In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Myriah Hinchey, a functional medicine practitioner specializing in chronic illness and immune dysfunction, to explore the complex world of autoimmunity through the lens of Lyme disease and stealth pathogens.
We dive into how these microbes evade the immune system, disrupt the body's internal balance, and target areas of weakness — from old injuries to inflamed tissues. Dr. Hinchey explains how this leads to persistent inflammation, neurological symptoms, and gut dysfunction, often without obvious signs of infection.
You'll learn why a root-cause approach to chronic infections must go beyond antimicrobials — incorporating immune support, detoxification, terrain rebuilding, and the smart use of herbal medicine.
If you've struggled with unexplained symptoms, autoimmunity, or suspect hidden infections might be at play, this conversation will help you understand the deeper mechanisms — and what true healing actually takes.
Key Takeaways:
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Lyme disease can lead to significant systemic disruptions, manifesting in symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and even neuropsychiatric disorders.
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A therapeutic lifestyle approach, including dietary changes, detoxification, and stress management, is essential for effective management of chronic vector-borne diseases.
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Herbal medicine, especially herbs like Cryptolepis, Chinese Skullcap, and Japanese Knotweed, play a vital role in managing inflammation and immune dysregulation.
More About Dr. Myriah Hinchey, ND:
Dr. Myriah Hinchey, a Naturopathic physician and Fellow of the Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs (MAPS), is a recognized expert in the field of Lyme disease and other complex chronic inflammatory conditions, with over 17 years of specialized experience.
As a physician and the Medical Director at TAO, an integrative center for healing, she has successfully guided thousands of patients towards recovery from their complex chronic inflammatory conditions.
Additionally, she is the founder and owner of LymeCore Botanicals, a herbal medicine company focused on providing effective solutions for healing vector-borne diseases.
Dr. Hinchey is dedicated to treating patients of all ages, with a specialty in pediatrics, and is also a sought-after speaker, passionately educating healthcare professionals on the pathophysiology of vector-borne diseases and how to successfully integrate functional, herbal, and lifestyle medicine into their practices.
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This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU's advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!
