Generally, the base dose to start the LB CORE or LB TONIC is 3 capsules, 3X/day, and then working up 3 caps at a time on a weekly basis, to a maximum of 12 capsules, 3-4X/day. If there is any digestive upset along the way (bloating, diarrhea, gas, distention, etc.), then back down to a lower dose that is more comfortable.

Suggested use:

Week 1 - 3 capsules, 3X/day
Week 2 - 6 capsules, 3X/day
Week 3 - 9 capsules, 3X/day
Week 4 - 12 capsules, 3X/day
Week 5 - 12 capsules, 4X/day

For the liquid version of the protocol, the suggested use is 1/4-1 tsp., 3-4X/day.

Maintain maximum dose the body tolerates for at least 60 days, and depending on severity and duration of illness, the herbs can be lowered to a maintenance dose. Continue use of the herbs for 8-12 months or until symptoms are resolved. If symptoms worsen upon lowering the dose, increase.

Digestive issues may arise with bloating, gas, diarrhea, abdominal distention, etc. and this is an indication of too high a dose. Lower the amount of herbs to where is comfortable.

Andrographis has created an allergic response in about 1% of those taking it. This manifests as a full body rash or hives when first taking it, which is then relieved when the herb is discontinued, though may take time to resolve completely.

Use Japanese knotweed with caution with blood thinning medications and discontinue the use of the herb 10 days prior to surgery.

The LB CORE protocol is contraindicated if pregnant or trying to get pregnant, and consult a health care practitioner if breast-feeding.

The liquid LB CORE protocol contains honey. Do not use if you are allergic to bee products. Not for use by children under 1 year of age.

Both protocols contain the main herbs Japanese Knotweed and Cats Claw, with the only difference between the two being the LB CORE contains Andrographis (anti-bacterial, anti-inflammation), while the LB TONIC has Eleuthero (immune/ adrenal support) instead. Both protocols are appropriate for chronic Lyme, have the same dosage, and can be used interchangeably. Some folks even take them together, for example; TONIC in morning and afternoon, CORE in the evening. The TONIC was developed more recently as an alternative to the CORE for those folks who wished for a protocol without the Andrographis.

The capsule and liquid (tincture) versions of the same formula follow the same ramp-up schedule and are equivalent at each step — as a general guide, 1 teaspoon of liquid is approximately equal to 12 capsules.

Week	Capsules	Liquid (tsp)
Week 1	3 capsules, 3X/day	¼ tsp, 3X/day
Week 2	6 capsules, 3X/day	½ tsp, 3X/day
Week 3	9 capsules, 3X/day	¾ tsp, 3X/day
Week 4	12 capsules, 3X/day	1 tsp, 3X/day
Week 5+	12 capsules, 4X/day	1 tsp, 4X/day

Capsules are alcohol-free and are generally recommended for anyone with alcohol sensitivity (such as MCAS). The liquid tincture contains grain alcohol but is absorbed more quickly — to reduce the alcohol taste and content, drops can be added to a small amount of boiling water and left to cool for about 5 minutes before taking.