THE EFFECT OF HERBAL CONCOCTIONS ON THE VIRAL SUPPRESSION OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV IN NIGERIA

Abstract

HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, with a high prevalence of herbal concoction use among People Living with Human Immune deficiency Virus (PLHIV). This study investigates the impact of herbal concoctions on viral suppression in people living with HIV (PLHIV) undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys of 200 HIV-positive individuals and qualitative in-depth interviews with 30 participants. The study assessed viral load levels, ART adherence, and the use of herbal concoctions. Statistical analyses, including t-tests and chi-square tests, were conducted to determine the significance of differences in viral suppression between herbal users and non-users. The study found that 60% of participants used herbal concoctions alongside ART. Herbal users had a higher average viral load (1,200 copies/ml) compared to non-users (900 copies/ml), with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Viral suppression was achieved by 25% of herbal users compared to 75% of non-users. Qualitative data revealed that cultural beliefs and perceived benefits drove the use of herbal remedies, despite reported adverse effects.