For people that have inflammation, brain fog, or a lack of vitality due to Lyme disease and co-infections
by Greg Lee

Several years ago, one of my NASA colleagues had a memory lapse that almost ended in disaster. After moving into a new house, he hooked up a hose to fill up his waterbed. He soon got distracted with unpacking boxes and talking with other people. Over an hour later, he went back into his bedroom and his water bed had swelled up like a balloon to three times its normal size.

How is an overfilled waterbed similar to inflammation caused by Lyme disease and other chronic infections?

Similar to a ballooning waterbed, Lyme disease patients can have excessive inflammation
The immune system produces compounds called pro-inflammatory cytokines that can increase swelling in response to an infection. In the initial stages of an infection, this is a healthy response to an invading germ. In patients with chronic Lyme disease and/or co-infections, the immune system can over produce pro-inflammatory cytokines which can lead to persistent symptoms of swelling, pain, or mental fog.

Lyme disease and co-infections can trigger elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines
Excess interferon gamma (INF-γ), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, has been found in early Lyme disease patients with an erythema migrans (EM) rash. In patients with systemic symptoms, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor – alpha (TNF-α) were more frequent¹. In mice infected with Babesia WA-1 showed elevated levels of TNF-α and INF-γ². In animal studies on Bartonella henselae, these cytokines were elevated: INF-γ and interleukin – 4 (IL-4)³, TNF-α⁴, IL-1β, and interleukin – 6 (IL-6)⁵ in chronic and high levels of infections. Not only tick infections can increase inflammatory cytokines, so can secondary infections.

Secondary infections like staph and yeast can also elevate inflammatory compounds
Lyme disease patients that undergo lengthy antibiotic therapy are at a higher risk of developing secondary infections from yeast like Candida species, staph, and Clostridium difficile, In animal studies, Candida albicans has been shown to increase interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α), IL-1β, interleukin-8 (IL-8), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), TNF-α⁶, and inducible cyclooxygenase (cox2)⁷. Staphlococcus aureus in rodent studies induces TNF-α, IL-1β, INF- γ⁸, and IL-1α⁹. Clostridium difficile in animal studies has been shown to elevate IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-1β, interleukin-10 (IL-10), and interleukin-12 (IL-12)¹⁰. When cytokines are chronically elevated, they can produce stubborn symptoms of pain, swelling, and arthritis.

Elevated cytokines can lead to unhealthy side effects like joint pain and swelling
According to Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker’s Biotoxin Pathway, toxins from Lyme disease, babesia, mold and toxic algae can lead to elevated cytokine levels which can produce symptoms of inflammation. Inflammatory symptoms can include: flu-like symptoms, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, unstable temperature, concentration difficulties, and increased clot and arterial blockage¹¹. Lyme patients with chronic inflammation report additional symptoms of arthritis, bloating, distention, digestion difficulties, a lack of vitality, memory recall problems, a racing heart, and insomnia.

How can knowing about “dampness” from Chinese medicine help patients to reduce their persistent symptoms of inflammation?

In Chinese medicine, dampness is a keyword for inflammation
Dampness in Chinese medicine can indicate swelling, inflammation, and the effects of an infection. Dampness can interfere with healthy functioning of the tissues, organs, emotions, and also the clarity of the mind. When describing symptoms of the body, mind, or emotions, this is referred to as internal dampness. Damp weather, like humidity or rain, and environments with lots of moisture, like swamps, are classified as external damp conditions. When a person is exposed to external damp conditions, their symptoms of inflammation can increase. Similarly, “damp” foods can also increase swelling and joint discomfort. Reducing consumption of damp foods can also decrease symptoms of inflammation.

Method #1: Stop eating “damp” foods that produce inflammation
Reducing your consumption of sweet or high fat foods like dairy, wheat, and sugar, helps to reduce internal dampness. By increasing the intake of bitter or tart foods and spices that are classified as “drain dampness” foods, you can help reduce inflammation. Daily consumption of tart cherry juice reduced TNF-α¹² and IL-1β¹³. In one rat study, tart cherry powder reduced IL-6, cholesterol, and belly fat¹⁴. In another rat study, wild blueberry reduced the transcriptional nuclear factor-KappaB (NF-kB), C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6 and TNF-α¹⁵. Not only foods help to reduce inflammation, but also herbs.

Method #2: Increase herbs that reduce symptoms of inflammation
Just like foods, there are herbs that help to reduce inflammatory cytokines. Turmeric, Chinese name: jiang huang, activates circulation and eliminates blood stagnation. It is used to relieve pain and reduce swelling. Turmeric is to be used with caution in weak patients that do not have signs of stagnation and is contraindicated during pregnancy¹⁶. Turmeric has been shown to decrease IL-1, IL-8, and TNF¹⁷. Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has inhibitory effects on cyclooxygenases 1, 2 (COX-1, COX-2), lipoxygenase (LOX), TNF-α, IFN-γ, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and NF-kB¹⁸.

Polygala tenuifolia, Chinese name: yuan zhi, expels phlegm (dampness) that causes mental and emotional disorientation, seizures, hearing loss, and lung congestion. This herb reduces abscesses, dissipates swellings, pacifies the heart and calms the spirit. Polygala is used with caution in patients with heat symptoms or dryness. It is also cautioned in patients with gastritis, stomach ulcers, and during pregnancy¹⁹. Polygala has an inhibitory effect on IL-1, TNF, and IFN-γ²⁰. Highly concentrated essential oils that are extracted from herbs can also help to reduce cytokines.

Method #3: Use essential oils that decrease inflammatory cytokines
Tea tree essential oil reduces TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10 and PGE2²¹ in one lab experiment. Tea tree essential oil also has anti-microbial properties against fungal²², staph and E. coli²³ biofilms. Bergamot orange essential oil blocks INF-γ in one lab study²⁴. Apigenin, a flavonoid in German chamomile essential oil, inhibits IL-1a, TNF-α induced IL-6 and IL-8 production²⁵. These essential oils have been used safely internally and topically for years in patients diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease. Not only food and botanical medicines can reduce cytokines, so can cupping with acupuncture.

Method #4: Get cupping and acupuncture to reduce inflammation
Another method for reducing cytokines in Lyme disease patients, wet cupping uses needles and suction cups to draw lymph fluid, blood, and toxins²⁶ from the body. In one study, cupping and acupuncture reduced IL-6 levels²⁷.

Patients report significant relief in their symptoms of inflammation, pain, depression, lack of vitality, and mental fog immediately after cupping. Cupping is cautioned in patients with weakness or anemia, and contraindicated in patients with bleeding disorders. A combined approach can help reduce inflammation from Lyme disease.

Multiple methods and treatments can help reduce inflammation due to abnormal cytokine production
Before his water bed could burst, my colleague quickly shut off the faucet and let the excess water drain out the window. Decreasing inflammation can be enhanced through dietary modifications and herbs that “drain dampness”, and essential oils and treatments that reduce excess pro-inflammatory cytokines. Since some of these herbs and treatments are contraindicated with certain conditions, work with a Lyme literate acupuncturist and herbalist to develop a proper, safe, and effective strategy for your situation.

P.S. Do you have experiences where herbs or treatment helped you to reduce Lyme disease inflammation? Tell us about it.

>> Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday May 6th at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for swelling, inflammation, and pain caused by Lyme disease, co-infections, and yeast.  http://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

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For people that are abnormally cold due to their Lyme, Bartonella, or Babesia infections
by Greg Lee

When I was a teenager, I went on a month long Outward Bound training course with several other people. We would hike by day and at night we’d build a fire and cook dinner. One evening, our adventure was interrupted by an ominous gust of wind and then a rainstorm. Our efforts to keep the fire going worked at first. However, the rain kept coming and eventually put the campfire out. As I watched the last wisps of smoke from the fire, I imagined shivering that night to stay warm inside a damp tent.

How is a campfire that is drowned in a rainstorm similar to chronic tick infections that attack your immune system?

Just like rain on a sputtering campfire, multiple tick infections can dampen your immune system
Gerald noticed that he began to feel much colder in winter. It would take 30 minutes in a hot sauna for him to feel warm again. After the sauna, he felt as if he had sweated out of a bunch of toxins. Unfortunately, his chronic fatigue, feeling toxic, and brain fog would soon return along with being deeply cold again. He discovered that his house had a thriving mold colony caused by water damage in the basement. He was also diagnosed by his Lyme Literate Doctor with Lyme disease, Babesia, and Bartonella co-infections.

Toxins from Lyme disease and co-infections zap your ability to heat up and kill infections
The hypothalamus has organs that sample the blood stream and regulate changes in body temperature. When it detects the presence of infections, the hypothalamus induces a fever to heat up and kill off infectious germs. Unfortunately, toxins released by Lyme, mold, and co-infections can get absorbed by the hypothalamus and block its ability to induce germ killing fevers¹. When antibiotics, herbal medicines, and treatments kill off these infections, more toxins can be released and produce a Herxheimer reaction. These toxins can persist in some people lacking specific genes.

Toxins can be hard to eliminate in people who are missing anti-toxin HLA genes
Gerald is missing several Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) genes for eliminating toxins. After extended periods of time in his moldy home, many of his symptoms got much worse: irregular heart rate, insomnia, fatigue, and mental confusion. He would also have spikes in symptoms every four weeks which correlated with the lifecycle of his Lyme disease infection.

Cleaning the mold out helped Gerald feel better immediately
After an Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) test showed high levels of toxic mold, Gerald and his wife hired a remediation company to clean out their entire house. Most walls and ceilings were stripped down to the stud timbers. The entire heating and cooling system was either cleaned or replaced. Leaks in the foundation were sealed. After venturing back into his newly renovated home, Gerald did not have an immediate flare up of his symptoms. However, he still had a very low body temperature and recurring symptoms of insomnia, brain fog, and fatigue.

What else can help Gerald to boost his immune system in fighting his multiple toxic infections?

Warming herbs help boost the immune response against tick borne infections
Warming herbs, also called Yang strengthening herbs in Chinese medicine, help to raise your body temperature which can help kill off infections. For every 0.2 degrees Celsius that body temperature is increased, approximately 50% of your infections are killed off². There are three herbs that have been effective at heating up people with low body temperatures caused by their Lyme disease and tick borne infections.

Warming herb #1: Fructus Evodia, Euodia, or Bee Bee Tree Fruit, Chinese name: Wu Zhu Yu³
The properties of this warming herb are bitter, acrid, and hot. This herb is used to dispel cold, dry dampness, activate Qi energy circulation, and relieve pain. Dampness in Chinese medicine can be translated to mean infection and their effects. Evodia treats pain characterized by a cold, fixed, and stabbing nature. It has been used to treat epigastric and abdominal pain, hernial pain, dysmenorrhea, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea with undigested food, cold extremities, spasms, and headache at the top of the head. The classical Chinese character for this herb shows two hands lifting up on either side of a head.

Evodia has also been used to treat migraine headaches, acid reflux, “cocks crow” or early morning diarrhea, chronic dysentery, hypertension, mouth and tongue ulcers, eczema, and sores on the scalp. This herb is contraindicated in patients with excess heat and dryness. Short-term use and small doses are recommended due to its low level of toxicity.

In animal studies, Evodia prevents and treats stomach ulcers by reducing gastric acid secretions. In mice studies, this herb has antidiarrheal properties. It has a marked effect in decreasing blood pressure in several animal studies. In a rat study, it had a slight effect but not significant effect on raising body temperature⁴. This herb inhibits Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and some dermatophytes. It also inhibits the growth of the helicobacter pylori bacteria⁵.

Recent studies have focused on the anticancer properties of an alkaloid compound called evodiamine found in evodia. This compound has inhibited proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in the following cancer cells: breast, prostate, leukemia, melanoma, cervical, colon, and lung⁶.

Warming herb #2: Galanga or Alpinia, Chinese name: Gao Liang Jiang⁷
The properties of this warming herb are acrid and hot. It is used to dispel coldness from the middle of the body especially the spleen and stomach. This herb has been used to treat epigastric and abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, food stagnation, intestinal cramps, and diarrhea. Galanga has also been used to treat sharp, stabbing pain in the chest or abdomen, intestinal cramps, acute and chronic diarrhea.

This herb has demonstrated analgesic effects on the gastrointestinal system. It has been effective at preventing and treating peptic ulcers and diarrhea. Water extracts of this herb have been shown to decrease intestinal peristalsis. Galanga has been effective at treating angina. It has an inhibitory effect on Bacillus anthracis, Corynebacterium diptheriae, Diplococcus pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, B-hemolytic streptococcus, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis. This herb also has a weak antimalarial effect in mice and is used topically for treating eczema and ringworm⁸. Due to its warming nature, this herb is contraindicated in patients with excess heat and dryness.

Galanga essential oil has many bioactive compounds including: Limonene, gamma-Terpinene, alpha-Terpinolene, 1-Undecene, Borneol, para-Cymen-8-ol, alpha-Terpineol, and Z-Citral. This essential oil was more effective at killing E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella sonnei, Salmonella typhi than gentomycin⁹.

Warming herb #3: Turmeric, Chinese name: Jiang Huang¹⁰
The properties of this spice herb are acrid, bitter, and warm. It is used to activate blood circulation and eliminate blood coagulation. This herb is used to treat stabbing, fixed pain caused by blood stagnation or hypercoagulation. Turmeric is also used to treat hypochondriac pain due to liver stagnation, abdominal pain due to blood stagnation, chest pain, epigastric pain, dysmenorrhea, and hepatitis with hypochrondriac pain.

It is also used to treat “painful obstruction syndrome” especially in the upper limbs. This herb reduces swelling from sores and lesions caused by toxic heat along with blood hypercoagulation. Turmeric is contraindicated during pregnancy.  This herb is also contraindicated in weak patients that do not have blood stagnation.

The main constituent of turmeric is the compound curcumin. Curcumin is being researched for its properties for fighting cancer, killing viruses, reducing inflammation, treating Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s Disease because of its anti-amyloid activities¹¹. In lab experiments, curcumin is highly effective at killing the malarial parasite¹². Another anti-malarial study demonstrated the efficacy of combining curcumin and artemisinin in mice¹³. Adding a black pepper extract called piperine significantly increases the uptake of curcumin¹⁴. Boiling curcumin for ten minutes increased its bioavailability twelve-fold in another study¹⁵.

What happens when these warming herbs are used by people with multiple infections?

Warming herbs helped Gerald to finally warm up his popsicle toes
Gerald’s average morning temperature hovered around 95 degrees Fahrenheit. After taking daily a mixture of liposomal herbs, his temperature began to slowly rise. For the first several weeks, he felt more fatigue and brain fog due to the die off of his infections. After four weeks of taking a daily mixture of anti-infection and warming herbs, his average morning temperature hovered around 97 degrees. His wife complained less about his cold feet. Then his symptoms shifted.

For the first time in many months, Gerald felt like a new person
He reported having a greater amount of energy and increased clarity in his thinking. Work tasks that required mental mental concentration and focus, became easier and easier for Gerald. He found that he had enough energy to restart exercising again. By increasing his dose of warming herbs, Gerald’s morning temperature was raised to around 98 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, his recurring symptoms were less frequent and less severe. Warming herbs can help the immune system to heat up and fight off multiple infections.

Warming herbs can help the immune system to cook off infections
My outdoor adventure had a happy ending. After the rain passed, we were able to find dry kindling, restart the fire and dry off. Similarly, warming herbs can help restart the immune system’s ability to heat up the body and kill off multiple infections. Since some of these herbs are contraindicated in people with excess heat or dryness, work with a Lyme literate herbalist knowledgeable in warming herbs to develop a proper, safe, and effective strategy for your condition.

Do you have an experience with heating up from the chill of Lyme disease or co-infections? Tell us about it.

>> Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday February 4th at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for warming up and killing infections, relieving pain, insomnia, fatigue, and brain fog caused by Lyme disease, mold toxins, and co-infections.  http://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

1. Klinghardt, D. A Deep Look Beyond Lyme. 2012 Physician’s Round Table. January 28th, 2012. Tampa, FL.
2. Klinghardt, D.
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8. Alpinia galanga. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpinia_galanga
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11. S. Dharmananda. Neuroprotective Herbs and Active Constituents, Approaches to Preventing Degenerative Diseases. http://www.itmonline.org/arts/neuro.htm
12. L. Cui, J. Miao, and L. Cui. Cytotoxic Effect of Curcumin on Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum: Inhibition of Histone Acetylation and Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2007 February; 51(2): 488–494. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1797756/
13. Nandakumar DN, Nagaraj VA, Vathsala PG, Rangarajan P, Padmanaban G. Curcumin-artemisinin combination therapy for malaria. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2006 May;50(5):1859-60. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472230/
14. Mimche PN, Taramelli D, Vivas L. The plant-based immunomodulator curcumin as a potential candidate for the development of an adjunctive therapy for cerebral malaria. Malar J. 2011 Mar 15;10 Suppl 1:S10. http://www.malariajournal.com/content/10/S1/S10
15. Kurien BT, Scofield RH. Heat-solubilized curcumin should be considered in clinical trials for increasing bioavailability. Clin Cancer Res. 2009 Jan 15;15(2):747; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2693878/

For people that are fighting a stubborn toxic mold infection
by Greg Lee

My sister had over a dozen guinea pigs when I was growing up. They loudly squeaked every time a person walked by, hoping to get fed. They would consume massive amounts of greens, grasses, and vegetables. My chores somehow included cleaning out their pens. Cleaning often required a scraper and a hose to get the waste out of the hard to reach corners of their habitat.

How is cleaning out guinea pig pens similar to eliminating a toxic mold infection?

Just like encrusted guinea pig pens, toxic mold can accumulate in hard to reach corners of the body
Several species of toxic mold can grow in homes, schools, or offices including: Cladosporium, Penicillium, Alternaria, Aspergillus and Stachybotrys¹. These molds are a type of fungi that reproduce by producing spores. Attached to each spore is a toxin to prevent it from being eaten by another microorganism. Dark, moist environments with cellulose are perfect environments for these molds to grow. Unfortunately, over two hundred and fifty different kinds of molds can grow in the body and cause chronic illness².

Mold can infect your nasal passages
Breathing in mold spores can lead to your respiratory passages being colonized by these fungi. Mold infections have been found in sinus passages³, throat⁴, middle ear⁵, combat wounds⁶, brain⁷, skin⁸, lungs⁹, and meninges¹⁰. Mold also produces toxins which can create debilitating symptoms.

Mold toxins are small enough to get into remote places throughout the body
As mold grows, it produces spores and toxins. Mold toxins can wander everywhere in your body which can produce symptoms of brain fog, aches and pains, allergies, fatigue, and inflammation. These symptoms can migrate from one part of the body to the next. Unfortunately, some people are unable to eliminate these toxins because they lack the right genes.

Mold toxins accumulate faster in people who are lacking specific HLA genes
Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) genes help your immune system to identify mold toxins and produce antibodies to eliminate them. Approximately 25% of patients are lacking the specific HLA genes to eliminate mold toxins¹¹. In this subgroup of patients, symptoms can appear quite rapidly due to elevated levels of toxins aggravating symptoms of pain, brain fog, and fatigue. Patients that have immune systems already burdened by other infections are especially vulnerable.

Patients with a compromised immune system are at much greater risk of contracting a mold infection
Patients with a weak or compromised immune system are at a greater risk of becoming very ill or possibly dying from an opportunistic mold infection. Patients diagnosed with an invasive Aspergillus mold infection can receive a variety of antifungal medications including: voriconazole, liposomal amphotericin B, posaconazole, itraconazole, caspofungin, or micafungin. Unfortunately, these antifungal medications can produce undesirable side effects like fever, rigors, chills, myalgias, arthralgias, bronchospasm, nausea, vomiting, headaches, hallucinations, kidney toxicity, and liver toxicity¹². Aspergillus can also produce slimy biofilms to become more drug resistant¹³.

What else besides antifungal medications can help patients overcome a toxic mold infection?

Concentrated spice oils are effective at stopping a mold infection
Kitchen spices contain many natural compounds that are effective at killing mold and inhibiting their toxins. Studies show that when these spices are distilled into essential oils, these compounds are much more effective at inhibiting mold and its toxins compared to the raw spice itself. The volatile nature of essential oils enables them to penetrate into the lungs, nervous system, and other hard to reach areas of the body where mold has taken hold. Here are four essential oils that have anti-mold and anti-toxin properties.

Anti-fungal spice essential oil #1: Sage (S. Officinalis L.), Chinese name: Shu Wei Cao¹⁴
The properties of this spice herb are bitter, acrid, and neutral. This herb is used to clear infection, promote circulation and regulate the menses. It has detoxification properties and reduces swelling. Sage is also used to treat jaundice, red or white diarrhea, vaginal discharge due to infection, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrheal, sores, swollen boils, and injuries from impacts. This herb is also used to improve memory, enhance mnemonic performance and helps elevate mood.

The whole herb contains these compounds: β-sitosterol, β-sitosterol glucoside, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, 2α-hydroxyursolic acid, tormentic acid, caffeic acid, maslinic acid, ethyl-β-D-galactopyranoside. The essential oil can contain α-thujone, camphor, and up to 2.5% ketone and borneol. Sage essential oil is best used externally because α-thujone can be toxic if taken internally.

In one study, sage essential oil is effective at inhibiting the growth of these mold/fungi: Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, Candida albicans, and Fusarium species¹⁵. In another study, sage essential oil at 2 mg/ml had a strong antifungal effect against Alternaria alternate and reduced Aspergillus parasiticus growth by 87% and inhibited aflatoxin production by 96%¹⁵. In another study, sage essential oil was highly effective at killing Penicillium verrucosum believed to be due to the compounds α-thujone and camphor¹⁶.

Anti-fungal spice essential oil #2: Thyme, Chinese name: Bai Li Xiang¹⁸
The properties of this spice herb are bitter, pungent, and warming. It is used to: transform mucus, strengthen the spleen, strengthen the lungs, warm the middle, and expel cold mucus. Thyme stimulates the production of white blood cells and strengthens immunity. This oil is very beneficial for the heart, valves, and is an anti spasmodic. It also reduces blood pressure. Thyme is widely used in food and is non-toxic¹⁹. This spice contains the following compounds, thymol, p-Cymene, myrcene, borneol and linalool²⁰.

In one study, thyme essential oil was highly effective at killing intracellular Candida albicans²¹. In another study, the essential oil was effective at killing Aspergillus species. and inhibiting aflatoxin production²², and inhibiting mold spore germination²³. A third study showed thyme essential oil as effective at inhibiting multiple Penicillum species²⁴. Thyme essential oil has been used internally safely and effectively with patients struggling with chronic mold infections.

Anti-fungal spice essential oil #3: Clove, Chinese name: Ding Xiang²⁵
The properties of this spice herb are acrid and warm. It is used to warm the abdomen and relieve pain. Clove is also used to treat hiccups, nausea, morning sickness, vomiting, and diarrhea. This herb is also used to treat impotence, and coldness in the body and extremities. It also promotes digestion by increasing bile and gastric acid secretions. Clove is also used topically to treat toothache. The essential oil has anti-asthmatic properties.

This herb is contraindicated in cases of fever and excess internal heat accompanied with symptoms of dryness. Side effects of this herb include dizziness, palpitations, chest oppression, headache, perspiration, decreased blood pressure, and skin rash. Clove has an inhibitory effect against Vibrio cholerae, Bacillus anthracis, Salmonella typhi, Corynebacterium diptheriae, Bacillus dysenteriae, E. coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphlococcus aureus.

Essential oil of clove contains these compounds: eugenol, caryophyllene, acetyleugenol, α- caryophyllene, and chavicol. In one study, clove essential oil inhibits Candida, Aspergillus, and some dematophytes including fluconazole resistant strains²⁶. In another study, the compound eugenol was effective at inhibiting Fusarium moniliforme, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus species, Mucor species, Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum gypseum²⁷. In a third study, clove essential oil increased the effectiveness of fluconazole and voriconazole against multiple Candida species²⁸. In another study, this essential oil was effective at inhibiting drug resistant Candida biofilms²⁹. Low doses of clove essential oil have been used safely and effectively for years with patients diagnosed with Lyme disease, parasites, and mold toxicity.

Anti-fungal spice essential oil #4: Cinnamon, Chinese name: Rou Gui³⁰
The properties of this spice herb are acrid, sweet, and hot. This herb is used to treat a wide variety of disorders including intolerance to cold, cold extremities, weakness, soreness and coldness of the low back and knees, impotence, lack of libido, excess urine production, and loose stools. It is also used to treat wheezing, asthma, labored breathing, swelling, and profuse phlegm. Cinnamon is also used for dizziness, flushed face, sore throat, and coldness in the lower extremities.

This herb also treats epigastric and abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, bloating, slow digestion, hernia pain, and spasmodic pain in the stomach and intestines. It is also used to treat hypercoagulation, irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, postpartum pain, external injuries, trauma, deep rooted sores, psoriasis, and feelings of oppression in the abdomen.

This herb contains the following compounds: cinnamic aldehyde, cinnamic acid, cinnamyl acetate, phenylpropyl acetate, cinncassiol-A, -B, -C1, -C2, -C3, cinnzelanine, and cinnzeylanol.

Cinnamon is contraindicated during pregnancy and in patients with signs of excess heat, excess dryness, and excess bleeding. Excess amount of cinnamon can result in symptoms of flushed face, red eyes, dry mouth and tongue, bleeding, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, excess urination, anuria, burning sensations upon urination, excess serum proteins in the urine, dizziness, blurred vision, and numbness of the tongue.

Intravenous cinnamon reduced blood pressure, decreased heart rate, peripheral vasodilation, and decreased vessel resistance within 3-5 minutes. Subcutaneous injection of cinnamon in dogs increased the white blood cell count by 150 – 200%. This herb has an inhibitory effect on dermatophytes, pathogenic fungi, and many gram positive bacteria. In a rat study, essential oil of cinnamon has an analgesic and sedative effect.

Cinnamon bark essential oil was more effective at inhibiting more Aspergillus and Penicillium species than cinnamon leaf essential oil³¹. Cinnamon bark essential oil inhibits Aspergillus species and aflatoxin, aflatoxin-B1, and aflatoxin-G1 production. These toxins are inhibited because the essential oil binds to the DNA of aflatoxins. Also, this essential oil reacts with reactive oxygen species produced by aflatoxins, which has a protective effect on cells³². In another study, cinnamon bark essential oil was the most effective against oral isolates of Candida albicans³³. Another study demonstrated that cinnamon bark essential oil was more effective against fluconazole susceptible Candida species than against fluconazole resistant Candida species³⁴. Low dilutions of cinnamon essential oil have been taken internally by people diagnosed with mold toxicity safely with out side-effects.

The right combination of essential oils can help you to overcome a toxic mold infection
Just like cleaning out a guinea pig habitat with a pressure washer, a combination of anti-mold/fungal and anti-toxin essential oils can help you penetrate, kill, and detoxify a hidden mold infection. Since some of these essential oils come with cautions on their use, work with a herbalist knowledgeable in essential oils and chronic fungal infections to develop a proper, safe, and effective essential oil strategy for your condition.

>> Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday November 5th at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for relieving pain, insomnia, fatigue, and brain fog caused by Lyme disease, mold toxins, and parasites.  http://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

1. Shoemaker, Ritchie. “Molds, Mycotoxins, & More” http://www.survivingmold.com/diagnosis/molds-mycotoxins-more
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6. Warkentien T, Rodriguez C, Lloyd B, Wells J, Weintrob A, Dunne JR, Ganesan A, Li P, Bradley W, Gaskins LJ, Seillier-Moiseiwitsch F, Murray CK, Millar EV, Keenan B, Paolino K, Fleming M, Hospenthal DR, Wortmann GW, Landrum ML, Kortepeter MG, Tribble DR; for the Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program Trauma Infectious Disease Outcomes Study Group. Invasive Mold Infections Following Combat-related Injuries. Clin Infect Dis. 2012 Oct 5. [Epub ahead of print] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23042971
7. Huang WM, Fan YM, Li W, Yang WW. Brain abscess caused by Cladophialophora bantiana in China. J Med Microbiol. 2011 Dec;60(Pt 12):1872-4. Epub 2011 Aug 18. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21852529
8. Kelly D. Craven,1,† Heriberto Vélëz,1 Yangrae Cho,2 Christopher B. Lawrence,2 and Thomas K. Mitchell. Anastomosis Is Required for Virulence of the Fungal Necrotroph Alternaria brassicicola. Eukaryot Cell. 2008 April; 7(4): 675–683. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2292617/
9. Buess M, Cathomas G, Halter J, Junker L, Grendelmeier P, Tamm M, Stolz D. Aspergillus-PCR in bronchoalveolar lavage for detection of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients. BMC Infect Dis. 2012 Oct 2;12(1):237. [Epub ahead of print] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23031334
10. Brown. David. “Meningitis cases increase; very rare fungus identified” Washington Post. 12 Oct. 2012.  http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/meningitis-cases-increase-very-rare-fungus-identified/2012/10/11/b44a7b1c-13e5-11e2-ba83-a7a396e6b2a7_story.html
11. R. Shoemaker. Surviving Mold. p. x (Foreward).
12. Thomas J. Walsh, EJ. Anaissie, D. Denning, R. Herbrecht, D. Kontoyiannis, K. Marr, V. Morrison, B. Segal, W. Steinbach, D. Stevens, J. van Burik, J. Wingard, T. Patterson. Treatment of Aspergillosis: Clinical Practice Guidelines of the Infectious Diseases Society of America Clin Infect Dis. (2008) 46(3): 327-360 doi:10.1086/525258 http://cid.oxfordjournals.org/content/46/3/327.1.full
13. Fanning S, Mitchell AP (2012) Fungal Biofilms. PLoS Pathog 8(4): e1002585. doi:10.1371/journal.ppat.1002585
14. Joe Hing kwok Chu. shu wei cao. Complementary and Alternative Healing University. http://thedao.com/shu_wei_cao.htm
15. Sage. The Genus Salvia. Edited by Spiridon E . Kintzios. CRC Press 2000. Print ISBN: 978-90-5823-005-8. Vol 11, p. 146.
16. Farag, R.S., Daw, Z.Y. and Abo-Raya, S.H. (1989b). Influence of Some Spice Essential Oils on Aspergillus Parasiticus Growth and Production of Aflatoxins in a Synthetic Medium. Journal of Food Science, 54 (1), 74–76.
17. Sibel Ozcakmak, M. Dervisoglu, and A Yilmaz. Antifungal activity of lemon balm and sage essential oils on the growth of ochratoxigenic Penicillium verrucosum. African Journal of Microbiology Research, 30 March, 2012. http://www.academicjournals.org/AJMR, DOI: 10.5897/AJMR12.569 Vol. 6(12), p. 3082
18. Qi Food Thyme. http://www.qifood.eu/en/aliments/212_thymian
19. Kassner, P. Essential Oil Description. Jan 2011.
20. Thyme. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyme
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22. Alizadeh A, Zamani E, Sharaifi R, Javan-Nikkhah M, Nazari S. Antifungal activity of some essential oils against toxigenic Aspergillus species. Commun Agric Appl Biol Sci. 2010;75(4):761-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21534488
23. Paster, N., Juven, B. J., Shaaya, E., Menasherov, M., Nitzan, R., Weisslowicz, H. and Ravid, U. (1990), Inhibitory effect of oregano and thyme essential oils on moulds and foodborne bacteria. Letters in Applied Microbiology, 11: 33–37. doi: 10.1111/j.1472-765X.1990.tb00130.x http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1472-765X.1990.tb00130.x/abstract
24. Lixandru BE, Drăcea NO, et al. Antimicrobial activity of plant essential oils against bacterial and fungal species involved in food poisoning and/or food decay. Roum Arch Microbiol Immunol. 2010 Oct-Dec;69(4):224-30. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21462837
25. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., p. 461 – 462.
26.  Pinto E, Vale-Silva L, Cavaleiro C, Salgueiro L. Antifungal activity of the clove essential oil from Syzygium aromaticum on Candida, Aspergillus and dermatophyte species. J Med Microbiol. 2009 Nov;58(Pt 11):1454-62. Epub 2009 Jul 9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19589904
27. Inder Singh Rana, A. S. Rana, R. C. Rajak.  Evaluation of antifungal activity in essential oil of the Syzygium aromaticum (L.) by extraction, purification and analysis of its main component eugenol. Brazilian Journal of Microbiology (2011) 42: 1269-1277 ISSN 1517-8382 http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1517-83822011000400004&script=sci_arttext
28. Rózalska B, Sadowska B, Wieckowska-Szakiel M, Budzyńska A. [The synergism of antifungals and essential oils against Candida spp. evaluated by a modified gradient-diffusion method]. Med Dosw Mikrobiol. 2011;63(2):163-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22184911
29. Khan MS, Ahmad I. Biofilm inhibition by Cymbopogon citratus and Syzygium aromaticum essential oils in the strains of Candida albicans. J Ethnopharmacol. 2012 Mar 27;140(2):416-23. Epub 2012 Feb 2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22326355
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31. Singh G, Maurya S, DeLampasona MP, Catalan CA. A comparison of chemical, antioxidant and antimicrobial studies of cinnamon leaf and bark volatile oils, oleoresins and their constituents. Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Sep;45(9):1650-61. Epub 2007 Feb 28. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17408833
32. Lokman Alpsoy. Inhibitory Effect of Essential Oil on Aflatoxin Activity. African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 9(17), pp. 2474-2481, 19 April, 2010 www.ajol.info/index.php/ajb/article/view/79702/69978
33. Carvalhinho S, Costa AM, Coelho AC, Martins E, Sampaio A. Susceptibilities of Candida albicans mouth isolates to antifungal agents, essentials oils and mouth rinses. Mycopathologia. 2012 Jul;174(1):69-76. Epub 2012 Jan 14. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22246961
34. Pozzatti P, Scheid LA, Spader TB, Atayde ML, Santurio JM, Alves SH. In vitro activity of essential oils extracted from plants used as spices against fluconazole-resistant and fluconazole-susceptible Candida spp. Can J Microbiol. 2008 Nov;54(11):950-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18997851

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For people that are struggling with an antibiotic resistant Klebsiella infection
by Greg Lee

When I was a kid, I used to watch Saturday afternoon monster movies on TV. Many of these monsters were often normal reptiles that mutated into huge creatures because of scientific experiments, nuclear fallout, or toxic chemicals. Towering above cities, they would squash buildings, scare citizens, and get attacked by the military. Attacking them with missiles, bombs, and tanks merely aggravated these monsters into destroying more buildings. All efforts appeared to fail to stop these hulking monsters.

How are unstoppable movie monsters similar to a drug resistant Klebsiella infection?

Unfortunately unstoppable monsters don’t have to be huge to cause big problems
A small bacteria called Klebsiella pneumoniae is infecting and claiming lives of sick patients at the National Institutes of Health (NIH)¹. Despite the best efforts to isolate patients and eliminate all environmental sources, this germ is still being spread to more patients. The latest strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae has shown tremendous antibiotic resistance. Even experimental antibiotics have failed to stop this infection from taking more lives. Unfortunately, this infection can protect itself by making a slimy shield.

Klebsiella has the ability to produce slimy biofilms to protect itself²
Drug resistance infections can protect themselves against antibiotics by making shields of slime called biofilms³. Some researchers estimate that biofilms can increase drug resistance a thousand fold⁴. Within biofilms, germs can acquire drug resistance by swapping genes with other organisms or sampling antibiotics and developing resistance⁵. In one patient, Klebsiella appeared to develop antibiotic resistance in about a week⁶. In immune compromised patients, overcoming Klebsiella drug resistant infections and biofilms can be the difference between life and death.

What else besides antibiotics can help patients overcome a drug resistant Klebsiella infection?

Concentrated food and herb extracts are effective at fighting drug resistant Klebsiella infections⁷
In one study, aqueous extracts of lemon and clove leaf were 90% effective against Klebsiella⁸. In another study, Salvia officinalis, L. essential oil was 100% effective against Klebsiella⁹. Essential oil of oregano also inhibits Klebsiella¹⁰. Garlic oil is also effective against drug resistant Klebsiella¹¹. Many of these herbs and essential oils have been used safely and effectively in patients with chronic infections. When fighting drug resistant infections, not only do you need effective anti-Klebsiella medicines, you also need to have an effective anti-biofilm strategy.

Combining natural anti-Klebsiella remedies with anti-biofilm medicines will increase the likelihood of overcome drug resistant infections
Infections have been shown to be able to produce or hide within biofilms to protect themselves against antibiotic treatment¹². For over twelve years, we have treated patients diagnosed with Lyme disease biofilms and other tick borne infections. We have also helped several patients to treat drug resistant infections like methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), atovaquone resistant Babesia, and multiple drug resistant Candida. Anti-biofilm herbs and supplements have helped these patients to reduce the severity of symptoms and diminished their recurrence. Given that different infections produce biofilms with different compositions¹³, here are some suggested remedies that may help cut through drug resistant Klebsiella biofilms.

Anti-biofilm strategy #1: Use herbs for cutting through biofilms
A high school student wins second place in the 2007 – 2008 Siemens National Science Competition with her discovery that an ancient herb called Terminalia Chebula, Chinese name: He Zi, cuts through biofilms and kills Pseudomonas aeruginosa¹⁴. One research study shows that compounds in the herb Andrographis paniculata have anti-biofilm properties¹⁵. A topical garlic ointment inhibits biofilms in a burn healing study¹⁶. Patients that apply minced raw garlic mixed with olive oil and Vaseline or Unpetroleum to the bottoms of their feet also report significant reductions in symptoms of fatigue and brain fog. Not only herbs help to breakdown biofilms, but also essential oils.

Anti-biofilm strategy #2: Use essential oils for dissolving biofilms
Essential oils contain solvents called phenols which may enable them to cut through biofilms. Given their ability to disseminate rapidly through tissues, essential oils can target biofilms anywhere in the body. Essential oils are also among most potent of anti-infectious agents against viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi.

Eucalyptus essential oil has been effective against Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans biofilms¹⁷. Peppermint¹⁸, clove bud¹⁹ and tea tree²⁰ essential oils are also effective against Candida biofilms. Lemongrass essential oil is effective against Staphylococcus aureus biofilms²¹. Eucalyptus, peppermint, clove bud, tea tree, and lemongrass essential oils have been used safely and effectively both topically and internally in Lyme disease patients diagnosed with biofilm colonies. Interrupting how bacteria and other germs communicate also helps to inhibit biofilms from forming.

Anti-biofilm strategy #3: Use herbs and essential oils for disrupting Quorum Sensing communication
Bacteria use chemical signals to collaborate in order to form biofilms through a process called Quorum Sensing (QS). Many foods, herbs, and essential oils have been shown to inhibit Quorum Sensing, and are referred to as QS inhibitors. Rose, geranium, lavender and rosemary essential oils are potent QS inhibitors against E. coli²². Clove bud, followed by cinnamon, lavender and peppermint are effective QS inhibitors against Pseudomonas aeruginosa²³.

The following Chinese herbs have QS inhibiting properties against Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Prunus armeniaca, Prunella vulgaris, Nelumbo nucifera, Panax notoginseng root, Panax notoginseng flower, Punica granatum, Areca catechu, and Imperata cylindrical²⁴. The proper combination of herbs and essential oils can help sick patients to overcome a drug resistant Klebsiella infection.

The right combination of essential oils and herbs can help you to overcome a drug-resistant Klebsiella infection
Towards the end of a scary monster movie, the rampaging monster is usually outwitted or another helpful creature appears to stop the rampage. Through using a combination of anti-Klebsiella and anti-biofilm herbs and essential oils, you have more options for cutting through biofilm shields and stopping a drug-resistant Klebsiella superbug. Since many of these natural remedies come with cautions on their use, work with a herbalist knowledgeable in using anti-microbial essential oils to develop a proper, safe, and effective strategy for your condition.

>> Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday October 1st at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for stopping co-infections and Lyme disease. http://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

1.Vastag, Brian and L. Sun. “NIH Superbug Claims 7th Victim.” Washington Post. 14 Sept. 2012. http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/nih-superbug-claims-7th-victim/2012/09/14/09b3742e-fe9b-11e1-b153-218509a954e1_story.html
2. Wu M-C, Lin T-L, Hsieh P-F, Yang H-C, Wang J-T (2011) Isolation of Genes Involved in Biofilm Formation of a Klebsiella pneumoniae Strain Causing Pyogenic Liver Abscess. PLoS ONE 6(8): e23500. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0023500 http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0023500
3. Høiby N, Bjarnsholt T, Givskov M, Molin S, Ciofu O. Antibiotic resistance of bacterial biofilms. Int J Antimicrob Agents. 2010 Apr;35(4):322-32. Epub 2010 Feb 10.  http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20149602
4. Stewart PS, Costerton JW (July 2001). Antibiotic resistance of bacteria in biofilms. Lancet 358 (9276): 135–8. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(01)05321-1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11463434
5. Lee, Greg. Disrupting Biofilms to Stop Recurring Lyme Disease Symptoms. E-report. 2010 June. http://goodbyelyme.com/products.
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7. Warnke PH, Becker ST, Podschun R, Sivananthan S, Springer IN, Russo PA, Wiltfang J, Fickenscher H, Sherry E. The battle against multi-resistant strains: Renaissance of antimicrobial essential oils as a promising force to fight hospital-acquired infections. J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2009 Oct;37(7):392-7. Epub 2009 May 26. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19473851
8. Sharmeen, R., Hossain, M., Rahman, M., Foysal, M., Miah, M.. In-vitro antibacterial activity of herbal aqueous extract against multi-drug resistant Klebsiella sp. isolated from human clinical samples. International Current Pharmaceutical Journal, North America, 1, May. 2012. http://www.banglajol.info/index.php/ICPJ/article/view/10534.
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10. Chaudhry, N.M., A. Sabahat and T. Perween, 2007. Antibacterial effects of Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Against Gram negative Bacilli.  Pak. J. Bot., 39(2): 609-613. www.pakbs.org/pjbot/PDFs/39(2)/PJB39(2)609.pdf
11. Shyh-ming Tsaoa and M. Yin. In vitro activity of garlic oil and four diallyl sulphides against antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. J. Antimicrob. Chemother. (2001) 47 (5): 665-670. doi: 10.1093/jac/47.5.665 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11328781
12. Sapi E, Kaur N, Anyanwu S, Luecke DF, Datar A, Patel S, Rossi M, Stricker RB. Evaluation of in-vitro antibiotic susceptibility of different morphological forms of Borrelia burgdorferi. Infect Drug Resist. 2011;4:97-113. Epub 2011 May 3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21753890
13. Domenech M, García E, Prieto A, Moscoso M. Insight into the composition of the intercellular matrix of Streptococcus pneumoniae biofilms. Environ Microbiol. 2012 Jul 30. doi: 10.1111/j.1462-2920.2012.02853.x. [Epub ahead of print] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22913814
14. Gadvini, Madhavi. Engineering a Novel-Inhibitor of Biofilm Encapsulated Pathogens. Siemens National Science Competition 2007-2008. http://www.synapticdigitalvideo.com/siemens/2006/webcasts/sc2006_vodw_madhavi_gavini.html
15. Jiang X, Yu P, Jiang J, Zhang Z, Wang Z, Yang Z, Tian Z, Wright SC, Larrick JW, Wang Y. Synthesis and evaluation of antibacterial activities of andrographolide analogues. Eur J Med Chem. 2009 Jul;44(7):2936-43. Epub 2008 Dec 25. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19152987
16. Nidadavolu P, Amor W, Tran PL, Dertien J, Colmer-Hamood JA, Hamood AN. Garlic ointment inhibits biofilm formation by bacterial pathogens from burn wounds. J Med Microbiol. 2012 May;61(Pt 5):662-71. Epub 2012 Feb 2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22301617
17. Hendry ER, Worthington T, Conway BR, Lambert PA. Antimicrobial efficacy of eucalyptus oil and 1,8-cineole alone and in combination with chlorhexidine digluconate against microorganisms grown in planktonic and biofilm cultures. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2009 Dec;64(6):1219-25. Epub 2009 Oct 16. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19837714
18. Agarwal V, Lal P, Pruthi V. Prevention of Candida albicans biofilm by plant oils. Mycopathologia. 2008 Jan;165(1):13-9. Epub 2007 Oct 30. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17968673
19. Khan MS, Ahmad I. Biofilm inhibition by Cymbopogon citratus and Syzygium aromaticum essential oils in the strains of Candida albicans. J Ethnopharmacol. 2012 Mar 27;140(2):416-23. Epub 2012 Feb 2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22326355
20. Ramage G, Milligan S, Lappin DF, Sherry L, Sweeney P, Williams C, Bagg J, Culshaw S. Antifungal, cytotoxic, and immunomodulatory properties of tea tree oil and its derivative components: potential role in management of oral candidosis in cancer patients. Front Microbiol. 2012;3:220. Epub 2012 Jun 18. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22719736
21. Adukwu EC, Allen SC, Phillips CA. The anti-biofilm activity of lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) and grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) essential oils against five strains of Staphylococcus aureus. J Appl Microbiol. 2012 Aug 1. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2012.05418.x. [Epub ahead of print] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22862808
22. Szabó MA, Varga GZ, Hohmann J, Schelz Z, Szegedi E, Amaral L, Molnár J. Inhibition of quorum-sensing signals by essential oils. Phytother Res. 2010 May;24(5):782-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19827025
23. Khan MS, Zahin M, Hasan S, Husain FM, Ahmad I. Inhibition of quorum sensing regulated bacterial functions by plant essential oils with special reference to clove oil. Lett Appl Microbiol. 2009 Sep;49(3):354-60. Epub 2009 Jul 14. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19627477
24. Koh KH, Tham FY. Screening of traditional Chinese medicinal plants for quorum-sensing inhibitors activity. J Microbiol Immunol Infect. 2011 Apr;44(2):144-8. Epub 2011 Jan 14. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21439518

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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.

For people with persistent lung problems or arthritis due to a Chlamydia co-infection
by Greg Lee

Have you ever accidentally brought home dented cans from the grocery store? As a kid, I remember being told to never get them because the dents could mean the food is spoiled inside. I really learned my lesson after opening a dented can of tomato sauce that contained yucky foul-smelling brown-red glop.

How is a can of spoiled tomato sauce just like a lurking Chlamydia pneumonia co-infection?

Similar to spoiled tomato sauce hiding inside a dented can, Chlamydia can lurk inside ticks
Chlamydia pneumonia is a bacteria that can be transmitted through an infected tick¹ or from an infected person through inhaling contaminated droplets. This infection is a major cause of pneumonia. Once inside a human host, C. pneumonia is taken up by cells in an endosome pouch to destroy the bacteria through phagocytosis. Unfortunately, it begins to replicate within the endosome. C. pneumoniae can infect elderly, disabled, and healthy adults. What are the symptoms of a Chlamydia pneumonia infection?

Chlamydia can create symptoms similar to Lyme disease
Some people with C. pneumonia may not have any symptoms at all. This infection can also create symptoms of asthma and pneumonia in the respiratory system. 60% of Lyme disease patients have tested positive for C. pneumonia at Infectolab in Germany². It can also present symptoms similar to Lyme disease including fatigue, meningitis, encephalitis, arthritis, and myocarditis. C. pneumonia has also been associated with a higher risk of lung cancer³ and atherosclerosis⁴, It has been found in the cerebral spinal fluid of Multiple Sclerosis patients⁵ and in patients with Alzheimer’s⁶. Unfortunately, patients with C. pneumonia can experience recurring symptoms despite prolonged antibiotic treatment⁷.

Chlamydia can be difficult to eliminate completely with antibiotics
Patients diagnosed with C. pneumonia are prescribed antibiotics like azithromycin, clarithromycin, or levofloxacin. Unfortunately, relapsing Chlamydia symptoms may be due to an insufficient dose or too short a duration of antibiotics⁸. Another reason why this infection can persist is because C. pneumonia can acquire drug resistance through gene transfer⁹ and it can hide under biofilms¹⁰.

What else can help you to stop a relapsing Chlamydia infection?

Research on the natural compound betulin shows that it inhibits Chlamydia
Betulin is a natual triterpene compound that has shown to inhibit intracellular Chlamydia in one in vitro study¹¹. This compound protects plants against bacteria and viruses¹² and is found in several medicinal herbs. Patients that have been diagnosed with recurring C. pneumonia symptoms have found that these herbs with betulin help to significantly reduce their chronic symptoms of fatigue, arthritis, inflammation, and asthmatic shortness of breath.

Herb #1: Ligustrum seed, Chinese name: Nu zhen zi¹⁴
The properties of this herb are sweet, bitter, and cool. This herb is used to strengthen the liver, kidneys, and vital essence or jing. Ligustrum seed contains betulin¹⁵ which inhibits C. pneumonia. It has been used to treat dizziness, tinnitus, vertigo, premature gray hair, and soreness and weakness of the low back and knees. This herb is suitable for use over a long period of time and is very safe.

Ligustrum seed is very well suited for symptoms of dryness and excess internal heat. These include menopause, irritability, tidal fever, hot flashes, thirst, night sweats, mood swings, bones that feel like they are being steamed. This herb helps with eye problems like diminished vision, blurred vision, and dry eyes.

In research studies, this herb increases white blood cells especially those called neutrophils. In mice studies, it increases the production of blood. This herb has been used to reduce plasma glucose levels in diabetes studies and has been used to treat diabetes mellitius. It also reduces plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels in rabbit studies. In other mouse studies, Ligustrum seed reduces inflammation, swelling, and permeability of vessels. This herb lowers elevated liver enzyme levels and prevents liver damage.

Ligustrum seed has an inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus dysenteriae, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and E. coli. This herb is contraindicated for patients with internal cold symptoms in the stomach which can be characterized by diarrhea. Since this herb lowers plasma glucose levels, it should be used with caution with insulin, sulfonylureas, and other antidiabetic medications like tolbutamide, glipizide, and glyburide, as it may have a synergistic effect resulting in hypoglycemia.

Herb #2: Lotus rhizome node, Chinese name: Ou jie¹⁶
The properties of this herb are sweet, astringent, and neutral. This herb has been used in Chinese food recipes for centuries. This herb contains betulin which is effective at inhibiting C. pneumonia¹⁷. It is used to stop bleeding disorders, restrain blood leakage, and disperse blood stasis (hypercoagulation). The raw herb clears heat and cools the blood. The charred version of this herb is used to treat bleeding disorders along with symptoms of internal coldness.

Lotus rhizome node has been used to treat symptoms of coughing up blood (hemoptysis), vomiting of blood (hematemesis), nose bleeds (epistaxis), blood in the urine (hematuria), and blood in the stools (hematochezia). Clinical research has shown that Lotus rhizome node is effective at treating bleeding hemorrhoids, bleeding from the eyes, and nasal polyps.

Herb #3: Chaga mushroom, Chinese name: Bai Hua Rong
Chaga mushroom purifies the blood and relieves pain. Used medicinally for over five hundred years in Russia, this fungi contains betulin and betulinic acid¹⁸ which inhibit C. pneumonia. It has over two hundred different compounds that have anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, cytotoxic, anti-platelet aggregation, anti-diabetic, and anti-dementia properties^19,20.

Chaga has also been burned topically on the skin to treat arthritis inflammation²¹ similar to moxabustion in Chinese medicine. In research studies on animals, chaga has been effective in reducing several kinds of cancers: lung²², colon²³, Hodgkin’s lymphoma²⁴, and carcinoma²⁵. It inhibits HIV²⁶ and in other studies, chaga scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress²⁷.

How do you know if these herbs are helping to stop your Chlamydia infection?

Patients report a significant reduction of Chlamydia symptoms
After taking one or more of the herbs listed above with anti-biofilm, toxin clearing and immune modulating herbs, several Lyme patients co-infected with Chlamydia have reported decreased joint pain, increased energy, increased breathing capacity, and greater mental clarity in as little as a few weeks. The right combination of herbs can help reduce stubborn Chlamydia symptoms.

The right herbs can help you to stop a lurking Chlamydia infection
Just like throwing out the dented cans of food from your pantry, the proper combination of herbs can help you to eliminate a lurking Chlamydia 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.

Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday August 6th at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for stopping co-infections and Lyme disease. http://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

1. Facco F, Grazi G, Bonassi S, Magnani M, Di Pietro P. Chlamydial and rickettsial transmission through tick bite in children. Lancet. 1992 Apr 18;339(8799):992-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1348825
2. Schwarzbach, A. Diagnostic and Therapeutical Strategies in Lyme Disease and Multiple Infections by Chlamydia and Mycoplasma. Physicians Roundtable Conference. Tampa, Fl. Jan 2012.
3. Zhan P, Suo LJ, Qian Q, Shen XK, Qiu LX, Yu LK, Song Y. Chlamydia pneumoniae infection and lung cancer risk: a meta-analysis. Eur J Cancer. 2011 Mar;47(5):742-7. Epub 2010 Dec 29. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21194924
4. Mussa FF, Chai H, Wang X, Yao Q, Lumsden AB, Chen C. Chlamydia pneumoniae and vascular disease: an update. J Vasc Surg. 2006 Jun;43(6):1301-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16765261
5. Stratton CW, Wheldon DB. Multiple sclerosis: an infectious syndrome involving Chlamydophila pneumoniae. Trends Microbiol. 2006 Nov;14(11):474-9. Epub 2006 Sep 25. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16996738
6. Frykholm BO. On the question of infectious aetiologies for multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia and the chronic fatigue syndrome and their treatment with antibiotics. Med Hypotheses. 2009 Jun;72(6):736-9. Epub 2009 Mar 6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19269110
7. Kutlin A, Roblin PM, Hammerschlag MR. Effect of prolonged treatment with azithromycin, clarithromycin, or levofloxacin on Chlamydia pneumoniae in a continuous-infection Model. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2002 Feb;46(2):409-12. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11796350
8. Kutlin, 409.
9. Sandoz KM, Rockey DD. Antibiotic resistance in Chlamydiae. Future Microbiol. 2010 Sep;5(9): 1427-42. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20860486
10. Persson GR, Imfeld T. Periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. Ther Umsch. 2008 Feb;65(2):121-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18517068
11. Salin O, Alakurtti S, Pohjala L, Siiskonen A, Maass V, Maass M, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Vuorela P. Inhibitory effect of the natural product betulin and its derivatives against the intracellular bacterium Chlamydia pneumoniae. Biochem Pharmacol. 2010 Oct 15;80(8):1141-51. Epub 2010 Jul 6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20615390
12. Bajaj YPS (ed) Biotechnology in agriculture and forestry. Medicinal and aromatic plants VI. Springer, Berlin Heidelberg New York, p. 193.
13. Rogers, R. The Fungal Pharmacy: The Complete Guide to Medicinal Mushrooms and Lichens of North America. North Atlantic Books, 2012. p. 233.
14. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 962 – 963.
15. Huang X, Yin Z, Ye W, Shen W. Chemical constituents from fruits of Ligustrum lucidum. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2010 Apr;35(7):861-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20575386
16. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 585 – 586.
17. Chaudhuri PK, Singh D. A new triterpenoid from the rhizomes of Nelumbo nucifera. Nat Prod Res. 2012 Apr 19. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22512662
18. Inonotus obliquus. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inonotus_obliquus
19. Lee IK, Yun BS. Styrylpyrone-class compounds from medicinal fungi Phellinus and Inonotus spp., and their medicinal importance. J Antibiot (Tokyo). 2011 May;64(5):349-59. Epub 2011 Feb 9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21304532
20. Inonotus obliquus. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inonotus_obliquus
21. Rogers, 241.
22. Zhong XH, Wang LB, Sun DZ. Effects of inotodiol extracts from inonotus obliquus on proliferation cycle and apoptotic gene of human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549. Chin J Integr Med. 2011 Mar;17(3):218-23. Epub 2011 Feb 27. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21359924
23. Lemieszek MK, Langner E, Kaczor J, Kandefer-Szerszeń M, Sanecka B, Mazurkiewicz W, Rzeski W. Anticancer effects of fraction isolated from fruiting bodies of Chaga medicinal mushroom, Inonotus obliquus (Pers.:Fr.) Pilát (Aphyllophoromycetideae): in vitro studies. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2011;13(2):131-43. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22135889
24. Rogers, 249.
25. Rogers, 255.
26. Bori ID, Hung HY, Qian K, Chen CH, Morris-Natschke SL, Lee KH. Anti-AIDS agents 88. Anti-HIV conjugates of betulin and betulinic acid with AZT prepared via click chemistry. Tetrahedron Lett. 2012 Apr 11;53(15):1987-1989. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22711941
27. Najafzadeh M, Reynolds PD, Baumgartner A, Jerwood D, Anderson D. Chaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in lymphocytes of patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Biofactors. 2007;31(3-4):191-200. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18997282

I really appreciate your vote in helping us to qualify for this grant.

Thanks,

Greg

In the movie Ground Hog Day, Bill Murray plays a TV reporter sent to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania to cover their Ground Hog Day events. He wakes up one morning to find that time has regressed 24 hours and he has to repeat the previous day’s events over again. This same regression in time happens again and again. At first, he dreads repeating the same day’s events all over. At one point, he decides to make better choices with the same events. Because of these choices, he is finally able to break free of the rut of repeating the same day over.

How is being stuck in a loop of living the same day over and over similar to having Lyme disease biofilms?

Similar to repeating an endless Ground Hog Day, people with Lyme disease can experience the same symptoms over and over
Angie has good days and bad days. On good days, she can take care of the kids and work on her farm. On bad days, she can’t even get out of bed because of pain, fatigue, and feeling toxic. She feels constant anxiety because her symptoms can quickly switch into becoming much worse. Her number of bad days also increases when she gets a new antibiotic from her Lyme literate doctor. After several weeks of good days, she thought she had eliminated her infections. Then the bad days returned. One cause of her returning bad days is probably biofilms.

Unfortunately, Lyme disease and co-infections can create recurring symptoms when they re-emerge from slimy biofilms
Biofilms are basically a protective “slime” made by microorganisms which can consist of polysaccharides¹, extracellular proteins¹, magnesium², pathogens³, or extracellular DNA⁴. Biofilms act as a shield against antibiotics^5,6, herbs⁷, and the immune system⁸. Under a biofilm, many different species of pathogens⁹ can work collaboratively together¹⁰ to survive anti-microbial treatment and re-emerge to create symptoms over and over again. Biofilms can contribute to a roller-coaster of symptoms that wax and wane. Angie wanted a new way to end her roller-coaster of Lyme pain and fatigue.

She tried different enzymes to try and reduce her recurring symptoms
Angie took fermented vegetable and earthworm enzymes to cut through biofilms to try and relieve her recurring symptoms of pain and feeling toxic. When she started these supplements, her pain, fatigue, and feeling toxic actually increased. She described the increase of symptoms as similar to a toxic Herxheimer reaction. After feeling horrible again and again from taking these enzymes, she sought another way to reduce her recurring pains.

Special “blood” herbs help to prevent recurring pains by preventing biofilms from forming
Bacteria use a complex chemical pathway called the Heme-Nitric Oxide/Oxygen (H-NOX) binding domain¹¹ to form biofilms. Bacteria use chemical regulators on this pathway to affect biofilm gene expression and to activate biofilm chemical messenger molecules. Using herbs to interrupt the nitric oxide pathway can disrupt how bacteria form biofilms. Fortunately, there are many Chinese herbs that inhibit the nitric acid pathway¹² which were used to help Angie to prevent biofilms and reduce her recurring pain and fatigue.

Here are three anti-biofilm herbs that also help to remove painful toxins and protect vital organs
In animal and human studies, these herbs have been shown to reduce nitric oxide production, neutralize toxins, and relieve pain and inflammation. These herbs have been used for hundreds of years to treat pain, chronic illness, and fatigue. These herbs have also been used extensively to treat problems in the blood like blood stagnation, anemia, and high blood pressure. In ancient Chinese medical texts, two of these herbs have also been used to treat chronic infections caused by multiple pathogens¹³.

Herb #1: Angelica Root, Angelica Sinensis, Chinese name: Dang Gui¹⁴
The properties of this herb are sweet, acrid, and warm. With over three-hundred references on Pubmed, the medicinal properties of this herb have been researched for its antimicrobial, neuro-protective, anticancer, anticoagulant, and liver-protective properties. This herb blocks how bacteria are able to make biofilms by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide synthase^15,16. In Chinese medicine, angelica is used to strengthen and replenish the blood. It is used to treat anemia, pale complexion, brittle nails, dry hair, dizziness, blurred vision, post-partum fatigue and weakness, palpitations and abdominal pain.

This herb is also used to increase circulation and relieve pain. Angelica along with other herbs is used to treat menstrual disorders including irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, pre-menstrual discomfort, early menstruation, bloating with menstruation, irritability, fatigue, and weakness. During pregnancy, it is used with other herbs to treat abdominal pain, restless fetus, lower back soreness, diarrhea, and breech presentation. After delivery, this herb with other herbs is used to treat post-partum bleeding, spontaneous sweating, fever, shortness of breath, back and leg pain accompanied by the inability to turn from side-to-side, lower abdominal coldness, insufficient milk production, and pain and muscle spasms.

It is commonly used in Chinese hospitals with other herbs to treat traumatic injuries, bruises, fractures, broken bones, and swollen or injured tendons. In the limbs or extremities, Angelica is also used to treat coldness, numbness, pain, painful joints, soreness and weakness of the low back and knees. Topically, it is used with other herbs to treat sores and abscesses, reduce swelling, expel pus, relieve pain, and heal slow-healing sores.

Angelica also moistens the intestines and unblocks the bowels. It is used to treat constipation and dry stools. This herb is also used to stop coughing, reduce phlegm, and to relieve shortness of breath. It has also been used to treat arrhythmia, stroke, migraine, nephritis, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, liver disease, bed wetting, uterine prolapse, insomnia, blocked blood vessels in the hands and feet, herpes zoster, alopecia, psoriasis, dermatological disorders, deafness, anal fissure, chronic hypertropic rhinitis, and chronic pharyngitis.

Herb – drug interaction: It is suggested that concurrent use of angelica with wafarin may potentiate the effects of wafarin, anti-platelet, and anticoagulant drugs. This herb reduces scopolamine and cycloheximide induced amnesia in rats. Angelica also treats acetaminophen-induced liver damage.

Angelica has an inhibitory effect against Salmonella typhi, E. coli, Corynebacterium diptheriae, Vibrio cholerae, Alpha-hemolytic streptococcus, and Beta-hemolytic streptococcus.

Herb #2: White Peony Root, Paeonia lactiflora Chinese name: Bai Shao¹⁷
The properties of this herb are bitter, sour and cool. This herb is also effective at blocking how bacteria can produce biofilms by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide¹⁸. White peony is used to strengthen the blood and moisten dryness in the body. This herb treats a dull and pale complexion, dizziness, tinnitus, and brittle, pale nails. White peony regulates menstruation and helps to alleviate pain. It is used to treat these conditions: irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, uterine bleeding, breast distention, pre-menstrual symptoms, mood swings, restlessness, and gestational and post-partum disorders. Other conditions treated by this herb include: night sweats, spontaneous sweating, and excessive perspiration.

White peony is also used to treat long standing pathogenic illnesses with symptoms of muscle spasms, twitches, tremors, alternating flexion and extension of the extremities, tonic-clonic spasms, and convulsions. It is also used to treat excess heat conditions marked by dizziness, tinnitus, flushed face, red eyes, irritability, bad temper, headache, vertigo, poor balance, delirium, burning diarrhea, burning upon urination, and loss of consciousness. White peony is also used to treat numbness, spasms, and pain in the muscles, tendons, sinews, and extremities. It is also used for epigastric, intercostal, flank, hypochondriac, and abdominal pain.

This herb is contraindicated in patients with eczema or rashes that are aggravated by wind. It is also contraindicated in post-partum patients with stabbing fixed pains or who are still bleeding. White peony may cause drowsiness or sedation. People who operate heavy machinery need to exercise caution.

White peony has an inhibitory effect against Bacillus dysenteriae, E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Pseudonomas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Beta-hemolytic streptococcus, Diplococcus pneumoniae, and some dematophytes.

Herb #3: Tree Peony, Paeonia suffruticosa Chinese name: Mu Dan Pi¹⁹
The properties of this herb are acrid, bitter, and cool. This herb is effective at blocking how bacteria can produce biofilms by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide²⁰.Tree peony clears heat and cools the blood. This herb is used to treat symptoms when the bones feel like they are “steaming”, nighttime fevers, the absence of perspiration, thirst, and menopause.

Used to cool “heat” in the blood, Tree peony has been used to treat maculae, bleeding related blotches on the skin, purpura, hematemesis, hemoptysis, hematuria, hypermenorrhea, early menstruation, and epistaxis. It is also used for night fevers accompanied by morning or daytime chills, hypertension, irritability, redness of the face and eyes, and a short temper.

Tree peony also invigorates blood circulation and disperses blood stasis or “thick blood.” This condition is analogous to hypercoagulation in western medicine. This herb is used to treat severe pain, amenorrhea, abdominal masses like fibroids, tumors, abscesses, and masses. It is also used to treat bruises, broken bones, inflammation, swelling, and pain associated with traumatic injuries. In laboratory and animal studies, Tree peony has strong anti-inflammatory effects, increases blood perfusion, decreases cardiac output, anti-hypertensive effects, and protects that heart from ischemia.

Tree peony is contraindicated in pregnancy and patients that have excessive bleeding during menstruation. This herb has an inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Beta-hemolytic streptococcus, Bacillus subtilis, E. coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Diplococcus pneumoniae, and Vibrio cholerae.

The right herbs can help you to alleviate recurring Lyme symptoms by preventing biofilms from forming
Just like finding the right course of action to break out of an endless Ground Hog Day loop, the proper combination of anti-biofilm herbs can help you to get free of a rut of recurring Lyme disease symptoms. By interrupting the nitric oxide cycle used to make biofilms, these herbs, along with other medicines and treatments, helped Angie to finally relieve her rollercoaster symptoms of fatigue and pain caused by her Lyme disease and co-infections. 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 recurring Lyme disease symptoms.
Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday June 4th at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for stopping biofilms and recurring Lyme disease symptoms. http://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

1. Simões M, Cleto S, Pereira MO, Vieira MJ. Influence of biofilm composition on the resistance to detachment. Water Sci Technol. 2007;55(8-9):473-80.
2. Song B, Leff LG. Influence of magnesium ions on biofilm formation by Pseudomonas fluorescens. Microbiol Res. 2006;161(4):355-61. Epub 2006 Mar 6.
3. Chemistry of biofilm prevention. Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chemistry_of_biofilm_prevention#Composition_of_biofilm
4. S D Goodman, K P Obergfell, J A Jurcisek, et. all. Biofilms can be dispersed by focusing the immune system on a common family of bacterial nucleoid-associated proteins. Mucosal Immunology (2011) 4, 625–637; doi:10.1038/mi.2011.27; published online 29 June 2011 http://www.nature.com/mi/journal/v4/n6/full/mi201127a.html
5. Matin, A. Biofilm Studies. http://www.stanford.edu/~amatin/MatinLabHomePage/Biofilm.htm
6. Stewart PS, Costerton JW. Antibiotic resistance of bacteria in biofilms. Lancet. 2001 Jul 14;358(9276):135-8.
7. 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):599-605. Epub 2010 Apr 24.
8. Goodman et al., p625.
9. M. L. Grbic, I. Vukoievic, G. Simic, I. Krizmanic and M. Stupar. Biofilm Forming Cyanobacteria, Algae, and Fungi on Two Historic Monuments in Belgrade, Serbia. Arch. Biol. Sci, Belgrade, 62 (3), 625-631, 2010 DOI:10.2298/ABS1003625L
10. Nadell CD, Xavier JB, Levin SA, Foster KR (2008) The Evolution of Quorum Sensing in Bacterial Biofilms. PLoS Biol 6(1): e14. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.0060014
11. Lars Plate, Michael A. Marletta. Nitric Oxide Modulates Bacterial Biofilm Formation through a Multicomponent Cyclic-di-GMP Signaling Network. Molecular Cell – 26 April 2012. http://www.cell.com/molecular-cell/abstract/S1097-2765%2812%2900260-2
12. Shan-Yu Su1 and Ching-Liang Hsieh. Anti-inflammatory effects of Chinese medicinal herbs on cerebral ischemia. Chinese Medicine 2011, 6:26 doi:10.1186/1749-8546-6-26
13. Fruehauf, H. Driving Out Demons and Snakes, A Forgotten Clinical Approach to Chronic Parasitism, Journal of Chinese Medicine, no. 57, May 1998. p. 14
14. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 918 – 924.
15. Han C, Guo J. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Traditional Chinese Herb Pairs, Angelica sinensis and Sophora flavescens. Inflammation. 2011 Oct 6.
16. Su YW, Chiou WF, Chao SH, Lee MH, Chen CC, Tsai YC. Ligustilide prevents LPS-induced iNOS expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages by preventing ROS production and down-regulating the MAPK, NF-κB and AP-1 signaling pathways. Int Immunopharmacol. 2011 Sep;11(9):1166-72. Epub 2011 Mar 30.
17. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 930 – 934.
18. He DY, Dai SM. Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of paeonia lactiflora pall., a traditional chinese herbal medicine. Front Pharmacol. 2011;2:10. Epub 2011 Feb 25.
19. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 160 – 162.
20. Lee SJ, Lee IS, Mar W. Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 activity by 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucose in murine macrophage cells. Arch Pharm Res. 2003 Oct;26(10):832-9.

Image credit Jopparn from Wikimedia Commons.

For people with recurring Lyme disease fatigue and brain fog despite taking antibiotics and herbs

by Greg Lee / Two Frogs Healing Center

Imagine you are at a lively dinner party. As you look around the room, the guests are chatting with each other, enjoying food and drinks. In one corner of the room, you see a live elephant scooping up snacks with it’s trunk into its mouth. The guests are totally ignoring this elephant as it happily munches away.

How is an elephant at a dinner party similar to Lyme disease symptoms that are not responding to medications?

Just like an elephant at party, a cause of persistent Lyme disease symptoms is often overlooked
Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt at the Physician’s Roundtable conference reported that big parasites¹ are a commonly overlooked reason for persistent symptoms in Lyme disease patients. In the US and other advanced countries, he made the case that parasites are more widespread than commonly believed. International travelers, imported produce, and migratory animals can introduce parasites and their cysts into our environment. Unfortunately, these parasites can mimic symptoms of Lyme disease.

Just like Lyme disease and co-infections, parasites produce toxins which trigger symptoms
Helminth parasites are worm-like organisms that can be found in the lymph, organs, and the blood. Protozoa are smaller than helminth parasites and have names like babesia, malaria, amoebas, or protomyxzoa. They are capable of producing toxins1 which disrupt your immune system and make your body more parasite-friendly. These toxins can produce similar symptoms to Lyme disease and co-infections. Unfortunately, parasite infections are often misdiagnosed in Lyme disease patients.

Phoebe struggled for years with fatigue, brain fog, and digestion problems
Phoebe loves traveling to developing nations and helping to build schools. After returning from each of her trips, she requires months to recover her stamina and heal up her digestion. Her doctors diagnosed her with stress, depression, and menopause. Her Lyme disease blood tests came back CDC negative. Parasite tests came back negative. She had some relief with herbal parasite cleanses, enemas, and anti-parasite treatments. Then she got bit by an infected tick.

After a tick bite, her symptoms of fatigue, brain fog, and inflammation got much worse
Fortunately, her primary care doc was willing to give her a few weeks of antibiotics to address her aggravated symptoms. However, her symptoms did not improve much despite the medication. Her doctor referred her to other specialists who eventually diagnosed her with intestinal parasites. Despite taking anti-parasitic medications, she still felt very sick. Then she discovered some custom-made herbal formulas that were tailored to her parasites.

Specially prepared anti-parasite herbs helped to reduce Phoebe’s symptoms
The inflammation in Phoebe’s digestion could limit how well herbs get absorbed. In order to maximize absorption, her herbs were blended with lecithin and water. This mixture was then processed to make small particles which could be absorbed more easily. The resulting liquid looked similar to a latte from a coffee store. Which anti-parasite herbs helped her reduce her symptoms?

Here are three anti-parasite herbs that helped Phoebe improve her fatigue and brain fog
In animal and human studies, these herbs have been effective at killing and expelling parasites.

Herb #1: Rhizoma Dryopteridis, Chinese name: Guan Zhong²
The properties of this herb are bitter, and cool. Guan Zhong is used kill various intestinal parasites such as: hookworm, ringworm, and pinworm. This herb is used to treat bacterial and viral infections like colds, flu, measles, encephalitis, viral pneumonia, infectious bronchitis, and parotitis because it is effective at clearing heat and eliminating toxins. It also stops bleeding in conditions like hematemesis, epistaxis, hematochezia, and excess uterine bleeding.

Caution: this herb is not recommended for people with excess dryness, or coldness in the stomach. This herb is to be taken separate from fatty or greasy food. This herb is not to be used with infants, people with a weak constitution, or people with ulcers in the gastrointestinal track. It can stimulate the contraction of the uterus and should be used with caution during pregnancy.

Filmarone is an active component in Dryopteridis which has a marked antiparasitic effect against tapeworms. In other studies, Dryopteridis kills roundworms in pigs and liver flukes in humans. This herb has a mild to moderate inhibitory effect against Bacillus dysenteriae, Salmonella typhi, E. coli, Pseudonomas aeruginosa, Diplococcus meningitidis, and Staphlococcus aureus. It has a strong inhibitory effect on the influenza virus, adenovirus, encephalitis B, and herpes simplex virus. This herb also has an antineoplastic effect.

Herb #2: Fructus Mume, Chinese name: Wu Mei³
The properties of this herb are sour and neutral. This herb is effective at helping to expel parasites and relieve abdominal pain. It has been used effectively against parasitic roundworms, hookworms, and the ascaris worm. This herb treats chronic respiratory diseases that have a dry, feeble cough and a low voice. It also binds the intestines, treats bacterial dysentery, chronic diarrhea and rectal prolapse. Fructus mume relieves thirst and generates body fluids. It is used to treat symptoms of thirst, weight loss and irritability. This herb is used also to treat diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and overheating.

The charred form of fructus mume is also used to treat chronic uterine bleeding. When soaked in salt water and then mixed with vinegar to make a paste, this herb is used to treat ulcers, sore, corns, and warts. It has an anti-aging effect. Fructus mume is also used to treat internal hemorrhoids, viral hepatitis, increased liver enzyme levels, jaundice, chronic cholecystitis, and infantile diarrhea. A mixture of one part Fructus Mume and two parts vinegar that is mixed for 24 hours was 96% effective in treating a billiary ascaris infection.

The sole usage of this herb is cautioned for treating acute diarrhea, or diarrhea caused by food poisoning or infections. It is normally combined with other herbs to treat the above causes of diarrhea. This herb is contraindicated in patients with excess heat or signs of stagnation. Fructus Mume has an inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus dysenteriae, E. coli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and some dematophytes.

Herb #3: Agrimony, Chinese name: Xian He Cao⁴
The properties of this herb are acrid, bitter, astringent, and neutral. Agrimony treats various parasitic infections including malaria, tapeworm, roundworm, and trichomonas vaginitis. It is used to stop bleeding conditions including treat epistaxis, hemoptysis, hermatemesis, hematuria, hematochezia, profuse menstrual bleeding, and thrombocytopenic purpura. This herb also relieves diarrhea and dysentery especially if there is pus and/or blood, white mucus, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Agrimony is used for treating fatigue especially in people with a normal appetite, dizziness, lightheadedness, weak knees and weak low back. This herb also reduces swelling, eliminates pus, breast abscesses, sores, hemorrhoids, nodules, and ulcerations.

This herb may cause palpitations and flushing. It can be taken internally or applied topically as an herbal wash or paste. In one rabbit study, agrimony reduced bleeding time. Water extracts of this herb lower blood pressure and has an inhibiting effect on the heart. Alcohol extracts of this herb increase blood pressure and has a stimulating effect on the heart. Water extracts of this herb at low dosages has a stimulating effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, high dosages inhibits these smooth muscles. In one study, this herb was effective at stopping upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Agrimony has an inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Pseudonomas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This herb has marked antiparasitic effect against roundworm, tapeworm, and schistosomiasis. In mouse studies, this herb is effective against tumor cells. This herb contains vitamin K which may reduce the anticoagulant effect of wafarin and should be used with caution to avoid the formation of clots.

The right herb combination can help you to kill parasites and relieve their symptoms
Just like discovering the elephant in the room, the proper combination of anti-parasite herbs can help you to expel large parasites. These herbs helped Phoebe to finally relieve her fatigue, brain fog, and digestive problems caused by Lyme disease and an intestinal parasite 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 infections.

Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday June 4th at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for stopping parasites and Lyme disease symptoms. http://goodbyelyme.com/events/get_rid_lyme

1. Klinghardt, D. A Deep Look Beyond Lyme. 2012 Physician’s Round Table. January 28th, 2012. Tampa, FL.

2. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 554 – 555.

3. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 988 – 990.

4. Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. 2004. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry CA: Art of Medicine Press, Inc., pp. 578 – 580.

Image credit Jopparn from Wikimedia Commons.

For people who are concerned about ticks carrying Lyme disease

“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 presented the ecological factors that affect infected tick populations at a recent conference on Lyme disease. 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 two of the four 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.

Fragmented forests usually have greater populations of mice
In other studies, mice and chipmunks were shown to have the highest transmission rates of infection to ticks. 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 production of 2010 was one of the largest crops in 20 years in New York and other surrounding areas. In Maryland, 2010 was the largest acorn crop in over 32 years according to the Department of Natural Resources. As white-footed mice³, chipmunks, and deer have increased in numbers with greater acorns to feed them, these hosts are predicted to lead to greater populations of nymph-sized ticks in 2012.

2012 is predicted to be a dangerous year for getting Lyme disease
Since increased numbers of hard-to-see nymph ticks² are believed to be the major reason for people contracting tick infections, 2012 is predicted to have greater numbers of Lyme disease cases. 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.

Next Step: Want to learn more about healing Lyme disease? Click here to find out about our evening lecture at 6pm on Monday April 2nd, “Getting Rid of Lyme Disease” in Frederick, Maryland.

- Greg

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
3. Richard Ostfeld. Ecological Drivers of Tickborne Diseases in North America. International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases. March 11-14, 2012, Atlanta, Ga.

For people who are unable to reduce their painful Lyme disease Herxheimer reactions
by Greg Lee

When I was a kid, I played a board game called Monopoly* with my friends. In the game, you can get stuck in jail until find a way of getting free. One way to escape was through a “Get Out of Jail Free” card.

How is getting stuck in jail similar to patients with recurring Lyme disease pain?

Just like being trapped in jail, patients with Lyme disease can feel imprisoned by their symptoms of pain
While on several different medications, Inez suffered with debilitating pain and depression.  Her Lyme Literate Physician had prescribed: Mepron, Zithromax, and Artemisinin for Babesia, Omnicef for Lyme disease, Flagyl for Lyme disease cysts, Cholestyramine for binding biotoxins, Neurontin for burning pains, magnesium, B-12 injections and folic acid to help with detoxification, and several other supplements. She was deeply concerned that her horrible pain and fatigue would keep her from participating and enjoying an upcoming family gathering.

After months of medications, Inez felt even more pain and severely depressed
Her P.A. (Physician’s Assistant) told her that her painful symptoms were a sign that her antibiotic medications were killing her infections. The P.A. suggested that she get an intravenous infusion of magnesium to reduce her symptoms. Unfortunately Inez was experiencing what is called a Herxheimer reaction, which happens when dying germs release toxins as they are killed off.

Herxheimer reactions can lead to a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms and painful emotions
These toxins aggravated Inez’s symptoms of pain along her back, irritability, brain fog, fatigue, and depression. Ever her supplements and toxin binding medication, Cholestyramine, provided little relief. Expensive intravenous magnesium infusions would help for a few days. However, her symptoms would come right back. Why do toxins affect some people more severely than others?

Inez is lacking the genes to be able to eliminate Lyme toxins
According to her Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA-DR) blood test, her immune system is unable to identify and eliminate Lyme disease and mold toxins. Her antibiotic treatment was killing of gobs of germs, which created a flood of toxins in her body. As these toxins built up in her system, she felt even sicker, more cantankerous, and extremely hopeless. After months of worsening symptoms, she was at the end of her rope. “I am just ready to end it all,” she sobbed.

What can help Inez to quickly relieve her pain, depression, and other hellish Herxheimer symptoms?

A treatment method called “wet cupping” helped Inez to quickly relieve painful symptoms by rapidly pulling out toxins
Wet cupping can draw painful toxic symptoms from deep in the body to the surface through using special suction cups and a hand vacuum pump. Inez had nine suction cups placed on her neck, shoulders, and along either side of her spine. In just a few minutes, the skin under the cups grew purplish-red as toxins and blood were being drawn to the surface. The cups were removed and dark circles were left all over her back. Next, needles were used to help draw the toxins out.

Needles were inserted in the dark circles on the skin to make holes to draw the toxins out
After quickly removing the needles, dark red blood began to ooze slowly out of the holes left by the needles. The suction cups were placed back over the holes to help draw the toxins and thick blood out more quickly. After about ten minutes, the cups were removed. What remained on the skin were round dark red blobs formed in the shape of the cup, which looked like Jell-O mounds make of thick blood.

Not only toxins get pulled out of the body, but also coagulated blood
One study of wet cupping found the fluids to be very high in toxins¹. Another use of cupping in Chinese medicine is to remove “stagnant blood²” which is analogous to hypercoagulation in western medicine. Hypercoagulation is a condition where the blood is thicker than normal and moves more slowly through your body. Cupping helps to pull out the thick compounds in the blood, which is why the blood removed from Inez’s back looked like little Jell-O molds. Cupping also helps to remove inflammatory compounds like cytokines³ and excess fluids from the lymphatic system also. Removing these toxins, compounds, and fluids can have a dramatic effect on improving symptoms.

Inez’s pain and depression were gone after removing the thick toxic blood from her back
“I always think that it’s hopeless when I’m coming here. It’s amazing how after each treatment, my pain and my depression are gone!” said Inez. After multiple cupping treatments, Inez’s blood had a healthier red color and flowed more normally. Between treatments, her pain and mood swings have been significantly reduced in severity and frequency. Some weeks, her symptoms are gone completely. Cupping has helped her to escape her prison of Lyme disease pain and depression.

Just like a “Get Out of Jail” pass, cupping can quickly reduce the hellish symptoms of Lyme disease toxins
An effective way to stop Lyme toxins from wandering throughout the body and causing all sorts of pain, fatigue, and mood swings is through wet cupping. Consult with a Lyme Literate cupping practitioner to develop a proper, safe, and effective treatment strategy for your condition since this procedure is strongly cautioned in patients with anemia, clotting disorders, taking blood thinning medications, who are pregnant, who have a weak constitution, or at risk for myocardial infections⁴.

Next step: Come to our evening lecture:  Getting Rid of Lyme Disease in Frederick, Maryland on Monday February 6th at 6pm to learn more about natural methods for stopping painful Lyme disease Herxheimer symptoms.

1. Schockert, T. Observations on cupping. High toxin concentration in blood from cupping. MMW Fortschr Med. 2009 Jun 4;151(23):20.
2. Bisio, Tom. A Tooth from the Tiger’s Mouth: How to Treat Your Injuries with Powerful Healing Secrets of the Great Chinese Warrior. Fireside, 2004. p. 165.
3. Zhang CQ, Liang TJ, Zhang W. Effects of drug cupping therapy on immune function in chronic asthmatic bronchitis patients during protracted period. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2006 Nov; 26(11) pp. 984-7.
4. Kobayashi, S. Acupuncture Core Therapy: Shakujyu Chiryo. Paradigm Publications, Taos. 2008. pp. 203 – 204.

* Monopoly is copyrighted by Hasbro