The news is full of reports of the prevalence and maybe even increased risk of a tick-borne illness named for the town in Connecticut where it was first identified. More and more people are interested in ways of treating Lyme disease naturally or with pharmaceutical medicines. There are many advocates for both protocols.

Medical doctors use a blood test to diagnose this problem. The test may reveal the presence of spirochetes, bacteria-like organisms which carry this disease. However, spirochetes are uncannily adept at hiding, and the test may not always be definitive. This causes many people to turn to herbal means of fighting the problem. Herbals require no prescription, and most have no harmful side effects if used correctly.

The herbs that fight the illness are immune system boosters. They increase the number and effectiveness of the body's own defensive cells, which then destroy these foreign invaders. Herbs specific to this illness, that seem to be particularly effective, include the South American cat's claw, which is also found in tropical Asia. This herb is marketed as a liquid extract and in capsule form.

People with arthritis have used this herb for centuries to alleviate joint pain. It contains some active ingredients that are not helpful in treating Lyme's. For this reason, people who would like to try it for this particular illness should look for a special preparation, designed specifically to treat Lyme's.

People may have been diagnosed with the illness but still choose natural methods. The common medical approach prescribes large doses of antibiotics to be taken over an extended period of time. This protocol appears to be most effective when the illness is diagnosed immediately. People who have had the problem for months or even years may not find antibiotics completely effective.

Many people who practice natural healing and eat organically try to avoid antibiotics. Especially if the treatment calls for heavy doses, those who prtactice alternative medicine may prefer natural means even if they know for sure that they are infected with Lyme's. Others may begin with antibiotic use and continue with herbals to make sure all spirochetes are destroyed.

North Americans have their own herbal remedy growing along the roadsides. Research has shown that teasel, a thistle-like plant that grows wild in many temperate regions, is effective against this illness. Herbalists sell teasel extract online. People can also harvest it themselves, choosing plants well away from the heavy metal contamination of heavy traffic. Dig roots in November, clean and chop them, and soak them in vodka for six weeks in a tightly-sealed jar. The liquid extract can them be poured off and used. For dosage recommendations, check online or look on product labels.

Ignoring Lyme's is unwise. The effects worsen over time, resulting in arthritic complaints, higher risk for Alzheimer's, tremors, skin problems, and damage to the heart and nervous system. Mosquitoes, fleas, and horseflies may also spread the disease.