Authors: Anna Goc, Aleksandra Niedzwiecki, Matthias Rath
Presented at: 5th International Congress on Bacteriology and Infectious Diseases; May 25 - 26, 2017 | Chicago, Illinois | Watch here
Published in: Conference proceedings: https://www.omicsonline.org/ArchiveJBP/bacteriology-2017-proceedings-keynote.php
Abstract: Lyme disease (LD) is a multi-systemic bacterial infection transmitted by ticks that has emerged as the most common vector-borne disease in US and Europe. Current antibiotic therapies are associated with the well-known side effects and are not fully effective against the late stages of LD, which calls for the development of new treatments. Naturally derived substances that are safe and if properly combined, could have enhanced efficacy through their synergistic or additive interactions, may serve as an alternative way for infected patients. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The study examined the efficacy of defined composition of various botanical derivatives and micronutrients against spirochetes in a long-term therapy over 6 months. 17 patients with severer symptoms of late stage of Lyme disease who had previously undergone several guideline antibiotic therapies with no improvement in their symptoms were included in the study. Findings: After 6 months, 3/17 of the patients were completely symptom-free and had a very good energy status both physically and psychologically and able to work again. 8/17 patients were much better with good physical and psychological effects and also able to work again. Although further checks and therapeutic interventions were necessary here, continuation of the therapy was not. 2/17 patients experienced slight improvement, and there was no improvement in 4/17 patients. In this last group, a new attempt with the treatment was made in 1 of those 4 patients, but this time with limited doses and no negative effects were observed. Conclusion & Significance: Based on observational human study, this defined composition of phytochemicals may play an important role in combating Borrelia spp. and serves as an adjunct or alternative treatment. The study reported here is a part of an ongoing pre-clinical development plan that could form the basis for clinical trials.