Using Herbals To Treat Tick-Borne Diseases

Throughout history, humans have turned to plants for healing purposes. Today, the world of botanical herbal medicine is finding its place alongside modern allopathic medicine.

Recently, two experts in the field of complex chronic illnesses undertook a comprehensive review of the existing literature to ascertain the efficacy of botanical medicines against three prevalent vector-borne diseases. Their investigation encompassed an analysis of over 400 academic articles that explored evidence related to herbal, botanical, or nutraceutical treatments for Borrelia (Lyme disease), Bartonella, and/or Babesia infections.

This research, titled "The Use of Natural Bioactive Nutraceuticals in the Management of Tick-Borne Illnesses," was penned by Dr. Samuel Shor and Dr. Sunjya Schweig. It concluded that over 30 natural compounds could take on Borrelia, Bartonella, and/or Babesia, both in their active form and dormancy forms, and when hidden in biofilms.

So why is this important?

Well, most antibiotics go after the pathogens when they're actively growing. But, some microorganisms, like Borrelia, can put themselves into a dormant state to survive. Plus, if they can make a biofilm, which most vector-borne pathogens can, they will also be able to resist detection and survive.

Those that have undergone conventional Lyme treatment know that Doxycycline is the “drug of choice” and most often prescribed antibiotic, but what they don’t know is that even when the disease is acute, up to 30% of patients state they still have symptoms after the treatment has ended.

Many Lyme doctors are now looking at other factors to explain why there isn’t complete resolution with antibiotics. Could it be genetics, immune system dysfunction, or unaddressed epigenetic factors like infection, stress, and toxins. Frankly, it could be all of them making treatment all the more difficult.

The resilience of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases has pushed both doctors and patients to explore alternative options, such as botanical medicines and nutraceuticals. This allows antibiotics to be used more sparingly, limiting resistance, and a combination therapy to be utilized.

Dr. Schweig, one of the two doctors who compiled the research, sums it up well: "We use many botanical medicine protocols for Lyme and other tick-borne diseases, but also for gut issues, adrenal and hormone issues, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, health optimization, longevity, and a whole lot more. These protocols can be used on their own or alongside prescription medications when needed."

Over the past three years, researchers, including Dr. Schweig, have been publishing studies showing that herbal medicines can take down these common pathogens in the lab:

*Seven herbal medicines that can kill Borrelia (Lyme disease bacteria) in a test tube.

*Five herbal medicines that show potency against Bartonella in a test tube.

*Five herbal medicines that show potency against Babesia in a test tube.

The most astonishing result of these studies is that four of these botanicals – Cryptolepis, black walnut, Japanese knotweed, and Chinese skullcap – were shown to be even more effective in a test tube against Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) than the antibiotics doctors usually prescribe!.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these:

Cryptolepis: This herb, also known as Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, deserves a closer look. Cryptolepis contains alkaloids that have demonstrated potent antimicrobial properties against Borrelia burgdorferi. Its ability to target both active and dormant forms of the bacterium makes it a noteworthy candidate for Lyme disease treatment.

Black Walnut: Black walnut, specifically Juglans nigra, has a history of use against parasites and infections. Its natural compounds, including juglone and tannins, exhibit antimicrobial effects, which are beneficial in combating Lyme disease.

Japanese Knotweed: Resveratrol, a well-known compound found in Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Beyond its potential to address Lyme-related symptoms, resveratrol also supports the body's overall immune response.

Chinese Skullcap: Scutellaria baicalensis, or Chinese skullcap, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. In Lyme disease treatment, it manages neurological symptoms and reduces inflammation.

While these studies have shown promise, more testing needs to be done, leaving those currently in the trenches without answers. The good news however is that these results lend themselves to hope that a breakthrough could be around the corner. For now, using them in conjunction with conventional treatments, has the potential to enhance results and reduce the burden of antibiotic resistance. As always, working with a Lyme specialist is advised.

Even with antibiotics and herbals, diet and lifestyle must also be taken into account for longterm healing and symptom remission. MyPersonalized Paleo program, offers you the opportunity to focus on these modalites with or without convential Lyme treatment. The program will walk you through eliminating inflammatory and trigger foods, as well as stress reduction, sleep optimization, and movements that can be done no matter where you are in your healing journey. Things that we should all be doing, despite whether we have Lyme, but are particularly important for those with Lyme and/or autoimmune disease.

For more information about my programs, membership, or how I can help you, don't hestitate to reach out.