Plants supporting the treatment of Lyme disease

Lyme borreliosis is a bacterial disease transmitted by ticks infected with Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. It has non-specific symptoms, such as headaches, fever, and muscle or joint pain, which is why it is often confused with other diseases. There are three stages in its course: early (erythema migrans), early disseminated (osteoarticular and central nervous system disorders), and late (musculoskeletal disorders, arrhythmia, unilateral facial palsy, inflammation of the brain, spinal cord, headaches, etc.). Treatment consists of antibiotic therapy. After treatment, patients can use herbal protocols that support the body and can improve well-being. The main purpose of this study was to compile a list of plants used to support Lyme disease therapy after antibiotic therapy, based on herbal preparations and dietary supplements available for sale without a prescription in Poland. 29 preparations available in stationary stores and 48 herbal preparations available via the Internet (a total of 77 over-the-counter drugs and supplements) were analysed. 101 plants and one species of fungus were recorded in the composition of the preparations. Many plants used in this type of supportive phytotherapy do not have a direct effect against Lyme spirochaetes and have an effect that generally supports the proper functioning of the body. Some, however, have proven bactericidal properties (most of them have not been proven to have a direct effect in the fight against Lyme disease), are virucidal, support the proper functioning of the nervous system, and provide many vitamins and minerals needed for health.