges, which stimulate the salivary glands will be very painful to eat.

Herbalism

• Marigold can help to reduce the inflammation and swelling; drink as a lukewarm infusion.
• A warm compress with marigold can be applied to the swelling to ease pain.
• Boost immunity and encourage healing with garlic, peppermint, and echinacea, taken internally.

Homeopathy

• If your child has not had mumps, Phytolacca or Parotidium can be taken during an epidemic to reduce severity of symptoms.
• Use Rhus tox. when the left glands are more severely affected than the right.
• Use Belladonna when there is high fever, shooting pains, and a bright red face and throat.
• Mercurius sol. is useful when there is heavy sweating and a coated tongue.
• Pulsatilla may help to prevent orchitis and is useful if fever continues.

Flower essences

• Rescue Remedy can be used to ease distress and discomfort.
• Cherry Plum, Hornbeam, and Chicory are suggested for all childhood illnesses.

Aromatherapy

• Massage the neck area with chamomile or lavender oil, diluted in a little grapeseed oil. Take care to do so gently.
• Eucalyptus and thyme can be used for steam inhalations and in the bath (use sparingly).

From the larder

• Chop fresh ginger and apply as a compress directly to the swollen glands to provide relief.
• Fruit (not citrus) and vegetable juices can be liquidized and then diluted with fresh, cool water, to encourage a speedy recovery. This will also relieve constipation, which is a common symptom of mumps.
• Cayenne powder mixed with vinegar can be warmed and applied to the affected area.

Self-help

• Bed rest is suggested until symptoms have disappeared.
• A hot-water bottle, wrapped in a towel and pressed on the affected area, will provide some relief.
• If fever becomes high, sponge your child, or place him or her in a lukewarm bath to cool.

Mumps (epidemic parotitis) is characterized by a painful swelling of the parotid salivary glands on the side of the neck. In adult males, mumps may cause sterility because the infection can spread to the testes.

CAUTION
Complications can develop in teenage boys who contract mumps. If the illness is followed by severe headache, stiffness, or fever, see your physician immediately.