Mark Konlee
In 1981, when AIDS was first called GRID (Gay Related Immune Disorder), and the HIV virus had not yet been discovered, important research on the immune modulating effects of dimethylglycine was published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases (1).
Graber CD et al state that dimethylglycine presumably “enhances oxygen utilization by tissue and complexes free radicals.” In a double-blind study on 20 humans, they found a fourfold increase in antibody response to vaccines as compared to controls. In studying cell-mediated immune responses to phytohemagglutinin, convanavalin A and pokeweed mitogen, they found an almost threefold increase in responses. They concluded that DMG enhanced both arms of the immune system.
Last month, I reported on DMG and 5 readers are now trying the Food Science brand using 750 mg daily sublingually. (2 tablets 3 times daily are dissolved under the tongue). Results on increasing CD4 counts and its effects on viral load should be known in a few months).
Sublingual DMG is probably a more effective methyl donor that oral TMG or oral DMG. Increased oxygen utilization inside the cells can inactivate intracellular viruses, fungus and bacteria. Folic acid supports an enzyme that breaks down DMG and the breakdown products are likely where the benefits reside. Liquid B12 and Folic acid by Bricker Labs also taken under the tongue would be a good choice to use along with DMG. Folic acid supports the methylation process.
1. Immunomodulating properties of dimethylglycine in humans, Graber CD et al; J. Infect Dis 1981 Jan;143(1):101-5.
The following is a reprint from the 4th edition of the AIDS Control Diet book by Mark Konlee from July, 1992. The AIDS Control Diet book is the forerunner of the current book on How To Reverse Immune Dysfunction:
”Early in July (1992), we talked to a man from California who had contacted us...He told us that 3 months earlier, he had doubled his T4 counts for 120 to 240 in one month by taking 800 mg daily of DMG - or Di-Methyl Glycine. He had been on AZT for one year previous to this with his T4 counts holding steady at about 120. He attributes the increase to the DMG. Then, he reportedly told four of his friends about his experiences with the DMG. They also tried it and used about 800 mg per day (sublingually). Everyone reported a significant increase in T4 counts. One man reportedly went from 45 to 170 in 2 months. Here in Milwaukee, one man took 200 mg of DMG (not 800) daily for 6 weeks and told us his T4 count increased from 14 to 34. One person who has severe KS and intestinal absorption problems took an oral form of DMG from Enzymatic therapy. After 2 months, there was no change in his T4 counts.”
The above report somehow got deleted from future editions of the AIDS Control Diet book and subsequently the book on How To Reverse Immune Dysfunction. In light of the recent discoveries of the benefits of methylation in stopping replication of HIV and other viruses inside the cells, we need to retest the effects of DMG as an immune modulator or antiviral agent. DMG, like TMG, folic acid, L methionine and even alcohol support methylation.
In this time period, 1992, AIDS treatments came and went weekly. This one, however, may have been sent down the pike erroneously. As I recall the conversation, the DMG was absorbed sublingually - under the tongue and not simply swallowed with water. Two factors are critical to reproducing these results. One is to use the correct dosage. Too low a dose might produce no results at all or inconsistent results and the second is how the DMG is taken. The CD4 increases from DMG absorbed sublingually in the mouth where it directly entered the blood stream. It did not occur from swallowing oral capsules. Sublingual absorption widely used in homeopathy acts like an injection where oral swallowing of a product can sometimes lead to degradation in the stomach and small intestines from digestive acids and enzymes.
Methyl groups consists of one carbon and 3 hydrogen atoms (CH3). As DMG is broken down by an enzyme whose activity is supported by folic acid, two methyl groups are released leaving the amino acid L-glycine. DNA methylation is an expression referred to frequently in scientific literature, but I do not understand the process except that it involves methyl groups of CH3 and seems to increase the utilization of oxygen inside the cells which inactivates viral DNA and prevents it from binding to the cell’s DNA. Methylation requires methyl donors. Published research indicates that DNA methylation inhibits IL-6 production. IL-6 is a Th2 cytokine that is overproduced in AIDS, CFIDS, Lyme disease, chronic sleep disorders and cancer and contributes to the progression of all these conditons.
We need HIV+ persons with CD4 counts of 300 or less to try DMG sublingually between blood tests to measure its effects in raising CD4 counts. One brand that would work is made by Food Science. It is a sublingual form that comes in 125 mg tablets. A formula to use is 125 mg daily per 25 lbs of body weight. If you weigh 150 lbs, that would be 6 tablets daily or if you weigh 225 lbs, you would need to take 9 tablets daily. Divide the daily doses into 3 or more portions. The tablets dissolve very quickly in the mouth. Published research indicates no toxicity.
In a clue to possible antiviral effects of DMG is an abstract (We.A.510) presented by Malamud D et al at the Int’l Aids Conf in 1996 reported on a product called C31G. It consists of an amine N-oxide and N-dimethylglycine. They reported efficacy against HIV, HSV, Chlamydia, C. Albicans and gonorrhea. How much of the antimicrobial effect is attributable to the N-oxide portion of the compound and how much to the DMG portion is unknown. While sublingual DMG is readily available in health food stores, C31G is not and is probably in trials somewhere. No method of contacting the authors is provided in the abstract.
While I am looking for volunteers, I have no free samples to give away. At current prices, sublingual DMG by Food Science costs about $23 for 90 tablets - about a 15 day supply. Only our readers can find out if the results reported in 1992 can be duplicated and then if they can be sustained over time. Regarding Venus Fly Trap extract, using a dose of 1/2 tsp. 3 times a day costs about $75 a month. As folic acid supports an enzyme that breaks down DMG, it is important to use a sublingual B12 and folic acid supplement (i.e Bricker labs). The combined treatment is about $130 a month for all 3 products. If you decide to try this 3 part regimen, write to me a Keep Hope Alive or call 414-548-4344 and let me know when you start. There is no need to discontinue any other treatment you are using.
Note: The next issue of Positive Health News should be in the printers by the end of this month. Your subscription renewals and donations will be very helpful and appreciated at this time. Mark
Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive PO Box 27041, West Allis, WI 53227
www.keephope.net 414-548-4333
Mark Konlee
Late in May, 1999, Keep Hope Alive started testing Venus Fly-Trap extract as an immune modulator in persons affected by HIV, CFIDS, Gulf War Syndrome after receiving nearly $1000 worth of the extract donated to us by Vital Health Products of West Allis, WI. Published scientific research indicates that the Venus Fly-Trap (Dionaea Muscipula) contains a potent immune modulator known as “napthaquinone plumbagins.” Articles published in 9 medical journals were cited in the July report on the metabolic and immunological effects of “plumbagin” that included the following:
1. Potent antimutagenic - prevents mutations. Mutations often cause cancer and viral and bacterial resistance to antibiotics.
2. Plumbagins completely prevented bacterial resistance to antibiotics in one published study.
3. Activates macrophage activity at low doses and inhibits it at high doses.
4. Reduces LDL cholesterol and increases HDL - the good cholesterol. Improves the HDL/LDL ratio helping to prevent arterial clogging from the low density cholesterol.
5. Anti-cancer and anti-tumor effects reported in 3 animal studies.
In the first 4 HIV+ cases, CD4 increases in the first lab results were from 10 to 101 covering a period from 1 week to 3 and 1/2 weeks. Last month I reported on the first two lab results from two HIV+ persons using VFT extract sublingually along with “Methyl Donors” from Jarrow Formulas. As the results from the first two cases were published in the July report, I will start with case 3 and 4. No new lab tests for viral load are available from the first two cases - Robert M (Brooklyn, NY) or Bob M (Miami, FL) since last month although a lab test in July from Bob M showed his HDL cholesterol (the good one) has continued to increase and his HDL/LDL ratio is now 5 to 1. Earlier this year while he was on protease inhibitors, it was 25 to 1 which put him well into the “heart attack” zone. Note: The safest ratio is 4 to 1 or less. Normal HDL values should be 35 or higher. Bob M’s HDL’s that were down to 10 earlier this year are now at 27.
Gene M (CA). Gene has been taking 2 protease inhibitors plus Sustiva and Abacavir for the past several months. His CD4 count had been in the low 600 range for the past several months and were last reported at 613 on 5/6/99. After using VFT extract sublingually for 1 week (1/2 tsp. 3 times daily). His lab results on June 25th, 1999 - CD4’s are now 714, an increase of 101. CD8’s increased from 785 to 986 and WBC’s from 4200 to 4600. The HIV viral load decreased from 1538 to 110. Because his previous test was on May 6th and he was on a 4 drug combo, we cannot be certain how much of these improvements were due solely to the VFT extract.
He had previously planned to go on injectable IL-2 late in July in an attempt to completely flush out the HIV virus from his body. In the interim, he decided to try the VFT extract to see what effect it would have. He started IL-2 therapy on July 28th. He can be reached at 415-664-0326 for more information.
Hank F (CA). For the past several months, Hank has volunteered to try various treatments provided by Keep Hope Alive. Last fall, these included elderberry extract and glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Of all the treatments tested to date, digestive enzymes called “Essential Enzymes” (a Source Naturals brand) had the most benefit and brought down the viral load from around 100,000 to 25,020. He had used 3 capsules with meals 3 times daily. In April and May, 1999, he tried 6 capsules daily of Neem leaf and continued with the digestive enzymes. This reduced the viral load very slightly in 30 days from 25,020 on April 13 to 24,859 on May 14. On June 1st, he started on Venus Fly-trap extract sublingually as a monotherapy and discontinued the digestive enzymes and the Neem leaf.
His lab test of June 24, 1999, 3 and 1/2 weeks later, showed his CD4’s increased from 410 to 457. The big surprise was that his HIV viral load dropped from 24,859 to 12,656. Based on a report from Robert M, who had earlier spoken to sources in Germany, the viral load was expected to increase during the first full month of VFT therapy and then decrease in the second month. The decrease in the HIV viral load came earlier than expected. We do not know what effect the VFT extract had on his CD8 counts as the doctor did not test for them.
Commenting on all this, Hank said: “This is the best results of any treatment I have had since last fall. I feel my health improving daily.” He also reported feeling “feverish” at times and sweats easily.
In the last week of July, I asked him to reduce the dosage from 1/2 teaspoon 3 times daily to 1/4 tsp. 3 times daily. The reason for the reduction in dose is to find out if the same benefits can be had at a lower dose and concerns that a high dose used for more than 6 weeks might lead to treatment failure. This is based on animal studies that indicate high doses of “naphtoquinone plumbagin” the active ingredient in the Venus fly-trap, stops stimulating macrophage activity after 6 weeks and low doses has continued to stimulate macrophages for the entire life of the experiment. Also, anecdotal reports suggest that high doses of 1/2 to 1 tsp. or more three times daily bring benefits for 4 to 6 weeks and then the product stops working.
In all cases I have reported on here, the extract is held under the tongue for 3 minutes and then what is not absorbed, is swallowed with a glass of water. Sublingual use was chosen over orally swallowing the extract as 3 persons who tried it both ways reported that only the sublingual method increased body temperature. To date, 5 persons have reported increases in body temperature to a normal 98.6§ F and often spikes to 99.1§ F, about 1/2 degree above normal.
At the same time the dose was reduced to 1/4 tsp. 3 times daily, Hank has added “Methyl Donors” from Jarrow Formulas and will take 1 tablet twice daily. Methyl Donors was chosen over “Methyl B12” as his T cells are high enough that he should be able to convert B12 into Methyl-B12 with the Tri-Methyl Glycine (TMG) in the formula. Had his CD4 counts been under 200, I would have suggested 1 tablet of Methyl-B12 plus one of Methyl Donors daily. 500 mg of TMG in each capsule of Methyl Donors is derived from red beets. Hank can be reached at 323-461-5223 for more information. (best time to call is 8 am California time).
The strategy of adding Methyl Donors and/or Methyl-B12 is based on Japanese research that Methyl-B12 increases CD8 cytotoxic lymphocyte activity (CTL’s) and Natural Killer cell function. An overwhelming amount of published scientific research indicates that CD8 CTL’s can destroy the virus infected cells. Methyl B12 should be one on the must do list of everyone with chronic immune dysfunction whether it is caused by HIV, HHV-6 or other conditions like CFIDS, Lyme, cancer, candidiasis and any condition where body temperature is below normal and infections persist.
On protocol strategy, our thinking is that if one product, the Venus fly-Trap extract, can keep raising the CD4’s and the Methyl-B12 can keep raising the CD8 CTLs, he will have a restored immune system and a safe low-cost immune-based treatment for chronic HIV infection. There will be no need to directly attack the HIV virus as his CD8 CTL’s will be doing that. Since this is an immune-based treatment and not a strict anti-viral treatment, no viral resistance is expected. No adverse effects have been reported by anyone using either VFT extract, Methyl-B12 or Methyl Donors with the exception that a few persons found the VFT extract too strong to use directly and diluted it with 1 teaspoon of water before using it sublingually.
Steven was interviewed in our past two newsletters about his experience with elderberry extract and glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, the later two having some effect in reducing the viral load form over 1/2 million to about 210,000. However, his physician has refused to take any viral load tests in 1999 as Steven has refused to take a prescribed drug cocktail for HIV. However, in April, 1999, a CBC test showed his CD4’s had declined to 9. By May, Steven, short of funds was doing no treatment of any kind. However, the viruses, HIV, HHV-6 and HHV-8 were not resting and Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) lesions broke out in May. On May 25th, he started on VFT extract sublingually, 1/2 tsp. 3 times daily. He also took one Methyl-B12 (Jarrow Formulas) daily sublingually and one “Methyl Donors” orally. Within two weeks, many of the KS lesions began to shrink. However, another problem emerged when his colon became inflamed and his stools reduced in size to that of a pencil.
Thinking he had an infection in his colon, Steven began drink 2 to 3 glasses of sauerkraut juice daily and reported normal size stools in just 4 days. Sauerkraut juice had an effect similar to “Cultured Cabbage Juice” reported about in my book on “How To Reverse Immune Dysfunction.” A probiotic, Lactobacillus Salivarius, is found naturally in raw white cabbage, coleslaw and cultured cabbage juice. Published scientific research indicates that L. Salivarius is one of the most potent probiotics that exists to kill pathogenic gram-negative bacteria in the gut and colon. Sauerkraut and sauerkraut juice would be a potent source of heat-killed L. Salivarius. Is it the lactic acid or something in the heat-killed L. Salivarius that is having these powerful benefits to the gut and colon?
Steven's protocol as of the end of July, 1999, also includes 3 tablespoons daily of soluble rice bran (Perfect Plus) that includes 1000 mg of TMG and 1000 mg of FOS from artichokes. He also takes 2 tsp. daily of Ionic trace minerals that come from the dead sea (SGS Research). Both of these products were reported in last months newsletter.
Here is what he has to say about his latest protocol: “This is best program I have been on since I’ve tried different alternative therapies in the past two years. I feel fine and work out daily. I’ve gained several pounds since early June. I’m trying to find a physician to do some lab tests. I’m curious to see what is happening to my CD4’s and viral load. The KS lesions are not doing anything. They are not gone yet, but there are no more yellow rings (a sign of activity). My body temperature is normal and sometimes increases slightly to 99.1. Right now, I would not give up anything I am doing. I thank you for all the products you have donated to me." Steven can be reached at 559-264-7945 for more information.Gary (HIV+) has been using Naltrexone, high doses of Beta Carotene (about 100 mg daily) and supplements to increase Glutathione levels for several years along with a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables. He has used one Sees 2000 capsule daily to prevent PCP. He has never used any prescription antivirals for HIV. Although he has never been hospitalized for any infections, his CD4 count has declined from 210 to 114 over the past 2 years. His body temperature has been low for a long time being around 96.4§F. Since starting on VFT extract, 1/2 tsp. sublingually, 3 times a day on June 12, 1999, his body temperature has returned to a normal 98.6§F and sometimes reaches 99.1§F. In a recent visit to his physician, it was 99.1§F and his physician thought he had PCP. After X-rays were taken, his physician found no evidence of PCP.
In a recent phone call to Gary. I told him of several other report where the sublingual use of VFT extract had increased body temperature and that his case was no different than other reports and the increase was good news. He will have complete lab blood tests in August. Late in July, he also added “Methyl Donors” to his protocol. Gary did not remember his last viral load test results but thought it was close to 100,000. He promised to get exact the exact figure and should have this information available to us by the end of August with the new lab results.
A local PWA whom I wrote about in my book told me a few years ago that since he was 8 years old, his “normal” body temperature has always been 1/2 degree above the normal 98.6§F or 99.1§F. He told me a few years ago that he has been HIV+ for 12 years and has no sign of disease progression. In July, I met him for a second time and he told that that his last viral load test for HIV (PCR) was non-detectable. The only sign of exposure to the virus is a positive test on the Elisa and Western Blot for the HIV antibodies that has been repeated several times. His physician cannot figure out why the HIV virus is not causing any disease progression to AIDS.
Dennis also told me that for all his life whenever he caught an infection of any kind that it didn’t last very long and was usually gone in a few days. Dennis’s case reminds me of the quotation of the great physician Parmenides who 2000 years ago stated: “Give me a chance to create a fever and I will cure any disease” that was quoted in a book by Stephen Langer MD titled “SOLVED - THE RIDDLE OF ILLNESS.
As for the increase in body temperature from the VFT extract, I think it may be coming from activated macrophages producing Interluken 1. IL-1 is known to cause the fever response. Published research on “plumbagins” found in VFT extract indicates that low doses strongly activate macrophage function. As for the increases in CD4 counts, it probably is caused by an increase in IL-2, a cytokine known to increase CD4 counts in HIV+ persons and now being tested at the NIH. Low doses of IL-2 (a TH1 cytokine) are also reported to increase Natural Killer cell function.
While Bob had good news in his lab results published in the July report, a serious problem developed in July when chronic diarrhea developed. His physician could find no pathogen that was causing the diarrhea.
I suggested a shotgun approach to try to solve the problem. First, to assume that he had gluten-intolerance and to stop eating any food made with wheat and even oats. He did this and started taking 10 grams of L-glutamine 2 or 3 times daily. He also made cultured cabbage juice from a recipe published in my book. After 4 days the diarrhea stopped. About a week later, he ate some pita bread that is made from wheat. Within 4 hours, the diarrhea resumed. He stopped eating wheat products and within two days the diarrhea stopped again.
Note: Gluten intolerance is a common cause of diarrhea in persons with advanced HIV infection. Many persons with CFIDS and chronic candidiasis also report gluten intolerance. Persons who want to eat gluten-free bread can find these in health food stores along with gluten free pasta and spaghetti made from brown rice.
Most persons with CFIDS who have symptoms also reports low body temperature. Holly reports that low dose VFT extract improves how she feels and functions. She has not measured her body temperature but says it has been low for a long time.
Persons with CFIDS would also strongly benefit from “Methyl B12” one tablet taken sublingually daily along with low dose VFT extract. Methylation is a natural process that occurs in the body. Beside Tri-Methyl Glycine (TMG) found in red beets, folic acid and L-Glutathione also are reported to be methyl donors. Red beets or supplements containing TMG would be a useful addition to the daily diet to improve CD8 CTL activity, NK function and to reduce IL-6, a problematic TH2 cytokine overproduced in persons in HIV, CFIDS, Lyme disease and cancer.
In abstract no Mo.A1025) 12th Int’l AIDS Conf, Bergmann S et al reports that “Methylation may be a mechanism which leads to an inactivation of already integrated HIV genomes” inside the cells. Bergmann also found that de-methylation causes activation of the HIV “tat” gene. Tat has also been linked to HHV-6A replication.
Other published research finds that methylation inactivates the HIV “nef” gene that reduces the ability of the virus to infect new cells.(1) Published research demonstrates that homocysteine inhibits methylation processes in the body. Folic acid, TMG and Methyl B12 reduces homocysteine levels. In a nutshell, elevated homocysteine not only cause heart disease but also impair cell-mediated immunity. More scientific research on methylation will be published in the next issue of Positive Health News.
1. Annu Conf Australas Soc HIV Med. 1997 Nov 13-16;9:125-6 (poster no P22)
Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive PO Box 27041, West Allis, WI 53227 414-548-4344 Our new internet web site is keephope.net
The Venus Fly-Trap plant (Dionaea Muscipula) was featured in the Hollywood movie, “The Little House of Horrors.” The VFT plant has been something of a novelty and fascination for procurers of exotic plants as this plant eats insects. It is one of several species of carnivorous (meat eating) plants that usually grow in warm or subtropical areas.
Eight years ago, an article was published in The Townsend Letter for Doctors” titled “The Carnivora Cure for Cancer, AIDS and other Pathologies” by Morton Walker D.P.M. “Carnivora” is a trademarked name for both an oral and injectable form of the Venus Fly-Trap plant developed by Dr. Helmut Keller MD of Bad Steben, West Germany.
Morton Walker wrote on controlled studies done by Dr. Keller on hamsters and mice treated for cancer with extracts of the Venus Fly-Trap plant and cited anecdotal reports of success in treating cancer and AIDS with an extract of the Venus Fly-Trap plant called “Carnivora.” Walker reported that Dr., Keller treated over 2000 patients with “Carnivora” since 1981. 2 ML of the extract are said to contain 67.4 mcg of plumbagin, a potent immune modulator. Dr. Walker reported that former president Ronald Reagan took Carnivora to prevent new growths of colon polyps that he had removed while he was President.
Walker reported that Carnivora has been used in the treatment of “cancer, neurodermitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, all types of herpes infections, primary chronic polyarthritis, and almost any immune deficiency state.” The injectable dose is reported to be 2 ML given 5 times weekly and for maintenance purposes, 2 ml twice weekly. Orally, 30 drops are taken with water 3 to 5 times daily. Walker reported of a person with AIDS who went to Germany for the Carnivora treatment. The patient was quoted stating that the treatment caused mucus to come out of his nose “as if I had a bad cold.” He also reported a number of skin eruptions. After 8 weeks of treatment, he reported his CD4 count of 350 increased to 1700 by week 11 and that the P24 core HIV antigen could no longer be detected in his blood.
A part 2 of this article by Morton Walker was published in “The Townsend Letter for Doctors” in May, 1992. In this second article, Dr. Walker reported on interviews with two more persons with AIDS who reported significant increases in CD4 counts and declines in beta 2 microglobulin levels. The article reported that in the first week of therapy, the viral load for HIV increases then decreases by the 4th week. However, these estimates for HIV viral load in 1991 were based on the now outdated P24 antigen test that has since been replaced by quantitative PCR. Weekly PCR tests would allow a more reliable test of the rise and fall of the viral loads.
While the publicity on Carnivora drew the attention persons affected by cancer and AIDS, it also drew concerns from the Food and Drug Administration that persons using Carnivora might place their lives in jeopardy by not using pharmaceutical drugs that have been rigorously tested. Besides, all injectable products are drugs by definition. The FDA stopped the importation of injectable Carnivora into the United States. Yet, reports continue to persist that the oral form is still available and can be imported from Germany.
Around 1992, I became acquainted with a local HIV+ person with Kaposi Sarcoma. He tried using a home made extract of the Venus Fly-Trap plant made in a white wine base. For a while it seemed like it was working with no new growth of lesions and about a 50% shrinkage of existing lesions. Then, after the 6th week of treatment, not further reduction in the size of the lesions was noticeable. The patient discontinued using the extract and went on chemotherapy. For a while, that seemed to be working well with most KS lesions going into remission. However, about 6 months later the lesions returned and the chemotherapy no longer was effective. He died a short time later.
With the politics of Carnivora in conflict and the prohibitive cost of traveling to Germany for treatment, I lost interest in Carnivora and the subject was shelved for the past several years. Interest in the Venus Fly-Trap emerged this year with reports of benefits coming from persons with Lyme’s disease. After talking to three persons who said they had good results with an oral extract of VFT, I also talked to one person with Lyme’s who obtained no results at all. One lady who had breast cancer removed by surgery 8 years ago has been using 30 of the VFT extract orally and sublingually under the tongue 3 times a day for the past 8 years with no reoccurrence of the cancer.
A search of the medical literature for Venus Fly-Trap (Dionaea muscipula) turned up one article by Galek H et al of Munich Germany in 1990 that stated that “Aqueous extracts from Dionaea Muscipula contain quinones such as naphthoquinone plumbagin.” (1) Nothing else on the Venus Fly-Trap plant was found in the medical literature.
However a search on “plumbagin” in the medical and scientific journals yielded several surprising discoveries: one being that there are several different kinds of plumbagins and several botanical species contain plumbagins. A considerable amount of published literature exists on naphthoquinone plumbagin and its antimutagenic and immune modulating properties.
A search of the medical literature on “plumbagin” and “naphthoquinone plumbagin” yielded the following effects from animal studies.
1. Potent antimutagenic (prevents mutations) (2) (3). Note: Mutations have been linked to cancer as well as viral and bacterial resistance to antibiotics.
2. Plumbagin activates Macrophage antibacterial activity at low doses and inhibits it at high doses. (4)
3. Plumbagin combined with antibiotics completely prevented bacterial resistance to the antibiotics (5)
4. Antiatherosclerotic effects: Reduces LDL Cholesterol and Triglycerides. Elevates the good HDL cholesterol significantly. Improves HDL/LDL ratio (6)
5. Anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects noted in animal studies (7) (8) (9)
References:1. Galek H et al, Free Radic Biol Med 1990;9(5):427-34
2. Durga R et al; Indian J Med Res 1992 Apr;96:143-5
3. Edenharder R et al; Food Chem Toxicol 1997 Mar-Apr;35(3-4):357-72
4. Abdul KM et al; Immunopharmacology 1995 Sep;30(3):231-6)
5. Durga R et al; Indian J Res 1990 Jan;91:18-20
6. Sharma I et al; Indian J physiol Pharmacol 1991 Jan; 35(1):10-4
7. Sugie S et al; Cancer Lett 1998 May 15;127(1-2):177-83
8. Kini DP et al; Indian J Exp Biol 1997 apr;35(4):374-9
9. Parimala R et al; Mol Cell Biochem 1993 Aug 11;125(1):59-63
In May, Keep Hope Alive received a donation of 20 four ounce bottles of Venus Fly-Trap (VFT) extract for research purposes. The extract was manufactured locally by Vital Health Products of West Allis, WI, who have been making the extract for the past 7 years.
So far, 8 persons with HIV, 4 with CFIDS, 2 with Papilloma virus and 1 person with Gulf War Syndrome are trying the oral extract.
Of the persons with HIV, only one is using it as a monotherapy. The dosage range is 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon 3 times a day taken sublingually. However, the first person (Robert M) reported effects using an even smaller dose, only 20 drops twice a day.
Robert M started using the VFT extract on May 23rd. Two weeks earlier, he used a product called “Methyl Donors” from Jarrow Formulas and reported 70% of his neuropathy gone in 10 days. For the past eight months, he has been on Abacavir (1592), Viramune and Epivir (3TC). He uses one Thymate tablet daily and in May added one Methyl Donors twice daily and on 5/23 started on 15 to 20 drops of VFT extract sublingually twice daily.
For some time, Robert has reported low body temperature, an almost universal phenomenon associated with HIV, CFIDS and chronic candidiasis. His body temperature usually is 97.2 to 97.4 degrees F.
About a week after starting on the VFT extract, he went to obtain an acupuncture treatment. Before starting, they always measure his weight and body temperature. He was startled when he was told his body temperature was 99.1 degrees F, 1/2 degree above the normal temperature of 98.6.
After the treatment, he began to monitor his temperature several times a day. He called me early in June to report the increased temperature. After discussing the phenomenon, we both agreed it was either the Methyl donors or the Venus Fly-Trap extract that was causing it. To resolve the question, he stopped taking the VFT extract for 2 days while continuing on the Methyl Donors. Within a day, his body temperature dropped to 97.9 degrees F. When he resumed taking the VFT, his body temperature increased to 99.1 to sometimes as high as 99.5§F. While at these slightly elevated levels indicative of a low grade fever, he felt no fever, had good energy and says he works out 3 hours a day.
(Recent excerpts:)Robert: I’m convinced that it is the Venus Fly-Trap that has elevated my temperature. Nothing else could be doing it.
Mark: I’ve had reports from 4 other persons taking the VFT extract of sometimes feeling “feverish.” However, no one has actually taken their temperature to see how much it increased. Published scientific literature says that the “plumbagins” in VFT activates macrophages. In a book “The Immune System Cure,” by Patrick Bouic PH.D., that discusses the immune modulating effects of “sterols” and “sterolins,” Dr. Bouic states that macrophages produce Interluken I (IL-1), the cytokine that turns on a fever and that this in turn leads to an increase in IL-2 production. Could the VFT extract be stimulating the macrophages to produce IL-1 and IL-2?
Robert: It sounds like a plausible scenario. You know that article you wrote several years ago that chronic infections are linked to low body temperature, I think you hit the nail on the head. Everyone I know of who has AIDS and some kind on ongoing infection has low body temperature.
Mark: Low body temperature is a condition that affects people no only with AIDS, but everyone with Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS), chronic candidiasis and cancer. With low body temperature (LBT), the immune system is sluggish and anergic or just plain too lazy to mount an attack against viruses, fungus, bacteria and cancer. The beginning point of an immune response is a fever that starts when IL-1 levels are increased. I see IL-1 as a neutral cytokine that could trigger either a TH2 (antibody) response or a TH1 (cell mediated immune) response. For chronic infections inside the cells, the C.M.I. response (TH1) will be more effective.
Robert: (6/28/99): I got my lab results today.
Mark: Did your CD4’s increase?
Robert: Yes, from 230 to 285.
Mark: and your CD8’s?
Robert: from 650 to 850
Mark: and the other lab results?
Robert: The doctor said everyone else looks normal. The PCR viral load is not in yet.
Robert: (6/30/99): Got the viral load results.
Mark: How much did they increase?
Robert: From 8100 to 8300. How did you know they would increase?
Mark: Well, let me first say that 8100 to 8300 is not much of an increase. I read in the 1991 Townsend Letter article that in the first few weeks of using Carnivora, HIV viral load increases before it decreases.
Robert: Four years ago, I talked to a lady in Germany at Dr. Keller’s clinic who told me that for the first full month of using Carnivora, the HIV viral load will increase and then decrease in the second month.
Mark: Well, that was injectable Carnivora. This is an oral extract made by a local company. We don’t know if it will produce the same results. We will just have to wait for more lab results to come in.
Note: Robert M used 15 to 20 drops of VFT extract (donated by Vital Health Products, Ltd) twice daily sublingually for 3 weeks prior to his test. This is considerably less than the 40 to 80 drops 3 times daily that was recommended. He uses one Methyl Donors (Jarrow Formulas) twice daily.
For the past 8 months, his viral load has been in the 7000 to 9000 range and his CD4’s for the past 4 years have fluctuated between 200 and 325. It is possible that the recent increase in the CD4’s and CD8’s is just a coincidence despite research that suggests the Methyl Donors should increase the CD8’s while the VFT increases the CD4’s. However, the increase in body temperature does not appear to be a coincidence and seems only logically linked to the VFT extract. An increase in body temperature has been linked in several other cases to a stronger cell-mediated immune response. He also reported a stronger appetite since using the VFT extract. For follow-up on his next lab test planned for July 21st, Robert M can be reached at alecomp@aol.com.
Bob M (Miami, FL). Started VFT extract on May 24th, 1999, using 1/2 tsp. (80 drops) twice daily and had lab results on 6/10/99. Reported occasionally feeling feverish but did not test his body temperature. Also reported a stronger appetite. He took Methyl Donors, only one a day. He also used MGN3 (IP6 plus mushrooms) 4 capsules daily along with several vitamin, mineral and antioxidant supplements, Co-Q10 and L-carnitine plus 6 olive leave extract caps daily (East Park). He also uses 2 Lysozyme Plus tablets 3 times daily with meals and does daily garlic and vinegar retention enemas. He takes 1 tsp. of unrefined sesame seed oil for sterols. His viral load that was 600,000 last fall was down to 24,000 in May, 1999. He is not using any pharmaceutical antivirals for HIV.
Results after 17 days: CD4’s increased from 24 to 34. CD8’s increased from 885 on May 5th to 1447 on June 10th. HDL cholesterol increased from 19 to 26. Natural Killer cell function increased from 13 to 30 Lytic units. His viral load for HIV increased from 24,000 to 50,000 (suggesting that viral resistance has now developed to the Olive Leaf Extract). All the news was very encouraging. The increase in HIV viral load in the first month of using VFT extract was not unexpected. If he progresses according to earlier published reports on VFT, he should have a significant increase in CD4’s in July and a decline in the PCR viral load count. His next test is scheduled for July 13th. On June 30th, he reported a very strong response to a weak solution of DNCB, indicating his C.M.I. responses are getting stronger. For follow-up, Bob can be reached at 305-595-8092.
Steven Rahn, whom I interviewed in Positive Health News, Report No 17, had in setback in May when KS lesions developed. He has since started on VFT extract, Methyl Donors plus Methyl B12, L-carnitine, Lysozyme Plus, retention enemas and resumed the use of DNCB which he has painted on the KS lesions. He reports weight gain, more appetite and sometimes feverish symptoms and is doing better with some KS lesions reduced about 50% in size. No lab results have been taken in 1999. Two persons with CFIDS reports activation of lymph nodes but say they feel more functional since starting on VFT extract. Persons with CFIDS should also benefit greatly from the use of Methyl Donors as recent research indicates methylation turns off the IL-6 gene, increases CD8 CTLs and NK function.
One case (Hank F) (HIV+) using VFT extract as a monotherapy is in progress. Results will be reported next month.
A new product worthy of mention that actually tastes good is “Perfect Plus” (SGS Research) It is a finely ground rice bran powder that is completely water soluble. Added are 133 mg of natural sulfur (MSM), 1000 mg of TriMethylGLycine(from beets) as a source of “Methyl” and FOS from antichokes to support growth of friendly flora. A serving also provides about 120 mg of sterols from the rice bran. See last months reports for the immune modulating effects of sterols. I personally tried this product and it gives great energy and well being. Note: There are over 74 known antioxidants in rice bran.
Another product from SGS Research is “Liquid Ionic Minerals” from the Dead sea. They are lower in heavy metals than “Colloidal Mineral” products and the ionic minerals are highly electrically charged. Dark field microscopy shows that ionic minerals breaks up blood cell clumping allowing cells to better function in carrying oxygen and nutrients to the cells. SGS Research (Irvine, CA) can be reached at 800-266-0555. They do not sell direct to the public but can give you the name of a local supplier.
Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive Ltd
Keep Hope Alive PO Box 27041, West Allis, WI 53227
Mark Konlee
Jarrow Formulas continues progress toward making available a heat-killed “Th1 Probiotics” formula that is expected to be available next month. The formula will consist of 40% L. Plantarum, 30% L Casei and 30% B Longum. It is being heat killed for the benefit of persons with leaky gut syndrome who can safely consume large quantities of these “heat Killed” strains for their immunological benefits in stimulating IL-12, IFN-gamma and IgA, three key cytokines to help restore cell-mediated immunity and mucosal immunity. Unlike live strains, these heat killed strains will not pass through the gut mucosa and cause problems elsewhere in the body of persons immune compromised. The immunological benefits are thought to be coming from glycoproteins and other metabolites of the membrane structure of these flora and some product actually produced by live flora.
The strategy is to first restore mucosal immunity so live cultures can later be safely introduced. Published reports of live L Casei causing pneumonia in advanced AIDS patients is why the heat killed strains are being developed.
For some time, I have been stressing the importance of restoring mucosal immunity as a critical factor in restoring health and well being in persons immune compromised from HIV, HHV-6A, candidiasis, multiple allergies and chemical sensitivities. Antigens that enter the blood through a leaky gut stress the immune system and the liver and make immune restoration an uphill battle. Now there is a lab test available to measure just how leaky your gut is. It is called the “Intestinal Permeability” test and it is available from Great Smokies Diagnostic Labs. The test uses two water soluble sugars, Mannitol and Lactulose to measure both “Malabsorption” and “Leaky Gut syndrome.” In normal healthy individuals, mannitol should be highly absorbed while very little lactulose (a large molecule) is absorbed.
1. Low recovery of mannitol means malabsorption while a high recovery of lactulose means leaky gut.
2. A high recovery of both mannitol and lactulose means you have both good absorption as well as leaky gut syndrome.
3. A high recovery of mannitol and low recovery of lactulose means you have both normal absorption of nutrients and mucosal integrity (not leaky gut). This is the profile you want.
If lactulose is highly absorbed it means you have leaky gut syndrome as lactulose is not well absorbed in healthy individuals. The absorption of lactulose means large molecules are passing through the gut and into the blood causing stress on both the immune system and the liver.
This test is important as it measures the progress you are making on your diet and protocol to restore normal mucosal integrity and normal absorption of nutrients. To measure progress, you always need two tests, the first is baseline to find out where your starting profile is while the second one measures your progress in healing the gut. More information on this test and how to prepare for it is available from Great Smoky Diagnostics Lab at 800-522-4762 or write to Great Smoky Diagnostics, 63 Aillicoa St, Asheville, NC 28801. (Cost is $86 per test).
Great Smoky Labs writes that L-Glutamine and a high fiber diet that produces butyric acid as a result of bacterial fermentation helps heal a leaky gut. Gingko Biloba extract is also suggested to help prevent mucosal damage. Gingko Biloba reduces cortisol levels. Too much cortisol can weaken intercellular binding contributing to leaky gut syndrome. To this list I suggest adding “cultured cabbage juice,” vitamin A, aloe vera juice and cooked squash. HCL and digestive enzymes helps lower the antigenic overload that passes into the blood from a leaky gut. This reduces stress on both the liver and the immune system.
Traditional African healers have known about the medicinal value of the “Hypoxis rooperi” plant more commonly known as the South African potato. They have used the plant for viral infections, TB, sexually transmitted diseases and cancer and recently the So African potato is being used by persons with CFIDS and HIV. The legendary healing properties of the plant lead Professor Patrick Bouic of the University of Stellenbosch’s medical school to extract what are thought to be its active ingredients - plant “fats” known as “sterinols.” RW Liebenberg is the founder of a pharmaceutical company that now holds the patent rights to a product sold under the name “Moducare Sterinols.” A web site www.moducare.com provides information on published research and how to order the product. A toll free phone number is 877-297-7332.
According to RW Liebenberg, sterols and sterolins exist in all plants but are particularly concentrated in the So. African potato. Here are some excerpts from the published research:
“It was demonstrated that sterols possess potent anti-inflammatory properties similar to cortisone, . ...reduce edema... have fever-reducing properties.” (1)
“The first experiment performed in vitro demonstrated that sterols and sterolins had a significant proliferative effect on human T cells...Another experiment showed increases in Interluken 2 and gamma-interferon..an increase in Natural Killer cell activity for the lysis of experimental cancer cells with the sterol/sterolin mixture.” (2)
“Interluken 6 levels, which indicate a inflammatory reaction went up in the placebo group, but down in the treatment group....cortisol levels remained constant in the treatment group but were elevated in the placebo group....The treatment group showed an increase in DHEA levels and a decrease in the cortisol/DHEA ratio, indicating that the sterol/sterolin mixture was helping buffer the negative effects of the stress response.” (3)
P.R. Donald et al reports that plant sterols/sterolins have been demonstrated to selectively increase CD4 lymphocyte counts. (4)
1. M.B. Gupta et al, Planta medica, vol 39, pp 157-163, 1980.
2. Bouic, P.J.D., et al; Int’l Journal of Immunopharmacology, Vol 18, No 12, pp 693-700, Dec. 1996.
3. P.J.D. Bouic et al; Int’l Journal of Sports Medicine, 1999.
4. P.R. Donald et al; Int’l Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, V 1(5), pp 518-522, July, 1997.
In a trial of 80 persons over a 3 year period, Bouic reports that HIV+ persons receiving treatment with sterolins had no decline in CD4 counts and a significant decrease in IL-6 levels that has been linked to lower HIV viral loads. Bouic found the same results with cats infected with FIV who were treated with sterolins. Natural Sources of Plant Sterols Highest concentrations of sterols are found in sesame seeds and rice bran
An article by Weihrauch JL called “Sterol content of foods of plant origin” (J. AM Diet Assoc 1978; Jul;73(1):39-47 lists the sterol content of 39 types of oils. Based on milligrams (mg) per 100 grams, the highest ones are listed here.
Chestnut oil - 5,350
Rice bran oil (unrefined) 3,225
*Sesame Seed oil (unrefined) - 2,950
Rye germ oil (unrefined) - 2,425
Wheat germ oil - 1,970
Sunflower seed oil (unrefined) 725
*Pumpkin seed oil (unrefined) - 523
In contrast to the above, head lettuce would have 10 mg of sterols per 100 grams. Most vegetables and fruits are reported to have a small amount of plant fats with sterinols.
Of 9 different sterols found in these seed oils, 6 are found in rice bran oil and 5 are in sesame oil. Pumpkin seed oil contains two types not found in rice bran oil and 3 types not found in sesame seed oil. A good synergistic combination is to combine (sesame seed oil or rice bran oil) with pumpkin seed oil.
The South African Journal of Science, v. 93, pp 263-268, June 1997 states; “Plant sterols and sterolins are thought to be responsible for the health benefits of a variety of medicinal herbs including saw palmetto, pygeum, pumpkin seeds, milk thistle, Panax and Siberian Ginseng.”
There are about 423 mg of sterols in one tablespoon of sesame oil and 460 mg in one tablespoon of rice bran oil and 73 mg per tablespoon on pumpkin seed oil. HOWEVER, THE BEST COMBINATION IS TO USE 1 TEASPOON OF RICE BRAN OIL OR SESAME OIL WITH ONE TEASPOON OF PUMPKIN SEED OIL. TOGETHER, THIS COMBINATION PROVIDES YOU WITH 8 DIFFERENT KINDS OF STEROLS THAT PROVIDE ABOUT 167 MG OF STEROLS.
Moducare Sterinols contain 20 mg sterol and 225 mcg sterinols per capsule. You would have to take 8 Moducare capsules to equal the quantity of sterols you would obtain in just 1 tsp of sesame oil plus 1 tsp of pumpkin seed oil. Moducare suggest 3 to 6 capsules daily.
Sesame seed oil and pumpkin seed oil have a milder nutty taste than rice bran oil that has a stronger flavor. You could mix equal parts of unrefined sesame oil and pumpkin seed oil and use it as a salad dressing or substitute it for the olive oil in the whole lemon drink or use one tablespoon of sesame/pumpkin oil with one tablespoon of olive oil in the lemon drink.
The very freshest oils can be obtained by grinding one tablespoon or raw sesame seeds with one tablespoon of raw pumpkin seeds and mix this with applesauce as a once a day treat. Another option is one tablespoon of raw rice bran and one tablespoon of pumpkin seed powder. This can be mixed with applesauce or sprinkled over breakfast cereal.
Another idea is to make cookies. Mix 1/2 cup of ground sesame seeds with 1/2 cup ground pumpkin seeds and add enough raw honey to make a thick mixture. Spoon out one tablespoon at a time and roll in flaked coconut. Place them on a waxed sheet and refrigerate until used. Eat 2 or 3 of these cookies daily.
Question: One tsp. of sesame oil and one tsp. of pumpkin seed oil daily does not seem like very much. Perhaps more benefits could be obtained by eating one tablespoon of each daily. No one has yet tried this. Any volunteers? Note: I have listed several options here besides using Moducare Sterinol capsules. Eating cookies may be more fun than yet another bottle of pills to take every day.
One herb worthy of mention is Gingko Biloba that research shows lowers cortisol levels. High cortisol levels are part of the TH2 syndrome affecting persons with HIV, CFIDS and cancer. My personal opinion is that gingko biloba made from fresh ginkgo leaves in an alcohol based extract is a more effective form than the so-called “standardized” extract powder found in capsules. Taking it sublingually (under the tongue) may even be more effective than just swallowing it.
Last month I reported on research that indicates that lysozyme, a natural protein found in urine, saliva and tears, breaks up the genetic structure of HIV and other viruses and bacteria. In May, I located a digestive enzyme formula called “Lysozyme Plus.” Each tablet contains 10 mg of lysozyme. It is the only formula I know that contains lysozyme. What I don’t know is the therapeutic dose. For starters, try two or three tablets with each meal until laboratory data becomes available. One person reported that 2 tablets 3 times daily improved his stools which looked normal after a few days.
“Lysozyme Plus” can be obtained by calling Complete Health Services at 414-860-1000 or check with advertisers in the current issue of Positive Health News. The manufacturer (Atrium Inc, Coloma WI) can be reached at 715-228-5911
Note: Chewing gum, eating food slowly or sipping on something sour like lemonade increases saliva flow and delivers more lysozyme to the gut area.
A new product called “Methyl-B12 has been introduced by Jarrow Formulas. Methyl-B12 AKA Methylcobalomin is reported by Japanese researchers to improve Natural Killer cell function and CD8 cytotoxic lymphocyte activity. Methyl-B12 is a metabolite of vitamin B12 produced in a body with the help of methyl donors and a healthy liver. A healthy liver?
A monograph cited 20 scientific references that Methyl-B12 may be beneficial for the following conditions:
1. Bells’ Palsy
2. Cancer
3. Diabetic Neuropathy
4. Eye Function
5. Heart Rate Variability
6. HIV infection (HIV replication inhibited by Methyl-B12)
7. Homecysteinemia - elevated homocysteine levels have been strongly linked to an increase in heart attacks. Methyl-B12 reduces homocysteine to Methionine.
8. Male Impotence
9. Sleep disorders.
The monograph can be found at: www.thorne.com/altmedrev/.fulltext/3/6/461.html
Methyl Donors contains B-12, folic acid, B-6, intrinsic factor and TMG (Trimethylglycine) from red beets. This would be the most effective product in persons with elevated homocysteine levels. One person with HIV and neuropathy started using Methyl Donors - one capsule twice daily and reported his neuropathy much improved after just 4 days.
Suggestion: Since both products are low-cost, I would use both daily - one Methyl-B12 and one Methyl Donors. Both are available from any distributor of Jarrow Formula products.
After using 6 Neem leaf capsules daily for one month as a treatment for HIV infection, Hank F sent lab results to me that showed his HIV viral load was virtually the same, starting at 25,000 and ending at 24,000. Hank will now test Venus Fly-Trap extract sublingually as a monotherapy for the next 30 days to see if it works any better.
In May, Vital Health Products (West Allis, WI) donated several 4 oz bottles of Venus Fly-Trap extract to us as samples to test. Four persons with HIV and 2 with CFIDS are trying the extract. Our own research finds that the injectable form of Venus fly-trap extract sold under the trade name “Carnivora” is more effective than the oral form. However, the oral form is more effective when taken sublingually (under the tongue) than mixed with water and swallowed. Articles published in The Townsend Letter for Doctors stated that extract was effective against cancer, HIV and Crohn’s disease. Other sources indicate it may benefit persons affected by Lyme’s, Multiple Sclerosis, herpes and candidiasis. The government does not allow the importation of injectable Carnivora into the United States.
Several years ago, I was aware of one AIDS patient who had some success for a while using Venus fly-Trap extract orally for Kaposi’s Sarcoma. He did not use it sublingually and discontinued using the product when the lesions did not completely vanish.
Everyone now trying the extract is using it sublingually and 3 persons with HIV have reported the following comments: More energy, higher body temperature and more normal stools. No lab results are available but should be shortly. More samples are available for persons interested in trying the extract while supplies last. You may call me at 414-548-4344 and check mail box no. 2 to leave your message or you can write to me at Keep Hope Alive.
Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive Ltd
Keep Hope Alive PO Box 27041, West Allis, WI 53227
Mark Konlee
Several persons including one person with hepatitis have told me in the past month that they are feeling better and have more energy since using the 7 strains Jarro-dophilus formula I suggested in our current newsletter. Some persons are using it raw as it comes in the bottle and others who think they have leaky gut syndrome are boiling it to heat treat it.
On April 29, I spoke with Charles Fisher, the vice president of Jarrow Formulas and asked if they would make available an even better product than Jarro-dophilus having an exclusive “Th1 Probiotics” formulation. He agreed to do so. The formula I asked them to make will have 40% L Plantarum, 30% L Casei and 30% B. Longum and it will be heat-treated so it will be safe for persons with leaky gut syndrome to use. The new formula should be available by July, 1999. This new “Th1” probiotics formula should be twice as effective as the current Jarro-dophilus formula.
The reason for heat-treating and killing the strains of lactobacillus is twofold. First, research indicates that the same immunological benefits are occurring from the heat-treated strains as from the raw strains. Second, persons who are chronically immune compromised do not need live lactobacillus getting in to the blood stream through a leaky gut. Every person who is chronically immune compromised and who has yeast infections has leaky gut syndrome caused by candida albican overgrowth in the intestines. These pin holes in the gut and a compromised mucosal integrity caused in part by a lack of IgA is why only heat-treated lactobacillus should be used in persons who are chronically immune compromised.
Consider this, if you wanted to consume beta glucan to stimulate macrophage and neutrophil function, you would not feel better by eating raw baker’s yeast. While raw baker’s yeast has beta glucan in it, some of the raw live yeast will also pass through a leaky gut into the blood supply and further stress your immune system. Beta glucan is made today by first killing the common yeast and extracting the beta glucan from the membranes of this yeast.
Present scientific research suggests that it is the metabolites (membrane structures) of certain lactobacillus strains that stimulate the production of the “Th1” cytokines - Interluken 12 (IL-12), gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) and Immunoglobulin type A (IgA) and not some factors produced by live lactobacillus. Glycoproteins in the membranes of L. Plantarum and L. Casei could be the key to turning on IL-12 and IFN-gamma production. Glycoproteins are also part of the structure of HIV and some other viruses.
Based on this theory, a person with HIV infection could stimulate a strong cytotoxic lymphocyte response against the live HIV virus in his body by consuming heat killed HIV viruses. In other words, consuming dead HIV viruses will stimulate an immune response against the live virus. No one has offered such a product although it is the basis for some HIV vaccines under development. Based on this same line of reasoning, some homeopathic products sold in health food stores for candidiasis contain heat killed candida albicans. The homeopathic principle uses like to treat like. The key to stimulating an effective immune response is to use the inactivated form of the virus, fungi or bacteria. It is kind of like a sublingual vaccination.
Some of the vaccines under development for HIV are using glycoproteins from the membrane of the HIV virus although they could more easily find glycoproteins in the membranes of L. Plantarum and L. Casei. The researchers are assuming that they need the glycoproteins from HIV to stimulate an antibody response against the HIV virus. In reality, this may not be what is happening at all. The glycoproteins are turning on a cytotoxic lymphocyte response that is by far more effective against HIV than an antibody response. To turn on a CD8 cytotoxic lymphocyte response, research indicates you need to increase the production of IL-12 and IFN-gamma.
L. Plantarum and L. Casei are two strains that contain glycoproteins in their membrane structure and published research indicates they are potent induces of IL-12 and IFN-gamma. IL-12 stimulates the activity of CD8 cytotoxic lymphocytes while IFN-gamma helps reduce intracellular infections. IgA improves mucosal immunity, critical for prevention of transmissible diseases and for long term recovery of chronic immune dysfunction. Research shows that B Longum increases mucosal IgA levels. The logical conclusion is to combine these three together in one tablet to stimulate mucosal immunity and systemic cell mediated immunity against all intracellular infections. Hence, Th1 Probiotics, an idea whose time has come and will be available soon.
Public consciousness on friendly flora has for years been focused on implanting good bacteria in the colon. Many persons with chronic immune dysfunction, AIDS, CFIDS and cancer eat yogurt. However, commercial yogurt makers nearly all use S. Thermophilus to produce the yogurt and S Thermophilus stimulates a Th2 cytokine, Interluken 6. It is little wonder that many persons have told me that they cannot tolerate yogurt. The problem is that persons with AIDS, CFIDS, Candidiasis, Gulf War Syndrome and cancer already have too much IL-6. What is now needed is to find a strain of lactobacillus to make yogurt that stimulate the Th1 cytokines and not the Th2.
Researchers have uncovered why HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva. NYU School of Medicine and NIH researchers have identified a protein present in tears and saliva as the long-sought mystery substance in the urine of pregnant women that is a powerful anti-HIV agent. The new study was published in the March 16, 1999, issue of “The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.” The article is based on the research of Sylvia Lee-Huang, PhD and Hao-Chia Chen of the National Institute of Child Health. They have also identified other substances in urine that are potent inhibitors of HIV called “ribonucleases” - enzymes that break up the genetic material of viruses.
In regards to urine retention enemas, one person with CFIDS tried this and also the aloe vera juice enema and reported a significant improvement in how she feels and two persons with AIDS reported a 40 to 50% drop in their HIV viral load in 4 weeks since starting the daily use of the garlic and vinegar retention enemas. The two persons with HIV also used 2 or 3 digestive enzyme capsules with each meal. Neither person used any prescription antivirals for HIV although they also used other nutritional supplements recommended by Keep Hope Alive. Both persons said they thought the garlic and vinegar enemas and the digestive enzymes contributed to the significant decline in their viral load.
See the current newsletter (Report No 18) for more information on how to do these enemas.
The Spring 1999 issue of Searchlight reports that gut mucosa biopsies of 15 out of 17 persons who had non-detectable HIV viral load in the blood had HIV RNA present in the gut mucosa. This was confirmed by a second biopsy. The results of the study by Dr. Peter Anton, colleagues at UCLA, USC and Cell Genesys, Inc, were presented at the 6th Conference on Retroviruses in Chicago, Ill.
This study suggest that the gut mucosa, like the lymphoid tissue, is a reservoir of HIV infection. From my perspective, it also reflects a failure of mucosal immunity caused by a lack of IgA, IL-12 and IFN-gamma. These HIVers need more than strictly an antiviral cocktail, they also need an immune cocktail that promotes TH1 cytokines.
Summary of Anti-Viral Therapies for HHV-6A
1. Whole Lemon/Olive oil drink - use once a day.
2. BHT - 250 mg daily dissolved in olive oil.
3. LDM-100 - 40 drops 3X Note: For eye infections, add 2 drops to 1 tablespoon of sterile water and use an eye cup wash the eye. Repeat as often as needed.
4. Venus Fly-trap extract - 1/2 tsp in water 3X
5. Lentinan - (Shi-Lem from Source Naturals) 1 tablet twice daily. A source of sulfated beta glucan.
6. Olive Leaf extract - (from East Park Research - 2 capsules twice daily). Several persons with HIV or CFIDS have reported many benefits from this brand of olive leaf extract. Anti-viral, anti-fungal, antioxidant.
7. Oregano (Oregamax from Northern Spice and Herb - 3 capsules twice daily). This brand is made from wild crafted oregano and has powerful antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties.
8. Essentials Oils of Lemon, Lavender, Patchouli and Lemon-Eucalyptus are effective against herpes viruses and many other viruses, fungal and bacterial infections. Although not specifically tested for their effects on HHV-6, these are the essential oils most likely to inhibit HHV-6A. Other essential oils that are powerful antimicrobials are oregano and thyme that may also work against HHV-6A.
External use: 5 drops of 2 or more of the essential oils may massaged into the abdomen area twice a day or directly on swollen lymph nodes or other areas. Do not apply in the eyes as the oils are too strong. Patchouli and Lemon Eucalyptus are a powerful combination.
Internal: Take 3 drops of each oil with a large glass of water one to three times daily. Both internal and external methods may be used together. It is best to start off with one oil and add on gradually until 2 or more of the essential oils are being used together. Safety data: All available information indicates these essential oils are safe to use as directed.
9. Pharmaceutical antivirals for HHV-6A are
a. Ganciclovir
b. Foscarnet
Both drugs cannot be used long term as they have serious side effects. No long term side effects have been reported in persons using items 1 through 8 listed above with the possible exception of BHT in a few persons who have a seriously impaired or toxic liver. These persons are unable to tolerate chaparral either.
The use of a non-alcoholic source of hops needs to be investigated in the treatment of CFIDS due to widespread reports of the success of drinking beer in stopping AIDS progression. Alvita sells hops in tea bags. Most persons with CFIDS have toxic livers and would benefit from hops as it contains Colupulone, that researchers found stimulates the P450 liver enzyme detoxification system in mice (1). Hops also has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Toxic overload suppresses cell-mediated immune responses. By stimulating liver function, hops may help the body dump internal toxins.
1. Xenobiotica 1996 May;26(5):487-93
You probably have a toxic liver if you have suffered from symptoms of AIDS or CFIDS for more than 6 months. Try whole lemon/olive oil drink, dandelion root, parsley, silymarin and hops tea. Try drinking 3 cups of hops tea daily. Alvita sell hops in tea bags (24 to a box).
Note: Do not mix hops with lemon balm, valerian or other herbs with sedative properties. The sedative effects can become too strong and inter-reactions are unknown at this time.
1. Olive leaf extract (East Park Research - 2 capsules twice daily)
2. Digestive enzymes (2 or 3 capsules with each meal)
3. Coconut milk (1/2 cup twice daily or the equivalent in raw or cooked coconut - macaroons) Note: a recent claimed that coconut milk successfully treated Crohn's diease in one case.
4. Lemon Balm - 40 drops 3 times daily.
5. Essiac or Ojibwa tea (1/4 cup twice daily)
6. Raw garlic (3 cloves daily - serve with rye crisp)
7. Vinegar - One tablespoon twice daily
8. Oregano (Oregamax brand) - 3 capsules twice daily
9. Clarkia-100 - 40 drops 3 times a day
10. SPV-30 (Boxwood) - Use as directed on package
11. Patchouli - Japanese researchers find powerful anti-HIV properties in lab tests. No information is currently available on how to use it effectively. Lemon oil (from the rind of the lemons) is also is reported to have strong antiviral properties. This could partly explain the benefits being widely reported from the whole lemon/olive oil drink.
12. Licorice root - 1 capsule 2 to 4 times daily - Note - may elevate blood pressure.
13. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate 2000 mg glucosamine and 800 to 1000 mg of chondroitin sulfate daily dived into two doses. Best to use capsules rather than tablets.
14. Ozone and oxygen - See related article in next chapter
15. Bitter Melon - See related article in next chapter.
Combine a minimum of 3 choices out of 1 through 15 suggested treatments listed and have your physician monitor the results with viral load tests and complete blood counts. If you do not obtain satisfactory results, change at least 2 of the 3 treatment choices and retest in 30 to 60 days. If you still are not satisfied with the results, combine the best “alternative” choices with pharmaceutical drugs mentioned earlier in this book. The list of low-cost antivirals for HIV is not complete and will be expanded or modified with further research.
Three persons using the Beck machine “The Silver Pulser” to electrocute the HIV virus have told me that they had substantial increases in HIV viral load after 2 or 3 months of use. One person said his viral load tripled. Could the Silver Pulser and other similar machines be making cell membranes more porous and vulnerable to viral infection? Could the electrical frequencies that are used to kill viruses and other pathogens be contributing to a weakened cell membrane? Has anyone tested the cortisol levels before and after using these machines?
Note: if the electrical frequencies are damaging cell membranes as I suspect many of them are, I would expect to see increases in cortisol levels, a response that would weaken cell-mediated immunity. As of this time, I am unconvinced of the safety and effectiveness of the Rife technology and equipment built based on this technology that includes radio frequency generators.
One person with lyme’s disease said another machine built by Beck that generates a magnetic field has helped him. While I am doubtful of the safety of alternating magnetic fields, I am strongly convinced of the safety and effectiveness of north pole (negative) magnetic fields and their health benefits. The manufacturer of the Silver Pulser undoubtedly will disagree with our opinion and you can call them at 800-224-0242 to get their views.
Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive
Mark Konlee
Within the past two weeks, 14,000 out of 16,000 copies of the latest issue of Positive Health News have been mailed out. The latest newsletter, Report No 18, is now online at our internet website at www.execpc.com/~keephope/keephope.html.
The current newsletter on “A Consumer’s Guide to Immune Restoration” is more strongly supported with scientific documentation than any newsletter I ever published. With 33 factors listed that support cell-mediated immunity and 29 that suppress it, there is no lack of treatment options. Indeed, our cup floweth over. What we now await is reader feedback as new treatments are tested in America’s heartland. As our methods of restoring a functional immune system improve, our attention may again shift momentarily to new antiviral treatments that are low-cost, safe and effective as well as re-evaluate some of the older ones that have been with us for some time.
By April 15th, I expect to have revised and updated our book through Positive Health News, Report No 17. Report 18 will be part on the book’s Appendix. The upcoming 7th edition introduces a new theory that Human Herpes Virus 6 (HHV-6), the variant A strain, is a genetic cross between Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and African Swine Fever Virus(ASFV).
HHV-6A is thought to be an essential and critical factor in the development of AIDS and CFIDS as well as many cases of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Here is an excerpt from chapter two of the new edition:
“In the 6th ( last edition of this book), I advanced the theory that African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) and HHV-6A were one virus with two different names. This was based on the fact that the symptoms which ASFV causes in swine are almost identical to the symptoms that AIDS causes in humans. However, new information I have received on the genome (genetic structure) of ASFV and HHV-6A indicates that there are substantial structural differences between these two viruses. However, with HHV-6A having a 67% genetic similarity to Cytomegalovirus (CMV), it is possible that HHV-6A could have evolved in swine because a cross reaction between ASFV and CMV. This theory could be proven if scientists examined the remaining 33% of the HHV-6A genome and would find it’s genetic structure is identical to 33% of the ASFV genome. No scientist has yet thought of this possibility or undertaken this kind of research.
The idea of hybrid viruses may be novel. Yet, if higher life forms like animals and plants can cross breed or develop genetic variations, why can’t viruses? This could have happened when a new developing ASF virus genetically attached to part of a CMV virus also in development producing a new virus - HHV-6A. HHV-6A could the viral equivalent of the Killer Bee, the infamous honey producing bee with an attitude that resulted from cross breeding a European bee with an African bee. Striking similarities between HHV-6A to ASFV and CMV indicate that such a cross reaction may have occurred. Both ASFV and HHV-6A are DNA lipid envelope viruses of the same identical size with HHV-6A having a 67% genetic similarity to CMV. Could the remaining 33% of HHV-6A genome be found in the ASFV? Could HHV-6A be the child of two possible parents - African Swine Fever Virus and Cytomegalovirus? The genetic structure and characteristics of HHV-6A strongly suggest such as possibility."
The new edition will outline a compelling case based on scientific research why HHV-6A is a cross between ASFV and CMV. This new theory is valuable in light of observations that medicines effective against CMV are also effective against HHV-6A.
Foscarnet has been known for some time to inhibit ASFV, CMV and HHV-6A while Ganciclovir is a standard treatment for CMV and is also known to inhibit HHV-6A. Both drugs have serious side effects. Anecdotal reports indicate that Butylated HydroxyToluene or BHT is very effective against CMV Retinitis. BHT is an over-the-counter antioxidant sold by Twinlabs and comes in 250 mg capsules. For years, it has been widely used to prevent outbreaks of herpes. In doses of 1000 to 2000 mg daily, it can elevate liver enzymes. However, in lower 250 to 500 mg daily does, it usually does not increase the liver enzymes.
As Konstance Knox has reported in several published scientific journals, HHV-6A causes nearly all the destruction in body tissues and organs in persons who have died from AIDS. In consideration of the success of the Marc Correa protocol where BHT was used in doses of 1000 mg or more daily as part of an extensive protocol that reversed full blown AIDS and the recently published interview with Michael Zielinski who used BHT in 250 mg daily doses for the past 15 years and stopped HIV progression to AIDS and in one case where a CFIDS patient who was using BHT and then thinking it was not helping her stopped it only to find that her symptoms suddenly worsened, the use of BHT in the treatment of AIDS and CFIDS needs serious revaluation.
Unlike HIV, drugs and natural substances known to kill HHV-6A can be counted on one hand with a couple fingers to spare. In both AIDS and CFIDS, the use of at least one 250 mg capsule of BHT daily could be very helpful in reducing HHV-A replication. Persons who know they already have elevated liver enzymes should have their physician monitor enzyme levels to see if this low a dose has any effect.
To absorb BHT, it needs to be taken with some fat or oil. Opening up the capsule and adding the powder to the whole lemon/olive oil drink would be one very effective way to use it. Another way is to take the capsule with a meal high in fat, at least 2 tablespoons of butter, coconut oil, olive oil or hazelnut oil or any other high quality oil or take it with a fatty fish like salmon or sardines. If you take BHT on an empty stomach or a meal that does not have any fat, you will absorb very little and it will not give you much benefits.
BHT can be predissolved in a pint of olive oil, almond oil or butter. If you add 16 capsules to one pint, then 2 tablespoons of the oil will provide 250 mg of BHT or your could add 8 capsules to one cup of melted butter or coconut oil to give you the same potency. BHT may turn out to be a long term low-cost effective treatment to help prevent or stop AIDS, CFIDS and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) progression.
BHT and Co-enzyme Q10 are best absorbed when blended with oils. BHT can raise liver enzymes in the 1000 to 2000 mg daily dose but is not known to do so at a lower 250 mg daily dose. St John’s Wort and protease inhibitors also are known to raise liver enzymes. Your physician can monitor your liver enzyme levels for you before you use BHT to see if any changes occur.
It is quite unlikely increases in liver enzymes will occur if BHT is added to the whole lemon olive oil drink as this drink detoxifies and flushes out the liver and lymphatic system. The drink is made by taking the juice of one lemon, the rind of 1/2 lemon (cut up), 1 cup of water or fruit juice and 2 tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and adding it to a blender. If you have problems digesting oils, add a small piece of fresh ginger root. Blend on high speed for about 1 minute. Pour through a strainer and use a spatula or spoon to press the juice out of the pulp. Throw out the pulp and drink this mixture once a day or if you removed the seeds from the lemon, drink the pulp and all.
For anyone affected by AIDS, CFIDS or MS, this drink is a good starting point for your recovery program. In the event you are a person who finds that olive oil disagrees with your system, substitute hazelnut or almond oil and leave in all the other ingredients. The second most important item to add to your immune enhancement protocol is one or more items that boost Natural Killer cell function.
The three best choices for boosting Natural Killer cell function are Naltrexone, NK911 and Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6). IP6 is derived from rice bran and has been shown in several studies to significantly increase Natural Killer cell function. Therapeutic doses of IP6 for persons with AIDS, CFIDS, Candidiasis, MS, GWS or cancer is about 1000 mg per 25 pounds of body weight on a daily basis. Example: a person weighs 175 lbs. Divide 175 by 25 which = 7. You would use 7 grams (7000 mg) daily of IP6. When Enzymatic Therapy first introduced IP6, it cost about $125 a month to sustain a therapeutic dose. However, competition has driven prices down. Recently Jarrow Formulas have introduced IP6 in powder form at 100 grams for about $15.00. At 7 grams a day, this is about a two week supply. This reduces IP6 to the low-cost category of Naltrexone which costs about $25 a month in the 3 mg daily dose.
The best combination to activate NK function is to take 2 or 3 NK boosters together. i.e. IP6 plus NK911 or Naltrexone or take all three every day for really fast and dramatic results.
Dr. Shamsuddin MD, who wrote a book on IP6, reports on extensive animal research that IP6 both prevents cancer at 1000 to 2000 mg daily and at therapeutic doses to 5 to 8 grams daily can help shrink tumors and malignancies. Dr. Shamsuddin also reports that IP6 is a powerful antioxidant, prevents platelet sticking, removes calcium deposits (plaque) from the arteries, dissolves kidney stones, reduces triglycerides up to 65% and cholesterol by 19%. In addition, IP6 increases the oxygen carrying power of the blood.
There are no reported adverse effects from IP6 in any published studies or from anecdotal reports. IP6 will do many things to improve your health and well being. IP6 is best absorbed when taken between meals. If you would like to experience results in how your feel without spending much money, try the whole lemon/olive oil drink with BHT and take a therapeutic dose of IP6 daily. Of course, if someone is really in bad shape, they should follow the “Rapid Recovery Procedures” from my book on “How to Reverse Immune Dysfunction” and consider daily enemas with garlic, vinegar and chlorophyll added. I am adding these specific suggestions here because they are so effective and many readers are now telling me that they are both delighted and overwhelmed with all the information I am providing. Like learning a new dance, take it one step at a time.
Note: The book on IP6 is published by Kensington Books, New York, NY. It can be found in health food stores and book stores.
Michelle Dopson of Chisolm Biological Labs told me a few days ago that they are getting awesome results with a new transfer factor for persons with CFIDS or Fibromyalgia (FM). The new CFIDS and FM transfer factor was made with blood drawn from 7 persons with FM and 7 with CFIDS. It does not contain transfer factor specific for HIV. The DS (Disease State) grade of transfer factor for CFIDS is producing good results at one capsule daily. In a surprise development a person diagnosed with Lou Gerigs disease which is crippling and often fatal actually had late stages of Lyme’s disease. There are several reports I am now receiving of persons with CFIDS or FM who are testing positive for Lyme’s. Anyone who is not responding to immune based therapies and has CFIDS, FM or Lou Gerigs disease should have themselves tested for Lyme’s. For many persons, Lyme’s disease may turn out to be a surprise factor in these conditions. Test for Lyme’s Disease.
In regards to Lyme’s disease, 4 more people with this condition have reported a substantial reduction in symptoms after the oral use of an extract of the venus fly-trap (VFT) plant. The dose used was 1 teaspoon 3 times a day on an empty stomach. In the current newsletter, I reported on a physician from Connecticut who claims to have completely cleared lymes disease after using the VFT extract for 6 weeks. VFT used in combination with CFIDS transfer factor may produce better results than either one alone in especially difficult cases. Because of the high enzyme activity of VFT, it should be taken alone on an empty stomach or at least one hour from the time transfer factor is used.
Iowa: Jim Mayhew told me last week that a recent series of extensive blood tests show he has antibodies for hepatitis B virus and HHV-6, but no active replication of either virus is ongoing. He credits high doses of 6 to 12 Nature’s Biotics SBO’s capsules daily that he has taken for the past 9 months as having a critical role in his recovery. He also drinks fresh vegetable juices and uses Cell System one mineral ascorbates, rides a bicycle several miles each day and drinks lots of water. For years, he suffered from CFIDS, but says he now feels great. For more information, Jim can be reached at 515-472-1989.
Not another treatment? SDS, a common soap is reported to kill HIV, HPV, herpes and other lipid envelope viruses. The compound also kills the bacteria that causes chlamydia. SDS is a common soap found in toothpaste and in shampoo. For some time, I have been fascinated with substances that have detergent-like properties that dissolve lipid-envelope viruses. I actually have been searching for an edible soap as a low cost, safe and effective treatment for AIDS, CFIDS, CMV, EBV, HHV-6A etc. Lauric acid in coconut oil must first be hydrolyzed in the small intestines before it turns into monolaurin, a fatty substance with detergent-like properties. There are questions as to whether the small intestines of every person can effectively do this and how well monolaurin is absorbed.
For some time, I have been looking for something to add to coconut oil to increase monolaurin production and absorption, but without any success. As reported in our current newsletter, “Surfactin” is a detergent-like substance produced by soil-based organisms that kills lipid envelope viruses. Certain detergents have also been used to disinfect blood plasma.
While the main stream media has widely reported on SDS, many questions remain. Is it safe to take SDS internally, how much do you consume and are there side effects? Human Papilloma virus is wide spread, causes anal and vaginal warts and cervical cancer. A safe and effective treatment for HPV has been long awaited. SDS may also give HHV-6 a good kick.
An article on SDS can be found in the March, 1999, issue of Alive and Kicking, published by We the People, Phila, PA http://www. critpath.org/wtp.
One of our readers has begun taking Neem leaf capsules for the next 4 weeks to determine its effects on HIV viral load. He is starting with one capsule 3 times a day and will work up to 3 capsules three times a day. Results should be known by early May. Neem is reported in our current newsletter to not only boost Th1 cytokines, but is a very powerful anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial herb.
Within one month, I hope to also start testing SDS. It looks too good at this point to pass up. Interestingly, many substances that end in the word “sulfate” seem to have strong anti-viral properties that inactivate a variety of lipid envelope viruses. (glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, dextran sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate). Garlic and onions are also high in natural sulfur compounds and both have strong anti-viral properties. For strictly anti-viral therapies, the study of different sulfate compounds needs further investigation. This concludes this month’s message.
Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive
Mark Konlee
This month’s issue of Progressive Health News is a Summary of factors that induce Th1 and Th2 cytokines that is excerpted from Positive Health News, Report No 18 that will be printed on March 15th and mailed out March 16th. More details will be provided in the upcoming issue of Positive Health News that you should receive within the next few days. Persons with HIV, HHV-6A, CFIDS, Multiple allergies and MCS, GWS and cancer have a predominance of Th2 cytokines and a lack of Th1’s. The shift from Th2 to Th1 will restore the ability of the immune system to eradicate intracellular infections and increase natural immunity to cancer. Note to internet readers: Positive Health News, No 18, should be online by March 15th.
Omega 3 fatty acids (N3) found in cold water fish reduce IL-6, tumor necrosis factor and support DTH. Oleic acid, found in olive oil (cold pressed) and hazelnut oil, vitamin A and L-glutamine increases IgA and improve mucosal integrity. The use of two heat-treated strains of lactobacillus - L. Plantarum and L. Casei induces a strong IL-12 response and increases IFN-gamma and strengthen the systemic immune response against all intra-cellular infections and even cancers. The intestinal flora Bifidobacterium longum also increases IgA and improves mucosal immunity. Silica reduces excess IgG and this improves NK function and improves the integrity of the skin and mucus membranes.
1. Omega 3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) found in all cold water fish, especially in salmon, sardines, mackerel, halibut and trout. Supplements: Max DHA (Jarrow Formulas) Salmon oil capsules, Cod liver oil. DHA - 1500 to 2500 mg daily and EPA - 500 to 1000 mg daily.
2. Oleic acids (Monounsaturated). Best choice is cold pressed olive oil (a therapeutic dose is 4 tablespoons daily), 2nd best - hazelnut or filbert oil. Also green and ripe olives, filberts and hazelnuts. Third - almonds and almond oil.
3. Vitamin A - 2 tablespoons of cod liver oil daily (Dale Alexander emulsified) or 25,000 i.u. daily of Vitamin A with vitamin D plus 1/2 to 1 lb daily of any of the following sourcesof carotenoids: cooked carrots, squash, pumpkin and sweet potatoes (yams).
4. L-Glutamine - 10 to 20 grams or more daily or as directed. Maintenance: 2000 mg daily.
5. Silica - One serving of cooked oatmeal or millet daily and/or the herb horsetail (3 caps 2X) or Bio-Sil (Jarrow Formulas) - the most bio-available form - 10 drops 3 times a day. Maintenance - 10 drops once a day.
6. L-plantarum and/or L casei and B. longum - up to 1 teaspoon of powder 2 or 3 times a day. After 7 to 14 days of use, you may only need to use this 3 days per week.
Other products like Neem, soil based organisms (SBO’s) and supplemental factors that replace glutathione help Th1 responses. The more of the above items you use, the faster you will see results. It is critically important to completely avoid processed vegetable oils and foods cooked with them and other factors that promote Th2 cytokines.
The three most common factors that drive Th2 cytokine responses are:
1. Faulty digestion leading to absorption of partially digested and unusable proteins and other food particles (increases IgG and IgE antibody responses that are directed against these foreign food particles). Here we see the therapeutic benefits of digestive enzymes, eating slowly mixing lots of saliva with food and eating only when hungry).
2. White sugar and glucose and all processed foods containing these (Coke, canned soda, candy bars, cake, pie, sweet rolls etc.) - directly weakens the functioning of macrophages, natural killer cells and other white blood cells and weakens systemic resistance to all infections.
3. Consuming trans-fatty acids found in most heated and processed vegetable oils (soy, canola, safflower, corn and sunflower) that are high in n-6 fatty acids (linoleic) and food products made with them (i.e. french fries and potato chips). Vegetable oils high in linoleic trans-fatty acids stimulate IL-6 and depress delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) thus weakening CD8 Killer-T cell activity. The trans-fatty acids are twisted out of their normal “cis” shape and produce cell membranes that are porous and vulnerable to viral infections.
For example, persons who consume canned soda (i.e. Coco-cola) and french fries daily and are already immune compromised will worsen their condition by these dietary choices. Many other factors that stimulate a Th2 response will be discussed later. Some herbs (Echinacea and Astragalus) stimulate both Th1 and Th2 cytokines.
1. Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA & EPA) found in cold water fish, salmon, sardine and cod liver oil (improves DTH, lowers triglycerides, TNF and IL-6) - helps prevent heart disease and cancer. Flaxseed also contains some omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Monounsaturated fats found in olive and hazelnut oils (reduces TNF and increases IgA - supports mucosal immunity). Adult therapeutic dose: 4 tablespoons daily.
3. Vitamin A (increases transport of IGA - supports mucosal immunity) . Cod liver oil 2 tbsp daily.
4. L-Glutamine - support structure of mucus membranes, mucosal immunity and Glutathione levels
5. Silica - reduces IgG and improves NK function.
6. Digestive enzymes - improves digestion and assimilation of proteins and other nutrients, reduces circulating immune complexes that cause antibody and autoantibody formation. Protein digestive enzymes are found naturally in fresh ginger root, raw pineapple and kiwi fruit. (quality proteins support mucus membrane integrity). Additional factors that support digestion are:
a. Cayenne - 1 or 2 capsules taken before meals stimulates hunger and digestive enzymes. (support digestion of nutrients for mucosal membrane integrity)
b. Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar - taken with meals stimulates hydrochloric acid for protein digestion. (support digestion of nutrients for mucosal membrane integrity). Vinegar, any type, kills HIV and may other pathogens.
c. B vitamins - several kinds are needed to support hydrochloric acid production that is needed for protein digestion. B6 is very important for CMI.
d. Magnesium - needed by pancreas to produce pancreatin - used to digest proteins.
7. Friendly intestinal flora a. Lactobacillus Plantarum and L casei - potent inducers of IL-12 and IFN-gamma. Supports mucosal immunity. b. Bifidobacterium longum - increases IgA - supports mucosal immunity - reduces candida albicans - improves lactose tolerance. c. Acidophilus - promotes resistance to colonization of candida albicans.
8. Ginseng (Red Korean or concentrated Siberian Ginseng extract) - increases IL-2, IFN-gamma and NK function.
9. Chlorella- broken cell wall - use liquid, granules or capsules only - not tablets with binders. Increases IL-12, GM-CSF and activates macrophages. Note: Spirulina and some other sea vegetables may have similar benefits - data lacking.
10. L-Thyroxine (T4) a thyroid hormone that is a potent inducer of IFN-gamma. Sources: Am J Physiol 1997 Oct;273(4 Pt 1):C125-32 and J Immunol 1998 Jul 15;161(2):843-9
11. Soil Based Organisms (SBO’s) (bacillus subtilis and lichenformis) - produce surfactin that inactivates lipid envelope viruses (HIV, CMV, herpes etc), kills mycoplasmas and many bacteria and candida albicans. By reducing candida albicans, SBO’s reduce Th2 cytokines.
12. Garlic - raw or aged extract - promotes NK function and IL-2. Raw garlic kills HIV, many kinds of fungus and bacteria including MAC.
13. L-Glutathione - promotes antigen presentation and stimulates CD8 CTL’s. An antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals. Alpha Lipoic acid, selenium, NAC, cold processed whey proteins, certified raw milk and L-glutamine support increased Glutathione levels.
14. DHEA or AED (androstendiol). - increases IL-2, IFN-gamma and decreases IL-6 and 10.
15. Acupuncture (points ST36, LI11 and RN6) increase IL-2, IFN-gamma and NK function.
16. UVA light - promotes IL-12.
17. Vitamin E - increases IL-2, NK function and IFN-gamma. Reduces NF-kappa B.
18. Transfer factor (antigen specific) - protein immuno-modulators extracted from colostrum from immunologically stimulated animals that promotes DTH and specific immunity to certain antigens (viruses etc.).
19. Colostrum - contains IgA - promotes mucosal immunity and immunity to specific antigens to which the animal was exposed.
20. Naltrexone - promotes NK function and resistance to candida albicans, thus reducing Th2 cytokines.
21. IP6 - found in brown rice and corn - promotes NK function.
22. NK911 - a transfer factor that stimulates NK function.
23. Lentinian and certain other mushrooms - promote Th1 cytokines and NK function.
24. Thy-Mate and thymic factors (Bio-Pro thymic Protein A) - increases IL-2 and T cell counts.
25. DNCB - promotes DTH and CD8 CTL activity
26. Licorice root and Dong Quai - reduces antibody production.
27. Beta 1, 3 glucan - found in the common yeast and in oats and oat sprouts/rye sprouts - stimulates macrophage and neutrophil function. Note: may also spike IL-6 levels indicating a cross-regulatory role.
28. Noni -Tahitian - 2 tablespoons twice daily - promotes NK function and immunity against cancer.
29. Neem - promotes IFN-gamma and increases CD8s - also, a powerful antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial herb.
30. Gingko Biloba - reduces cortisol production that suppresses Th1 cytokines.
31. Exercise - aerobic - light and fun. Walking, gardening, dancing, sports. increases endorphin levels - improves NK function - removes toxins from body.
32. Water- Drink 8 to 12 glasses daily - removes toxins - reduces stress on adrenals, liver and kidneys.
33. Positive attitude and prayer. - ability to forgive, compassionate, willingness to help others. Long term goals, not just daily and a will to live. Reduces stress on the adrenal glands.
Note: This list is not complete. A further search of the scientific literature may result in further additions.
Note: items 1 and 2, vegetable oils and sugar are the most commonly used foods that depress cell mediated immunity in the American diet.
1. Processed heated vegetable oils high in trans-fatty acids and linoleic acid (safflower, soy, canola, corn and sunflower). Unless they are cold-processed or expeller pressed, they are already damaged goods by the time they reach grocery shelves and very immunosuppressive. They can also cause heart disease and cancer. Processed foods like french fries, potato chips, corn chips and pastry are usually load with these oils.
2. Glucose (white sugar) -candy bars, pastry, soda etc - suppresses function of all white blood cells, particularly macrophages.
3. Asbestos
4. Lead, mercury and other heavy metals
5. Pesticides, air and water pollutants
6. Progesterone
7 Prednisone
8. Morphine
9. Tobacco
10. Cortisol
11. Anal sex leading to discharge of semen - leads to circulating immune complexes when recipient has leaky gut syndrome and lack of good mucosal immunity.
12. HIV, candida albicans, HCV, E coli and many other pathogens.
13. Stress (continuous) - emotional, financial, fear and worry
14. Thalidomide
15. UVB
16. Pregnancy - A Th2 cytokine predominant profile is needed. A strong Th1 cytokine profile including TNF can cause an abortion. Immune system rejects fetus.
17. Melatonin? conflicting research suggests that high levels induce Th2 cytokines while very small amounts induce Th1 cytokines.
18 Alcohol - Note: Studies on animals show that ethanol (alcohol) definitely suppresses Th1 cytokines and induces Th2. However, beer was not tested. In several anecdotal cases I have followed for several years, drinking beer alone, without hard liquor, has slowed down or even stopped HIV progression to AIDS. Is it the Hops?
19. Streptococcus Thermophilis - a bacteria often used in making commercial yogurt, even yogurt that has acidophilus added may also have S Thermophilis.
20. Candidiasis (systemic candida albican infection) - stimulates Th2 cytokines.
21. Circulating immune complexes (CIC’s) - caused by a combination of leaky gut syndrome and poor digestion of proteins due to a lack or HCL and digestive enzymes.
22. Sedentary life - lack of exercise - leads to a build up of toxins that weakens CMI.
23. Water - lack of thirst - leaves to toxic overload and depressed CMI.
24. Negative attitudes - suppressed anger/rage - inability to forgive, resentful, hold grudges - stresses the adrenal glands and increases cortisol levels leading to adrenal exhaustion.
25. Low body temperature
26. Acid saliva pH
27 Chronic insomnia - inability to get a good night’s sleep - inability to dream.
28. Weight lifting - muscle tearing increases cortisol levels.
29. Steroids - for muscle gain - some are very hard on the liver and adrenals - suppress Th1 cytokines.
Note:. A further search of the scientific literature may result in further additions. I want to thank John Sexton for the files he sent me which helped immeasurably in the preparation of this article. Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive
Back to the Future or Forward to the Past?
Mark Konlee - Feb. 1, 1999.
Michael J. Fox starred in the Hollywood movie “Back to the Future” while I now will step back in time to an article I wrote in the 4th edition of the “AIDS Control Diet” book on October 20, 1992, titled “A THEORY ON HIV PROGRESSION.” This theory is resurrected today as it is very relevant in light of the bombshell articles by Andrew Korotzer, Ph.D. in the current issue of Searchlight magazine called “The Gut Reaction to HIV” and “Whole Body Viral Burden” - hence Forward to the Past.
In my article written in 1992, I hypothesized the following: “Gastrointestinal tract inflammation caused by immune system attack on HIV....As the (HIV) virus grows in the intestinal tract, it passes through the intestinal wall and into the blood stream.” I also reported on the novel theory of Dr. Gerhard Orth of Germany that AIDS is caused by the destruction of intestinal mucus membranes by fungal infections. While I don’t agree with Dr. Orth’s theory that fungal infections alone of the intestines are the primary cause of AIDS, they are most likely a co-factor. I did find it plausible that damage to the mucus membranes could contribute to AIDS and I raised this interesting question: “As a spin-off to Dr. Orth’s theories, could the HIV virus be destroying the mucus membranes of the gastrointestinal tract?”
Today, there is no evidence that HIV actually destroys the mucus membranes of the GI tract, but rather, scientific research indicates that HIV uses the mucus membranes as fertile soil to replicate, infect and destroy CD4 helper cells that are adjacent in the lamina propria of the intestines.
The research of Korotzer, Fantini J, Yahi N and many others demonstrate that HIV can infect the mucosal membranes of the colon (large intestines) not only as a primary route to transmit HIV infection, but actually replicate in the mucosal membranes where the virus passes through the epithelium into the lamina propria where it comes in contact with activated CD4 helper T cells that are vulnerable to infection.
While it is well known that unprotected anal sex in gay men is the primary route for spreading the AIDS virus, it has been long assumed that this source of entry for HIV in the rectum is important only as it leads to HIV/AIDS as a blood disease.
WRONG! The latest information gleaned from several sources indicates that for the loss of CD4 helper cells, a hallmark for HIV progression to AIDS, there must be active and ongoing replication of HIV in the mucus membranes of the gastrointestinal (G.I.) tract.
It is well established that SIV is to monkeys what HIV is to humans as an immunodeficiency virus. An article published by Veazey RS et al in Science, April 17, 1998, titled “Gastrointestinal tract as a major cite of CD4 depletion and viral replication in SIV infection.” (1) reports the following:
“Human and simian immunodeficiency virus (HIV and SIV) replicate optimally in activated memory CD4+ T cell, a cell type that is abundant in the intestine. SIV infection of rhesus monkey resulted in profound and selective depletion of CD4+ T cells in the intestine within days of infection, before any such changes in peripheral lymphoid tissues. The loss of CD4+ T cells in the intestine occurred coincident with productive infection of large numbers of mononuclear cells at this site. The intestine appears to be a major target of SIV replication and the major site of CD4+ T cell loss in early SIV infection.”
1. Veazey et al; Science. 1998 Apr 17;280(5362):427-31.
Korotzer reports on research that demonstrates that even when SIV is injected into monkeys, within days, it has actively infected the intestines. While SIV initially entered the host via the blood, it preferentially replicates in the intestines. What is especially significant is that in monkeys, CD4 T cell depletion due to SIV infection in the intestines precedes SIV infection of the lymphoid tissues (lymph nodes). It is also significant that there are more complaints in persons HIV+ about the gastrointestinal tract at all stages of AIDS than any other single area of the human body.
This raises three important questions. 1. Should we not be targeting the intestines with anti-viral treatments for HIV? 2. Should we not be focusing on treatments to restore mucosal immunity to stop the replication of HIV in the membranes of the intestines? and 3. What are the treatment options most promising to attain both objectives?
In the winter 98/99 edition of Searchlight, the official publication of AIDS RESEARCH ALLIANCE of West Hollywood, CA, is an article by Andrew Korotzer, Ph.D. titled “The gut reaction to HIV.” Korotzer cites research in 3 major scientific publications (1,2,3) including “Nature’s Medicine,” “AIDS” and the “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” that indicates that about 14% of HIV replication occurs in the blood while 86% occurs the mucosal membranes of the intestinal tract and in the lymph nodes.
These findings have profound implications in designing future treatments for HIV by focusing anti-viral therapy on the areas where the highest concentrations of HIV is found - the intestinal tract and the lymphatic system.
1. Dianzani F et al. Nature Medicine (1996) 2:832
2.Fackler O.T. et al. AIDS (1998) 12:139-146
3. Pantaleo G. et al. Nature (1993) 362:355-358
4. Wong J.K. et al. Proc. Natl. Acad Sci USA (1997) 94:12574-12579.
Korotzer states:
“Mucosal membranes in the rectum and the urogenital tracts serve as entry points for sexually transmitted HIV; therefore, viral dynamics in these tissues are particularly relevant to the etiology of HIV/IDS. This holds true even for lymphoid tissue in mucosal membranes when the initial infection occurs elsewhere. SIV, a virus related to HIV that infects monkeys, will become established in GALT (Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue) within days of infection - even when the virus was inoculated intravenously. This highlights the special vulnerability of GALT to infection with HIV.”
Korotzer cites 3 factors that makes the mucosal membranes of the gut vulnerable to HIV infection. They are 1. the presence of a large population of activated CD4 helper cells 2. mucosal membranes in the gut transport digested food material into the body for evaluation by immune cells and 3. surface molecules that HIV uses as a point to gain entry into the cells (i.e. CD4s) are highly expressed in the gut making them vulnerable to infection. Other factors that Stress the Immune Response in Digestion
CD4 and many other types of white blood cells are in the intestines to inspect and determine the safety of the byproducts of digestion. Proteins and other nutrients that are not properly digested are attacked by the immune system when they get past the mucus membranes. Hence the importance of eating foods in a way to assist in their complete digestion, that is, eating slowly and mixing lot of saliva with each mouthful. The use of cultured, fermented, raw or living foods high in natural digestive enzymes or the taking of supplemental enzymes will assist in the digestion process. When you combine poor digestion with leaky gut syndrome caused by Candida Albican overgrowth, you have a combination that causes serious stress on the immune system and weakens the capacity of the immune system to deal effectively with infectious organisms elsewhere in the body.
This stress is further exacerbated when the mucus membranes are weak and there is a failure of mucosal immunity (i.e.. lack of IgA and CD8 cytotoxic lymphocytes in the mucosal membranes). These factors that can stress the immune response occur not only in HIV infection, but in HHV-6A, CFIDS, Candidiasis, Hepatitis, GWS, cancer and in persons with allergies and multiple chemical sensitivities.
While it is well known that HIV preferentially infects activated CD4 cells, Korotzer reports that because CD4 cells in the lamina propria of the gut are highly activated, they present surface molecules that make them very susceptible to infection by HIV. The lamina propria are under a single layer of mucus membrane called epithelial cells. Korotzer reports that HIV clings to a type of cell in the mucus membranes called “M” cells and the M cells are thought to present antigen to the CD4 helper cells in the lamina propria. He states:
“M cells are the cell type within the epithelium thought to be responsible for the transport and presentation of antigen to lymphoid cells within. Lymphocytes migrate towards the M cells to become educated about the material the gut is being exposed to. Many of these lymphocytes are the activated helper T cells that are particularly vulnerable to infection with HIV. HIV can adhere to the surface of M cells, and it is possible that T cells inside the gut mucosa become infected when they migrate out to meet M cells.”
Korotzer states:
“there is a selective loss of CD4+ helper T cells within the lamina propria, and there are indications that helper T cells are depleted in the lamina propria before there is loss detected in the blood.”Korotzer states that Dr. Peter Anton and associates at UCLA reported at the recent XII AIDS Conference in Geneva that using endoscopic rectal biopsies that chemokine receptors of T cells in the gastrointestinal tract made them particularly vulnerable to HIV infection. In a second article published in the same issue of Searchlight(1) called “Whole-body viral burden” Korotzer points to research that indicates that HIV replication activity in the gut is greater than in the lymph nodes or any other tissues in the body. In his article on “Whole-body viral burden” Korotzer states that “blood/plasma levels of HIV are just the tip of the iceberg.” He is collaborating with Dr. Peter Anton of UCLA to develop techniques to quantify the amount of virus lurking within tissue compartments of the body. Korotzer raises two questions in conclusion to his article on “Whole-body viral burden.’ They are
1. Does HIV viral replication in the gut have an impact on the course of HIV disease?
2. Does the high rate of HIV replication in the gut contribute to drug resistant strains of HIV?
Ref: 1. Searchlight, 621A North San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Winter 98/99 issue. Ph No 310-358-2423. Subscriptions available with a $35 donation. They may mail you a free sample on request.
1. “HIV-1 p24 but not proviral load is increased in the intestinal mucosa compared with the peripheral blood in HIV-infected patients.” Fackler OT et al. AIDS. 1998 Jan 22;12(2):139-46. Fackler states:
“The high viral antigen load in the intestine therefore indicates that mucosal HIV production is upregulated at the transcriptional and/or translational level. The intestinal mucosa is a major reservoir for HIV in HIV-infected patients.”
2. “Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) stimulates bi-directional production of HIV-1 in polarized human colon epithelial cells,” Yahi N et al, Int Conf AIDS. 1993 abstract no PO-A13-0220) Yahi states:
“TNF-alpha is a potent stimulator of HIV-1 replication in chronically infected differentiated HT29 (gastrointestinal epithelial) cells...”
3. “Perturbations of glucose metabolism associated with HIV infection in human intestinal epithelial cells.” Lutz et al, AIDS. Feb;11(2):147-55 Lutz states:
“HIV-1 infection results in a disturbance of glycolytic and oxidative activities in human intestinal epithelial cells.”
4. “Intracellular calcium release induced by HIV-1 surface envelope glycoprotein in human intestinal epithelial cells: a putative mechanism for HIV-1 enteropathy,” by Dayanithi G et al Cell Calcium. 1995 Jul.18(1):9-18 Dayanithi states:
“HIV-1 may directly alter ion secretion in the intestine and thus be the causative agent of the watery diarrhea associated with HIV-1 infection.”
5. “Physical contact with lymphocytes is required for reactivation of dormant HIV-1 in colonic epithelial cells,” Faure E et al, Virus Res. 1994 Oct; 34(1):1-13 Faure et al state:
“observations provide a putative molecular mechanism for transmission of HIV-1 from mucosal epithelial cells to lymphocytes.”
6. “Replication and apical budding of HIV-1 in mucus-secreting colonic epithelial cells,” Yahi N et al. J. Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 1992 Oct 2(10):993-1000. Yahi et al state:
“data suggest that HIV-infected goblet cells in the colonic mucosa may produce the virus in the colorectal lumen (mucosal membrane); this could explain the route of transmission of HIV in the case of anal intercourse.”
7. “Selected HIV replicates preferentially through the basolateral surface of differentiated human colon epithelial cells,” Fantini J et al. Virology. 1991 Dec; 185(2):904-7 Fantini et al state:
“data suggests that epithelial cells of the colon productively infected with HIV are able to produce the virus through both sides of the epithelium but mainly through the serosal side.”
Editor's Note: the serosal side of the mucus membranes (the epithelium) is the outermost area of the tube-shaped intestinal tract that adjoins the lamina propria where CD4 helper cell meet the mucus membranes.
The large intestines (Colon) is a nest for the growth and replication of many pathogens that contribute to immune dysfunction and many symptoms. Published scientific research demonstrates that the gut can be heavily infected with HIV, parasites, candida albicans, CMV, tuberculosis, hepatitis viruses, cytomegalovirus and mycobacterium avium complex (MAC/MAI) to name a few.
Korotzer did not get into the issue of targeting treatment for HIV infection in the mucosal membranes of the large intestines, but I will. Several years ago I espoused the theory that AIDS progression was caused by massive replication of HIV in the colon that was absorbed into the blood. This was in the forerunner of my current book “How to Reverse Immune Dysfunction” called “AIDS Control Diet.” which had 6 editions before the title was renamed.
The reason for focusing on developing an effective treatment for HIV infection in the gut should be all but obvious. If the primary source of destruction of CD4 cells and HIV replication is occurring in the mucus membranes of the intestinal tract, then this is the area that we need to specifically target to reverse the course of HIV infection. The benefits of destroying billions of HIV viruses in the gut are that it will reduce the number of new CD4 cells infected with HIV and reduce the whole body viral burden including that in the lymph nodes. This will lead to a drop in plasma viral loads and an increase in CD4 counts in blood plasma.
In CFIDS, restoring mucosal integrity and immunity should substantially reduce symptoms and digestive disorders and improve the immune response against HHV-6A that causes neurological aberrations elsewhere.
Stanley Rebultan is now in his 13th year of daily bitter melon enemas as a monotherapy for HIV and is going strong. He has never had an opportunistic infec
