Herbs for Hepititus C & the Liver

Some people diagnosed with the hepatitis C virus exhibit few symptoms, while others develop cirrhosis, liver failure and cancer. Interferon, a drug often prescribed to combat the hepatitis C , brings its own serious side effects, including hearing loss, anemia, depression, headaches and problems related to the heart, eyes, liver or kidneys. Many hepatitis C patients turn to herbal remedies both for overall support of liver function and to alleviate interferon's side effects. While there is strong anecdotal support for the benefits of herbal remedies on hepatitis C, these claims have no scientific evidence as of yet. The medical community cautions that hepatitis C patients should take these remedies only with their doctor's consent to avoid any possible interaction between herbs and other medications.

Milk Thistle

• Milk thistle contains a substance known as silymarin that seems to promote the growth of healthy liver cells. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may prevent toxins from entering the liver. Alternative health practitioners recommend milk thistle because it may minimize hepatitis C's power to damage the liver.

Licorice Root

• Licorice root has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, thought to derive from its active component glycyrrhizin. While herbalists often prescribe licorice tea to help alleviate hepatitis C symptoms, in excessive amounts this herb has its own side effects, including high blood pressure and lowered potassium levels.

Ginseng

• Ginseng strengthens the body's overall ability to fight disease and supports healthy liver function. Studies show ginseng has helped people with liver conditions similar to hepatitis, but no studies to date validate its specific benefits for hepatitis C patients.

Ginger

• Ginger helps reduce the nausea and vomiting many people experience when taking interferon. Ginger has no known side effects.