Facts About Treating Lyme Disease Naturally

By Enid Hinton


A serious health problem identified in 1975 has become one of the most well-known illnesses today. Once diagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis, this tick-borne disorder named after the town in Connecticut where it was first identified affects millions all over the world. Treating Lyme disease naturally has become a well-regarded way to alleviate symptoms and stop progressive harm to health and well-being.

Medical doctors use a blood test to diagnose this problem. The test may reveal the presence of spirochetes, bacteria-like organisms which carry this disease. However, spirochetes are uncannily adept at hiding, and the test may not always be definitive. This causes many people to turn to herbal means of fighting the problem. Herbals require no prescription, and most have no harmful side effects if used correctly.

The herbs that fight the illness are immune system boosters. They increase the number and effectiveness of the body's own defensive cells, which then destroy these foreign invaders. Herbs specific to this illness, that seem to be particularly effective, include the South American cat's claw, which is also found in tropical Asia. This herb is marketed as a liquid extract and in capsule form.

People have used cat's claw for arthritic complaints for generations. Researchers have found that the herb's effectiveness for Lyme can be increased by inactivating certain elements in the plant. People who want to self-treat for this illness should obtain a special preparation rather than using the whole herb.

Many people may seek a doctor's diagnosis but choose to use natural means to regain health. Doctors prescribe heavy doses of antibiotics when the illness is detected; these drugs often must be taken for extended periods of time. Antibiotics appear to be most effective when the illness is diagnosed quickly. If the problem is a long-standing one, antibiotics may not cure the problem.

Others may not like the idea of taking antibiotics, especially for month after month if the problem is persistent. They may choose herbal products to avoid the consequences of antibiotic use, such as yeast over-growth or immune system weakness. It also is a good idea to follow antibiotic use with herbal preparations.

North Americans have their own herbal remedy growing along the roadsides. Research has shown that teasel, a thistle-like plant that grows wild in many temperate regions, is effective against this illness. Herbalists sell teasel extract online. People can also harvest it themselves, choosing plants well away from the heavy metal contamination of heavy traffic. Dig roots in November, clean and chop them, and soak them in vodka for six weeks in a tightly-sealed jar. The liquid extract can them be poured off and used. For dosage recommendations, check online or look on product labels.

Anyone who works outdoors - in any of the fifty states - should not ignore symptoms such as joint pain, skin disorders, heart arrhythmia, tremors, or mental fogginess. Lyme's can cause all of these symptoms. Ticks are considered the main vector, but some authorities feel that mosquitoes, fleas, and other biting insects may also carry the disease. People can find more information online or from a local support group.




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