Lyme Disease

Lyme Disease

Symptoms

The Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria causes Lyme disease and arthritis, manifesting in a multitude of symptoms ranging from rheumatoid arthritis, to fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, neurological states, Bell's palsey, meningitis, heart and lung symptoms. Untreated, Lyme becomes deeply entrenched in the body, developing into an auto-immune disease. Within weeks to months, Lyme disease may progress into neurological symptoms such as Bell's palsy, meningitis, paralysis in the limbs and poor motor coordination. Heart and breathing problems might develop.

Home remedies

• Antioxidant vitamins and minerals can help fight the damage caused by infections and viruses, and many of the phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables have been shown to have immune-enhancing properties.
• Natural antibiotics such as Pau d'arco tea, garlic and Echinacea extract may prevent the onset of infection.
• Supplement with probiotics and vitamin B12.
• Foods such as garlic, leeks, onions, radishes and cabbage have anti-infectious properties.
• Helpful spices include thyme, fennel, clove, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and ginger.
• Mushrooms including cordyceps, reishi and maitake have been shown to activate immune response.
• Cordyceps improves stamina, increases energy, reduces weakness and fatigue, and increases lung function, relieving breathing difficulties.
• Japanese Knotweed Root is a very strong inhibitor of cytokine cascades initiated by bacteria. During Lyme infection, for instance, there is a spirochete-stimulated release of a number of matrix metalloptroteinases (MMPs) which occurs through a particular grouping of pathways. While there are a number of herbs that can reduce autoinflammatory conditions stimulated by MMP-1 and MMP-3 (for example Curcumin), the only herb that specifically blocks MMP-1 and MMP-3 induction through three particular pathways is Japanese Knotweed Root.
• The Peruvian herb Samento or Cat's Claw has been shown to be highly effective for treating neurological disorders. Samento corrects immune dysfunction, blocks the action of certain neurotoxins, and has an anti-microbial action on the B. burgdorferi spirochetes.
• Red Root : Red Root helps to remove dead cells from the lymphatic system. The herb is particularly useful if in any part of the lymphatic system there is swelling, inflammation or infection. Red Root is used both in the treatment of Lyme disease as well as Babesia coinfection. One of the co-infections of Lyme is Bartonella, where you will see swollen spleen, liver and lymph nodes. Red Root is important in that it clears dead cellular tissue from the lymph system.
• Stevia whole leaf extract, as an individual agent, was effective against all known morphological forms of B. burgdorferi.
• If you you've been bitten by a tick, start taking colloidal silver immediately.
• The homeopathic remedy Ledum treats puncture wounds from venomous insect bites. It should be taken right away after being bitten together with colloidal silver.
• If you've developed flu-like symptoms in the early stages of lyme disease, the homeopathic remedy Gelsemium should provide relief. It relieves fever, headache, body aches and pain, stiff neck, muscle pains, weakness, and a sensation of heaviness.
• Homeopathic remedies that may relieve neurological symptoms are Causticum, Tellurium and Sepia.
• Homeopathic Rhus Toxicodendron (Rhus-tox) is the main remedy, especially in long-standing cases where there is suppression from antibiotics. The arthritis or fibromyalgia pain is usually worse on the left side and on first movement. Painful areas get better with continued motion of the affected part. There is stiffness and soreness which is better with warm applications.
• Other homeopathic remedies that may offer relief for lyme arthritis are Kalmia latifolia, Pulsatilla, Lachesis, Lycopodium, Ruta Graveolens and Phosphorus.

Warnings

• If you think you've been bitten and have signs and symptoms of Lyme disease — particularly if you live in an area where Lyme disease is prevalent — contact your doctor. Treatment for Lyme disease is more effective if begun early.
• It's important to consult your doctor even if signs and symptoms disappear — the absence of symptoms doesn't mean the disease is gone. Left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to other parts of your body from several months to years after infection, causing arthritis and nervous system problems. Ticks also can transmit other illnesses, such as babesiosis and Colorado tick fever.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.