Evaluation of the effects of Artemisia Annua L. and Moringa Oleifera Lam on CD4 count and viral load among PLWH on ART: a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

This groundbreaking study from Uganda represents the longest clinical trial to date examining moringa's effects in HIV-positive individuals. Researchers conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 282 people living with HIV who were already receiving standard antiretroviral therapy. Participants were divided into groups receiving either a combination of Artemisia annua and Moringa oleifera leaf powders, Artemisia alone, or placebo, in addition to their regular HIV medications. The study followed participants for a full year, monitoring their CD4 cell counts (immune system markers) and viral loads. Results showed that the combination treatment led to significant improvements in immune function, with CD4 counts increasing by an average of 105 cells per microliter of blood after 12 months. This improvement was statistically significant and clinically meaningful. The Artemisia-only group also showed benefits, though more modest, with CD4 increases of about 61 cells per microliter. These findings suggest that these traditional medicinal plants may serve as valuable complementary treatments alongside standard HIV care, potentially helping to strengthen immune systems in people living with HIV.