Try herbal antimicrobials (Buhner protocol)

The Buhner protocol uses botanical medicines with demonstrated in vitro activity against Borrelia burgdorferi. Core herbs include Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum, 1 tsp root powder 3x daily), cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa, 1 tsp powder 3x daily), and andrographis. A 2020 study in Frontiers in Medicine found that Cryptolepis sanguinolenta and Japanese knotweed showed activity against both growing and dormant forms of B. burgdorferi.

Why It Works

Japanese knotweed contains resveratrol, which has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Cat's claw has documented anti-Borrelia effects and supports DNA repair. Cryptolepis sanguinolenta was the only compound in the study to achieve complete eradication of stationary-phase B. burgdorferi at 1% concentration, outperforming doxycycline and cefuroxime in vitro.

Tips

• Start at low doses and gradually increase to full recommended amounts
• These are not a replacement for antibiotics in confirmed acute Lyme disease
• Evidence is primarily in vitro; clinical trials in humans are limited
• Consult a practitioner experienced in herbal medicine for proper dosing