Abstract

For so many years traditional medicinal practices (TMPs), particularly the use of medicinal plants, have been widely employed in Uganda for managing HIV/AIDS-related
symptoms and supporting immune function. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continue to be major global health
concerns, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where Uganda remains one of the countries most affected by the epidemic. Despite significant advancements in antiretroviral
therapy (ART), access to conventional medicine remains limited in resource-constrained regions like Uganda thus prompting the exploration of alternative approaches to
complement antiretroviral therapy (ART) which includes medicinal practices, especially the use of medicinal plants in the management of HIV/AIDS. This review aims to
compile and critically assess the existing literature on the medicinal plants employed in the treatment and management of HIV/AIDS in Uganda. We conducted a
comprehensive literature search of PubMed, ResearchGate and Google Scholar databases from January 2023 to July 2023. The search key words used were medicinal plants
used in management of HIV/AIDS in Uganda to extract full-text research articles and proceedings from International Conferences published only in English. Many medicinal
plants were identified during this review however data supporting their role in the management of HIV/AIDS in Uganda is still scanty yet with a few documented cytoxicities
warranting further investigation. However it’s important to note that the mechanism of action of majority of these medicinal plants used in the management of HIV/AIDS
in Uganda remains unknown in the world of science and yet many more medicinal plants used remain unknown since those that had knowledge about their location didn’t
document, thus Collaboration between traditional healers, scientists, and healthcare professionals is essential to maximize the potential benefits of these medicinal plants in
combating HIV/AIDS in the region.