Good Morning!
Worlds AIDS Day: HIV and Alternative Medicine
The fact that there has to be a "day" for this disorder, saddens me,
yet it is appropriate for everyone to be more aware and that is why,
as a society, we declare a day for many disorders.
HIV is a virus. Viruses infect the cells of living organisms and
replicate (make new copies of themselves) within those cells. A virus
can also damage human cells, which is one of the things that can make
an infected creature become ill.
People can become infected with HIV from other people who already
have it, and when they are infected they can then go on to infect
other people. Basically, this is how HIV is spread.
HIV stands for the 'Human Immunodeficiency Virus'. Someone who is
diagnosed as infected with HIV is said to be 'HIV+' or 'HIV
positive'.
HIV Statistics
*More than 25 million people have died of AIDS since 1981.
*Africa has 12 million AIDS orphans.
*At the end of 2006, women accounted for 48% of all adults living
with HIV worldwide, and for 59% in sub-Saharan Africa.
*Young people (15-24 years old) account for half of all new HIV
infections worldwide - around 6,000 become infected with HIV every
day.
*In developing and transitional countries, 6.8 million people are in
immediate need of life-saving AIDS drugs; of these, only 1.65 million
are receiving the drugs.
Ways in which you can be infected with HIV
-Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person
-Sexual intercourse without a condom is risky, because the virus,
which is present in an infected person's sexual fluids, can pass
directly into the body of their partner. This is true for unprotected
vaginal and anal sex.
-Oral sex carries a lower risk, but again HIV transmission can occur
here if a condom is not used - for example, if one partner has
bleeding gums or an open cut, however small, in their mouth.
-Contact with blood from an infected person.
-If sufficient blood from an infected person enters the body of an
uninfected person then it can pass on the virus.
-From mother to child. HIV can be transmitted from an infected woman
to her baby during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding. There are
special drugs that can greatly reduce the chances of this happening,
but they are unavailable in much of the developing world.
-Use of infected blood products. Many people in the past have been
infected with HIV by the use of blood transfusions and blood products
which were contaminated with the virus - in hospitals, for example.
In much of the world this is no longer a risk, as blood donations are
routinely tested.
-Injecting drugs. People who use illegal injected drugs are also
vulnerable to HIV infection. In many parts of the world, often
because it is illegal to possess them, injecting equipment or works
are shared. A tiny amount of blood can transmit HIV, and can be
injected directly into the bloodstream with the drugs.
It is not possible to become infected with HIV through:
-sharing crockery and cutlery
-insect / animal bites
-touching, hugging or shaking hands
-eating food prepared by someone with HIV
-toilet seats
Global statistics can be found at:
http://www.avert.org/worldstats.htm
Know Your Numbers
Two numbers should be looked at, when discussing HIV infection:
If you are being treated for HIV or AIDS, your doctor uses a number
of blood tests to check how you're doing. One of the most important
tests measures VIRAL LOAD, the amount of HIV in your blood. Another
very important test counts your CD4 CELLS, sometimes called T-CELLS.
CD4 cells are a key part of your body's disease-fighting defenses,
called the immune system.
CD4 cells help to organize your body's defenses against disease.
Doctors can take a sample of your blood and count the number of CD4
cells. Healthy adults and teenagers usually have a CD4 count of at
least 800 cells per CUBIC MILLIMETER of blood (a cubic millimeter is
a very small amount, roughly one small drop).
HIV attacks CD4 cells, and as time goes by people with HIV often see
their CD4 counts drop. The lower your CD4 count, the greater your
chances of getting a number of very serious diseases. When your CD4
count is below 200, the risk of illness becomes severe.
Viral load tests, which tell the doctor how much HIV is in your
blood, are a very important clue to how quickly HIV is doing harm.
These tests go by several different names, like PCR (polymerase chain
reaction) or bDNA (branched DNA), but they all work roughly the same
way. They count HIV's genetic material -- the building blocks of the
virus. People with a high viral load are much more likely to get sick
or die of AIDS than people with a low viral load.
Studies have shown that when treatment reduces your viral load, it
also reduces your chance of getting an AIDS-related infection or
dying. Recently, a group of expert scientists reviewed 18 studies of
anti-HIV drugs, which involved over 5,000 patients. Over and over
again they found the same thing: The more viral load was reduced, the
healthier the patients stayed.
Alternative Medicine and HIV
Over the last decade, researchers have identified a number of drugs
that slow progression of the virus as well as therapies to treat the
many opportunistic infections that attack people with HIV disease.
Although as yet, there is no cure, the key to effective treatment is
early detection and intervention. This is done by strengthening the
immune system, reduce stress, maintain good nutritional practices and
exercise as a way to relieve stress and boost your immune system.
Whether you have been diagnosed with HIV or not there should be an
emphasis on improving lifestyle issues. Taking control of or your
life and taking an active role in any disorder is an important
adjunct to treatment. Consideration of alternative therapies in
conjunction with conventional medicine may offer additional
opportunities for those living with HIV/AIDS to be proactive in their
treatments.
Mind Medicine
Stress is natural and affects your emotions. It can help you to deal
with some situations. However, excessive stress can cause physical
symptoms, it can damage your immune system and make you ill. Find
ways of managing the stress in your life. Find ways to relax and
recharge your batteries. Listen to your body; if you are tired, rest
and you'll be better for it.
HIV can bring anxieties. One way of tackling these are through
getting information, by learning about your condition, gaining
confidence in it, in yourself and making informed choices for your
future.
Boost Your Immune System with Meditation
Fold your hands gently in your lap and close your eyes. Take a few
deep breaths. Then just sit. If you have never meditated before, you
will probably feel as if your mind is full of thoughts. Don't try to
stop the thoughts, just watch them. Imagine that you are on the bank
of a river and that your thoughts are the river going by. Don't try
to stop the river, just watch it. Within a week, you will see the
river begin to slow down. You may become impatient, or even bored.
That's okay. If you find yourself complaining, just watch the
thoughts pass by. Do this for 5 to 10 minutes. You may find that you
fall asleep because you are so relaxed. That's good because, in many
ways, you have begun to let go. Continue at this pace and each day
allow just alittle more time for yourself to meditate. Doing this
allows you to relax and forget about time.
Consider these alternative therapies: Acupuncture, ayurveda, bodywork
& massage, diet therapies, herbal medicine, homeopathy, mind-body
therapies, Siddha medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, Unani
medicine and yoga.
Herbs, Supplements and Vitamins Beneficial for HIV Infection
Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that have at least one
unpaired electron, which makes them highly reactive. Free radicals
promote beneficial oxidation that produces energy and kills bacterial
invaders. However, in excess, they produce harmful oxidation
or "oxidative stress" that can damage cell membranes and cell
contents. These free radicals cause inflammation.
In human beings, free radicals are the natural by-products of many
processes within and among cells. Free radicals are created by
exposure to various environmental factors, cigarette and tobacco
smoke, air pollution, alcohol, drugs, radiation from televisions and
computers, chemicals and a busy, stressful life.
Antioxidants are a classification of several organic substances,
which include vitamins C and E, vitamin A (converted from beta-
carotene), selenium, alpha lipoic acid, and carotenoids. Together as
antioxidants, these substances are thought to be effective in helping
to prevent certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and cataracts. At
the cellular level, antioxidants serve to deactivate certain free
radicals in turn helping to decrease inflammation. The best source
for antioxidants are in fruits and vegetables. Acetyl-l-carnitine: is
a molecule that occurs naturally in the brain, liver, and kidney.
Natural levels of Acetyl-l-carnitine diminish as we age. Acetyl-l-
carnitine is related to the amino acid L-Carnitine, which is a
carrier of fatty acids across mitochondrial membranes, where energy
is produced within each cell. N-Acetyl Cysteine (N-AC) is protective
to Liver tissue and aids in breaking down excessive mucus.
Alpha Lipoic Acid: is a unique antioxidant that is both water and fat
soluble, which allows it to enter all parts of the cell to neutralize
free radicals. Alpha Lipoic Acid contributes to and is important for
the production of energy inside the cell by utilizing sugar to
produce energy contributing to mental and physical stamina, reducing
muscle fatigue and neutralizes free radicals. Alpha Lipoic Acid
recycles and enhances the effects of both Vitamin C and Vitamin E.
Alpha Lipoic Acid targets liver protection and is helpful for
patients on hepatotoxic medications such as antiretrovirals,
antifungals and typically any long-term medication protocols. No
known contraindications exist. Possible side effects include skin
rash and the potential of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients. People
who may be deficient in vitamin B1 (such as alcoholics) should take
vitamin B1 along with alpha lipoic acid supplements.
Astragalus: is a Chinese herb that has been used for centuries for
its immuno-modulating qualities. There is mixed scientific evidence
on its efficacy with HIV, but well documented studies on its ability
to stimulate the immune system. This herb is used often used in
conjunction with other immune boosters such as reishi, maitake and
shitake mushrooms.
Beta-carotene: (Carotenoids), of which beta-carotenes are the most
popular, are found in many fruits and vegetables, animals, plants and
microorganisms. The body converts beta carotene into Vitamin A.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, growth, cell
division, reproduction and immunity. Among the 600 or more
carotenoids in foods, beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein are well-
known leaders in the fight to reduce the damage from free radicals
and are helpful with eye health.
Boxwood: has been shown in research to foster immune stimulation and
promotion of t-cell activation. This can be found in capsule and
tincture.
CoQ10: (Coenzyme Q10) is a vitamin-like compound also
called "ubiquinone". It is an essential component of cells and is
utilized by the mitochondria in the normal process of energy
production. It helps convert food into energy at a cellular level.
Coenzyme Q10 acts as an antioxidant, much like vitamins C and E,
helping to neutralize the cell-damaging molecules known as free
radicals. CoQ10 is one in a series of ubiquinones, naturally
occurring compounds produced in nearly every cell of the body, and
was discovered as recently as 1957.
The primary function of CoQ10 is as a catalyst for metabolism. Acting
in conjunction with enzymes, the compound speeds up the vital
metabolic process, providing the energy that the cells need to digest
food, heal wounds, maintain healthy muscles, and perform other bodily
functions as a major antioxidant in cardiac tissue and has protective
effects on brain tissue. Studies indicate high dosage can be used
safely and effectively. Certain cholesterol lowering drugs have also
been shown to deplete coenzyme Q-10. Patients on cholesterol lowering
drugs should consider adding at least 200mg of CoQ-10 daily.
Echinacea: (see drug-herb interactions) has been documented to
stimulate the chemicals that promote t-cell activation and antibody
production. It is very effective in lessening the course of the
common cold and respiratory infections when used short term. There
are some conflicting studies on its use long term as well as a
caution that it may briefly increase viral load. Avoid long term (7-
10 days only) use as well as use prior to viral load blood counts.
During the acute onset of a cold, 2 to 4 cups of strong echinacea tea
or 3 capsules 3 times daily can help limit the course of the illness.
Fiber: helps in regulating lipid levels, removes toxins and provides
bulk for healthy bowel habits. The colon requires bulk for it to
achieve healthy movement. Optimal intake of fiber is about 25-30
grams per day. The ideal combination of soluble fiber (psyllium husk)
and insoluble fiber (flax oil, fiber) helps to absorb water and
toxins and adds roughage to bulk up stool and sweep away built up
debris in the intestinal tract.
Foods high in fiber are fruits such as apples peaches, raspberries
and tangerines. Vegetables such as acorn squash, raw broccoli,
brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, spinach, black-eyed
peas, cooked zucchini, kidney beans and lima beans. Also cooked whole-
grain cereal, cold (All-Bran, Total, Bran Flakes), whole-grain
cereal, hot (oatmeal, Wheatena) and whole-wheat or 7-grain bread.
Powdered psyllium is a quality source of supplemental fiber. Be sure
to drink plenty of water, otherwise the fiber will form an
obstructing mass, adding to your condition. Start with one rounded
tablespoon of the powder stirred well into a glass of water or
diluted juice.
Fish Oil: is known for being rich in unsaturated fatty acids and
provides rich OMEGA-3 fatty acids, (Pure EPA 360mg/DHA 240mg). Fish
Oils are made from natural marine lipid concentrate and may help
reduce or inhibit risk factors involved in cardiovascular disease, as
well as inflammatory and immune disorders. Long term use of fish oil
shelp prevent aging skin, menopausal symptoms, promote better
circulation, lower cholesterol, prevent blood clots, reduce heart
related risk, and the pain of arthritis. Omega-3 and polyunsaturated
fatty acids found in fish and deep sea fish oil help to protect
against heart and blood vessel disease. Natural, essential fatty
acids are essential to normal human cell and tissue growth and
maintenance. If not found regularly in the diet, the diet must be
supplemented. These fatty acids are especially abundant in brain
cells, nerve relay stations (synapses), visual receptors (retinas),
adrenal glands, and sex glands. The most biologically active tissues
in the body. Take. 1000mg of fish oil in the morning and 1,000 mg in
the evening.
Flaxseed oil: is derived from the seeds of the flax plant. Flaxseed
oil and flaxseed contain substances that promote good health and is
used as a nutritional supplement. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids,
especially alpha-linolenic acid, which appears to be beneficial for
heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, cholesterol and
a variety of other health conditions. Flaxseed also contains a group
of chemicals called lignans that may play a role in the prevention of
cancer. Take 1,000 mg of flaxseed oil in the morning and 1,000 mg in
the evening.
Ginger: is helpful in tea or herb form for controlling nausea and
vomiting. An anti-inflammatory, ginger has been used in Ayurvedic and
Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory. Taking 6–50 grams of fresh
or powdered ginger per day indicated that ginger might be helpful.
Suggested Dosage: 0.5 to 1 mg of powdered ginger daily
Glutamine: is one of the most abundant amino acids in our bodies,
found in the gastrointestinal tract. This amino acid is compromised
when the immune function is low. Studies have shown that Glutamine is
one of the best amino acid supplements in maintaining a healthy
gastrointestinal lining and helps to repair gastrointestinal damage.
It can also be helpful in managing diarrhea. 1 to 2 grams of powdered
glutamine may be mixed in smoothies or water.
Licorice: (Glycerrhiza) (see drug-herb interactions) also has been
used as a complementary immune modulator, although it should be
avoided in people with hypertension. In my experience the immune
modulators work much better when combined together rather than used
as singular treatments. Licorice can be consumed as a tea daily and
the mushrooms may be included in food preparation or taken in liquid
tincture form for a more consistent higher dose.
Pau D'arco and Una de Gato: (Cat's Claw) are also clinically used to
stimulate immune function and may be consumed in tea form daily or
liquid tincture either during acute illness or as a preventative
measure.
Probiotics: (Acidophilus, Bifidus, lactobacillus spirogenes) help to
maintain balance of good and dangerous bacteria and compete for the
food the dangerous bacteria need to grow and cause us problems.
Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidus may be found in yogurt with
active culture or in supplements and can be consumed freely without
known side effects. It should be refrigerated to maximize shelf life.
Patients on antibiotic therapy, diagnosed with thrush, diarrhea or
constipation should consider taking probiotics 2 capsules 3 times
daily with meals. For thrush a capsule can also be opened in some
water and used daily as a mouth rinse.
Vitamins A, C and the B vitamins increase the immune function.
Minerals such as Selenium help to stimulate immune function and fight
infection, while Zinc enhances the immune system and assists in wound
healing.
Herb-Drug Interactions
Herb-drug interactions are very common. Some herbal medicines may
cancel the effect of a prescription drug, others may reduce it, or
even exaggerate it. If you are on HIV medication or medications for
associated symptoms or disorders, consider the information below:
Dong Quai: taken for menopausal symptom control. Do not mix Dong Quai
with warfarin (anticoagulants), St John's Wort and some antibiotics
such as sulfonamides, quinolones.
Echinacea: mostly taken as an immune boost to prevent cold and flu.
Do not mix Echinacea with some heart medications, antifungal
medications, HIV medications and anti-anxiety medications.
Ephedra: A powerful decongestant. Contains ephedrine, which can open
up bronchial passages. It's controversial because it's a powerful
stimulant that can raise blood pressure, cause insomnia and high
blood pressure. Do not mix with heart medications or if you are being
treated for high blood pressure, glaucoma or thyroid problems.
Feverfew: taken to reduce the severity of migraines. Do not take with
other migraine medications, as, it may raise heart rate and blood
pressure. Feverfew has the potential to react with warfarin anti-
coagulants, increasing the thinning of blood.
Ginkgo: increases blood flow and circulation throughout the body, can
also help improve memory. May interact with anti-coagulant
medications such as Aspirin, Coumadin, heparin and warfarin, causing
the blood to thin too much, and provoking a serious bleeding
disorder. A recent report in the New England Journal of Medicine
describes a case of a man who'd been taking Aspirin to prevent a
heart attack and had spontaneous bleeding into the eye from the iris
within a week of taking a daily dose of ginkgo. Should not be taken
with HIV medications.
Garlic: is thought to help lower cholesterol and prevent the
formation of blood clots that could lead to heart attacks. Garlic
capsules may increase blood thinning if you are already on anti-
coagulants. Do not take with diabetes medication because it may cause
a decrease in blood sugars. Use caution with HIV medications.
Ginseng: used to help reduce stress, boost energy and improve
stamina, and may also help lower cholesterol. Can cause nervousness
and excitation, and overuse can lead to headaches, insomnia and heart
palpitations. Can increase blood pressure. Should not be used if you
are taking prescriptions for high blood pressure or Coumadin.
Hawthorn: claimed to be effective in helping reduce angina attacks by
lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Should not be taken
digoxin, a heart medication. The mix may lower heart rate too much.
Kava: is used to treat anxiety. It's also used to relieve insomnia
and nervousness. Do not take Kava if you have a history of liver
problems. Also do not mix with antidepressants, sedatives, and do not
mix Kava with alcohol.
Licorice: used to treat coughs, colds and peptic ulcers. High doses
can lead to increased blood pressure, water retention and potassium
loss. Do not use with diuretics or digoxin because it could lead to
further loss of potassium, essential for heart function.
St. John's wort: a natural anti-depressant for mild to moderate
depression. Do not take with other anti-depressants, HIV medications,
oral contraceptives, some heart/blood thinning medications and
Tamoxifen (a cancer drug).
Valerian: a mild sedative with hypnotic effects, used to promote
sleep, Should not be taken with alcohol or Valium.
Safe Sex Tips
1. Use latex condom for vaginal and anal intercourse. Use water-based
lubricant (K-Y, Astroglide, and Probe); oil-containing products
(Crisco, Vaseline, baby oil, lotion, and whipped cream) can destroy
latex. A drop of lube inside the condom may increase sensitivity.
Don't use saliva as a lubricant.
2. Other contraceptive devices do not protect against AIDS. Product
containing nonoxyno1-9 (a spermicide) can kill HIV and may provide
extra protection, but should not be relied on alone. Some studies
show that nonoxyno1-9 can cause genital irritation that may promote
HIV infection, especially with very frequent intercourse. The effects
of ingesting nonoxyno1-9 are unstudied.
3. Blood-to-blood contact is the most direct route of HIV
transmission. Sharing needles (for drug steroids piercing or
tattooing) razors or any implement that draws blood is dangerous
since blood may be left on used implements. Clean needles by rinsing
several times with bleach then with water. Avoid contact with blood
in s/m scenes. Whips or knives that break the skin should not be used
on another person until disinfected with bleach or a cleaning
solution.
4. Use an unlubricated condom for oral sex if a man will come in your
mouth. For oral sex on a woman or oral-anal sex (rimming) use a
dental dam (latex square) a condom or latex glove cut to produce a
flat sheet or non-microwaveable food wrap. Rinse powder off dams
before use. Use all barrier only once and only on one person.
5. Oral sex on a man without ejaculation or on a non-menstruating
woman is thought to be low risk activity. There is a risk that HIV
could enter through small cuts of opening in the mouth gums of
throat. Avoid brushing your teeth two hours before or after oral sex
to minimize abrasions.
6. If you share sex toys like dildos or vibrators put on a fresh
condom for each user (and when going from anus to vagina) or guard
bleach alcohol or soap and water.
7. Use latex gloves for "finger penetration" or fisting to guard the
wearer against infection through cuts on the hand or arm and to guard
the partner against injury from fingernails.
8. Touching and kissing are safe. It is safe to get semen vaginal
fluid or urine on unbroken skin. No AIDS cases have been traced to
kissing, including deep (French) kissing.
9. Precautions against HIV infection can protect you from other
sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia,
herpes, yeast infections, amoebiasis, and hepatitis B.
10. Preventing other STDs can in turn minimize your chances of
getting HIV infection, since many STDs cause sores in the genital or
anal area or around the mouth which can provide a path for HIV
transmission.
Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac
http://www.peacefulmind.com
Therapies for healing
mind, body, spirit
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