The main compound in garlic is allicin. Garlic also contains other compounds, including diallyl polysulfides and ajoene.
In this article, we look at whether or not garlic affects the immune system in people with HIV. We also cover whether garlic interacts with HIV medications.
HIV and garlic
Some people claim that garlic can help fight HIV due to its antiviral properties, such as boosting the immune system.
HIV attacks T cells, which are a specific type of cell in the immune system. T cells fight viruses and tumor cells in the body. When HIV destroys T cells, it is harder to fight off infections.
A person with HIV is more prone to certain types of infections, including viruses. Such infections can become severe if a person has a weakened immune system.
Anything that may make the immune system stronger can be beneficial for people with HIV, which is why some people recommend garlic supplements.
One analysis published in the Journal of Immunology Research suggests that garlic may improve immune system function by stimulating the production of certain types of cells.
These cells include natural killer cells and macrophages, which help fight infections.
The general health benefits of garlic may also be beneficial for people with HIV. For example, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, some studies indicate that garlic may help lower cholesterol levels.
Some studies indicate that garlic supplements affect the levels of certain antiviral medications that doctors prescribe to treat HIV.
For example, one systematic analysis of current research published in the International Journal of STD & AIDS indicates that some forms of garlic supplements can reduce the levels of certain antiviral medications.
It is worth noting that some studies that suggest a link between garlic and interference with HIV medications are several years old. However, these medications have changed and evolved over time.
Another study involved 77 women with HIV who self-reported their garlic supplement intake. The results showed that the short-term use of garlic supplements did not affect how often they took antiretroviral medications, their CD4 cell counts, or their viral load.
The compounds in garlic are complex. For example, allicin quickly changes into other chemicals. For this reason, researchers do not fully understand garlic’s interaction with various HIV medications.
Risks and side effects
The best treatment varies depending on a person’s overall health and other medical conditions they may have. Different HIV treatment regimens involve different classes of drug, some of which may interact differently with garlic.
For people with HIV who are considering taking garlic supplements, there are several questions to ask a doctor.
For example, it is vital to ask a doctor whether garlic supplements are safe to use with the medications a person is currently taking. It is also best to discuss the optimal dosage.
A discussion on the typical side effects of garlic is also needed. Garlic supplement side effects may include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- bad taste in the mouth
- indigestion
Since the side effects of garlic can sometimes include stomach upset, it can interfere with taking HIV medications or proper nutrition.
As with any supplement, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the risks.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not monitor the quality or safety of supplements, so it is vital to purchase them from a reputable supplier.
Summary
Researchers are still trying to determine the medicinal benefits of garlic. It is possible that garlic supplements may have some health benefits, but its effects on HIV and HIV treatment are currently unclear.
Some studies suggest that garlic supplements interfere with HIV medication, but other studies have not shown the same link.
Since evidence is not conclusive, people with HIV should always talk with their doctor before taking garlic supplements.
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