Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus responsible for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Unlike most viruses, our immune system cannot defend against HIV. Once a patient is infected, it is an incurable lifelong condition. Fortunately, since the discovery of antiretroviral treatment (ART), people living with HIV can now have a lifespan comparable to that of their uninfected counterparts.
However, they may suffer from higher rates of non-communicable comorbidities such as cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary complications including tuberculosis in Africa, renal problems affecting kidney function and fluid balance regulation, diabetes affecting blood sugar levels and hepatic diseases that impede liver functionality.
The increased rates of non-infectious comorbidities are believed to result from heightened inflammation in people living with HIV despite ART. Chronic immune activation leads to chronic inflammation which could be reduced by taking cannabis orally; this strengthens the immune response.
CBD and ART
Scientific evidence has shown that using hemp/marijuana does not affect ART.
(Kosel BW et al., 2002)
Cautions when considering CBD:
Very few clinical trials have examined how cannabinoids affect inflammation or the size of the HIV reservoir in people living with HIV; therefore customers should consult their personal doctor before taking any CBD hemp oil supplements.
However, there are reasons to believe that CBD Hemp oil extracts are safe and well-tolerated due to several medications' existence already widely used for treating various populations:
Sativex (a sublingual spray containing CBD1:1THC) currently licensed as a treatment for symptomatic spasticity in adult patients with multiple sclerosis(MS).
Marinol- synthetic THC-containing capsules currently used for treating anorexia associated with weight loss in persons with AIDS & nausea/vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy if conventional antiemetics fail.
Cannabinoids have cardiovascular effects like tachycardia(heart rate over 100 beats per minute), fluctuations in blood pressure& episodes of postural hypotension(low BP while standing up after lying down/sitting).
Therefore we must never offer CBD Hemp oil products to people suffering from serious cardiovascular disease like Ischaemic heart disease(damage/disease in heart's major blood vessels), arrhythmias(improper beating speed or rhythm), poorly controlled hypertension & severe heart failure
CD4 cells & CBD
CD4 cells(T cells)- white blood cells fighting infection play an important role within one's immune system; CD4 counts measure one's immunity health when infected by human immunodeficiency virus(HIV). The virus attacks & destroys CD4 cells leading those having lower counts reducing naturally evolved diversity richness within gut microbiome resulting into increases on Enterobacteriaceae micro-bacteria causing inflammations. Cannabinoids appear to have a protective effect against HIV infection in T-cells, but this effect can be blocked by a substance that inhibits the action of cannabinoids on CB2 receptors. This points to a complex interaction between cannabinoids, the CB2 receptor, and HIV's impact on the immune system.
ECS & the Gut-Brain Axis:
ECS & the Gut-Brain Axis: The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a pivotal role in maintaining balance across various body systems, including the gut-brain axis. As researchers dive deeper into understanding this relationship, there's potential for breakthroughs in managing HIV-related complications.
Conclusion:
While the initial findings regarding CBD and HIV seem promising, it's crucial for patients to consult with healthcare professionals before making any treatment decisions. As science continues to unravel the mysteries of both CBD and HIV, it's hoped that patients will have more holistic options to manage and possibly improve their health conditions.
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