Hepatitis C Treatment With Herbs

Introduction:

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by infection with the hepatitis C virus. The infection affects the liver and can cause serious issues such as cirrhosis (a chronic condition affecting the liver that is characterized by tissue thickness, inflammation, and cell degradation) and liver cancer. Doctors frequently prescribe antivirals to treat viral infections. Some herbs can also help the disease, but before taking any natural herbal supplements, people should talk to their doctors about their alternatives.

What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that targets the liver and can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe and prolonged condition. Hence, it may be acute or chronic. An individual gets acute hepatitis C within the first six months after being introduced to the hepatitis C virus. Although hepatitis C may be treated quickly, for most patients, the acute infection progresses to chronic infection. If left untreated, chronic hepatitis C can cause lifelong infections. Liver damage, liver cancer, liver cirrhosis, and even death are among the possible consequences of chronic hepatitis C.

What Are the Types of Herbs Used in Hepatitis C?

Even though some individuals might think using natural herbs is safer than traditional medicine, many herbs might have negative side effects. For instance, natural herbs and dietary supplements are not held to the same requirements by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) as prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Additionally, certain herbs might negatively interact with other drugs and have significant adverse effects. Before utilizing any natural herb supplement, people with hepatitis C should always see a healthcare provider. However, some of the herbs used in the treatment of heptitis C are as listed:

1. Milk Thistle: Milk thistle or silymarin is of the most typical natural herbal remedy used by patients with liver problems. The herb's strong antioxidant profile suggests that it could have some advantages. More study is required, despite some data that shows milk thistle may be useful in treating liver illness. Other studies contend that milk thistle does not help patients with HCV (hepatitis C virus) infection. Even though data suggest milk thistle is typically well tolerated by people, it can indeed result in stomach problems or allergic responses. Patients with diabetes should take milk thistle cautiously since it may reduce blood sugar levels in some type 2 diabetics.

2. Schisandra: Schisandra is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy that some individuals may use to treat liver conditions, including hepatitis C. Some support that the plant may have hepatoprotective (substances that lessen the harm hepatotoxic chemicals cause to the liver), anti-inflammatory (a characteristic of a substance that lessens swelling), antioxidant property that protects against injury to cells, and antiviral property which is designed to identify viruses and either to delete or provide protection from the effects. The herb, however, may lessen certain medications' efficacy or raise their negative effects.

3. Turmeric: It is a plant that may be found all over the world. It includes the biologically active compound curcumin, which has the potential to be effective in treating liver illness. Patients may be able to utilize turmeric in conjunction with antiviral medications to suppress HCV. Most research indicates that using turmeric at the recommended dosages is typically safe.

4. Green Tea: Camellia sinensis, a Chinese tea tree, is used to make green tea. For thousands of years, people have utilized green tea for medical purposes. Green tea can assist in decreasing inflammation and may have some anti-HCV capabilities. However, green tea extract leads to more than 100 cases of liver damage. Therefore, before using products containing green tea extract, those with HCV should speak with their doctor. Additionally, they should stop using the medication if they have liver-related symptoms, including jaundice, dark urine, or stomach discomfort.

5. Bupleurum: Bupleurum is a traditional medication from China and Japan that may treat several ailments, including liver disease. While more research is needed, using a therapeutic herbal mixture containing bupleurum increases the possibility that it has hepatoprotective and healing properties against liver injury. Bupleurum, however, may interfere with some medications, and some case reports mention that taking the herb in large amounts might harm the liver.

6. Licorice Root: It has a long history of usage as a medicine across many civilizations that employ herbs. It includes a substance called glycyrrhizin, which effectively treats HCV infections. Although licorice root is typically harmless when used as a dietary component, bigger doses may interact with medicines and have negative consequences, such as raising blood pressure.

What Are the Precautions to Be Followed to Take Herbal Supplements in HCV Patients?

• Never take supplements if one has decompensated cirrhosis unless the doctor advises.

• Do not use herbs or supplements if under treatment for hepatitis C unless the doctor advises.

• Some supplements lengthen the duration of bleeding or clash with anesthetics (a chemical that makes people less sensitive to discomfort).

• At least one week before any anesthesia-using operation or treatment, stop taking supplements.

• Any herbs one takes should be disclosed to the medical team and anesthesiologist, especially if the surgery is performed before one has had an opportunity to follow this wash-out period.

• Before taking supplements, consult the doctor.

• Before using a herb or supplement, ensure it is safe to use with any other medications or supplements that could be taken and is not contraindicated for any existing medical conditions.

• Do not take more than suggested, as more is not always better.

Conclusion:

There are more options than ever for hepatitis C treatment, including antiviral drugs that can cure the condition. However, some people employ complementary therapies to aid with symptom relief or when their existing medication is not helping them. Ask the doctor if a supplementary or alternative medicine, such as herbal therapies, is safe before attempting it. Also, make careful to learn the recommended dosage. A few herbal treatments for hepatitis C may show promise, according to certain research, but none have been scientifically confirmed to be effective. Additionally, certain complementary therapies might harm the liver or interfere with other medications.