Herbal possess potent antimicrobial properties, as demonstrated by research indicating their effectiveness against various phases of tick-borne diseases, including log and stationary phases. Moreover, they are active against biofilms, which serve as protective armor for these pathogens against the immune system, and can combat persister forms.
Herbal treatments can be used alongside antibiotics for tick-borne diseases, often exhibiting a synergistic relationship with them. Studies have reported additional antimicrobial benefits when combining antibiotics like Doxycycline with compounds such as Baicalein (an active constituent of Chinese Skullcap) and luteolin. Similarly, combining doxycycline with rosmarinic acid and vitamins D3 and C has shown additive anti-spirochetal effects (Goc et al, 2016).
In my clinical practice, I've witnessed remarkable success in treating tick-borne diseases using antimicrobial herbals alone, without resorting to antibiotics. However, a challenge that some experience if using antibiotics is that to effectively treat these diseases lies in the necessity for prolonged antimicrobial use, which often leads to extended antibiotic use. This can result in gut dysbiosis and antibiotic resistance, among other issues.
The reality is that antibiotics offer limited coverage against various pathogens, necessitating multiple antibiotics for individuals with multiple infections. Moreover, antibiotics are most effective in the early stages of infection, and as the disease progresses, their efficacy diminishes. This is particularly relevant for individuals experiencing chronic symptoms of tick-borne diseases, such as children with PANS/PANDAS and Autism. Herbal remedies can serve as valuable support in combating these infections and improving quality of life.
Herbal treatments offer a broad spectrum of benefits and are generally well tolerated by both children and adults. However, one challenge can be the bitter taste of herbs. To address this, I prefer using herbal preparations in glycerite forms, which enhance taste and compliance during treatment. Retrospective and systematic reviews have concluded that severe adverse events associated with botanical medicine usage are rare (Di Lorenzo et al., 2015; Restani et al., 2016).
HERBALS FOR TICK-BORNE DISEASE
Japanese Knotweed is a favorite for Tick-borne illness, particularly Lyme Disease & Bartonella.
Its main constituent, Resveratrol, has the remarkable quality of being able to reach the brain's circulation, helping to protect the brain. Resveratrol’s strong antioxidant properties help to protect the heart and kidneys too. Japanese Knotweed has powerful antimicrobial effects and supports a balanced immune response.
Cat’s Claw, like Japanese Knotweed, is a favorite in the treatment of Lyme Disease. It has the unique ability to increase glutathione, and reduce harmful immune activity in the brain which helps to reduce inflammation and damage to the cells of the brain. In addition to its potent antiinflammatory effects, Cat’s Claw helps balance the immune response and fight viruses.
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta has broad antimicrobial effects, targeting Lyme, Bartonella, Babesia and Strep. Its ability to target multiple infections makes it a great choice for both tick-borne illness and the treatment of PANS/PANDAS.
Artemisia’’s main constituent artemisinin, is an anti-parasitic so effective in 2015 it received a Nobel Prize from its role in treating malaria! Its anti-parasitic effects make it a go-to for Babesia, a parasite. It also helps fight Lyme Disease
Chinese Skullcap is an important antimicrobial used in the treatment of Babesia. It is both gentle and a powerful antimicrobial that offers calming effects to the nervous system. Its main constituent, Biacalin, has antiviral effects and is able to reach the brain's circulation to help reduce symptoms of inflammation in the brain.
Houttuynia is a go-to in the treatment of Bartonella. Additionally, Houttuynia is a great option for PANS/PANDAS as its antimicrobial effects help fight mycoplasma and viruses. Houttuynia helps support the immune system by reducing inflammation and calming the allergic response.
The hallmark of Ashwagandha is its ability to support the body and mind in adapting to and managing stress. It helps decrease feelings of anxiety and depression, and has the potential to reduce symptoms of OCD too. Ashwagandha helps to balance the immune response and inflammation associated with tick-borne illness. Not only is it great for children with complex medical conditions, it’s a favorite support for mothers, helping to navigate stress and support thyroid function.