Question
Will taking aloe vera stop me needing ARVs?
18 April 2011. Related: All topics, Side effects, Starting treatment, Supplements and herbs.
I am HIV positive and not on ARVs but take aloe vera every once a month, is it enough to fight the virus as I haven’t been sick so far and I do not wish to take ARVs because of the side effects
Answer
Thank you for your question.
No, aloe vera will not stop you needing ARVs.
Aloe vera does not suppress HIV.
Side effects effects are usually much easier than you think. Some people get no side effects at all. Most people only get mild side effects for the first few weeks and then this settles down and they feel fine. It is only a very few people who get severe side effects and have to change medication until they find the right combination for them.
HIV treatment is very individual. It is about finding the right treatment for you and your lifestyle. There are different combinations available so there are other options if you do find that you get some side effects and want to change your meds.
For information about HIV treatment please read the i-Base guidebook Introduction to ART
Hello Cj and thank you so much for this question.
As you know taking HIV medication is very important because it keeps you healthy.
HIV itself (before treatment) reduces both good and bad cholesterol and triglycerides are higher.
Starting treatment can affect the cholesterol levels (they increase). This is called “the return to health effect”.
You can read more here:
https://i-base.info/guides/side/cholesterol-and-triglycerides
It is important to follow a balanced diet and to do exercise. This will help you maintain a better quality of life.
If that doesn’t work a medication called statins is also very effective in lowering your cholesterol.
Please take a look at the guides below for healthy eating advice:
https://i-base.info/guides/side/diet-a-balanced-diet-and-your-health
https://www.heartuk.org.uk/downloads/health-professionals/publications/heartukhealthyeatingguideoct202102.pdf
Additionally, new evidence (REPRIEVE Study) showed that also statins are very good for people living with HIV.
You can read more here:
https://i-base.info/htb/45808