The claim by Ayurveda practitioners that it can combat the dreaded HIV virus is only now being examined by the India's scientific establishment. Researchers at the National Institute of Immunology (NII) in New Delhi have begun investigating the anti-HIV properties of seven plants -- Tulsi (Ocimum), Brahmi (Centella), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), Gilo (Tinospora cordifolia), Satawar (Asparagus racemosus) and Nirabrahmi (Bacopa monniera) -- traditionally used all over the country because of their anti-stress properties and ability to stimulate the immune system.
Says R R Choudhary of NII, "The known properties of these plants led us to wonder if they could be successfully used to delay the onset of AIDS in HIV-positive individuals." Interestingly, research at NII on the neem plant (Azadirachta indica) on its use in birth control vaccines, has shown that it also might have anti-HIV properties.
Though NII scientists say their research into the HIV control through these plants will be a painstaking process, their project has generated considerable excitement in the National AIDS Control Organisation, which estimates that unless emergency measures are taken, nearly one million Indians could be afflicted by AIDS by the end of the century.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.