Abstract

EFFECTIVENESS OF TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA ON STAPHYLOCOCCUS, STREPTOCOCCUS, KLEBSIELLA AND CANDIDA SPECIES AMONG HIV INFECTED CHILDREN - A RANDOMISED CONTROL TRIAL

Dr Tom Peter*, Dr. Vijaya Hegde, Dr. Rajani Mary George and Dr. Eby Aluckal

Abstract

Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is one of the majorglobal health concerns. Lack of immunity and opportunistic infectionsare the major threat to these patients. Ayurveda has been of immensehelp in managing these type of patients. The present study wasconducted to assess the anti bacterial and anti fungal effectiveness ofTinospora cordifolia and to compare its effect with chlorhexidene.Saliva and swab specimens were collected from 12 people living withHIV infection. Study subjects were divided into two groups and onegroup was given chlorhexidene and other group Tinospora cordifolialeaves. Saliva and swab samples were taken before and after, and sentfor microbial analysis. Statistical analysis of the results revealed that there is no statisticalsignificance between the two groups. ( p > 0.05). From the present study, we can concludethat both Tinospora cordifolia and chlorhexidene have antibacterial and antifungaleffectiveness and since Tinospora cordifolia is locally available, it can be used as an adjuvantto oral hygiene practice, especially in case of AIDS patients who are more prone toopportunistic infections.

Keywords: Tinospora cordifolia, Chlorhexidene, microbial counts, AIDS.