Tuberculosis Treatment

Why Tuberculosis Needs a Holistic, Integrative Approach

Tuberculosis (TB) is a persistent bacterial infection that, despite modern medicine, continues to affect millions globally. At Patients Medical in New York City, we combine conventional therapies with natural, functional, and holistic medicine to treat TB from every angle—boosting immunity, healing damage, and supporting whole-body recovery.
We don’t just treat the bacteria. We strengthen the body to heal itself.

What Is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacteria that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to the kidneys, spine, and brain. It spreads through airborne droplets and can remain latent in the body for years.

Types of TB:

  • Latent TB: The bacteria are present but inactive. You have no symptoms and aren’t contagious—but treatment is still necessary.
  • Active TB: The bacteria are multiplying and causing symptoms. This form is contagious and needs immediate medical attention.

Drug-Resistant TB (MDR/XDR): A growing challenge, often caused by incomplete or incorrect treatment courses.

Common Symptoms of TB

If you have these symptoms, seek diagnostic evaluation promptly.

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Active TB?

In functional medicine, we look beyond the infection to understand why TB became active in your body:

  • Weakened immune system from poor nutrition, chronic stress, or autoimmune conditions
  • Exposure to environmental toxins (e.g., mold, heavy metals)
  • Underlying inflammation or latent infections
  • Vitamin D deficiency, often linked with TB reactivation
  • Gut dysbiosis affecting immune balance
  • Chronic stress or trauma impairing immune resilience

Diagnostic Testing at Patients Medical

We use advanced testing to understand the full picture of your health and immune status:

TB skin test (Mantoux) and IGRA blood test

Chest X-ray and CT scans

Sputum smear and culture

Immune markers (CD4/CD8, NK cell activity)

Vitamin D, zinc, selenium levels

Comprehensive stool test (for gut health)

Heavy metal and mycotoxin panels

Inflammation markers (CRP, ESR)

Mitochondrial and oxidative stress profiles

Integrative Treatments for Tuberculosis

Our TB care combines physician-guided medication (when needed) with natural therapies to promote immune strength and reduce side effects:

Targeted Nutritional Therapy

We personalize meal plans rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory foods, and immune-boosting nutrients like:

  • Cruciferous vegetables
  • Wild-caught fish and pastured meats
  • Bone broth and medicinal mushrooms
  • Zinc- and selenium-rich foods
  • Elimination diets (if needed for inflammation or allergies)

 

Diagnostic Testing

IV Vitamin Therapy

Intravenous support helps restore nutrients depleted by chronic infection or medication:

  • High-dose Vitamin C
  • Glutathione for detoxification
  • B-complex and magnesium
  • Myer’s Cocktail for energy and immune support

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

Botanicals and supplements with anti-TB and immune-enhancing properties may include:

  • Curcumin (turmeric)
  • Cat’s Claw
  • Andrographis
  • NAC (N-acetyl cysteine)
  • Probiotics and prebiotics
  • Vitamin D3 + K2
    All therapies are physician-reviewed and lab-monitored.

Gut and Liver Support

TB medications can be harsh on digestion and detox pathways. We support these systems with:

  • Gut-healing protocols (L-glutamine, marshmallow root)
  • Liver detox herbs (milk thistle, dandelion root)
  • Digestive enzymes and bitters

Stress and Sleep Optimization

We address stress and sleep—two critical factors in immune function—through:

  • Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola)
  • Guided meditation and breathwork
  • Acupuncture for immune balance
  • Sleep hygiene coaching

Mitochondrial and Immune Rejuvenation

Mitochondrial health affects your energy, recovery, and ability to fight infection.

  • CoQ10 and L-carnitine
  • Red light therapy and oxygenation support
  • Personalized detox protocols

Real Case Study: Ravi’s Holistic Recovery from TB

Ravi, 39, came to us with persistent fatigue and a history of latent TB reactivating. He had completed antibiotic treatment but still felt unwell. Testing revealed:

  • Vitamin D deficiency
  • Elevated inflammatory markers
  • Gut dysbiosis and adrenal fatigue

We implemented a 4-month plan including:

  • IV Vitamin C and Glutathione
  • Gut microbiome repair
  • Herbal immune support
  • Meditation for stress reduction
  • Detoxification and liver support

Ravi regained his energy, gained 10 pounds of lean weight, and returned to full-time work—feeling stronger than before his TB diagnosis.

Testimonials

Meet Our Doctors

Rashmi Gulati, MD

Medical Director of Patients Medical

Stuart Weg, MD

A holistic pain management physician

Dr. Emine Cosar, MD

Consult Dr. Emine Cosar, MD. For Gynecology

Frequently Asked Questions

While antibiotics are the standard, integrative care can reduce medication side effects, improve recovery, and prevent recurrence. We do not recommend skipping pharmaceuticals for active TB.

We help patients detox, rebuild their immune system, and address any organ damage or long-term fatigue through holistic care.

We are an out-of-network provider. However, we offer superbills and many labs may be partially covered.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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