Mark Konlee
Note: The November issue of “Progressive Health News” was canceled because of my limited time due to mailing out 15000 of 16000 copies of Positive Health News and resumes with this issue.
The latest issue of Positive Health News, Report No 19, focuses on restoring intestinal health. This newsletter focuses on restoring appetite, stimulating digestion, lowering the pH of the colon to inhibit viral, fungal and bacterial activity and the toxins they produce in the large intestines as well as rebuilding the mucus membranes, a prerequisite for mucosal immunity; and restoring normal body temperature.
One area I did not cover in the current newsletter that affects the immune system is parasites, a problem that affects nearly 100% of all persons chronically immune compromised regardless of cause. However, before getting into this month’s subject of parasites, I have ---
Robert M of Brooklyn (HIV+) called to report these results from taking cayenne and apple cider vinegar orally for two weeks. His CD4’s increased from 224 to 289; CD8’s from 500 to 900 and WBC’s from 5.5 to 6.9. His viral load remained the about the same declining slightly from 10,600 to 10,300. He had been on a triple cocktail that did not include protease inhibitors for the past several months with a slow and gradual increase in viral load - a failing protocol. The only two changes he made was to add cayenne and vinegar to his daily diet. He also reports that his body temperature increased 2 degrees going from 97.8 to 99.8°F. He took one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water before bedtime once a day. He took 2 cayenne capsules with breakfast, one for lunch and two with his evening meal. He did not do the daily enemas with vinegar and garlic.
Several persons have called in the past few weeks to report incredible increases in energy and well being since staring on the daily enemas with garlic and vinegar added ( as described in the Report No 19 - the current issue).
Boston, MA. Carl J added a parasite cleanse program to his already intensive self-treatment regimen plus started doing daily enemas with garlic and vinegar added. (He did not use the garlic or vinegar orally). He reports his CD4 counts increased from 378 to 472, CD8’s from 351 to 607 and viral load decreased from 18,500 to 13,100. He did not use the cayenne or VFT extract or, in my opinion, his results would have been even better. A complete copy of his protocol is now available by writing to Keep Hope Alive. Ask for the Carl J protocol.
Note: The most effective way of using vinegar is to use it orally as well as rectally in enema water. The oral use will kill HIV, HHV-6, CMV and other lipid envelope viruses in the small intestines while the enemas will destroy most of these viruses in the large intestines. Vinegar cuts grease and all lipid envelope viruses should dissolve instantly in vinegar plus water. Suggestion: Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 1/2 cup of aloe vera juice and add 1/2 cup of water plus 1 tsp. of psyllium powder. Mix this and drink it before bedtime. The aloe will help the vinegar penetrate deeper into the mucus membranes for a greater antiviral effect and the psyllium will create a time-release effects for further penetration into the small intestines. In enemas, try to hold the vinegar/garlic and water mixture about 5 minutes before releasing it as you finish the enema. This will allow for greater penetration in the colon. Aloe or any other substance that makes water wetter will have also enhance the penetrating effects and the antiviral effect.
By targeting the small as well as the large intestines from both ends, we should see even more impressive results that we are presently obtaining. An alternative to the before bedtime drink is to use red wine or apple cider vinegar in salads once a day. Also, dill pickles, green olives and pickled vegetables are additional sources of virus killing acetic acid. Note: do not drink pure vinegar. It is too strong and will irritate the mucus membranes. The trick is to use enough to kill the viruses without using so much as to get side effects. Lemon juice which is also acidic should also kill HIV and other envelope viruses.
Jim Mayhew (IA) reported phenomenal results with the enemas. He used both garlic and more vinegar that I recommended - 1/2 cup per 1.5 qt enema bag. He said that 3 hours after doing this all his swollen lymph nodes in his neck were 100% gone. Note: Persons are advised not to use more than 3 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar per pint of enema water as too much can be irritating to the colon. Personally I think that 3 tablespoons per 1.5 qt enema bag is sufficient but you might want to try higher doses to see if better results can be obtained if you can tolerate it. You can also use wine vinegar on salads or eat dill pickles, green olives and pickled vegetables as sources of vinegar and acetic acid. I wouldn’t drink vinegar straight, however, it needs to be diluted.
One person reported that his stomach could not tolerate taking the cayenne capsules. Suggestion: Use teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a small glass of water for each capsule of cayenne you take and you will find few fewer stomach problems tolerating the cayenne. i.e. if you take 2 cayenne caps, take 2 tsps of vinegar in about 4 ounces of water at the same time.
In the current newsletter (Report 19), I told of a person who has been doing coffee retention enemas 5 times a week for the past 10 years and kept his viral load under 7000 and his CD4’s over 600 without ever using any prescription drugs. He used regular coffee made from roasted coffee beans (the grocery store variety). I also reported on published research that has found a new class of anti-HIV drugs in green coffee beans but did not know where to locate the green coffee beans. Thanks to Robert M, a reader in Miami, green coffee beans have been located on the internet at www.sweetmarias.com or by calling 888-876-5917 or 614-294-1816.
Retention enemas made from freshly ground green coffee beans? No one has yet tried this, to my knowledge. Don’t know what to expect. The website has over 30 varieties of green coffee beans. For starters, it would be best to try the Sampler Pak they offer. For persons who are caffeine sensitive, they also have decaffeinated green coffee beans. Since this is all quite new, I advise anyone to use a small amount of coffee made from the green coffee beans and observe its effects before using larger doses. Suggestion: talk to the owner at sweetmarias to see if he is aware of any problems drinking green coffee beans and drink a small amount first before trying the enema. (I was unsuccessful at reaching him earlier today).
Note: A person with CFIDS told me recently that she has been doing coffee retention enemas twice a day for several years and says she could not have survived without them. She says: “the coffee retention enemas pull a lot of toxins out of my liver every day.” Question: Will the decaffeinated coffee beans have the same effect?
Steven Rahn whom I interviewed last fall called this week with some really great news finally. His viral load has dropped from 800,000 to 1500 in 8 weeks. CD4’s increased from 9 to 32; CD8’s from 400 to 704. Throughout the summer, I had tried to convince him to go on a good cocktail of Norvir, D4T and 3TC. I told him his immune system was too deteriorated to rely only on diet, nutrition and a few immune modulators on his limited budget. I told him he needed a shot gun approach combining it all together to turn his condition around. I added: “after your immune system and T cells have recovered in about 6 months and your viral load is non-detectable, you might want to try the diet, nutrition and immune modulators again without the drugs, but right now, dam the torpedoes (the drug’s side effects) and hit it hard with everything that might work.”
He followed my suggestion and phased in the 3 drugs using D4T the first week, adding 3TC the second week and Norvir the 3rd week. He gradually increased the Norvir to 10 capsules daily taking 4 with breakfast, 2 with lunch and 4 with a late evening meal. He has tolerated the drugs well and far better than he expected. He started the drug cocktail in September when it became apparent that his KS lesions were not going to go away on their own. The KS lesions are about 50% gone right now. He also used cayenne, Perfect Plus soluble rice bran, Ionic trace minerals (SGS Research), Methyl B12 and maintains a good diet. He stopped all supplements with B-6 a few months ago when I reported on research linking B-6 to cancer progression in laboratory animals.
One more Item. Late in October, about 6 weeks into the drug combo, his right foot swelled up badly and he could barely walk. The doctors were puzzled and one suggested a possible KS lesion blocking a lymph node in his leg. I told him I had seen this happen in Milwaukee with someone I knew who had KS whose foot swelled up tremendously due to a KS lesion blocking lymph flow in his leg. I suggested that he use up a bottle of Venus Fly-Trap extract at a real high dose - one teaspoon 3 times daily. He had stopped using the VFT extract at the time he started on the drug cocktail about 6 weeks earlier. He immediately started on the VFT extract at this high dose while continuing the drug cocktail and in 3 days, the swelling was reduced by 80%. In 5 days the swelling was completely gone. His latest blood test occurred about the time he nearly finished the VFT extract.
Note: This is the 3rd report on pulsed (intermittent) use of high doses of oral VFT extract that has produced amazing results. These reports suggest the most effective way to use the extract is one week on at a high dose of 1 tsp. 3 times daily (or 1/2 tsp. 6 times daily) and one week off before repeating the cycle. Another way to pulse VFT extract is to use take it at a high dose for 3 days per week (3 days on and 4 days off) and then repeat the cycle.
Anyone who follows a high fiber diet and takes probiotics like B Longum and Vital Biotics and is unable to obtain normal healthy stools in 2 weeks and who find themselves with periods of fatigue should suspect parasites as an underlying problem. Dr. Ross Anderson, one of America’s foremost parasitic infection specialists stated:
“I believe the single most undiagnosed health challenge in the history of the human race is parasites. I realize that this is a pretty brave statement, but it is based on my 20 years of experience with more than 20,000 patients.”
Dr. Richard Bowman Pearce has estimated that 80% of gay males are infected with parasites. Millions of Americans not associated with any high risk groups are also infected with parasites and do not know it. Parasites can be picked up from dogs and cats, and especially from kissing pets, undercooked meat and from eating unwashed or not properly washed fruits and vegetables as well as oral/anal sexual activity.
There are many types of parasites including the intestinal flukes, ascaris lumbricoides (estimated to have infected 1/4 of the world’s population), Schistosoma blood flukes, Giardia intestinalis, hookworms, beefworms and many others. Most people infected with parasites do not know they have them.
Symptoms of parasite infection can include any combination of the following: diarrhea, gas and bloating, leaky gut syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivity and allergies, depressed immunity, malabsorption of nutrients, itching around anus, joint and muscle pain, skin conditions and rashes, weeping eczema and other skin lesions, depression and anxiety, sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue.
Parasites especially like to live in feces and buildup in the colon. This is why a good high colonic is necessary to remove built-up fecal matter that is a hiding area and feeding ground for parasites. Parasites produce toxins, damage the mucosal membranes and can even get into the blood and infect major body organs. Dr. Shawn Wells, Ph.D. states that 90% of all disease starts in the colon.
An extensive 8 page article on Parasites-Silent Killers by Dr. Shawn Wells was published in “Alternative Medicine News, May, 1998, and copies are available by calling 800-388-7012. You can also ask them about a parasite cleanse product called “Internally Super Klean.”
Low cost suggestion: Before each meal, take 1 or 2 frozen castor oil capsules, 2 or 3 black walnut capsules (from green walnut hulls) and 50 drops of Clarkia 100 in a glass of water. Do this for 21 days. This should eliminate all the parasites. You should notice results in 3 or 4 days. Repeat this cleanse once every 6 months. Don’t forget to eat 3 cloves of raw garlic daily. A prescription drug called “Flagyl” is also used to kill parasites. One problem is that diagnostic tests from feces often fail to diagnose the presence of parasites and without a diagnosis, a doctor may not give you a prescription.
If you have any questions or comments, you can reach me by fax at 414-329-0653.
If you are making a year-end tax deductible donation, remember Keep Hope Alive. Without your support, this work could not continue.
Enjoy the holidays and have a healthy and Happy New Year.
© 1999
Keep Hope Alive, PO Box 270041, West Allis, WI 53227 414-548-4333
Mark Konlee
In February this year, I reported on scientific research published by “AIDS Research Alliance” that 86% of HIV replication occurs in the gut, specifically in the mucus membranes and the adjoining lamina propria. These bombshell findings were published in AIDS magazine, Nature’s Medicine and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. This research finds that not only is this the location of the most active HIV replication in humans but in the lamina propria of the intestines that adjoins the mucus membranes is the primary cite where HIV infects and destroys the CD4 helper cells.
The authors of these articles find that up to 60% of the immune cells including the CD4’s are located in the intestines. The CD4’s in the intestines are highly activated as they survey the byproducts of digestion to prevent entry into the blood of unwanted byproducts. CD4’s in the intestines are vulnerable to HIV infection as they have activated surface receptors that the virus uses to gain entry.
In the February issue of Progressive Health News, I published 13 types of enemas that persons could use daily that might help reduce the HIV viral load. Around mid-February, Karen M (MA) and Bob M (FL) started the daily use of garlic and vinegar enemas by adding a ground up emulsion of one or two cloves of garlic to 2 to 4 tablespoons of vinegar. The emulsion was added to a 1 and 1/2 quart enema bag filled with warm water.
In the last issue of Positive Health News, I reported on scientific research that establishes that both garlic and vinegar kill the HIV virus. The results coming from the enemas were not, however, easily traceable due to the fact that Bob M took digestive enzymes and some 20 other daily supplements and Karen M also took digestive enzymes and several other supplements suggested in past issues of this newsletter. By coincidence, both persons stopped doing the daily enemas late in June, 1999, and in the next 2 months, both persons had significant increases in their viral load. However, both persons continued on their other supplements. It was in analyzing the results of what they had been doing since February, 1999, that all three of us came to the same conclusion - that it was the enemas that brought down the viral load between February and June, 1999.
In Karen’s case, the viral load for HIV (by PCR) decreased from 96,000 in February to 22,000, a 77% decline. In Bob’s case, it dropped from 329, 000 to 27,000, a 92% decline. These drops occurred in a span of about 3 months from mid-February to May, 1999. Had not both persons stopped using the daily enemas in June, 1999, we may still not have figured out what had caused the viral load to decrease. It was a review of the lab results since February to the present and the changes in the protocols that lead to these surprising conclusions. Both persons have resumed the daily enemas earlier this month. Note: Karen had used 1 clove of garlic with 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar in the daily enema while Bob had used 2 cloves with either vinegar added (2 or 3 tablespoons) or aloe vera juice - about 1 pint per treatment. The garlic was ground in a blender with either the vinegar or the aloe vera and then was added to the 1.5 qt enema bag that was pre-filled with lukewarm water. From conversations I had with both persons, Bob retained the mixture in his colon longer than did Karen.
Remember the Marc Correa protocol, published about 2 years ago in Positive Health News. This 24 yr. old American of Cuban ancestry started with a viral load over 200,000 and at one point a CD4 count of zero. Today, he has CD4’s in the 800 range and has had a non-detectable viral load for more than a year. Incredibly, he accomplished this on a protocol that did not include any prescription drugs for HIV. In July, 1999, his physicians tried to culture HIV from lymph node biopsies and could not grow any virus even though some viral fragments were found.
For the past two years, I have been both puzzled and amazed by his protocol. Amazed at his stunning results and puzzled trying to figure out if there was some magical part to it that I had missed. No one, to my knowledge, has tried to exactly duplicate his entire protocol. Several persons have done the easier parts - taking some of the supplements and while reporting benefits have not had the same incredible results. Most notably, Marc Correa used the lemon/olive drink twice a day and passing interest was paid to his use of daily enemas and no attention was paid to the 3 cayenne capsules he took 3 times daily. The daily enemas included adding apple cider vinegar and he also did coffee retention enemas. His whole protocol had about 19 supplements or other parts to it.
In my current opinion, the most effective parts of the Marc Correa protocol were the 1. daily enemas, 2. cayenne (3 caps 3X), 3. whole lemon/olive oil drink, 4. the diet, 5. three raw garlic cloves he ate daily, 6. three liters of water he drank daily and 7. aerobic exercise.
The effectiveness of the enemas could be due to two reasons. The treatment targets an area, the colon, where 86% of the HIV in the body is located and second, just possibly, the HIV virus has been unable to develop resistance to either the raw garlic or the vinegar.
A published scientific abstract from a foreign medical journal written by Pisai Egyetem et al (1) titled “Different sensitivity to acid reaction of the AIDS virus and virus-producing cells” has some important observations that can be related to enemas that are acidic (either with vinegar added or coffee) and to the pH of the colon. pH is a measure of acidity or alkalinity with 0 being the most acid (i.e sulfuric acid) and 14 being the most alkaline (i.e. ammonia). What the researchers found is that cell free virus gradually loses its infectivity in an acidic medium and loses it completely when the pH is below 6.0. The more acid the colon, the more damage is done to the membranes of the virus and infectivity is lost.
The researchers state that
“HIV loses infectivity in the acidic vagina or ... on the skin, but infectivity is preserved in the blood, semen, rectum and breast milk being neutral or slightly alkaline.”
What is significant is that when just 2 tablespoons of vinegar are added to 1 and 1/2 quarts of water, the pH drops to 3.5, enough to irreparably damage the membranes of cell-free HIV so as to completely lose their infectivity and just possibly low enough to damage some HIV inside the cells. This adds justification to having a colon with active lactic acid producing bacteria that will create a more hostile acidic environment to suppress HIV replication along with other pathogenic microbes. When the pH of the colon is above 6.0 or higher (alkaline) is when HIV replicates and the CD4 counts decline. The stools formed in an alkaline environment in the colon will usually sink and are often small in diameter. Sometimes, the odor of ammonia is also apparent. While all strains of lactobacillus will produce lactic acid, one strain, B. Longum actually produces acetic acid, the same acid found in vinegar, making it an even more effective antimicrobial probiotic.
Within the past few months, Eden Foods has introduced to health food stores a new probiotic called Bifa 15, that contains microencapsulated B. Longum designed to get past the stomach acids and reach the colon. This product deserves special watching as acetic acid will produce a very hostile environment to HIV, Candida and most other infections of the large intestines. Researchers have also found that B Longum increases IgA, an immunoglobulin that improves mucosal immunity.
On 9/30/99 I spoke with Pamela D who told me of her personal experience using Bifa-15. She had suffered badly from candida albicans, was intolerant to wheat (gluten intolerance) and had multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and numerous allergies. After using one packet of the formulation daily for 6 weeks, she reported normal stools, more energy, better sleep and that most of her symptoms had gone away. She said she no longer is sensitive to perfumes. Bifa-15 could possibly be very helpful for persons immune-compromised whose colon pH is too alkaline. For more information, call Eden Foods at 800-654-7415. (Costs about $35 for a months supply).
1. Pisai Egyetem et al; Orv Hetil, 1990 Sep 9;131(36):1959-64.
Within the past few month, two readers with HIV have told me their viral load dropped dramatically when they added cayenne to their protocol. The last person reported a 50,000 drop in viral load in 4 weeks after adding 2 capsules of cayenne 3 times daily to his other regimen. Considering that Marc Correa used 3 capsules of cayenne 3 times daily as part of his original protocol and his dramatic results, cayenne, I thought, needed to be investigated in the treatment of HIV/AIDS and other conditions.
I felt that if cayenne were beneficial, then Mexico should have a significantly lower rate of HIV/AIDS than the US. Cayenne, Jalepeno and other hot peppers are widely consumed in Mexico as part of the daily diet. Searching the medical literature on the internet proved difficult in obtaining current figures on AIDS mortality in Mexico. I did find one report of an estimated 13,500 AIDS deaths in Mexico at the end of 1993 when the US deaths from AIDS had passed 200,000. These numbers indicate that the death rate from AIDS in the US in 1993 was 15 times greater than in Mexico. However, when you factor in the smaller population of Mexico as compared to the US population, the ratio of AIDS deaths in Mexico to the US is about 1 to 7. Yet, with Mexico having 1/7th or 85% fewer deaths from AIDS than the US, something must account for this difference. Several possibilities exist.
1. Mexicans abstain from sex more often than Americans.
2. They use condoms or practice safe sex.
3. The vulnerable groups, Intravenous Drug users and gay males are only 1/7 of the US population.
4. Cayenne or something else in the diet may have saved thousands of Mexicans from HIV and AIDS by acting against the HIV virus or strengthening the immune response.
Of these 4 possibilities listed, no information exists to support 1 and 2 and 3 is unknown to me. No 4, cayenne can be substantiated by the Mexican diet that uses hot or medium salsa almost on a daily basis. The low death rate from AIDS in Mexico does not alone prove that cayenne is responsible but it should keep interest in this subject alive and it should be investigated.
Note: Cheryl C who has CFIDS and Lyme disease told me recently that she started taking cayenne capsules 5 months ago and that it has improved her condition. She takes 2 capsules twice daily. When she stops using the cayenne, she has more symptoms.
For persons with HIV, the next challenge is to test this low-cost triple combination (garlic, vinegar and cayenne) over a period of several months to determine if the HIV viral load can be brought to non-detectable levels.
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.
New York: Frederic H reports an increase in CD4 counts from 198 to 217 after using 1/4 tsp. 3 times daily for 3 weeks. He is not using any prescription drugs. He said this is the first CD4 increase he has had in 3 years. No info on the viral load is available since starting the VFT extract. Steven Rahn reported an increase in CD8’s from 312 to 430 and in CD4’s from 6 to 9 while using VFT extract while his viral laod also increased. Recently, I advised Steven to try a combination of Norvir, D4T and 3TC as his condition with KS and his high viral load requires stronger medicine than what he has been using. He is now two weeks into this triple combination and handling it better than he expected. He is also on DMG - sublingual, the lemon/olive oil drink, Perfect Plus and Ionic Trace Minerals. Two other persons using VFT extract with CD4’s of less than 200 reported no increase in the CD4’s but did report some weight gain.
Karen M whose CD4’s are in the 700 range also reported no increase in CD4’s but reported a dramatic decrease in fatigue. Richard Masone who case I reported last month ran out of the extract for about a month. Late in August, he obtained a 4 oz bottle and used the highest dose to date - 1 teaspoon 3 times a day. He finished the bottle in 8 days. He reported his appetite came back strong and has since gained 14 lbs. Cheryl C, who has Lyme and CFIDS said the best dose for her is 5 drops 3 times a day. She has reported higher body temperature and less fatigue.
In dosage ranging from as little as 5 drops 3 times a day to 2 drops 7 times a day to 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. 2 or 3 times a day to as much as 1 teaspoon 3 times a day, the most consistent results that have been observed in all cases has been an increase or normalization of body temperature and a decrease in fatigue. About 50% of the HIV+ persons using the extract have also reported CD4 increases and several have reported increases in appetite and weight gain. While no one has reported any adverse effects, the varying results at different dosage levels allows for no general conclusions at this time on dosage levels. Persons using VFT should listen to their body and use the dosage level that brings them the best results.
My impression is that persons with MCS/allergies might do better at the very low doses and persons with other conditions who do not respond at low levels should use high doses (1 tsp 3X) and pulse the extract (3 days on and 4 days off) to obtain maximum benefits and avoid the development of viral or metabolic resistance. Persons using drug cocktails and with a low or non-detectable viral load could expect to see CD4 increases using VFT extract as a complementary therapy. While no adverse have been reported from persons using VFT with protese inhibitors and other drug cocktails, it would be prudent to take VFT extract about 1 hour before or after using prescription drugs to prevent unknown interactions.
9/8/99: Ashley Stearns has suffered from Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS) for several years. She said I felt like I was dying. I had severe fatigue, insomnia, candida, and digestive disorders for years. Several physicians I first seen either thought my symptoms were all in my mind or denied that such a disease existed. I finally found a physician, Dr. Jeanne Hubbuch MD of MA who has done research into the variant A and B strains of Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6). She prescribed Famciclovir, a drug used to treat herpes infections as well as hepatitis. It was the first treatment that had a profound effect in reversing her symptoms. Ashley said: “It (Famvir) reversed the death process.”
The dose she used was 375 mg once a day, less than what was prescribed. Ashley said several CFIDS patients asked her about liver toxicity using Famvir. She said her liver was a mess when she started using it and has never felt better. Ashley also takes nutritional supplements and has modified her diet. The results she has obtained suggest that Famciclovir has inhibited HHV-6 replication and her symptoms have diminished accordingly. This is the first report of a pharmaceutical drug that may be effective against HHV-6A, a virus I have long believed to be a major causative factor in many cases of CFIDS and a co-factor in HIV progression to AIDS. Ashley can be reached at astearns@mailcity.com for more information. Several persons with CFIDS have also reported benefits using Chislom Biologicals “Cfids/Lyme Transfer Factor” the DS grade - taken 1 a day.
Several persons with advanced Lyme disease told me that for years their doctor’s misdiagnosed the illness and called it everything from Lupus to MS to fibromyalgia to CFIDS. This is, I am told because an antibody test for Lyme does not show positive in persons who have been infected with it for several years. There is a new urine test available from physicians for Lyme disease that is supposed to be far more accurate. Dr. Lida Mattman MD has also developed a Florescence Staining Technique for Lyme that Candace Lear says is 99% accurate. The blood is cultured for up to 2 weeks and the spirochete (from deer ticks) that causes Lyme’s is photographed. Dr. Mattman can be reached at 810-755-6430 for more information on the test and how to obtain it through your physician.
Note: Publication of Positive Health News, Report No 19 has been delayed for a few weeks but should be in the printers about mid-month.
Progressive Health News © 1999 Keep Hope Alive
PO Box 270041, West Allis, WI 53227 www.keephope.net 414-548-4333
Mark Konlee
Anthony Fauci reports that efforts to eradicate the HIV virus with a combination of drug cocktails and injectable IL-2 failed even when HIV was no longer detectable in lymph nodes and other known reservoirs of the virus. CNN broadcast an interview with Fauci on August 28th. Earlier this year, the news media reported that NIH experiments with IL-2 and the drug cocktails in persons with HIV had eliminated any sign of the virus from the blood and in various lymph node biopsies. However, Fauci said, in every single case the virus came back and was detectable within two weeks of stopping the therapies. Other news reports now claim that it could take 60 years for the HIV virus to completely die out after it has reached non-detectable levels in the blood.
Editor’s note: in my opinion, the NIH effort would have had a better chance of success if they had combined Interluken 1 (IL-1) with IL-2 in the experiments. IL-1 is the natural cytokine that induces the fever response. The fever response could have driven antigen presentation to high enough a level to lead to total viral eradication. The chance of success could have been improved further by using supplements to increase intracellular Glutathione levels.
When all efforts to completely eradicate the virus fails, supplements that increase methylation may lead to the next best thing - HIV latency and inactivity. Methylation inhibits the IL-6 gene. IL-6 is a major troublesome Th2 cytokine in AIDS progression, CFIDS, multiple allergies, Candidiasis, Lyme disease and cancer. Other than methyl donors, sterols, certain fats found in rice bran, raw sesame seeds and the germ portion of other whole grains also inhibits IL-6. Two rounded tablespoons of rice bran daily give you a therapeutic dose of sterols - about 120 mg of 6 kinds of sterols.
Jarrow Rogovin of Jarrow Formulas told Keep Hope Alive last week that they expected to have a “Th1 Probiotic” formula available to the public before the end of this month. It will have primarily heated-killed strains of L. Plantarum and L Casei, two probiotics known to promote the TH1 cytokines - gamma interferon and Interluken 12. Also, it will contain live strains of two probiotics that published research indicates are good intestinal infection fighters - Saccharomyces Boulardii and L. Salivarius. L Salivarius is found naturally in raw cabbage, cultured cabbage juice and sauerkraut. Salivarius produces large amounts of lactic acid and acidifies the colon, a necessary precondition to promote the growth of other friendly flora. The product should be safe for persons to use who have “Leaky gut syndrome” and should promote cell mediated immunity. For more information, contact Jarrow Formulas or one of their distributors.
In May, 1999, Animune announced that they would have available in June a transfer factor specific for the variant A strain of HHV-6 (Human Herpes Virus 6). The day before the product was to be shipped, the FDA stopped Animune from distributing this and other Animune transfer factor products. The FDA is now reported to be testing the Animune products and reviewing company health claims. Since June, various theories and allegations have emerged as to why the FDA took this action. Animune’s position is that the FDA is expected to release the product within a few months and they will resume shipping transfer factor.
Meanwhile, Chisolm Biologicals told me they were trying to locate a source of pure HHV-6A virus so they can make a specific transfer factor, but their efforts, thus far, have been unsuccessful in locating the antigen.
Like the long saga of Ampligen, an expensive drug under endless trials, a transfer factor specific for HHV-6A remains to be tested and marketed. Like many other long term intracellular infections, HHV-6 just hangs around and continues to do its damage year after year in persons whose immune system is out of balance and dysfunctional.
One person with chronic allergies reported 80% of her symptoms were gone in 2 weeks after consuming 2 tablespoons of raw rice bran daily. Rice bran can be mixed with applesauce, yogurt or sprinkled on breakfast cereal. It is best kept in a freezer or refrigerator to maintain freshness after opening. Pure rice bran is a powerhouse of antioxidants, sterols and priceless trace minerals.
Note: A soluble rice bran sold OTC is called “Perfect Plus” by SGS Research. Readers reports it tastes good and improves energy levels and well being.
9/1/99: Bangor, WI. Beth Jerome reported that her 16 yr. son was infected with Lyme disease about 3 months ago and had swollen and aching joints and muscles. It hurt so bad he could not straighten out his arm. He also ran about a 1§ fever (99.6§F). She started him on VFT extract on August 27th. Three days later when he reached the full dose of 1/2 tsp. times daily, his condition had so improved he was able to play football with his friends. Beth stated: I am so happy I had to share this with you. She also reported his fever was gone and his body temperature had returned to normal. She plans to keep him on the treatment for 6 weeks and then have him retested to see if the infection is gone. Beth can be reached at 608-388-3660 for more information.
Note: While about 10 persons with low body temperature have reported increases or normalization of body temperature, two persons with fevers, including Beth’s son, have reported decreases in body temperature to a normal 98.6§F indicating that VFT extract is working to normalize body temperature from either direction - too low or too high.
In another report, a 70 yr. old man who has had Lyme disease for 10 years is so debilitated by the infection that he is in a wheel chair and cannot even feed himself. His daughter has given him the VFT extract for 2 weeks with no change in his condition. Another person told me their grandmother died from Lyme’s disease. The FDA has approved a vaccine to prevent Lyme disease that is now available from physicians and is reported to be 80 to 90% effective in preventing the infection. Lyme disease is carried by deer ticks. More information on Lyme disease can be found at lyme.org.
A reader recently brought to my attention published reports that Vitamin B6 in animal studies stimulated tumor growth. I looked up these articles and yes, they reported that in some animal studies, Vitamin B6 supplements increased tumor growth. I searched further and found the scientific community divided on this issue. Some reports showed tumor suppression with the addition of Vitamin B6 in certain types of cancer. A novel metabolite of Vitamin B6 has been found circulating in larger than normal quantities in the blood of persons with malignant tumors.
My educated guess at this juncture is that there is a faulty metabolism of Vitamin B6 in certain types of cancer that favor the growth of tumors with certain types of malignancies, but not others. Since the issue of the role of vitamin B6 in malignancies is unresolved, I advise anyone with cancer or kaposi’s sarcoma to avoid all vitamin supplements with vitamin B6 added.
Your best and safest source of B6 and other B vitamins is whole natural food sources like dissicated liver and brewer’s yeast, rice bran and other whole grain sources. The concentrations of B vitamins in whole food sources never reaches the high levels found in dietary supplements. Animal studies with liver extract and brewers’s yeast have found they enhance resistance to the development of cancer. For Vitamin A and D, old fashioned Cod Liver oil is still one of your best choices.
In May, 1999, I reported on a reader with HIV who said his HIV viral tripled after using Bob Beck’s Silver Pulser for 2 months. At least 2 or 3 other persons with HIV have reported big increases in viral load after using the “Silver Pulser.” In June, I received a letter from Hulda Clark who stated that the “Zapper” another electrical pulsating device that runs on batteries also increases the HIV viral load.
Last week Adriana Meyer (Oakland, CA) who has CFIDS used the “Zapper” and told me her symptoms got much worse after she used the electrical frequency machine and has since stopped using it. She said two friends of hers with CFIDS also reported worse symptoms after using the “Zapper.” Adriana Meyer can be reached at 510-601-8924 for more information.
In the early 1990’s, I once believed in the Rife technology that using radio frequencies to kill viruses, parasites, fungal and bacterial infections and even cancers. I now believe that while these radio or electrical frequencies can do all these things, they also stress the immune system by damaging the membranes of normal healthy cells leaving the patient in a weakened state. This could lead to an increase in cortisol, glucocorticoids and circulating TH2 cytokines like IL-6 that weaken cell-mediated immune responses. I have no doubt that if you could subject your whole body to microwaves in a large oven, that you could kill most viruses and pathogens. However, you almost certainly will do irreparable damage to all the other cells in your body leaving it in a vastly weakened state. I strongly believe that the daily use of electrical frequency devices have the same downsides as the continuous daily use of prescription antibiotics.
I urge all our readers to avoid electrical or radio frequency machines. On the other hand, I have had many good reports (improvements but not necessarily cures) with the use of negative (north pole) magnetic energy in many of these pathologies (viruses, fungus, bacterial infections and even cancers). No adverse effects have been reported on the use of permanent magnets. Permanent magnetic pads have been very beneficial for a whole range of conditions without the adverse effects of the electrical frequency machines. Laying on a North pole magnetic pad for 1 hour before bedtime helps induce a deep restful sleep. I do not advise laying on it all night nor would I use them more than 2 or 3 hours daily. Enviro-Tech Products has a number of these products available and sells the Biomagnetic Handbook by Dr. Wm Philpott MD. Enviro-Tech can be reached at 405-390-3499. Another source of magnets is Mid American Mktg at 219-749-6666.
Susan Sullivan has had Lyme disease and Fibromyalgia for the past 7 years. She had good results using 1/2 tsp. VFT extract 3 times daily for the first month. Then, she went to see a kineosiologist who used “muscle testing” to determine how much of the extract to use. He told her she was taking too much and advised her to take 2 drops of VFT extract 7 times a day. After doing this for one month, she reports she is still improving even at this reduced dose. She can be reached at SCSullivan@aol.com or 610-359-8765.
Note: I expressed surprise that such a low dose would have an effect. It raises the possibility that this homeopathic dose is inducing chemical or electrical signaling to the brain.
Holly Z (MA). Holly says she has had CFIDS for 18 years and has lyme disease also as do many other CFIDS patients. She said that the VFT extract has had a profound beneficial effect on her energy levels. When she stops using it, her fatigue returns. She says she has also found benefits for her CFIDS condition from home made olive leaf extract, Designer Protein, Beta Glucan and the CFIDS transfer factor from Chisolm Biologicals. Holly can be reached at 617-576-3248.
Cheryl C, who also has CFIDS reports about a 1 degree increase in body temperature and less fatigue since using VFT extract.
Once a day dose of 1/4 tsp. of less fails to increase CD4 counts in two HIV+ persons. Robert M (Brooklyn, NY) who is on a triple drug cocktail increased his CD4 counts when he also added 20 drops of VFT extract twice daily. However, when he reduced the dose to 20 drops once daily, there were no further increases. In June, Bob M (Miami, FL) had significant improvement in his lab results in several parameters including CD4 and CD8 counts using 1/2 tsp. VFT extract 3 times daily and these were reported in the July issue of Progressive Health News. After the lab results, Bob reduced the dose to one dropperful daily (about 1/4 tsp.) and continued on the other supplements. He reduced the dose because taking the extract full strength burned his mouth. Six weeks later, his new lab results were disappointing, CD4’s were down and viral load was up. He has now resumed taking the extract at the original dose of 1/2 tsp. 3 times daily. The burning is avoided by mixing the extract with a teaspoon of water before using it. He now holds it in his mouth for 30 seconds instead of 3 minutes before swallowing it with a glass of water.
Based on these two results, I would advise anyone against using VFT extract at a dose of 1/4 tsp. once daily. The dose is too low to have a beneficial effect in lab results in persons with HIV.
1/4 tsp. 3X Gary B (WA) started on VFT extract on June 8th. His CD4 count was 127. Gary did not remember his viral load count when we talked last week. His lab results should be known by the middle of September when he sees his doctor. Hank F (Los Angeles). Blood drawn for lab tests in the last week of August. In June Hank used VFT as a monotherapy 1/2 tsp. 3X and in 3 and 1/2 weeks his viral load dropped from 24000 to 12000. CD4’s increased from 410 to 457. In early July, I asked him to reduce the dose to 1/4 tsp. 3X in an experiment to see if the benefits would continue. If his latest labs do not show further progress, he will increase the dose to 1/2 tsp. 3X.
Karen M (MA) started using VFT extract at the rate of 1/2 tsp. twice a day in the first week of August, 1999. From the middle of June to the end of July, she had used 1000 mcg Methyl B12 and one Methyl Donors (Jarrow Formulas) and did not use the VFT extract. Her CD4’s remained about the same (770) and her viral load increased from 19000 to 35000. She is not using any prescribed antivirals for HIV but is using some for a bipolar condition. The 500 mg of Trimethylglycine (TMG) in the “Methyl Donors” product plus the Methyl B12 did not yield impressive results.
Japanese research indicates they used from 2000 mcg to 6000 mcg daily of Methyl B12. Possibly the dose of Methyl B12 was too low or possibly the 500 mg of TMG in the “Methyl Donors” is being degraded in the digestive tract and/or is not having the same antiviral and immune enhancing effects of sublingual Dimethylglycine (DMG). Possibly a more effective combination would be sublingual DMG (Food Science) 800 mg daily to be used along with the VFT extract plus a sublingual form of liquid B12 and folic acid (Bricker Labs).
1/2 tsp. 3X (Bob M started on 8/10/99) and Richard Masone (started May 20th) and Steven R (Fresno, CA) increased from 1/4 tsp. 3 X to 1/2 tsp. 3X on August 1st. Had blood drawn for lab tests in the last week of August. This will be the first viral load test in 1999. In April, 1999, his CD4’s were 6. The key indicator of whether the VFT extract is working is to watch what happens to his CD4’s. They should be increasing.
On May 20th, Richard started on a triple cocktail with Norvir, Zerit and Epivir plus the following OTC (Over the Counter) supplements; VFT extract 1/2 tsp. 3X, Clarkia 100 (50 drops 2X), Chondroitin and glucosamine sulfate (1200 and 1500 mg daily), Thymate 2 caps 3X, Nature’s Biotics, 2 caps 2X.
In June, after seeing his physician and getting these results, he stopped using the 3 prescription drugs and has continued with the other supplements to see what effect they would have on his viral load and T cell counts. However, after telling his doctor what he did, his physician has refused to give him any more lab tests so Richard can find out what his self-treatment protocol is doing. His doctor wants him to resume using the drugs before he does more lab tests. Presently the standoff continues. Richard Masone can be reached from 6 to 9 pm eves EST in New York at 516-422-5073
Another reader (Frank S from Oregon) who is using a triple drug cocktail (Viramune, Zerit and DDI) and whose viral load for HIV is non-detectable has added VFT extract to increase his CD4 counts and will continue on the 3 drug regimen. He also added Thymate and Methyl B12. He started on VFT, Thymate and Methyl B12 on August 23rd. No lab results have been taken since. Note: His CD4 counts had dropped from 263 in April to 153 in July even though his viral load was non-detectable while using the prescribed drugs.
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 262-548-4344 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 270041, 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 270041, West Allis, WI 53227 262-548-4344 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 270041, 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 262-548-4344 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 270041, 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.