Cryptolepis Benefits
Cryptolepis benefits include supporting the immune system against a wide range of diseases, including malaria, Lyme disease, and tick-borne bacterial infections. It supports the cardiovascular system and may defend against cholesterol plaque formation in the arteries.
Cryptolepis has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, anti-diabetic properties, and anti-fungal properties.
Cryptolepis is sold as an individual herbal extract and as one of three powerhouse extracts in Persister Desister Lyme Support Kits. (The other two herbs are Cistus incanus and Phyllanthus niruri.)
For a broad overview of all Cryptolepis health benefits, check out the Cryptolepis FAQ.
Potential for Lyme Disease Support and Bartonella henselae Support
Cryptolepis extract has shown potential antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria including Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease. In fact, it may be used as a herbal support during the treatment of tick-borne infections such as Lyme Borrelia burgdorferi and Bartonella henselae. Cryptolepine, the main alkaloid in the herb, has shown effective activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Another study reveals that the bioactive compounds may degrade DNA in Borrelia burgdorferi.
Cryptolepis may have an important supportive role in the need to develop novel treatment strategies against persister microcolonies of Borrelia burgdorferi. A 2020 study in Frontiers in Medicine involved the testing of a panel of botanical and natural products commonly used by Lyme disease patients. The scientists found Cryptolepis sanguinolenta to be highly active in vitro against both growing Borrelia burgdorferi and non-growing stationary phase Borrelia burgdorferi.
Cryptolepis: A Key Ingredient in Persister Desister Kits
Our Persister Desister Lyme Support Kits were created to provide a holistic, plant-based approach for those seeking natural support alongside conventional Lyme treatment. Each kit combines three carefully chosen botanicals—Cryptolepis, Cistus incanus, and Phyllanthus niruri—that work synergistically to promote immune balance, reduce inflammation, and help the body stay resilient against ongoing challenges like fatigue, joint pain, and systemic stress.
Among these, Cryptolepis sanguinolenta stands out. Traditionally used in African herbal medicine, Cryptolepis has attracted scientific interest for its antimicrobial and immune-supportive properties. A groundbreaking Johns Hopkins study even found that Cryptolepis extract could eradicate Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease, in vitro—including its difficult-to-treat “persister” forms that often evade antibiotics. This positions Cryptolepis as one of the most promising botanicals for those dealing with persistent or recurring symptoms.
In addition to its antimicrobial activity, Cryptolepis helps regulate inflammation and ease symptoms that often accompany Lyme disease, such as fatigue and joint discomfort. Its broad-spectrum action also shows potential against common Lyme coinfections like Babesia and Bartonella, making it a versatile ally for immune health and long-term recovery.
By combining Cryptolepis with the biofilm-busting power of Cistus incanus and the detox and anti-inflammatory support of Phyllanthus niruri, our Persister Desister Kits offer comprehensive, science-backed support for those navigating the complex challenges of Lyme disease.
Why Buy It From Linden Botanicals?
Cryptolepis is an exceptional, well-studied, all-natural herb. Now, some companies sell it at a very high price. Others sell it for much less. So why buy it from Linden Botanicals?
We understand the plant’s constituents and how best to extract them. We use a dual-stream method that captures a full spectrum of health benefits. And our Cryptolepis is yellowish-brown (as it should be) and contains the full range of active compounds. No artificial colors. No over processing.
We’re at the forefront of using Cryptolepis for Lyme support, pioneering a new era of hope for those affected by this debilitating disease.
As with all our products, our Cryptolepis is priced fairly, and it’s the real deal.
More About Cryptolepis
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta is a climbing shrub with thin, willowing stems that can snake along the ground for up to 30 feet, often twinning into other plants for support. The dried leaves, stems, and roots have a sweet fragrance. The stems contain a yellow-orange sap that becomes red upon drying. The sap is very bitter.
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta Extract:
- Supports healthy immune response
- Supports healthy metabolic function
- Supports gastrointestinal health
- Provides antimicrobial support
- Supports healthy inflammation response
- Supports cardiovascular health
Serving Suggestion
Instructions: Add 1/4 teaspoon of extract to 8oz of near-boiling water or a cup of juice. Mix until dissolved. Drink 1-2 servings a day.
One serving per gram. For example, 20 grams = 20 servings, 50 grams = 50 servings, and 100 grams = 100 servings.
Additional Information
The information herein is intended for educational purposes only. This information should not substitute for seeking responsible, professional medical care. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency. Not intended to be used for the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, or curing of any medical condition. Consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement.
The history of using Cryptolepis as an herbal medicine goes back more than 5,000 years. Traditionally, a tea made from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta has been used in the treatment of various infections such as malaria, bacterial respiratory diseases, tuberculosis, and hepatitis. The roots and leaves have been used for stomach, intestinal disorders, and diarrhea. The root has a traditional use for urinary tract infection and for yeast infections. The leaves and roots have been used in traditional cultures for hypertension, and insomnia.
Other names for Cryptolepis sanguinolenta include Gangamau, Nibima, Kadze, Kɔli mekari, Paran pupa, yellow root, and blood vine. We call Cryptolepis the flowering healer.
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to the herb’s medicinal value. Some of these bioactive compounds include alkaloids, anthocyanosides, flavones, polyuronides, tannins, and triterpenes.
Significant identified alkaloids include indoloquinoline cryptolepine, isocryptolepine, cryptosanguinolentine, neocryptolepine, quindoline, the spirononacyclic alkaloid cryptospirolepine, cryptolepicarboline, cryptomisrine, 11-isopropylcryptolepine, cryptolepinone, and biscryptolepine. Other isolated indole alkaloids include hydroxycryptolepine, cryptoheptine, and cryptoquindoline.
No known side effects.
You should consult your physician before using any herbal supplant, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.






