Interesting post from our friends at Georgia Lyme Disease Association on an old treatment for syphilis, another spirochete bacteria similar to the Lyme (borrelia) bacteria...
Sarsaparilla and Spirochetes: Lyme disease and syphilis are caused by spiral-shaped bacteria called spirochetes. Both infections may produce similar symptoms. Though the causative agent wasn't identified until 1905, an outbreak of syphilis was first officially documented in the late 1400's. Over the centuries, physicians recorded various methods for treating the disease.
Before the advent of antibiotics, one treatment for syphilis - mentioned time and again throughout history - was Sarsaparilla Root. European doctors first described its use in 1536 in treating syphilis and rheumatism cases. From 1820 to 1910, Sarsaparilla was registered in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia as a treatment for syphilis.
Now, many herbalists and integrative medical practitioners who treat Lyme disease are turning again to this remarkable plant, often recommending it in conjunction with other treatments. (As an example, see the book, "Healing Lyme: Natural Healing and Prevention of Lyme Borreliosis and its Coinfections " by Stephen Harrod Buhner. There are others, as well.)
You can read all about Sarsaparilla Root at Raintree's excellent Tropical Plant Database here: http://www.rain-tree.com/sarsaparilla.htm#.UzBF8fldVIE
IMPORTANT NOTE: Georgia Lyme Disease Association does not offer medical advice and this post should not be construed as such. It is very important to check with your medical practitioner prior to trying any and all new treatments, including herbs. Both pharmaceutical and natural substances may interact negatively with other herbs and/or drugs.
