Lyme Disease A Tick Borne Illness
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Lyme disease is a bacterial infection primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. The bacterium responsible, Borrelia burgdorferi, enters the bloodstream and can spread to multiple body systems, causing symptoms that range from fever, fatigue, and joint pain to neurological and cardiac complications in more advanced stages.
Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are essential, yet many also turn to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support immune function and recovery. Chinese herbs commonly used to complement Lyme disease treatment include:
- Houttuynia (Yu Xing Cao): Known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, this herb supports the immune system in clearing infection.
- Andrographis (Chuan Xin Lian): Often used for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects, it helps reduce systemic inflammation.
- Japanese Knotweed (Hu Zhang): Contains resveratrol, which has antioxidant properties that support heart and nerve health, particularly in more advanced stages of Lyme.
- Sarsaparilla (Tu Fu Ling): Used to detoxify the body, it may help reduce herxheimer reactions, the side effects of bacterial die-off during treatment.
These herbs, used individually or in combination, can aid in managing symptoms, boosting immunity, and supporting the body's recovery. Consulting with a healthcare provider or TCM practitioner is recommended to personalize treatment.
References
- "What You Need to Know about Lyme Carditis." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 Jan. 2014. <http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/signs_symptoms/lymeCarditis.html>.
- "Clinical Manifestations of Confirmed Lyme Disease Cases--United States, 2001-2010." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 06 Dec. 2013. <http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/stats/chartstables/casesbysymptom.html>.
- Fish, Airley E., Yuri B. Pride, and Duane S. Pinto. Lyme Carditis 22 (2008): 275-88. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Infectious Disease Clinics of North America. Web. <http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/resources/Fish2008-508.pdf>.
- "Three Sudden Cardiac Deaths Associated with Lyme Carditis — United States, November 2012–July 2013." Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 62.49 (2013): n. pag. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 Dec. 2013. Web. <http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/wk/mm6249.pdf>.