Deer ticks cause Lyme disease. After embedding itself into the skin of its victim, the tick feeds upon the blood of its host, passing the disease-causing pathogen into its victim's bloodstream. Herbal therapies act as a complement to prescribed medications, and should not be used as a substitute. Lyme disease can cause potentially life-long harmful effects and herbs aid in the treatment of the disease by protecting the heart and fortifying the immune system.
Green Tea
Whether brewed several times a day or taken in capsule form, green tea provides a powerful boost to the immune system through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and heart healthy compounds. If taken in capsule form, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 250 to 500 mg daily.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal provides natural antibiotic properties, according to Phyllis A. Balch, CNC in her book, "Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing." One-half a dropperful, three times daily, of goldenseal extract can be placed under the tongue or added to a tea. The liquid extract gives faster results than the dried form. Persons allergic to ragweed should not take goldenseal.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo supplies heart healthy support and protects neurological tissue from the ravages of Lyme disease. Its antioxidant properties work with the immune system to repair the cell damage. Available in freeze-dried capsules, Balch recommends Ginkgo in a dose of 40 to 80 mg, three times a daily.
Cat's Claw
Cat's claw fortifies the immune system through its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal actions. Especially beneficial to the intestinal tract to eliminate wastes and toxins, a cat's claw dose of 20 mg three times daily is recommended by the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Olive Leaf
Considered a "disinfectant" for the body, olive leaf provides antibacterial and antifungal support and strength to the immune system. Teas of olive leaf may be consumed several times a day, according to Balch, or if capsules are preferred, 200 to 500 mg doses, one to three times daily offers the best benefits.
Garlic
Also considered a disinfectant for the bloodstream and intestinal tract, garlic acts much the same as olive leaf. Garlic may be added to cooking within the last few minutes to retain its immunity boosting properties, or a 400 mg capsule, taken two to three times daily, cleanses the body of the Lyme disease infection.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lyme Disease
- "Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing"; Phyillis A. Balch, CNC; 2006
