It is summer and Lyme disease is on many peoples minds. It is estimated that between 90,000 and possibly, 200,000 people may be infected with more everyday ~ especially in areas where Lyme disease is endemic, such as New England. The primary route of entry is through a tick, however, it appears that other routes are also likely such as mosquitos, fleas, biting flies and even, urine. Once within a host, the spirochetes multiply and act like the bacteria they are as well as parasites. Their favorite hosts are humans, horses and dogs.  The symptoms and long-term effects can be debilitating, especially the arthritic symptoms and neurological problems. It is well known that antibiotics can be quite effective if given within the first month of infection. We also know that antibiotics are sometimes ineffective with some people. Lyme disease in some people has not been found, however, until many weeks and, sometimes, months have gone by which lessen the effects of antibiotics on killing the spirochetes. It is found that a combination of acupuncture and massage with herbs can lessen the painful symptoms of arthritis caused by Lyme disease. Acupuncture also helps with the neurological symptoms some people and dogs experience.

 

The best conclusion is to keep our immune systems very strong before being infected. The Lyme spirochetes like sugars and trans-fats so minimize those in your diet. They do not like a strong immune system. Therefore, consider boosting your immune system every chance you get by reducing stress, taking strong antioxidants and herbs such as astragalus. In order to reduce stress, consider regular massage, acupuncture, meditation, yoga and/or Qigong. And when you do go outside to work in your garden or walk in the woods either by yourself or with your dogs, as we do, take every precaution such as wearing long pants, long sleeved shirts, staying on trails and checking for ticks on your return. Placing your clothing in the dryer can help to rid your clothing of ticks. Be sure to check your animals as they come inside as they can become infected with Lyme disease and its debilitating effects as wells as be the carrier of ticks that later make their way to you. I also like to spray my pants and shirt sleeves with essential oils such as patchouli, eucalyptus, lemon, and citronella, which help keep the mosquitos and flies away. I am trusting they ward off the ticks as well.