Is there an application of Herbal Medicines (esp. D. Erecta) in the management of HIV/AIDS and Canc

Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES)

Evidence library

Evidence BriefSDG 3: Good Health2011Uganda

Is there an application of Herbal Medicines (esp. D. Erecta) in the management of HIV/AIDS and Canc

Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES)DRRES-15

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This Rapid Response should be cited as

ACRES (2011) Is there an application of Herbal Medicines (esp. D. Erecta) in the management of HIV/AIDS and Cancer; A Rapid Response Brief. Kampala: The Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis

Summary

Background: The use of herbal medicines among people with chronic illnesses, such as HIV/AIDS and cancer, is common, often due to perceived ineffectiveness of conventional medicine. Findings: Current literature does not support the use of herbal medicines for treating HIV/AIDS. Specifically, D. erecta is known to be toxic, with its leaves and berries causing various adverse effects. Conclusion: There is little evidence to support the use of herbal medicines, including D. erecta, in the management of HIV/AIDS and cancer.

Topics

Medicines, Vaccines & Health TechnologiesIndigenous & Complementary Medicine Development & RegulationCommunicable Diseases > Management of Communicable DiseasesNon-Communicable Diseases > Management of NCDsMedicines, Vaccines & Health Technologies > Indigenous & Complementary Medicine Development & RegulationMedicines, Vaccines & Health Technologies > Integrating Traditional Providers