The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, causes AIDS. HIV multiplies inside CD4 cells, white blood cells that help the body fight infection. Eventually, HIV destroys the immune system leaving the infected individual susceptible to life-threatening illnesses such as tuberculosis and lymphoma. At this point a person is said to have AIDS. Although there is no cure for HIV or AIDS, drugs known as antiretrovirals help to stop HIV from replicating in the body, thereby staving off the development of AIDS. Spirulina is sometimes used as a complementary treatment for HIV and AIDS, although there is little evidence it can fight the virus itself. Talk to your doctor before using it.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Spirulina, also known as blue green algae, grows in salt water and freshwater lakes. A rich source of B vitamins and iron, spirulina is sometimes used to treat a variety of conditions including depression, stress, diabetes, heart disease and fatigue. MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, notes that it might also help to boost the immune system. It might also help to disrupt HIV viral replication in CD4 cells, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Research
Scientific research into the effects of spirulina on HIV and AIDS is very limited. However, an article published in "Medical Hypotheses" in 2004 states that the incidence of HIV and AIDS is lower in regions of the world where spirulina is consumed daily. The authors conclude, therefore, that regular consumption of spirulina might help to prevent HIV infection in the first place and may suppress the virus in those already infected. The results of an early laboratory study published in the August 1989 issue of the "Journal of the National Cancer Institute" also found that chemicals in spirulina may be active against the AIDS virus. More up-to-date studies are lacking.
Administration
Spirulina is supplied as a powder or in tablets and can be found in most health-food stores. Guidance regarding a suitable dose to help support the treatment of HIV and AIDS is lacking. However, Mississippi Baptist Health Systems states that a typical dose might range anywhere between 1 g and 8.4 g daily. Ask your physician for guidance.
Safety Considerations
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that spirulina may cause side effects including insomnia, anxiety and nausea, but adds that these effects are infrequent. Ensure you choose a spirulina supplement that states it is free of contaminants, such as toxic metals and microcystins, as they may cause liver damage. Avoid using spirlina alongside immunosuppressant drugs, and don't use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Get advice from your doctor before adding spirlina to your treatment program.
References
- Bupa: HIV/AIDS; April 2010
- MedlinePlus: Blue-Green Algae
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Spirulina
- "Medical Hypotheses"; Algae -- A Poor Man's HAART?; J. Teas, et al.; 2004
- "Journal of the National Cancer Institute";AIDS-Antiviral Sulfolipids from Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae); K.R.Gustafson, et al.; Aigust 1989
- Mississippi Basptist Health Systems: Spirulina
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