A Herxheimer Reaction—also known as a Jarisch-Herxheimer Reaction or simply “herxing”—is a temporary and sometimes intense worsening of symptoms that can occur when treating infections like Lyme disease. It happens when large quantities of pathogens (such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi) are killed off rapidly, releasing toxins into the body faster than it can eliminate them.
Why Does It Happen in Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, often accompanied by co-infections like Babesia, Bartonella, and Ehrlichia. When powerful treatments—such as antibiotics, herbal protocols, or frequency devices like the BCX Ultra Rife Machine—start killing off these pathogens, your immune system is suddenly flooded with toxic byproducts from the die-off. This overload can temporarily make you feel worse before you feel better.
Common Herxheimer Symptoms:
- Increased fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Joint or muscle pain
- Brain fog
- Headaches
- Chills or sweating
- Anxiety or mood swings
- Digestive upset
How Long Does It Last?
Herx reactions can last from a few hours to several days, and in some cases, longer. The duration and severity often depend on the strength of the treatment and the individual’s detox capacity.
What Can You Do to Ease a Herx Reaction?
Slow down treatment: Ease up on your protocol if symptoms become too intense.
Support detox:
Drink plenty of water, use binders (like charcoal or bentonite clay), and incorporate detox tools like Epsom salt baths, infrared saunas, or detox footbaths.
Rest: Let your body use its energy for healing.
Work with a practitioner: Especially for chronic Lyme, having guidance is crucial.
Photo of Karl Herxheimer courtesy of Wikipedia