Traditional Chinese herbs help prevent HIV transmission

A study published in the March 19, 2010, issue of The Journal of Biological Chemistry found that banana lectins, the proteins that bind to sugars, also bind to HIV-infected cells and prevent their replication and transmission. And several other studies have found similar anti-HIV effects from various herbs and plants like the hyssop herb, pine cone seed extracts, "pokeweed" extracts, Reishi mushrooms and even cannabis (marijuana).

Researchers from the University of Michigan (UM) found in a laboratory study that banana lectins bind to HIV-infected cells and basically envelop them so that they cannot reproduce. So scientists are now working on a highly-concentrated extract of these lectins known as "Ban Tec" that they say may one day be widely used to prevent HIV transmission.

Pine cone seeds contain a high lignan extract that has been shown not only to inhibit HIV transmission, but also reverse the damage caused to the body by HIV-infected white blood cells. The "pokeweed" plant and at least three other North American prairie plants have shown HIV-preventive effects as well. And plant sterols in general seem to protect healthy cells from being invaded by HIV. These and other details came from a recent report by FOX News.

For treating HIV-related symptoms like "wasting syndrome" and neuropathy, cannabis, also known as marijuana, has proven itself to be highly effective. Cannabis spurs appetite in those with "wasting syndrome", helping them to eat more and gain weight, and it also reduces or completely eliminates the severe pain associated with neuropathy.

And the Reishi mushroom, which is known for its powerful immune-boosting activity, is also a favorite among Chinese herbalists treating HIV because it can help improve overall condition and even potentially help reverse the disease altogether.