Buhner Beginner

I am thinking of starting the Buhner herb protocol for Lyme. I just finished reading the second edition of his book - healing Lyme, but still have some questions on where to start.

1. His book and protocol refer to the herbs separately, however green dragon botanicals seems to have a capsule that combines all the essential herbs into one. Does anyone know if that is just as effective as getting all the herbs separately? What are the pros and cons to either?

2. There are capsules, tinctures, powder - what is most effective and easier?

3. Are there other vitamins and supplements I should consider while doing the protocol?

4. How long is someone usually on the protocol?

For some background, I consider my infection still acute. I was bit two months ago, immediately went on doxy and eventually two others antibiotics after seeing an LLMD. After 7 weeks of antibiotics, I am now off them but still have a couple of minor lingering symptoms. I tested positive for mycoplasma but had bronchitis/strep back in April (before tick bite) and even my LLMD said I could still be developing antibodies from that infection.

I Want to make sure I keep my immmune system strong and think herbs may be the way to go from here. Any advice on how to get started is really appreciated.

I think its good to hear different opinions and paths that members have taken.

We can learn a lot from each other here on this forum.

I would just suggest that each individual knows there own body the best...so if you have been sensitive to medicine or things in the past(even pre Lyme and co) take that into consideration and go slower or start with one herb.

On the other hand I have heard other members say they have no issue ramping up faster.

My own personal opinion is that while it takes time to ramp up slowly , for me its better than having a huge reaction or herx that still could set me back a week or so.


The Green Dragon Botanicals capsules were formulated with Buhner's input as far as I remember.

You could call them and ask about their recommended use and dosing.

Take care .

Personally I liked getting the Green Dragon Botanicals capsules that combo'd everything, it was just more practical for me (albeit a bit more expensive than just buying the powders individually).

I herxed, but it wasn't overwhelming. A lot of this stuff is trial and error unfortunately, and sometimes we just don't know until we try. I'd go with your intuition, if starting off one herb at a time appeals to you then I'd go that route. If you want to start off with the combo capsules that can be worth trying too. If it is too much to handle you can always then try going the one herb at a time route.

Timeframes for recovery are always difficult to say. It depends on each individual case. The fact that your symptoms aren't severe and you were bit recently plays in your favor

I mix my loose herbs in one glass jar, I’m not using capsules anymore for cost effectiveness. It’s less bottles to open as well.

It’s a little tricky at first to take the herbs loose. I take the herbs mixed with a little water, stir and drink.