Hepatitis C is a chronic, viral disease that damages the liver. Patients may feel either mild or severe symptoms, or may even feel no symptoms at all. The liver is the organ that filters out toxins from the blood. When it becomes inflamed as with hepatitis C, it will not work properly. Hepatitis C is contagious and is usually transmitted through infected blood. It is not airborne; it cannot be spread through sneezing or other casual contacts. Hepatitis C patients are usually treated with drug therapy like interferon and ribavirin. Patients may choose to supplement this therapy with herbal support.
Safety
It is imperative to discuss herbal supplements with your doctor before taking them. In some cases, they may interfere with medications you are currently on. Additionally, there is no scientific proof that herbal supplements can cure hepatitis C, so it is essential to continue conventional medical treatment.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a plant whose active extract is silymarin. It is a common supplement for those who wish to support liver function. It may help improve liver health by reducing inflammation, encouraging the growth of new liver cells, and reducing oxidation, which damages cells. Possible side effects of milk thistle include nausea, diarrhea and bloating. Those who are allergic to plants such as ragweed, marigold, chrysanthemum and daisy may also experience an allergic reaction to milk thistle.
Licorice Root
The active component of licorice root is glycyrrhizin. Licorice root may help promote liver health and reduce complications that can arise from hepatitis C. When the liver is damaged, liver enzymes spill into the blood, and a blood test measuring this is one indicator of liver damage. Licorice root may help to reduce the level of liver enzymes in the bloodstream. However, always discuss licorice root with your doctor before taking it, as it may interfere with some medications. Side effects, especially with long-term use, may include sluggishness, high blood pressure and headaches.
Thymus Extract
Thymus extract might help boost the immune system, which could help combat hepatitis C. Thymus extract is made from cows' thymus glands. Because there is a possibility that it came from animals that were diseased, do not use thymus extract if you have HIV/AIDS or have had an organ transplant, as your immune system may be compromised.
Interferon Side Effects
Interferon is a conventional treatment for hepatitis C that can cause side effects that are difficult to deal with. Some alternative treatments that can help patients deal with interferon treatment are ginger and St. John's wort. Ginger can aid in reducing nausea and vomiting. It can be taken as a tea and does not cause serious side effects. St. John's wort may help patients deal with the depression that can result from interferon treatment. However, side effects include fatigue, dizziness, and dry mouth.
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