Background: Traditional, complimentary and alternative medicines (TCAMS) are increasingly being promoted by
various Sub-Saharan African governments as a promising health resource in the control and amelioration of
HIV/AIDS. The accessibility and cultural acceptability of both herbal medicines and faith healing and the scarcity of
antiretroviral treatment (ART) in many communities have made them a favorite treatment option for people living with
HIV (PLHIV).
Objectives: This paper reviews the literature on the utilization and potential contribution of plant medicines and faith
healing for treatment of HIV and opportunistic infections in Ethiopia.
Methods: The published and unpublished literature on TCAM, faith healing and HIV/AIDS was reviewed from
online sources and several bibliographies.
Results and Discussion: Several studies indicate that both plant medicines and faith healing are widely used in
Ethiopia for the treatment of HIV-related illness due to the long history, prevailing illness perceptions and religious
beliefs. Primary phytochemical tests have identified several plant species with anti-HIV, anti-mycobacterial and antiprotozoal
properties but their development as safe and effective medicines will require extensive toxicological and
pharmacological drug interaction studies. Increasing evidence of positive outcomes of faith healing involving holy
water and prayer reported by PLHIV, particularly spiritual and mental benefits, has potential application for chronic
patient care but needs further study.
Conclusion and Recommendations: Prevailing and evolving indigenous practices indicate the need for the
implementation of appropriate policies and guidelines for the development of safe and effective herbal medicines and
the integration of traditional medicine into the health services. Several areas requiring further study are identified.