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Infectious Disease • Ayurveda

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)

Overview, symptoms, Ayurvedic perspective, and supportive diet & lifestyle. This page is informational and not a substitute for professional medical care.

Definition

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). HIV alters the immune system, making individuals vulnerable to infections and diseases. HIV is present in certain body fluids (semen, vaginal fluids, blood, breast milk) and may be transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusion, and contaminated needles.

Causes (Ayurvedic)

From an Ayurvedic lens, ineffective digestion and metabolism can produce toxins that diminish immunity (ojas). Stress, worry, overwork, and excessive sexual indulgence further deplete ojas. If vitality remains low and exposure risk is high, resistance to disease may decline. When the seven dhatus (body tissues) are deteriorated and ojas is reduced, disorders with features similar to AIDS may appear.

Symptoms

Early-stage HIV infection: Fever, chills, joint and muscle pain, sore throat, night sweats, enlarged glands, red rashes, tiredness, weakness, weight loss.

Late-stage HIV infection: Blurred vision, diarrhea, dry cough, fever > 37°C, night sweats, persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, swollen glands, weight loss, white patches in the mouth or on the tongue.

Ayurvedic View

According to Ayurveda, AIDS is primarily a condition of low ojas (immunity). With reduced immunity, the body becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections. A branch of Ayurveda known as rasayana focuses on enhancing vitality and resilience using herbs, minerals, and practices.

A typical approach aims to relieve current symptoms while addressing underlying imbalances. After gentle detoxification as appropriate, therapies may emphasize strengthening with rasayana measures.

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

  • Support immune function with herbs and a balanced code of conduct (achaar rasayana).
  • Common supportive herbs cited in traditional texts include amla, bala, haritaki, nirgundi, and amrita (guduchi).
  • Emotional and social support are important for overall wellbeing.
  • Provide nourishing, easily digestible food and appropriate daily routines.
  • When advised by qualified practitioners, tonics/rejuvenators (rasayanas) may be used to strengthen appetite and resilience; detox (shodhana) is considered only after regaining strength.
  • Avoid excessively spicy, oily, or acidic foods when ill; prefer soups and light, wholesome meals.

Medical disclaimer: HIV/AIDS is a serious medical condition that requires evidence-based care from qualified healthcare professionals. Any traditional or complementary measures should be discussed with your doctor and not used as a replacement for indicated antiretroviral therapy.

Important Note

We provide only supplementary information/supportive care for AIDS and do not claim to treat or cure HIV/AIDS.