Herbal treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus responsible for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), is a controversial subject. Many people argue that because HIV is such a serious illness, a person is better served by seeking conventional treatment for it. Others, however, assert that herbal medications can help a person deal with the effects of the virus and may even help boost his immune system and encourage overall heath. As far as medical professionals are concerned, many naturopathic practitioners support the use of herbal treatment for HIV, and conventional doctors often state that most herbal remedies are unlikely to hurt a patient as long as they do not interfere with conventional treatment; some go further to agree that they might even help.
It can be difficult to choose the best herbal treatment for HIV unless you have studied herbs and their effects for a significant period of time. As such, you may benefit from conducting research on your own to determine the types of herbs most likely to help you. You can perform such research using reputable alternative medicine sites on the Internet, and your local library may offer books on this subject as well. In both cases, you may do well to consult with a doctor before you begin to take herbs. He can provide information about the risks of adding a specific remedy to your treatment plan or confirm your belief that it will not hurt you.
An appointment with an alternative medicine doctor may also help you choose the best herbal treatment for HIV. In fact, such a doctor may provide suggestions based on your current health status and any symptoms from which you are suffering. For example, if you are struggling with an upset stomach on a frequent basis, perhaps because of conventional medicine, he may recommend herbs that can help calm your stomach. If, on the other hand, you struggle with frequent fungal infections, he might be able to provide a natural treatment to help prevent re-occurrences.
You might feel wary about some of the herbal remedies available for dealing with HIV and worry that they may be too harsh or have unexpected effects on your body. In such a case, you might choose to stick to herbs that are commonly used in food preparation. In such a case, you might feel less concerned about potential adverse effects from herbal treatment for HIV. For example, basil is commonly used in food preparation but can also help with nausea.
