The following herbs are found in Stephen Buhner's popular book Healing Lyme Disease Coinfections. If you'd like to see more about what he labels "Basic Protocols," see Chapter 8, page 344-347.**
Addressing Lyme disease effectively requires a multifaceted approach, and the integration of herbal medicine, particularly from both Western and Chinese traditions, offers significant benefits. Here, we explore 25 essential herbs renowned for their supportive roles in managing Lyme disease.
Western Herbs for Lyme Disease
- Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa): Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, Cat's Claw is pivotal in combating Lyme-related inflammation.
- Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum): Rich in resveratrol, this herb enhances immune function and exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects.
- Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata): Valued for its antibacterial and immune-boosting properties, making it essential in Lyme treatment.
- Sarsaparilla (Smilax spp.): Aids in detoxification and mitigating Herxheimer reactions.
- Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus): An adaptogen that supports adrenal health and bolsters overall immune function.
- Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): Strengthens the immune system, enhancing the body's resistance to infections.
- Garlic (Allium sativum): Possesses antimicrobial and immune-enhancing properties crucial for fighting Lyme disease.
- Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum): Supports liver detoxification, a critical component in Lyme management.
- Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Stimulates the immune system, aiding in the body's defense against infections.
- Oregano Oil (Origanum vulgare): Exhibits strong antimicrobial activity, effective against a range of pathogens.
- Olive Leaf (Olea europaea): Offers antimicrobial and immune-boosting benefits, supporting Lyme disease treatment.
- Red Root (Ceanothus americanus): Enhances lymphatic function and reduces inflammation.
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Provides powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
- Grapefruit Seed Extract (Citrus paradisi): Known for its antimicrobial and detoxifying properties.
- Green Tea (Camellia sinensis): Delivers antioxidant and immune-modulating effects.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Reduces inflammation and supports digestive health.
- St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum): Antimicrobial and supports the nervous system.
- Black Walnut Hull (Juglans nigra): A natural antimicrobial that also helps eliminate parasites.
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Offers antiviral and calming effects.
- Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum): Immune-supportive and helps reduce fever.
- Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis): An adaptogen that supports liver function and immune health.
- Pau D'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa): Antimicrobial and aids in detoxification.
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):D An adaptogen that enhances immune function and alleviates stress.
- Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Anti-inflammatory and supports adrenal function.
Traditional Chinese Herbs for Lyme Disease
- Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus): Boosts immunity and enhances energy, crucial in Lyme management.
- Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis): Promotes blood circulation and reduces inflammation.
- Gou Teng (Uncaria rhynchophylla): Reduces inflammation and supports nervous system health.
- Ban Lan Gen (Isatis indigotica): Antiviral and immune-boosting properties.
- Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense): Supports liver health and reduces inflammation.
- Jin Yin Hua (Lonicera japonica): Known for its antibacterial and detoxifying properties.
- Lian Qiao (Forsythia suspensa): Provides antimicrobial benefits and reduces inflammation.
- Sheng Ma (Cimicifuga heracleifolia): Immune-stimulating and aids in detoxification.
- Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis): Supports adrenal function and reduces inflammation.
- Bai Hua She She Cao (Hedyotis diffusa): Anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects.
- Huang Qin (Scutellaria baicalensis): Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
- Ren Shen (Panax ginseng): An adaptogen that boosts energy and supports immune health.
- Xi Xian Cao (Siegesbeckia orientalis): Anti-inflammatory and enhances immune function.
- Bai Zhu (Atractylodes macrocephala): Supports digestion and strengthens the immune system.
- Yi Yi Ren (Coix lacryma-jobi): Reduces inflammation and supports lymphatic health.
- Zhi Mu (Anemarrhena asphodeloides): Antimicrobial and reduces heat and inflammation.
- Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia divaricata): Supports immunity and alleviates pain.
- Xu Duan (Teasel Root): Reduces inflammation and supports neurological health.
- Bai Xian Pi (Dictamnus dasycarpus): Detoxifies and supports skin health.
- Huang Lian (Coptis chinensis): Antimicrobial and aids digestive health.
- Yi Mu Cao (Leonurus japonicus): Enhances circulation and reduces inflammation.
- Chuan Xin Lian (Andrographis paniculata): Antimicrobial and immune-boosting.
- Mu Dan Pi (Paeonia suffruticosa): Anti-inflammatory and cooling.
- Gui Zhi (Cinnamomum cassia): Supports circulation and provides warming properties.
- Da Qing Ye (Istatis Leaf): Da Qing Yi has antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.
Harness the power of these potent herbs to support your journey towards better health and well-being. Consult with a knowledgeable healthcare provider to tailor a holistic, herbal strategy that addresses your unique needs in managing Lyme disease. Take the next step in your healing journey—integrate the wisdom of herbal medicine today.
**Buhner, Stephen Harrod. Healing Lyme Disease Coinfections: Complementary and Holistic Treatments for Bartonella and Mycoplasma. Healing Arts Press, 2013.