Alternative Cures for Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a chronic, incurable disease that affects the liver. It can lead to liver cancer and even liver failure. It inflames the liver and damages the tissue. It is a blood borne pathogen and in a few cases it has been passed through sex. There are many medical treatments for hepatitis C. However, safe natural treatments are available as well.

Milk Thistle

• Milk thistle is a popular herbal remedy for hepatitis C. It's believed that it reduces liver inflammation and might even help kill the hepatitis C virus. In 2008, the European Association for the Study of the Liver said milk thistle can help patients who didn't respond to conventional medicine. Other studies show that it does little to help. It is a safe supplement and there is no reason to avoid taking it, as long as conventional medicine is not ignored.

Licorice Root

• Licorice root has been shown to potentially reduce symptoms of hepatitis C, including liver cancer. It has also been shown to improve general liver function. It is possible to take licorice root in combination with other herbs like milk thistle. When used with these herbs, licorice root appears to help reduce inflammation. Unlike milk thistle, licorice root has side effects. It has been shown to increase blood pressure, cause water retention, and leads to potassium loss. Licorice root can also interact dangerously with medications such as diuretics and corticosteroids.

Thymus Extract

• Thymus extract is an extract that comes from the thymus gland in a cow. The thymus gland regulates the immune system. Some have speculated that the extract might boost the immune system. The dietary supplement, Complete Thymic Formula, was found non-beneficial to hepatitis C patients in small studies. The only side effect noted was a drop in blood platelets. Some have voiced concerns that the extract could be contaminated, due to coming from cows. Avoid it if you suffer from an immune problem.

Ginseng

• Ginseng is a common supplement in boosting the immune system. Evidence suggests that ginseng might be beneficial to the liver as well. There have been few studies into ginseng's effect on hepatitis C, but some have been promising. Ginseng is a generally safe supplement. It can decrease blood sugar but increases the risk for bleeding. If you are prone to injury, bleeding, are diabetic or anemic, avoid ginseng.

Lactoferrin

• Lactoferrin is found in milk, tears and saliva. It is a protein. Some studies have shown that it might lower the hepatitis C virus level in the blood and improve the functioning of the liver. It is a harmless supplement, so taking it along with conventional medicine might be a good idea.