Natural Remedies & Herbs for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Many different herbs have been shown in test tube studies to inhibit the function or replication of HIV. Few of these studies have been followed up with any kind of investigation in HIV-positive humans. Some notable exceptions to this rule are discussed below.

There are three categories of herbs used in people with HIV infection. The first are herbs that are believed to directly kill HIV (antiretroviral herbs). The second are herbs that strengthen the immune system to better withstand HIV’s onslaught (immuno-modulating herbs). The third are herbs that combat opportunistic infections (antimicrobial herbs). The following table summarizes each category and herbs that belong in each. Note that some herbs fall into more than one category.

One double-blind trial has found that 990 mg per day of an extract of the leaves and stems of boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) could delay the progression of HIV infection (as measured by a decline in CD4 cell counts). No adverse effects directly attributable to the extract were reported. Taking twice the amount of boxwood extract did not lead to further benefits and may have actually decreased its usefulness...