Momordica charantia popularly known as bitter melon and cerassee in Jamaica is a pan-cultural herb that has been used as a blood cleanser. It has been found to be a potent remedy for diabetes. Evidence from India points to a three- to seven-week treatment of people with diabetes using the powdered fruit, seeds, vines and leaves. Cerassee has been used in herb baths for eczema and skin eruptions and is taken as a tea for building the immune system. It is reported that cerassee should be avoided by people who have a history of hepatitis and HIV/AIDS (Prescription for Herbal Healing ).

Cannabis sativa, popularly called ganja, is used for its medicinal properties. It is reported to be useful in treating symptoms associated with glaucoma and cancer. Though this herb has been used in teas and smoked by many young people, there is no scientific evidence that it is helpful in managing HIV/AIDS.

Meals for people with HIV/AIDS

Malnutrition increases the risk of opportunistic infections. Nutritional beverages are now available to add calories to one's diet and are especially useful for HIV-infected people who are not eating balanced meals or who have difficulty chewing and digesting solid food.

Blending a packet of dried soy milk with oats, a ripe banana, some honey, vanilla and nutmeg is an inexpensive base for healthy beverages. Fruit and vegetable juices and protein drinks are also excellent additions to the diet. Protein is essential if we want to look healthy. Have proteins such as fish, chicken, peas, beans, tofu, eggs and canned mackerel.

Choose meals that you like. Add these ingredients:

Shredded whole coconut improves your immune system and is an excellent source of fat in balanced meals.

Powdered Irish moss is high in nutrients and fills the stomach.

Powdered or grated ginger - Add just a pinch to improve the taste and for heart health.

A clove of garlic balances the bowel flora and helps the immune system.

Use a quarter cup of fresh, diced pumpkin and a tablespoonful of linseed or flaxseed.

Try freshly chopped lettuce and pak choi and a small amount of carrots for their sugary content.

Add one teaspoon of chlorella to the diet. It is a powerful nutrient from the sea which assists in cleansing the blood and binds pesticides, mercury and arsenic.

Dr Diane Robertson is a pharmacist and recipient of an honorary doctorate in complementary medicine for her work in herbs. Email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.