For people concerned about symptom flare ups after surgery
by Greg Lee / Two Frogs Healing Center

Have you seen scary monster movies? In these films, monsters are often seen as having slime dripping from them. This slime is gooey, sticky, and grosses out the people in the film. Real world creatures use slime to protect themselves.

How does knowing about slimy monsters help you to reduce symptom flare-ups after surgery?

Just like monsters in a movie, harmful bacteria in your body can produce slime
This slime is called a biofilm or plaque when it is in the mouth. On your teeth, it can feel like a film or it produces a weird taste. Lyme disease bacteria also produce and hide under biofilm slime. Unfortunately, people with Lyme disease often experience a flare-up of symptoms after surgery. This can be due to the immune system’s healing response affecting the activity of Lyme bacteria. Symptom flare-ups can also be due to other harmful bacteria being introduced into your body through surgery.

Surgery creates an opening for bacteria to wander deeper into your body
Bacteria like to grow and expand their territory wherever they can. Surgery can allow harmful bugs to get into your bloodstream which enables them to infect different parts of your body. Fortunately, your doctor gives you antibiotics after surgery to stop these germs from spreading. However, antibiotics are not always able to penetrate and kill bad bacteria that are covered by slime.

Are there other methods that can help protect you from these bugs and to heal from surgery?

Alternative medicine provides several methods for stopping slimy bacteria and healing faster from surgery
Many of these natural medicines and treatments enhance your immune system in fighting bad bacteria, cutting through biofilm slime, and speeding up your healing process. Here are some methods for breaking up the slime that can shield dangerous bacteria.

1. Enzymes help you to break down slime

There is an enzyme made from earthworms called “Lumbrokinase” that breaks down slimy biofilms in the body¹. It is used by physicians to breakdown biofilms produced by infectious bacteria. It can increase bruising and is safe to use with blood thinners. Once the surgery wound has healed completely, patients can take this to reduce biofilms and scarring.

2. Herbs help you to break down slime and fight infection

One of my favorites is raw garlic. It has several healing properties: anti-bacterial, anti-toxin, and anti-biofilm (slime). I recommend chopping it into very small pieces and swallowing it with water to avoid garlic breath. It has also been recommended for treating drug resistant staph bacteria². This herb also has an antiviral effect against cytomegalovirus and an antibiotic effect against Candida albicans, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Bacillus dysenteriae, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae, and Bacillus paratyphosus³.

Clove extract cuts through bacteria slime⁴ (biofilms). After oral surgery, patients can add a few drops to a ¼ glass of water and rinse their mouth out. This herb has an inhibiting effect against Vibrio cholerae, Bacillus anthracis, Salmonella typhi, Corynebacterium diptheriae, Bacillus dysenteriae, E. coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphlococcus aureus⁵. It is also used to treat topical fungal infections⁵. Other treatments and medicines help your body to heal faster with less pain and discomfort.

3. Acupuncture can help you to heal faster from surgery
Some people feel groggy or mentally confused after surgery. This may be due to the effects of anesthesia. Acupuncture has been shown to help detoxify narcotics and other chemicals more quickly out of the body⁶. In acupuncture studies, several acupuncture points help to stimulate the healing of bones⁷. These points have English translations like “Bone Binder” and “Shoulder Bone.”

4. Other Chinese Herbs help repair soft tissue

There is a very popular Chinese herbal capsule called “Yunnan Baiyao” that is specifically for healing from surgery and wounds to the body. It has also reduced intra-operative bleeding in studies in China⁸. It has been used for over a hundred years in Chinese hospitals without serious side effects. There is a small red pill that is to be used for emergency bleeding, like just after surgery. There are also 16 other capsules that are taken several times a day.

Another herbal tincture for healing bones and tissues is called, “Resinall K.” It is actually manufactured in the US by a company called Health Concerns. I have used it effectively for over a decade to help patients to heal broken bones and fractures and reduce pain.

5. Probiotics help to replenish your healthy bacteria when taking antibiotics
Patients are often given antibiotics to kill off harmful bacteria to help them fight infection after surgery. Unfortunately, antibiotics also kill off healthy bacteria that help to digest food. Taking probiotics helps to replenish the supply of healthy bacteria so other harmful organisms like yeast (Candida) or C-diff (colostrum difficile) do not disrupt healthy digestion. I recommend that clients take a daily probiotic with 10 billion of more live organisms a few hours after taking antibiotics.

6. Essential oils kill bacteria where they like to hide from your immune system
A dentist colleague of mine had a heart attack just after dental surgery. He thought the bacteria in his mouth were able to somehow reach and affect his heart. Some bacteria can actually hide within your blood cells and infect other parts of your body. Many antibiotics do not penetrate into blood cells. Fortunately, some essential oils have the ability to kill bacteria that are hiding in blood cells. Some also have the ability to dissolve slimy biofilms. These oils are swallowed in capsules to maximize how much you absorb. Some oils can be toxic when taken internally, so work with a health care provider that is trained in the safe use of essential oils.

7. Homeopathic remedies can help enhance healing
Homeopathic mineral cell salts help cells to heal and function more efficiently. Many people do not get enough of these salts in their diet. This is because many non-organic or highly processed food items do not contain these salts in sufficient quantity.

8. Oil pulling helps to clean out harmful bacteria from the mouth
Oil pulling is the process of swishing sunflower or coconut oil in the mouth. The oil is gently swished through the mouth for about 15 minutes. Then it is spit out. This process rinses the harmful bacteria that have grown in the mouth. Patients report that their head feels much clearer and less toxic afterward. Most people do it in the morning just before brushing their teeth.

9. Light therapy helps wounds to heal twice as fast

Imagine using a space-age infrared light that helps plants grow on the NASA Space Shuttle on your surgery wound. A doctor at the Medical College of Wisconsin has found that this light helps wounds to heal twice as fast⁹ and also reduces neurotoxicity in rat experiments¹⁰. Patients report reduced pain in their wounds and arthritic joints with a 90 second light treatment.

10. Craniosacral technique helps to relieve pain and improve blood flow in the head
Craniosacral technique is a gentle, hands-on pressure that can be applied to release tension around surgical areas and reduce pain. Originally developed by osteopathic physicians, this method is effective in increasing the flow of blood flow and cerebral spinal fluid, which can increase the healing of wounds.

11. Reducing the sugar in your diet helps to starve harmful bacteria
Eating sugar gives bacteria in your body more food. Eating less sugar and carbohydrates after surgery helps to reduce the population of harmful bacteria. Using a combination of these methods can accelerate your healing and reduce unwanted symptoms after surgery.

These medicines and treatments can help to reduce post-surgical pain and risk of infection
Just like getting rid of the scary, slimy monster at the end of a movie, you can use these medicines and treatments after surgery to cut through biofilms and prevent Lyme and other harmful bacteria from wandering around and infecting different parts of your body. These methods can also kill these bacteria and help your body to heal more quickly. Consult with an alternative medicine practitioner that is literate in treating biofilm illnesses like Lyme disease to enhance your healing and reduce symptom flare-ups after surgery.

– Greg

Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday September 12th at 6pm to learn more about healing persistent Lyme disease.

1.        Lumbrokinase. https://www.researchednutritionals.com/store/item.cfm?code=CBD202&cat=43
2.        Andrew Weil. MRSA: Fending Off the Superbug? https://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400262/mrsa-fending-off-the-superbug
3.        Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 1047-1048.
4.        Wong RW, Hägg U, Samaranayake L, Yuen MK, Seneviratne CJ, Kao R. Antimicrobial activity of Chinese medicine herbs against common bacteria in oral biofilm. A pilot study. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2010 Jun;39(6) pp. 599-605.
5.        Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 461-462.
6.        Han J, Cui C, Wu L. Acupuncture-related techniques for the treatment of opiate addiction: a case of translational medicine. Front Med. 2011 Jun;5(2) pp. 141-50
7.        Miwa Nakajima, Motohiro Inoue, Tatsuya Hojo, Nozomu Inoue, Kazuto Tanaka, Ryota Takatori, Megumi Itoi. Effect of electroacupuncture on the healing process of tibia fracture in a rat model: a randomised controlled trial. Acupunct Med 2010;28 pp. 140-143
8.        Li NC, Pan BN, Wang HJ, Li HZ, Wei Q, Wang XH, Cai SL, Gan WM, Na YQ. Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi. The effect of Yunnan Baiyao on reduction of intra-operative bleeding of the patients undergoing transurethral resection of prostate. Institute of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China. 2007 Apr 17;87(15) pp. 1017-20.
9.        Whelan HT, Smits RL, Buchmann EV, Whelan NT, Turner SG, Margolis DA, Crevenini V, Stinson H, Ignatius R, Martin T, Cwiklinski J, Philippi AF, Graf WR, Hodgson B, Gould L, Kane M, Chen G, Caviness J: Effect of NASA Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) Irradiation on Wound Healing J. Clin. Laser Med. Surg 2001;1 pp. 16-19.
10.     Liang HL, Whelan HT, Eells JT, Wong-Riley M: Near-Infrared Light via Light-Emitting Diode Treatment is Therapeutic Against Rotenone- and MPP+- Induced Neurotoxicity. Neuroscience 153(4)963-974, 2008.

For people with recurring chronic pain, fatigue, or infection due to mycoplasma
by Greg Lee

Imagine you are walking in a lush garden with flowers and vegetables and then you hear a loud buzz around your head. And another buzz, and another. As you look around the garden, you see large groups of stink bugs that are intent on having a feast on the plants. Without any natural predators, these bugs roam freely munching on everything in sight.

How is an infestation of stink bugs like a recurring mycoplasma infection?

Just like stink bugs that swarm over a garden, a mycoplasma infection can be difficult to eliminate
A mycoplasma infection is an overgrowth of one or more species of mycoplasma bacteria in the body. Mycoplasmas are one of the smallest bacteria. They lack a cell wall which makes them invulnerable to antibiotics which disrupt cell walls. Ticks are capable of carrying mycoplasma¹ and Lyme disease. When a person’s immune system is fighting a Lyme disease infection, it is more susceptible to getting a secondary mycoplasma infection. Antibiotic treatment for mycoplasma can help reduce an infection.

Antibiotics reduce mycoplasma infections in the body
There are several species of mycoplasma that infect the body. They have strange sounding names like: Mycoplasma fermentans, Mycoplasma hominis, or Mycoplasma pneumonia. Unfortunately, mycoplasma can infect different areas in the body and can produce symptoms of infection, mucus discharge, pain, arthritis, fatigue, or neurological problems. They can activate or suppress your immune system. These germs can mimic the proteins in your body which can lead to autoimmune illnesses like Lupus, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Multiple sclerosis, or cancer². Many Lyme disease patients with mycoplasma get relief with antibiotics like Minocycline, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin, or Clarithromycin.

Unfortunately, mycoplasma infections can return after going off antibiotics.

Laila’s lung infection would return again and again after going off antibiotics
Laila caught a pesistent cold after returning from an overseas trip. She got some antibiotics and felt much better. However, the cold kept coming back soon after she went off of antibiotics. She got some relief using supplements like oil of oregano. Even with higher and higher doses of medications and supplements, her cold kept returning.

Are there other ways to help eliminate a recurring mycoplasma infection?

There are three herbs that help to reduce the persistent symptoms of a mycoplasma infection³
These herbs inhibit or kill mycoplasma and many other infectious germs.

Herb #1: Radix Isatidis, Chinese name: Ban Lan Gen⁴
The properties of this herb are bitter, cold, clears heat, eliminates toxins, cools the blood and benefits the throat. This is used to treat symptoms of fever, sore throat, tonsillitis, upper respiratory tract infections, blotches on the skin, and a flushed or swollen face. This herb is also used to treat encephalitis B, hepatitis, chicken pox, herpes simplex, and herpes zoster.

Ban Lan Gen is relatively safe with occasional reports of gastrointestinal discomfort. Allergic reactions have been reported with oral and intravenous dosages of this herb. Patients that are allergic to sulfonylureas and sulfonamides may also be allergic to this herb. Ban Lan Gen has antiplatelet action and should be used with caution with people who take anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications.

Ban Lan Gen has antibacterial effects in vitro against Mycoplasma hominis³, Staphylococcus aureus (staph), Diplococcus pneumoniae, E. coli, Salmonella typhi, influenza viruses, and leptospira.

Herb #2: Radix Angelica Dahurica, Chinese name: Bai Zhi⁵
The properties of this herb are acrid, and warm. Angelica dahurica is used to treat symptoms of colds, mucus discharge, and pain. It is used to relieve nasal obstruction, headaches, muscle aches, sinusitis, rhinitis, and white or yellow nasal discharge. This herb is also used to relieve frontal headaches, pain around the eyes, and toothaches.

It is also used to reduce swelling, discharge pus and eliminate toxins. This herb helps to reduce sores, inflammation, carbuncles, furuncles, rashes, itching, and ulcers in the skin. It is also used to treat breast abscesses, intestinal abscesses, and acute appendicitis. Angelica dahurica is also used to treat leukorrhea and diarrhea.

This herb inhibits the growth of Mycoplasma hominis³, E. coli, Bacillus dysenteriae, Bacillus proteus, Salmonella typhi, Pseudonomas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholerae, Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis, and Shigella spp. In several research studies, Angelica dahurica demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and antispasmodic effects in mice. In other experiments, Angelica dahurica lowered the heart rate, decreased blood pressure, increased the depth of breathing, and stimulated the nervous system in other laboratory animals. In one study on rats, this herb had an inhibitory effect on liver metabolism. Because of inhibited metabolism, concurrent use of this herb may lead to increased plasma concentrations of drugs like testosterone, tolbutamide, nifedipine, bufuralol, and diazepam.

Herb #3: Cortex Phellodendri, Chinese name: Huang Bai⁶
The properties of this herb are bitter and cold. Cortex Phellodendri is used for clearing symptoms of heat and infection, eliminating toxins, and dryness. It is also used to treat jaundice, burning diarrhea, feelings of incomplete evacuation, bleeding hemorrhoids, yellow leukorrhea, dysuria, and swollen painful joints. This herb is also used to treat sore and weak low back and knees, urinary tract infections, and blood in the urine.

Cortex Phellodendri is also effective in treating rashes, abscesses, sores, carbuncles, ulcerations, eczema, lesions, burns, redness, and eye symptoms of swelling, pain, and redness. It also treats the heat sensation which has been described as feeling like your “bones are being steamed.” This herb also treats tidal fever, nocturnal emissions, night sweats, emaciation, dry throat, flushed cheeks, tinnitus, dizziness, irritability, and insomnia. It is also used to treat menopause symptoms accompanied by scanty menstruation, abnormal uterine bleeding.

An extract of Cortex Phellodendri, xylopinin, is effective in lowering blood pressure. This herb has antibiotic effects against Mycoplasma hominis³, Staphylococcus aureus (staph), Diplococcus pneumoniae, Corynebacterium diptheriae, Bacillus dysenteriae, B-hemolytic streptococcus, Diplococcus meningitidis, Vibrio cholerae, Bacillus anthracis, and dermatophytes. It is also used to treat a spirochete infection called leptospira. The leaves of this herb have an antiviral effect against the herpes virus.

Research studies show that this herb is effective in treating chronic bacterial dysentery and chronic bronchitis. This herb is not suitable for long-term use in patients with coldness in the stomach. It is contraindicated in patients with that have extreme coldness. There are no known drug interactions at the time of publication.

How do you know that these herbs are working to kill off your mycoplasma infection?

Patients report a significant reduction of mycoplasma symptoms
After adding the above herbs to her anti-Lyme herb formula, Laila reported that her persistent cough and phlegm was almost completely gone after one week. Several other patients diagnosed with mycoplasma have reported significant improvements in chronic symptoms of fatigue, pain, and malaise when taking one or more of these herbs. The right combination of herbs can help reduce a persistent mycoplasma infection.

The right herb combination can help you to stop a recurring mycoplasma infection
Just like eliminating pesky stink bugs from your garden, the proper combination of herbs helps you to stop a recurring mycoplasma infection. Since some of these herbs come with cautions on their use, work with a Lyme literate herbalist to develop a safe and effective herbal strategy for your condition.

1.  Eskow E, Adelson ME, Rao RV, Mordechai E. Evidence for disseminated Mycoplasma fermentans in New Jersey residents with antecedent tick attachment and subsequent musculoskeletal symptoms. J Clin Rheumatol. 2003 Apr;9(2). pp. 77-87.
2. Leslie Taylor. Mycoplasmas – Stealth Pathogens. https://www.rain-tree.com/myco.htm
3. Che YM, Mao SH, Jiao WL, Fu ZY. Susceptibilities of Mycoplasma hominis to herbs. Am J Chin Med. 2005;33(2) pp.191-6.
4. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 210 – 211.
5. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 59 – 62.
6. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 145 – 147.

Next step: Come to  our evening lecture at 6pm on Monday August 1st called,  “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease” (click the title for more info) in Frederick, Maryland.

Here is an upcoming conference for health care providers and patients on Lyme disease titled, “Lyme Disease in the Family” on July 9th in Salisbury Maryland. It’s being offered by the Lyme Disease Association of the Eastern Shore of Maryland (LDASEM).

Click here for more information:

https://www.lymepa.org/LDAESMD_July_2011_Conference_Info___Registration.pdf

I have heard several of these speakers at other conferences and I highly recommend hearing their presentations.

– Greg

Only two spaces left at our evening lecture at 6pm on Monday July 11th called,  “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease” (click the title for more info) in Frederick, Maryland.

For people with recurring Lyme disease pains due to breaking up biofilms
By Greg Lee

Remember the Greek myth of Pandora? Pandora was given a jar, which was changed from a jar into a box in a later version, and told to never open it. Her curiosity got the best of her and she opened and released the evils inside the jar. The evils were then able to spread across the earth causing trouble, pain, and destruction. The only thing left in the jar was hope, which she was able to release by opening the jar a second time.

How is the myth of Pandora similar to using enzymes to dissolve Lyme disease biofilms?

Similar to opening Pandora’s jar, taking enzyme supplements for breaking up biofilms can release hidden pains
At a recent seminar, medical practitioners were shown how earthworm enzymes are able to break up slimy biofilms and uncover hidden Lyme disease bacteria. A biofilm is a protective slime that bacteria and other germs encase themselves in to avoid being killed. These special enzymes dissolve protective biofilms and enable medications, herbs, and the immune system to more effectively kill hidden germs. Not only do these enzymes cut through biofilms, but they release the germs hidden within.

When biofilms are dissolved, they release hidden germs and painful toxins
After taking these enzymes, patients have reported feeling more toxic. This toxic feeling has been compared to a Herxheimer reaction. A Herxheimer reaction is described as a release of toxins that occurs when bacteria are killed. As these enzymes dissolve protective biofilms, the underlying germs get killed off by medications, herbs, treatments, or the immune system, which releases more toxins. This increase in toxins can lead to greater pain, fatigue, and mental confusion. Not only do these enzymes dissolve biofilms, they also dissolve coagulated blood deposits.

These enzymes also dissolve coagulated deposits that block oxygen flow into tissues
When a person has a trauma that breaks blood vessels, the circulation system produces a substance called fibrin to stop the bleeding. Fibrin plugs the damage in blood vessels and helps to form a blood clot. Excess fibrin circulates in the blood stream and ends up being deposited on the inside of your blood vessels. These deposits are like a plaque that can slow down or prevent oxygen and nutrients from getting into your tissues.  These fibrin deposits are also referred to as coagulated blood. When enzymes dissolve these coagulated blood deposits, then your cells benefit from more oxygen and nutrients. However, there is also a downside to dissolving coagulated blood.

Dissolving coagulated blood deposits can cause bruising and bring up painful emotions
At elevated doses, some people report bruising when taking these enzymes. Chinese herbal medicine describes how emotions, thoughts, and memories can be stored in coagulated blood deposits. Another side effect of taking these enzymes is that some people have reported feeling bouts of anxiety, experiencing painful memories, or being troubled by deeply negative thoughts. These uncomfortable experiences have recurred for weeks or months in a few people. How can Chinese medicine help people with these uncomfortable thoughts and emotions?

Fortunately, there are herbs that can help to relieve painful emotions
In Chinese herbal medicine, there is a group of herbs classified as “calm the spirit.” These herbs help to heal the source of painful emotions and troubling thoughts.

Herb #1) Oyster shell, Chinese name: Mu Li¹
The properties of this herb are salty, cool, and and astringent. Crushed or powdered, oyster shell is used to treat dizziness, vertigo, palpitations, insomnia, irritability, short temper, restlessness, and tinnitus. It is also used to treat convulsions, muscle twitches, lumps, and palpable masses like scrophula and goiter. It is also highly effective for stopping sweating, uterine bleeding, and vaginal discharge. Oyster shell is alkaline which is used to treat stomach acidity, reflux, heartburn, ulcers, and stomach pain. Oyster shell is also used to settle and calm the spirit.

There are no documented herb drug interactions at the time of publication. This herb is contraindicated in people with shellfish allergies.

2) Radix Polygalae, Chinese name: Yuan Zhi²
The properties of this herb are acrid, bitter, slightly warm. Polygala is used to pacify the heart and calm the spirit. It strengthens the heart and is used to treat restlessness, palpitations, palpitations with anxiety, insomnia, excessive dreaming, and nocturnal emissions. Polygala also treats mental and emotional disorientation, forgetfulness, memory loss, the inability to concentrate, seizures, delirium, mania, stupor, and hearing loss. This herb also expels phlegm, and treats coughing with white sputum, bronchitis, pneumonia, and respiratory disorders. It is also used for boils, abscesses, sores, swollen or painful breasts.

This herb is to be used with caution in patients with gastritis, peptic or duodenal ulcers. It is also to be used with caution in pregnancy as it can cause uterine contractions. Water and alcohol extracts of this herb have an inhibitory effect on diplococcus pneumoniae (pneumonia), bacillus dysenteriae (dysentery), Salmonella typhi, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis (tuberculosis). In one study, this herb reduced the impairment on learning and memory caused by ethanol. Polygala has a diuretic effect and concurrent use with diuretics like chlorothiazide, hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide (Lasix), bumetanide (Burmex), and torsemide (Demadex) may lead to increased elimination of water and/or electrolytes.

3) Reishi mushroom / Ganoderma, Chinese name: Ling Zhi³
The properties of this herb are sweet and neutral. Reishi mushroom nourishes the heart and calms the spirit. strengthens the heart and spleen, and stops coughing and wheezing. This herb treats insomnia, forgetfulness, fatigue, listlessness, diabetes, and poor appetite. It also treats coughing caused by cold, profuse sputum, rapid breathing, and chronic asthma. Reishi also replenishes energy and blood. It is helpful with weak digestion, loose stools, fatigue, dizziness, and low back soreness.

This herb has been shown to enhance the immune system by increasing monocytes, macrophages, and T-lymphocytes. It also increases the production of Interleukin-12 (IL-12). In different Lyme disease studies, IL-12 increased arthritis in one mouse study and decreased arthritis in another mammal study. It contains ganoderic acid which help fight auto-immune diseases, inhibit histamine release, improve oxygen utilization, improve liver functions, are potent antioxidant free-radical scavengers, and supports neurological healing.

Reishi has a broad spectrum of antibiotic activity. It inhibits the growth of E. coli, B. dysentery, Pseudonomas spp. pneumococci, streptococci type A, and staphylococci. There are no documented herb drug interactions at the time of publication.

Combining one or more of these herbs can help reduce or eliminate painful emotions that come up when biofilms get dissolved.

The right herbs can help relieve the pains uncovered by enzymes used for dissolving biofilms
Just like opening Pandora’s Jar, enzymes for dissolving biofilms can lead to increased pain for people with Lyme disease. Not only can these enzymes release toxins under biofilms, they can also bring up painful emotions that are hidden in coagulated blood deposits. Just like Pandora opening her jar a second time to let hope out, there are calm spirit herbs that can help to relieve painful emotions. Consult with a Lyme literate herbalist to help reduce or eliminate the pains released when dissolving biofilms. The right combination of herbs can help soothe troubled emotions and neutralize painful toxins.

1. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 797 – 799.
2. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 766 – 767.
3. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 770 – 771.

Next Step: Learn more about cutting through Lyme disease biofilms at an evening lecture at 6pm on Monday July 11th called,  “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease” (click the title for more info) in Frederick, Maryland.

For people who want to know the latest research around treating and stopping Lyme disease and other tick borne infections

by Greg Lee / Two Frogs Healing Center

What happened in Washington DC on October 11-12, 2010 at a National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine Workshop on Lyme disease?
Different researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates gave a wide range of presentations on Lyme disease to a panel of scientists and a public audience. Participants in the audience also provided comments and feedback. These presentations contain a wealth of information which illustrates the complex challenge that Lyme disease poses to the patient, immune system, families, communities, clinician, researcher, environment, and to health care policy legislators.

This workshop produced a mountain of data, research, and opinions which have been compiled into a 485 page workshop report. This is only the opinion of the presenters, not the National Academy of Sciences.

I highly recommend getting your free copy of the workshop report by clicking on this link here:

https://bit.ly/eHDCgg

You will see in the right column two options: 1) Download report – it’s free or 2) Read the report online for free. Grab a big drink of water and some healthy anti-Lyme munchies before sitting down to read this report.

Here is a link to the video of the conference if you want to watch all 14+ hours of it:

https://www.tvworldwide.com/events/iom/101011/default.cfm?id=12856&type=flv&test=0&live=0

Here are parts of the report I highly recommend reading/watching:

A SYSTEMS APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING TICK-BORNE DISEASES: PEOPLE, ANIMALS, AND ECOSYSTEMS
Richard S. Ostfeld, Ph.D., Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies – page 2-1

THE SOCIAL CONSTRUCTION OF LYME DISEASE
Robert Aronowitz, M.D., University of Pennsylvania – page  3-1

THE HUMAN FACE OF TICK-BORNE DISEASE INFECTIONS
Pamela Weintraub – page 3-4

Emerging Infections, Tick Biology, and Host-Vector Interactions- page 4-1

VARIATION OF BORRELIA SUBSPECIES: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN DISEASE
James H. Oliver, Jr., Ph.D., Institute of Arthropodology and Parasitology, Georgia Southern University – page 4-14

– Dr. Oliver describes 18 different subspecies (mutations) of Borrelia burgdorferi that are found around the world

LYME DISEASE: APPROACHES TO UNDERSTANDING A MULTIDIMENSIONAL DISEASE
Benjamin J. Luft, M.D., State University of New York-Stony Brook – page 5-6

– Dr. Luft talks about 46 different genotypes (mutations) of Borrelia burgdorferi and where they are found in the US

GENETIC AND ACQUIRED DETERMINANTS OF HOST SUSCEPTIBILITY AND VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
David J. Weber,M.D., University of North Carolina – page 5-24

AT RISK POPULATIONS FOR BABESIA
Peter J. Krause, M.D., Yale School of Public Health and School of Medicine – page 5-26

PATHOGENESIS OF BORRELIA BURGDORFERI INFECTION AND DISEASE
Janis J. Weis, Ph.D., Department of Pathology, University of Utah – page 6-1

DURATION OF SPIROCHETE INFECTION FOLLOWING ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT IN ANIMALS
Linda K. Bockenstedt, M.D., Yale University School of Medicine – page 6-4

In the workshop, Dr. Bockenstedt showed photon microscope images of moving spirochetes in live mice before and fluorescing spirochete material in ear cartilage after antibiotic treatment

COLLAGEN SEQUESTRATION AS A MECHANISM FOR PERSISTENCE OF BORRELIA BURGDORFERI
Stephen W. Barthold, D.V.M., Ph.D., University of California-Davis – page 6-11

DIAGNOSTICS FOR LYME DISEASE: KNOWLEDGE GAPS AND NEEDS
Maria Aguero-Rosenfeld, M.D., New York University and Bellevue Hospital Center – page 7-1

POTENTIAL BIOMARKER APPLICATIONS FOR LYME DISEASE: ALIGNING MULTIPLE SYMPTOMS WITH BIOLOGICAL MEASURES
Afton L. Hassett, Psy.D., University of Michigan Medical School – page 7-7

PANEL: CHALLENGES FOR CLINICIANS IN DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC ILLNESS MANIFESTATIONS: KNOWLEDGE GAPS

Sam T. Donta, M.D., Professor of Medicine (ret.), Infectious Diseases, Falmouth Hospital, MA – page 7-13

Brian Fallon, M.D., M.P.H., Director of the Center for Neuroinflammatory Disorders and Biobehavioral Medicine, Director of the Lyme and Tick-Borne Diseases Research Center,

Columbia University Medical Center – page 7-15

Richard F. Jacobs, M.D., F.A.A.P. Robert H. Fiser, Jr., M.D. Endowed Chair in Pediatrics Chair, Department of Pediatrics University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences President, Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute – page 7-17

Matthew H. Liang, M.D., M.P.H., Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Professor of Health Policy and Management, Harvard School of Public Health – page 7-19

EDUCATION, BEHAVIOR CHANGE, AND OTHER NON-PHARMACEUTICAL MEASURES AGAINST LYME AND OTHER TICK-BORNE DISEASES
Paul Mead, M.D., M.P.H., Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – page 8-9

VECTOR- AND HOST-TARGETED STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION OF TICKBORNE DISEASES
Jose M.C. Ribeiro, M.D., Ph.D., National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases – page 8-12

CRITICAL NEEDS AND GAPS IN UNDERSTANDING TICK-BORNE DISEASES: THE GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
Susan O’Connell, M.D., Southampton General Hospital – page 9-8

Appendix A has a wealth of research papers worth reading

Appendix B describes the amount and allocation of federal dollars for tick research funding

Appendix C summarizes the public comment that was received before the workshop

Enjoy,

– Greg

Next step: Attend our evening lecture on natural healing methods for Lyme disease, “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease Pain, Fatigue, and Mental Fog” on Monday May 2nd from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm at Two Frogs in Frederick

Click here for more information: https://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

For people with multiple Lyme disease symptoms that are getting worse
by Greg Lee / Two Frogs Healing Center

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons user Pleple2000

Next Step: Learn more about removing painful Lyme disease toxins at an evening lecture at 6pm on Monday April 11th called,  “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease” (click the title for more info) in Frederick, Maryland.

For people with Lyme disease muscle pains triggered by a yeast infection
by Greg Lee

Imagine in colonial times that you are struggling with an exploding rat population that is eating crops, spreading disease, and crowding out the local wildlife. This actually happened in the Virgin Islands in the 1800’s. British settlers introduced mongooses to kill rats and save crops. Unfortunately, the rats slept during the day and hunted at night. Mongooses hunted during the day and slept at night. These mongooses ended up killing off more local birds and reptiles than pesky rats.

How is introducing the wrong predator similar to aggressive antibiotic treatment for Lyme disease?

Just like a mongoose that eats the wrong animals, harsh antibiotics for Lyme disease also kill off your healthy bacteria
Antibiotics kill off harmful Lyme germs as well as beneficial bacteria. People who receive antibiotics for Lyme disease have had their healthy bacteria killed off and then harmful yeast grows in its place. In some patients, yeast have been found to infect the muscles, the brain, and in some cases colonizing the entire body. Unfortunately, wherever yeast grows, it can form painful oxalates.

Harmful yeast infections can form painful oxalates
Oxalates are a crystals that can form anywhere in the body. These crystals are created when fungi like yeast or molds produce oxalic acid, which can irritate tissues, muscles, and organs. This acid will bond to magnesium, mercury, or calcium to form crystals. These crystals can accumulate to form large oxalate stones, which have been found in the heart, in the nervous system, and in joints. These crystals can have sharp edges which are very painful. Not only fungi can create painful crystals, but also eating foods high in oxalates.

The wrong diet can also increase the size and pain of oxalates
When a person eats foods that are high in oxalates, they can accumulate these crystals. One of the most common examples is kidney stones. These stones can block the flow of urine or blood in different organs, which can also create pain.

What can help you to eliminate painful oxalates from your muscles and organs?

There are three main steps for reducing oxalates and preventing them from forming painful crystals

Step 1: Reduce or eliminate foods that are high in oxolates
Reduce or eliminate these foods that are high in oxolates: spinach, Swiss chard, tofu, peanuts, pecans, rhubarb, sweet potatoes, chocolate, instant coffee, leeks, tea, okra, wheat germ, lemon peel, lime peel, black pepper, and parsley. Avoid taking supplements with omega-6 because that increases oxalate formation.

Step 2: Take supplements which help to neutralize oxalates
Calcium citrate and magnesium citrate binds to oxalic acid in the digestive system and eliminates it through the stool. Lactobacillus is a probiotic that produces enzymes that breakdown oxalates. Taking omega-3 and cod liver oil prevents oxalate crystal formation. Vitamin B6 and the amino acid arginine also reduce oxalate crystal formation.

Step 3: Adjust your diet and supplements to prevent yeast overgrowth
When undergoing antibiotic treatment, taking ten of billions of probiotic organisms each day helps to replenishing your healthy bacteria population. Sufficient numbers of healthy bacteria stop harmful yeast from taking over. Reducing or eliminating foods like sugars, wheat, and dairy also helps to keep yeast in check.

These three steps help you to prevent painful oxalates from forming
You can avoid the mongoose – rat dilemma with the right steps to prevent painful oxalates from forming. Powerful antibiotic therapy for Lyme disease can produce a stubborn yeast infection. Yeast produce oxalic acid which is caustic and makes oxalate stones and crystals. Forming anywhere in the body, these stones can be painful due to their sharp edges or where they block the flow of urine or blood. Fortunately, a diet low in oxalates, the right supplements and probiotics, and eliminating foods that yeast feed on helps you to stop painful oxalates from growing in your muscles, joints, and organs.

1. Shaw, William. “Oxalates: An Important Etiological Factor In The Diagnosis and Treatment of Autism” Kansas: The Great Plains Laboratory, Inc.

Next Step: Learn more about healing stubborn Lyme disease joint pain. Click here to find out about our evening lecture at 6pm on Monday March 7th, “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease” in Frederick, Maryland.

For people with recurring yeast infections
by Greg Lee

When I was a kid, my mother would pour weed killer on dandelions to try to grow more grass in our yard. Somehow, other weeds like crabgrass, plantain, and buttercups would spring up in their place despite repeated use of harsh herbicides. These other weeds were more persistent in taking over the lawn than dandelions.

How are stubborn weeds like a recurring yeast infection?

Just like weeds that keep coming back, yeast can return over and over again in Lyme disease patients
Yeast infections, also known as Candidiasis, is an overgrowth of the Candida species of yeast in the body. Candida albicans is the most common species and it can infect the mouth, genitals, or the entire body. Immune compromised patients, like people with Lyme disease, are more susceptible to yeast infections. In addition, antibiotic treatment for Lyme disease kills off beneficial bacteria, which increases the areas for yeast to grow in the body. Medications can help reduce a yeast infection.

Anti-fungal medications reduce yeast infections in the body
Symptoms of a yeast infection are: itching, redness, inflammation, cottage cheese-like discharge with a foul odor, white coating on the tongue and throat, asthma, psoriasis, or multiple sclerosis¹. Some symptoms may be triggered by eating products containing refined sugars, wheat, or dairy. These symptoms include: fatigue, irritability, mood swings, bloating, or cramping pain. Many Lyme disease patients with yeast get relief from anti-fungal medications like Diflucan (fluconazole) or Nystatin. Unfortunately, yeast infections often return.

Supplements can also help reduce a yeast infection
Taking probiotics helps to resupply your system with healthy bacteria that prevent yeast from taking over. Garlic and grapefruit seed extract are also effective anti-yeast supplements. However, some patients have reactions to garlic or they dislike having garlic body odor. And some people are on medications which interact with grapefruit. Other herbs like lavender, echinachea, and tea tree can reduce yeast.

Are there other ways to help eliminate a recurring yeast infection?

There are three herbs that help to significantly reduce the recurring symptoms of a yeast infection
These anti-yeast herbs not only eliminate Candida, but also many other infectious germs.

Herb #1: Radix Gentianae, Chinese name: Long Dan Cao²
The properties of this herb are bitter, cold, clears heat, and reduces infection. This is used to treat jaundice, eczema, lack of appetite, abdominal fullness, genital itching, foul smelling yellow vaginal discharge, and yellow scanty urine. This herb is also used to treat stomach pain, headache, deafness, bitter taste in the mouth, red eyes, sexually transmitted diseases, seizures and convulsions, and infectious hepatitis. The ability of this herb to clear heat reduces symptoms of high fever, burning stomach pain, dry throat, severe tinnitus, ear pain or discharge, irritability, short temper, insomnia or nightmares, and constipation with yellow urine.

Long Dan Cao is contraindicated in patients with coldness in the stomach, anemia, and severe fatigue. Small doses of this herb before meals stimulate gastric acid production and enhance absorption. People with sensitive stomachs are encouraged to take this herb with food. This herb may be associated with drowsiness and sedation. People who take this herb should exercise caution while driving or operating machinery. This herb has a diuretic effect, so use with diuretic drugs may increase the elimination of water and electrolytes. This herb potentiates the effects of barbiturates.

Long Dan Cao has demonstrated liver protecting properties in mice studies. This herb is also effective in inhibiting Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus proteus, Salmonella typhi, Diplococcus meningitidis, Staphylococcus aureus (staph), and some dermaphytes. One extract of this herb, Gentiopicrin demonstrated toxicity for malaria parasites.

Herb #2: Herba Lysimachiae or gold money grass, Chinese name: Jin Qian Cao³
The properties of this herb are sweet, salty, cool, clears heat, and eliminates toxins. It is used to clear infections, reduce painful urination, clear kidney and gallbladder stones. It also treats stomach pain, distention, chest fullness, emotional instability, and frequent sighing. It is used to treat jaundice, skin sores, lesions, and snake bites. This herb can be applied topically or taken internally.

Research shows that it increases the production of bile in rats. In another study, it doubled the blood perfusion in the heart and kidneys of dogs. This herb inhibits the growth of Corynebacterium diphtheriae (diphtheria), Staphylococcus aureus (staph), Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, and E. coli. This herb has a diuretic effect, so use with diuretic drugs may increase the elimination of water and electrolytes.

Herb #3: Caulis Lonicerae or honeysuckle stem, Chinese name: Ren Dong Teng⁴
The properties of this herb are sweet, cold, clears heat, eliminates toxins, and dispels infection. It is used to treat itching, swelling, redness, and burning pain. It also helps to relieve spasms and cramps in the intestines and the respitory tract. This herb inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (staph), Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus proteus, Bacillus dysenteriae, and H. suis. It is also used to treat a spirochete infection called leptospirosis. There are no known drug interactions at the time of publication.

How do you know that these herbs are working to kill off your yeast infection?

Patients report a significant reduction of yeast symptoms
After adding the above herbs to their anti-Lyme herbs, several patients have reported a decrease in vaginal discharge, increased energy, stamina and decreased brain fog in as little as one week. Several of these patients were also taking antibiotic medications. The right combination can help reduce persistent yeast infection symptoms.

The right herb combination can help you to stop a recurring yeast infection
Just like eliminating pesky weeds from your lawn, the proper combination of herbs helps you to stop a returning yeast infection. Since some of these herbs come with cautions on their use, work with a Lyme literate herbalist to develop a safe and effective herbal strategy for your condition.

– Greg

1. Crook, William G. 1986. The yeast connection: a medical breakthrough. New York: Vintage Books.
2. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 148 – 150.
3. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 413 – 414.
4. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 173 – 174.

Note: This information has not been evaluated by the FDA. It is generic and for general information purposes only, and is not meant to prevent, diagnose, treat or cure any condition, illness, or disease. It is very important that you make no change in your health care plan or  regimen without researching and discussing it in collaboration with your  professional health care team.

Next Step: Internet Radio Interview with Greg Lee this Sunday evening on the “In Short Order” Talk Show
A live interview on alternative treatments for healing Lyme disease
with Greg Lee co-founder of the Two Frogs Healing Center.
Hosted by: Sue Vogan and Dr. Warren Levin
Sunday January 16th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Click here for more information:
https://www.blogtalkradio.com/in-short-order

For people with recurring Babesia sweats, fatigue, and headaches
by Greg Lee

Remember the story of how the Greeks finally were able to penetrate into the heavily fortified city of Troy? After ten years of unsuccessful attempts to storm the city, they built a Trojan Horse and wheeled it in front of the city gates. The Trojans wheeled it in their city unaware of the Greek warriors hidden inside. As night fell, the stowaway Greeks emerged and opened the gates to admit the rest of the army.

How are warriors hidden inside a Trojan Horse like a Babesia infection?

Just like soldiers inside a Trojan Horse, Babesia hides inside ticks
Babesia is a protozoa that can be transmitted through infected tick saliva¹. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also reported cases of infection through blood transfusion and organ transplants. Once inside a human host, it enters red blood cells, which makes it very hard to eliminate.

What are the signs and symptoms of a Babesia infection?

Babesia can create symptoms similar to Lyme disease
Some people do not show any symptoms at all. Babesia is more life threatening for people who have had their spleen removed, are over 50 years old, have an infection like HIV, which compromises their immune system, or are co-infected with Lyme disease. According to Dr. Shoemaker, Babesia microti produces toxins that can produce recurring chronic symptoms². Symptoms can look similar to Lyme disease, which may include fever, chills, sweats, persistent headaches, fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath. Patients may be on drug treatment for a long time.

Babesia can be very hard to get out of your blood cells
Patients may be on drugs like Mepron, Malarone, and/or azithromycin for six weeks or more. Unfortunately, relapsing symptoms may be due to stowaway Babesia organisms hiding in blood cells that re-emerge after drug treatment.

Are there other ways to help eliminate a relapsing Babesia infection?

There are three herbs that help to significantly reduce the fatigue and headache symptoms of Babesia
Babesia has the nickname “Malaria of the Northeastern United States” due to its similarities to malaria, which is another protozoa infection.” However, one expert says that Babesia often requires higher doses of medications than malaria³. Herbs that are effective at treating malaria and other protozoan infections also reduce Babesia symptoms in patients. When these herbs are used in an anti-Babesia herb treatment approach, patients report more energy, greater stamina, and less headaches.

Herb #1: Herba Artemisiae Annuae, Chinese name: Qing Hao⁴
The properties of this herb are clears heat, treats malaria, cools the blood, clears liver heat, and brightens the eyes. Two derivatives of Qing Hao, artemisinin and artesenuate are also being used to treat Babesia. Artemisinin has been used effectively with other medications by a Lyme literate physician to effectively cure persistent, relapsing Babesia⁵. Another Lyme physician recommends using artesunate in combination with other anti-Babesia medicines.

Qing Hao is also used to treat “steaming bone disorder” or the feeling that one’s bones are being cooked, tidal fever, unremitting low-grade fever, thirst, soreness and weakness of the low back and knees, irritability, and heat in the palms, soles, and the middle of the chest. Other symptoms this herb is used to treat are warmth at night and chills in the morning, absence of perspiration, heavy limbs, stifling sensation in the chest, and a flushed face. This herb also treats red eyes, dizziness, photophobia, arrhythmia, and jaundice.

Qing Hao is also effective in inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus (staph), Bacillus anthracis (anthrax), Corynebacterium diphtheriae (diphtheria), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus dysenteriae (dysentery), and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (tuberculosis). This herb is cautioned in patients with diarrhea and coldness in the stomach. Azole antifungals and calcium channel blockers may present significant herb-drug interactions with this herb. In long term studies, this herb had no adverse effects on vital organs.

Herb #2: Folium Artemisia Argyi, Chinese name: Ai Ye⁶
The properties of this herb are warming, stops bleeding, dispels phlegm, stops cough, relieves wheezing, and treats pain due to cold in the lower abdomen. Used to treat malaria, it has been effective in reducing Babesia symptoms in patients. Ai Ye is also used to stop profuse menstrual bleeding, vaginal bleeding in unstable pregnancy, nosebleeds, coughing up blood, irregular menses, pain during menses, infertility, abdominal coldness and pain, eczema, itching, asthma, allergies, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and burns.

Research shows that it inhibits the growth of other infections: Bacillus anthracis (anthrax), Streptococcus (strep), Staphylococcus aureus (staph), Corynebacterium diphtheriae (diphtheria), pneumonia, and Bacillus dysenteriae (dysentery). There are no documented cautions or contraindications with existing medications at this time. Normal dosages of this herb are 3 to 10 grams. Adverse reactions may occur at doses of 20 to 30 grams.

Herb #3: Peganum or Syrian Rue, Chinese name: Luo Tuo Peng Zi⁷
The properties of this herb are acrid, bitter, and neutral. It is used to stop coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, soreness and pain of the joints, numbness of the extremities, and itching and rashes of the skin. Normal dosages of this herb are 3 to 6 grams. Adverse reactions may occur at higher doses. Patients are given an alkaloid extract of this herb, called harmine, because it lacks the adverse reactions of Luo Tuo Peng Zi. This extract has been effective in killing an intracellular protozoan infection called Leishmaniasis in hamster experiments⁸. One patient reported vivid dreams while taking this extract.

How do you know that these herbs are working to kill off your Babesia infection?

Patients report a significant reduction of Babesia symptoms
After taking the herbs listed above with anti-toxin and immune enhancing herbs, several Lyme patients co-infected with Babesia have reported increased energy, stamina and decreased brain fog in as little as a few weeks. Several of these patients were also taking anti-Babesia medications. One patient reported an increase in stamina and breathing capacity, which enabled her to double the length of her exercise time after the first week of taking these herbs. The right combination can help reduce persistent Babesia symptoms.

The right herb combination can help you to expel a stowaway Babesia infection
Just like kicking out stowaway soldiers in a Trojan Horse, the proper combination of herbs helps you to reduce a persistent Babesia infection. Since some of these herbs come with cautions on their use, work with a Lyme literate herbalist to develop a proper, safe, and effective herbal strategy for your condition.

1. Chauvin, Alain.; et al. Babesia and its hosts: adaptation to long-lasting interactions as a way to achieve efficient transmission. Veterinary Research. Vol. 40. No. 2.
2. Shoemaker, Ritchie. https://www.biotoxin.info/biotoxinsources.
3. Schaller, James. Babesia Update 2009. Tampa, FL: Hope Academic Press. p 15.
4. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 244 – 246.
5. Krause, Peter. Panel: Genetic and Acquired Determinants of Host Susceptibility and Vulnerable Populations at the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences: A Workshop on the Critical Needs and Gaps in Understanding Prevention, Amelioration, and Resolution of Lyme and Other Tick-borne Diseases: the Short-Term and Long-Term Outcomes. Washington, DC. October 11, 2010
6. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 600 – 602.
7. Chen, John K. Personal email correspondence on June 2, 2010.
8. Lala, Sanchaita; et al. Harmine: Evaluation of its Antileishmanial Properties in Various Vesicular Delivery Systems. Journal of Drug Targeting. Vol. 12. No. 3., pp. 165 – 175.

Note: This information has not been evaluated by the FDA. It is generic and for general information purposes only, and is not meant to prevent, diagnose, treat or cure any condition, illness, or disease. It is very important that you make no change in your health care plan or  regimen without researching and discussing it in collaboration with your  professional health care team.

Next Step: Want to learn more about healing Lyme disease? Click here to find out about our evening lecture at 6pm on Monday December 6th, “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease” in Frederick, Maryland.

For people who are concerned about contracting Lyme disease
by Greg Lee

“White tailed deer are the one indispensable piece in the Lyme [disease] puzzle¹”
Exploding deer populations have been blamed for greater tick populations and increased incidences of Lyme disease. Deer are believed to spread infected ticks. Some strategies for reducing infected ticks on deer include applying pesticides to ticks using deer feeders. Other strategies employ hunters to reduce deer populations.

Could you reduce new cases of Lyme disease by getting rid of white-tailed deer?

In one study, eliminating deer herds results in decimated tick populations
Richard Ostfeld, Ph.D. Disease Ecologist with the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies gave a stunning presentation on the ecological factors that affect infected tick populations at a recent conference on Lyme disease hosted by the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine Committee. He cited one study on Monhegan Island off the coast of Maine where hunters were used to reduce a deer herd from a few hundred to zero. The impact of this hunt had a significant impact on different tick stages: egg, larvae, nymph, and adult. The larval and nymph tick populations were reduced to near zero. Aside for humans and their pets, no other host species live on the island². Similar studies produced different results.

In other studies, reducing deer herds did not significantly impact tick populations
In numerous studies in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York, hunters were used to cull deer herds from large numbers to very small numbers. Unfortunately, reduced deer herds did result in a significant reduction of nymph tick populations. Incidence rates of Lyme disease were not significantly reduced, either. Why are ticks able to persist despite reduced herds of deer?

Ticks don’t care what animals that they can feed on
The larval and nymph stage of the black legged tick is know to feed on 41 species of mammals, 57 species of birds, and 14 species of lizards. The adult stage is known to feed on 27 species of mammals and 1 species of lizard². Dr. Ostfeld gave several other theories as to why ticks are able to survive despite lower numbers of deer.

Ticks survive by ganging up on the remaining deer
The remaining deer in these study areas were found to have increased concentrations of ticks. Another reasons that ticks are able to survive from year to year is that some animals allow ticks to stay on their bodies.

Some animals are not good at grooming and killing ticks
In a lab study, approximately 50% of larval ticks were able to successfully feed off white footed mice. In another study which counted the number of larval ticks found on wild animals, the average mouse had about 25 larval ticks, the average gray squirrel had about 150, and the average opossum had about 250. Fortunately, opossums were found to be highly effective at grooming and killing attached ticks². Also, the size of the forest affects which mammals carry and transmit Lyme disease to ticks.

The size of the forest affects which animals transmit infections to ticks
In other studies, mice and chipmunks were shown to have the highest transmission rates of infection to ticks. There are specific landscapes which support increased mice and small rodent populations. In Dutchess County New York, fragmented landscapes tend to have a greater population of mice. Dr. Ostfeld estimated that forest fragments less than five to eight acres in size have a greater risk of infection by 300% – 400%². What other critical factor supports a growing tick population?

Ecologists show a high correlation between acorn abundance and tick populations
Dr. Ostfeld reported that the acorn crop of 2010 is estimated to be the largest one in 20 years in New York and other surrounding areas. Early indications in Maryland also show an abundant crop. As mice, chipmunks, and deer increase in numbers with greater acorn production, this leads to a greater populations of ticks. In 2011, more acorns mean greater numbers of small rodents that will be carrying greater numbers of larval-sized ticks. This can lead to a greater risk in 2012.

2012 is predicted to be a dangerous year for getting Lyme disease
The larval sized ticks of 2011 grow into nymph-sized ticks in 2012. Since nymph ticks are believed to be the major reason for people contracting Lyme disease, 2012 is predicted to have greater numbers of hard-to-see infected nymph ticks². This can result in a much greater risk for contracting Lyme disease especially in areas of abundant acorn production.

There are many factors which influence the numbers of infected ticks from year to year
Increased populations of deer are only one of many factors in spreading Lyme disease. Greater acorn production leads to more rodents and deer. These rodents end up carrying and infecting more larval ticks. More deer and other large animals carry and infect tiny nymph-sized ticks that end up transmitting Lyme disease to humans.

1. Piesman, J. F. 2002. Ecology of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in North America. In Gray, J. S., O. Kahl, R. S. Lane, and G. Stanek, editors. (eds.). Lyme Borreliosis-Biology, Epidemiology, and Control pp. 223–249.CABI International. Trowbridge, England.
2. Richard Ostfeld. A Systems Approach in Understanding Tick-Borne Diseases: People, Animals, and the Ecosystem. National Academy of Sciences, The Institute of Medicine Committee on Lyme Disease and Other Tick-borne Diseases: The State of Science Conference. October 11-12, 2010, Washington, DC

Come to our free film showing of Under Our Skin and discussion on Wednesday October 20th at 6pm at Two Frogs. Click here to find out more details about this controversial film on Lyme disease.