Lyme disease is caused by ticks infected with spiral-shaped bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. Usually, the bite site will develop into a lesion, resembling a bull's-eye. Flu-like symptoms will appear: fever, headache, stiff neck, joint aches and fatigue. If Lyme disease is not treated with antibiotics, bacteria can persist in the body and cause arthritic, neurologic and cardiac complications that can become difficult to treat. Toxins in the body can fuel bacteria growth. Complementary therapies that cleanse toxins, used in conjunction with antibiotics, can help the body recover fully.
Cleansing
According to University of Maryland Medical Center, herbs can help treat Lyme disease by cleansing the body of bacteria. Certain herbs contain antibacterial and antifungal chemicals that fight bacteria and boost immunity.
One star performer is green tea with its high levels of EGCGs. According to amazing-green-tea.com., a 2007 report generated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that green tea had the highest EGCG count out of nearly 400 foods tested. EGCG are powerful antioxidants that act to scour the damaging free radicals generated by toxins. In addition, green tea has anti-inflammatory properties. This is good news for 60 percent of the Lyme disease patients who suffer from pain caused by inflamed joints.
Another popular herbal detoxifier is burbur, a Peruvian plant. According to herbalremedies.com., Burbur can aid detoxification of the liver, kidneys and more with its antimicrobial chemicals.
The University of Maryland Medical Center also recommends other herbs like gingko biloba, cat's claw, reishi mushroom, olive leaf and garlic. These herbs can be found as dried extracts, glycerine extracts or tinctures. You can also make tea with these herbs. Simply steep 1 teaspoon of herb in 1 cup of hot water for five to 10 minutes, and drink.
Replace Microflora
Taking antibiotics to treat Lyme disease can deplete the gastrointestinal tract of good bacteria, also called probiotics. Th\he University of Maryland Medical Center recommends at least 5 to 10 billion colony forming units, or CFUs, of probiotics a day.
You can garner your supply from naturally probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, miso, fermented vegetables such as kimchi and sauerkraut, and common seasonings like onion and garlic. You can also look for probiotic supplements containing lactobacillus acidophilus.
Boost Immunity
Since Lyme disease stems from bacterial invasion, strengthening the immune system helps you to fight back. Steven J. Bock, M.D., discussed the importance of nutrients to boost the immune system, "The Integrative Treatment of Lyme Disease," published in the International Journal of Integrative Medicine, May/June 1999. He pointed out that intravenous nutrients, such as vitamin C and B vitamins, are often used to enhance immune function.
Tags: Lyme disease, Maryland Medical, Maryland Medical Center, Medical Center, University Maryland