Shark cartilage contains compounds that may reduce the growth of new blood vessels. KS lesions are abnormal growths of blood vessels, so shark cartilage may slow down or stop the development of KS. However, in one study involving thirteen HIV-positive people, the researchers concluded that shark cartilage was not an effective treatment for KS. Shark cartilage has a foul taste and is therefore generally taken as an enema (fluid injected into your rectum [ass]). Kombucha “mushroom” (also known as Manchurian “m ushroom”) is not a mushroom at all. It’s composed of bacteria and yeast cultures, and is shaped like a large pancake. It’s placed in a large glass bowl with a solution of water, tea, and sugar. The culture grows there for a week or so. During this time, the solution ferments to produce a “tonic” or tea. Users report improvements in their sense of well-being and overall health, as well as increases in energy. There are some concerns for people with HIV - the tea may grow other yeasts or bacteria that could cause infections in your body. There is no scientific evidence of any benefit to be derived from this treatment. No information is available about how Kombucha interacts with other drugs used by HIV-positive people. The FDA has issued a warning about Kombucha, the deaths of two HIV-negative women who were known to have used it regularly are being investigated.
