A:Generally speaking, lymphocytes help to destroy toxic metabolites. They originate from lymphoblasts in the spleen, lymph glands, tonsils, bone marrow, and thymus. They help to determine the stage of infection: acute/recovery/chronic. Generally, when lymphs are high, there is some systemic toxicity. Given the information you have submitted, it is possible that your EBV did not clear up completely and has left “latent heat” in the body, adversely affecting your immune system. Furthermore, it is unclear if your B or T lymphocytes are elevated; usually it is the B lymphocyte that is affected with EBV. I recommend you check with your physician to rule out the following possible causes for the elevated lymphocytes: anterior pituitary hypo-function, adrenal dysfunctions, hyperthyroidism, or malignancies.

Not withstanding these, I suggest a detoxification regiment and treatment with herbal formulas and nutrition. You may find that the classic Chinese herb ban lan gen (Radix Isatidis) is helpful.

From a dietary perspective, I suggest a fresh vegetarian diet with little or no animal products, chlorophyll rich foods, and under-eating. Be sure to get ample amounts of immune supplementations, including omega-3 and GLA.

A consultation with your local traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner will give you a more detailed TCM diagnosis and appropriate treatment regiment.