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★★★★★ 1,000+ 5-Star Reviews
Practitioner-Grade Formulas
Trusted by the Lyme Community
Free Shipping on orders $249+
★★★★★ 1,000+ 5-Star Reviews
Practitioner-Grade Formulas
Trusted by the Lyme Community
Free Shipping on orders $249+
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Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Cryptolepis)

Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 68 customer ratings
(68 customer reviews)

Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Cryptolepis) is the perfect anti-Babesia herb. This African plant is highlighted in Stephen Harrod Buhner’s works as an anti-parasite, anti-malarial, and anti-protozoal herb. It also can have profound fever-reducing capacity and has mild anti-viral effects.

For Babesia infections, especially with day sweats or night sweats, this herb would be highly recommended.

*Cryptolepis is also available in powder.

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Full Product Profile
Dosing Guidelines
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Full Dispensary Access
1-on-1 Herbalist Support
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PRODUCT DETAILS

Cryptolepis sanguinolenta
Common Names
Cryptolepis
Ghanaian quinine
Part Used
Root
Alcohol Content
65%
Herb:Menstruum
1:4
Production Method
Whole-herb Percolation Extraction

INGREDIENTS

Cryptolepis sanguinolenta
Cryptolepis
Gluten-Free Pharmaceutical-Grade Alcohol
Distilled Water
   

CLINICAL USES

Antimicrobial Highly effective against Borrelia (Lyme) and co-infections like Babesia, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma, with potent antibacterial and antiparasitic properties.
Antiviral Useful for treating viral co-infections such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV), which are common in chronic Lyme disease.
Immune Support Strengthens the immune system, enhancing the body's ability to fight off chronic infections and prevent relapses in Lyme disease.
Anti-Inflammatory Reduces inflammation, helping to alleviate joint pain, muscle soreness, and neurological symptoms often experienced by Lyme patients.
Detoxification Aids in the detoxification process, particularly useful for clearing out microbial toxins and supporting liver function during Lyme treatment.
Herxheimer Reaction Support Helps manage and reduce the severity of Herxheimer reactions that occur during antimicrobial treatment for Lyme and its co-infections.
Parasite Cleansing Particularly helpful in treating parasitic infections that often co-occur with Lyme disease, such as Babesia and Giardia.
Pain Relief Provides mild analgesic effects to ease musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, common in Lyme disease patients.
   

RECOMMENDED DOSAGE

Start with only a few drops twice daily, increasing to 2–5 mL three to six times daily, as tolerated.
20 to 40 drops 4 times per day, as tolerated.
   

CAUTIONS & WARNINGS

This herb is bitter and can be difficult for some to tolerate.
It is recommended to titrate the dose slowly to monitor for potential Jarisch-Herxheimer (die-off) reactions.
Do not use this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
   

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Vegan
Gluten Free
All Natural
Cruelty Free
Sustainable
Non GMO
Customer Reviews
Rated 4.88 out of 5
4.88out of 5
Based on 68 reviews
91%
6%
3%
0%
0%

68 reviews for Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Cryptolepis)

  1. T
    Tara
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5

    I added this during a plateau and finally felt movement again. More stamina during the day. Customer service answered my question about pulsing vs daily use without making me feel dumb.

  2. S
    Selina
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5
  3. J
    Jean Wood
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5

    I contracted Lyme disease, 2 different bacteria, and although I had taken courses of antibiotics, I was still suffering with joint pain, fatigue, flu like symptoms, brain fog and more. I felt awful all the time physically and mentally and that my doctor had failed me. By chance, I discovered this product and after a fairly short time I felt a big difference. I’m back to my old energy levels, which is amazing and am, once again, able to live my busy life.

  4. M
    Moira
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5
  5. A
    Anonymous
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5
  6. D
    Darren G.
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5
  7. B
    Belina
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5

    My order came safely Well packed Great communication with the customer service Great tincture I will buy again Thank you

  8. W
    Wendy C.
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5
  9. N
    Nancy
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 5 out of 5
  10. M
    Madeleine Lapointe-Millar
    Verified Buyer
    Rated 3 out of 5

    We have not had enough time to assess this product but have serious issues about method of delivery which was utterly unsatisfactory. UPS could not be contacted, the deliveries were consistently unacceptable putting the quality and effectiveness of the products at risk. we have no idea how badly the severe heat has affected them. The delivery boxes were thrown on a heap of firewood far from the front door, in severe heat while the notice claimed that they were delivered to the ‘front door’. the response from your company was not satisfactory either., I would not order from you unless delivery was assured to be safe and acceptable

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Additional Information About Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Cryptolepis)

Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, a climbing shrub native to Africa, Papua New Guinea, and Australia, is a key broad-spectrum systemic antibiotic herb. Predominantly found in hot climates, its vibrant yellow root is widely utilized for its medicinal prowess.
Terminology
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta's relationship with Cryptolepis buchanani, native to India and used in Ayurvedic medicine, remains uncertain. Currently Cryptolepis sanguinolenta is considered the most medically potent variety.
Constituents
Key alkaloids, including cryptolepine, quindolin, neocryptolepine, cryptolepine hydrochloride, hydroxycryptolepin, and cryptoheptine, render Cryptolepis sanguinolenta a potent herb. When taking a Cryptolepis tincture, extraction with 60% ethanol is crucial for preserving its alkaloid-rich medicinal compounds. Tinctures made with a higher or lower ethanol concentration may retain the yellow appearance, but will not contain the medically active alkaloids.
Scientific Studies
Scientific evidence supports Cryptolepis sanguinolenta's antibacterial efficacy, particularly against gram-positive bacteria, with conflicting evidence regarding its impact on Candida spp. Notably, the herb exhibits promise against multi-drug resistant malaria in vitro.
Human Studies
Human studies indicate transient elevations in liver enzymes and uric acid levels with Cryptolepis sanguinolenta use, which normalized upon discontinuation. Historical data suggests long-term use is safe, though caution is advised when combined with central nervous system depressants, hypnotics, and sedatives.
Cautions and Side Effects
No known cryptolepis sanguinolenta side effects side effects have been reported in human trials, mice, or rabbits. Caution is still advised when combining with central nervous system depressants and sedative medications, underlining the herb's safety in historical and modern contexts.
 

Cryptolepis sanguinolenta Cryptolepis sanguinolenta    

References

  • 1. Natural Treatments For Lyme Coinfections - Anaplasma, Babesia, and Ehrlichia. By Stephen Harrod Buhner
  • 2. Herbal Antibiotics. Natural alternatives for treating drug-resistant bacteria. By Stephen Harrod Buhner.
  • 3. Evaluation of Natural and Botanical Medicines for Activity Against Growing and Non-growing Forms of B. burgdorferi. Jie Feng et al. Front Med (Lausanne). 2020 Feb 21:7:6. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00006. eCollection 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32154254/
  • 4. Cryptolepis sanguinolenta activity against diarrhoeal bacteria. A Paulo et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 1994 Oct;44(2):73-7. doi: 10.1016/0378-8741(94)90071-x. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7853867/
  • 5. Botanical Medicines Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, Artemisia annua, Scutellaria baicalensis, Polygonum cuspidatum, and Alchornea cordifolia Demonstrate Inhibitory Activity Against Babesia duncani. Yumin Zhang et al. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2021 Mar 8:11:624745. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.624745. eCollection 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33763384/
  • 6. Antimicrobial, antioxidant activities, and total phenolic contents of Pycnanthus angolensis Sap and Cryptolepis sanguinolenta root extracts. Francis Adu-Amankwaah et al. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2023 Jun 21;23(1):205. doi: 10.1186/s12906-023-04006-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37344802/
  • 7. The clinical efficacy of cryptolepis sanguinolenta in the treatment of malaria. Michael S Tempesta. Ghana Med J. 2010 Mar;44(1):1-2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21326982/
  • 8. Antiplasmodial activity of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta alkaloids from leaves and roots. A Paulo et al. Planta Med. 2000 Feb;66(1):30-4. doi: 10.1055/s-2000-11106. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10705730/
   

FAQ

What makes Apex Botanical tinctures different from other herbal tinctures?

Our tinctures stand out due to the premium quality of herbs we use. Crafted at a concentration of 1:4, our herbal tinctures prioritize both potency and effectiveness.

Unlike many other companies that employ a uniform alcohol percentage across all products, our approach is nuanced. We tailor the alcohol concentration for each herb based on the distinct medicinal properties of the plant.

This strategy reflects our commitment to a sophisticated extraction of medicinal compounds, effectively setting Apex Botanicals apart in the realm of herbal tinctures.

How should I consume my herbal tincture?

Herbal tinctures are generally taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before and after meals). They can be taken directly or added to 1oz of water if the taste is hard to swallow.

Dosing of herbal tinctures will generally vary from 1 drop once per day up to 1 tsp 3 times per day. When taking anti-microbial herbal tinctures, starting at a lower dose and increasing slowly is the general rule of thumb.

*Be sure to speak with your primary care provider to determine the correct dose for your needs.

How long should I take my herbal tincture for?

The length of time a tincture should be taken will vary considerably based on your state of health, the infection / symptom you’re trying to treat and other medications or treatments you are concurrently taking.

Most people with chronic tick-borne infections take an herbal tincture for between 3 months and 2 years.

As a general rule, its recommended to take an herbal tincture for at least 1 month to see the best results.

Are herbal tinctures safe for children?

Generally speaking, it is safe for children to consume herbal tinctures, but dosing should be adjusted. Refrence 'Clarks Rule' for further information.

*Always consult your primary care provider before starting a new protocol or giving your child herbal tinctures.

Are herbal tinctures safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Some herbs are strictly contraindicated in pregnancy and should be avoided. We do our best to indicate this on the product information page but are not held liable for any errors or omissions.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding consult your primary care provider before consuming any herbal tinctures.

Will my herbal tincture interact with medications or supplements?

Interactions of herbal tinctures with medications or supplements do exist. We strongly recommended consulting with your primary care provider or pharmacist before taking any herbal tinctures if you are concerned about potential contraindications.

What does a 1:4 ratio imply and how does it compare to 1:2 or 1:5+?

The ratio describes the concentration of a tincture. We use a 1:4 ratio, meaning 1 part dried herb (in grams) to 4 parts menstruum (the combined alcohol and herb).

A ratio of 1:5 has more liquid to the same amount of herb and is therefore more diluted.

A ratio of 1:10 or higher is very diluted and requires very high daily doses and is not recommended.

Tinctures made at 1:2 are often too concentrated for Lyme patients and commonly induce Herx reactions that can be very intense.

Most tinctures on the market are made at 1:5. We’ve chosen to use 1:4 to ensure greater potency while still being very safe and tolerable.

Does higher alcohol content mean an herbal tincture is more or less potent?

Using the correct alcohol percentage to extract the specific medicinal constituents of that herb is of highest importance when making a tincture. Using more or less alcohol essentially reflects the chemical nature of the compounds that we want to extract into the liquid portion.

A tincture made at 40% versus one made at 80% is not twice at strong. It simply implies that for the first herb, 40% alcohol will optimally extract the medicinal qualities. For the second herb, 80% is the concentration for optimal extraction.

We’ve gone to great lengths to ensure that our tinctures are made using the correct concentrations.

*Please note that not all herbal tinctures on the market are made with the appropriate alcohol concentration so use our site as a reference or conduct your own research to make sure you’re purchasing the best formulated tincture possible.

Click here to read our complete list of Frequently Asked Questions.

SHARING THE GIFT OF WELLNESS

Free Herbal Protocol Guide for Lyme & Co-Infections

This comprehensive educational guide, developed by our Medical Director, Dr. Sal Meli ND, provides evidence-based insight into the physiological mechanisms of tick-borne infections and the supportive role of botanicals in addressing these challenges.

This resource is designed to simplify complex concepts and empower readers to make informed decisions about their approach to tick-borne infections.


    
     
   
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