Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is characterized by persistent immune activation, chronic 
inflammation, and oxidative stress, which collectively accelerate CD4+ T-cell depletion and contribute to 
progressive immune dysfunction. Oxidative stress, arising from excessive production of reactive oxygen species and 
impaired antioxidant defenses, plays a pivotal role in enhancing viral replication, disrupting cellular immunity, and 
driving the onset of comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, neurocognitive impairment, and metabolic 
disorders in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Despite the success of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 
suppressing viral replication and extending lifespan, ART itself can exacerbate mitochondrial dysfunction and 
oxidative injury, underscoring the need for adjunctive therapeutic strategies. Antioxidant phytochemicals-bioactive 
compounds naturally present in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices-have attracted attention due to their potent free 
radical scavenging capacity, ability to restore redox balance, and immunomodulatory effects. Compounds such as 
flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenols have been shown to modulate key signaling pathways, reduce pro
inflammatory cytokine production, and protect immune cells from oxidative damage. This review examines the 
mechanistic basis of oxidative stress in HIV pathogenesis, summarizes experimental and clinical evidence on the 
role of phytochemicals in mitigating redox imbalance, and discusses their clinical relevance. Finally, it highlights 
research gaps and future directions for incorporating antioxidant phytochemicals into comprehensive HIV 
management strategies.