by Dr. Bill Rawls Posted 11/8/16 Over the past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the ILADS national convention in Philadelphia. For those who don’t already know, ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society) is a medical society with a mission of promoting understanding and education about Lyme disease and similar chronic illnesses. It [...]
Vitex acts as a tonic (hormonal modulator), specifically for the female reproductive system. It is thought to work by normalizing abnormal ovarian function by affecting the pituitary gland. Prolactin is decreased via dopamine antagonistic effect, FSH is inhibited, and LH is stimulated. This enhances corpus luteum function with an increase in progesterone and decrease in [...]
L-theanine is a unique amino acid found only in green tea and certain mushrooms. It counteracts the effects of caffeine and not surprisingly, green tea is not as stimulating as coffee. L-theanine crosses into the brain and affects neurotransmitters in such a way as to induce calmness, support positive mood, and improve mental focus. It [...]
D-ribose is a five-sided sugar (pentose) that is the rate-limiting step in energy production. It is also important for synthesizing nucleic acids (DNA, RNA). Though d-ribose supplements do not appear to improve strength or athletic performance per se, they do appear to improve recovery. This is especially true in individuals with chronic Lyme disease or [...]
Clinical studies have shown that supplementation with the amino acid l-arginine spares loss of muscle mass. L-arginine enhances vascular function by increasing nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels. It also helps clear ammonia from the body. L-arginine is a primary nutrient scavenged by Mycoplasma, and replacement may be beneficial. Suggested Dosage: 3-6 grams (3000-6000 mg) [...]
Mitochondria and cells are surrounded by a membrane made of special fats called phospholipids. Eggs, liver, beef brain, and soy are the highest natural sources of phospholipids, but there is evidence that supplementing at higher levels (versus diet alone) can improve everything from fatigue to cognitive function. The three main phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylserine (PS), [...]
5-HTP is a precursor for both serotonin and melatonin in the brain. During the day, it has a mood-stabilizing effect, and during the night, it can promote improved sleep. Increased serotonin is associated with decreased perception of pain. 5-HTP is also metabolized as a normal substance in the body, and therefore there is no risk [...]
L-carnitine is important for metabolism of fatty acids in mitochondria. Antioxidant properties. Protective of mitochondrial function. Acetyl-l-carnitine crosses the blood-brain barrier more effectively than l-carnitine. Neuroprotective — may improve cognitive function. Suggested Dosage: 500-1000 mg acetyl-l-carnitine twice daily. Side effects: none expected.
Naturally increases serotonin similarly to SSRI drugs. Serotonin is considered the “mood” hormone, but is also tied to pain pathways. Low serotonin is associated with chronic pain. Increasing serotonin with St. John’s wort or drug therapy can benefit both mood and pain perception. Hypericum essential oil applied topically is very beneficial for painful joints. St. [...]
Immunomodulator reduces inflammatory cytokines. Especially good for reducing neural inflammation. Decreases vascular permeability (leaky vessels) from damage by inflammation and microbes (calcium-channel blocker). Good for eye conditions. Side effects: Strong calcium-channel blocker — can lower blood pressure, and constipation can be a real problem with this herb.
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