Come December 1, and you will see many people sporting a red ribbon. It is the universal symbol of awareness and support for those who are living with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). As people across the globe commemorate World AIDS Day, it is important to know about treatments for HIV. Once people figure out the difference between HIV and AIDS, the next question that pops into their minds is the treatment. Surprisingly, none of the current treatment options results in HIV cure, but various attempts have been made. Many people even look for alternative treatments. Even though Ayurveda and natural treatments don’t have a cure, they seem to help in relieving some symptoms of HIV infection.

According to National Health Service (NHS), HIV is a virus responsible for damaging the cells in your immune system and weakening your ability to fight diseases and everyday infections.

On the other hand, AIDS, which stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome, is the name that is used to describe many potentially life-threatening infections as well as illnesses that happen when your immune system has been severely hit by the HIV virus.

As per NHS, most people who are infected with HIV experience a flu-like illness that happens two to six weeks after infection. After the short illness, HIV may not cause any symptoms for many years. Some of the symptoms include fever, sore throat, body rash, tiredness, joint pain, muscle pain and swollen glands.

HIV treatments have progressed significantly in the past two decades, but current treatment strategies are far from perfect, according to AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses.

So, Health Shots connected with Dr Smita Naram, an Ayurvedic physician, pharmaceutical herbalist and nutritionist, to find out if Ayurveda or natural therapies can relieve some symptoms of HIV infection.

She said that in Ayurveda, they offer special therapies and Marma points that help to remove blockages and ultimately, improve health. The medicines used in Ayurveda are herbal-based. Formulas which are developed and tested by researchers are used, and doctors prescribe medicines according to your situation.

Fundamental treatments under Ayurveda for HIV infection

1. There is doshas alleviation, which the expert said helps to reduce pain.

2. Aam pachan helps to expel toxins by improving excretion.

3. Ras dhatu cleansing is helpful in improving immunity, something that is essential in easing the symptoms.

4. Rasayana is all about rejuvenation.

Detox therapies to improve immunity for HIV patients

As HIV weakens a person’s immune system, it is important to look for ways to improve immunity. Dr Naram said that depending on the severity and patient’s condition, different detox therapies can be used to improve immunity, but they are to be done strictly under the guidance and keen precautions.

Detox is not only the Ayurvedic cleansing process for the body, but also for mind and emotions. “It helps to create holistic health and well-being in your life,” she said. Sometimes, digestive impurities like mucus and metabolic toxins pile up in the veins, liver, intestine and joints, so a detox helps to clean out the toxins.

Also Read: The ABC of HIV tests and screening

Dr Naram shared that Smart detox, Dynamic detox, Power detox and Super detox, are some detox options, and it may include Ghrutpan, Virechan as well as Basti.

Home remedies to ease the pain

We often look for solutions in the kitchen cabinet for various health problems. Dr Naram suggested that one can also try home remedies like chewing eight to ten basil leaves daily in the morning on an empty stomach. They can take two dates, two almonds, two figs, one apricot and two teaspoons of fennel seeds. Soak them at night and have them in the morning, she advised.

So, spread the word and create awareness on World AIDS Day.