Hepatitis, a type of liver inflammation, is often caused by a viral infection. Hepatitis C is the most severe form of this condition and accounts for nearly 10,000 deaths each year. According to the Hepatitis Foundation International, this condition may take 30 to 40 years to cause serious liver damage. Hepatitis C is the primary reason for liver transplants in the United States. Although there is no cure for hepatitis C, some people's bodies may be able to fight off the infection. Milk thistle may aid in healing damage to the liver caused by this condition. As with any health condition, speak with your physician prior to self-treatment.
Function
Your liver is responsible for filtering toxins, dead cells, fats, excess hormones and other harmful substances from the blood. It also aids in filtering bilirubin from the blood. Bilirubin is a byproduct of old red blood cells. An inadequately functioning liver leads to a buildup of these harmful substances in your body and blood. According to the Hepatitis B Foundation, your liver can function even if 75 percent of it is damaged or removed.
Identification
Milk thistle has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years to treat a variety of ailments, particularly gallbladder and liver problems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The active component in milk thistle is a flavonoid complex called silymarin that's extracted from the seeds of the plant.
Symptoms
When the harmful toxins build up in your body and blood due to hepatitis C, symptoms may take awhile to develop. Symptoms of hepatitis C may include weakness, fever, headaches, appetite loss, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, jaundice or yellowing of the skin and other flulike symptoms.
Effects
Milk thistle may help heal the damage caused by hepatitis C. The silymarin that is extracted from the seeds of the plant may act as antioxidants to stimulate the repair of the liver. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, sillmarin may also protect new liver cells from being destroyed by harmful toxins.
Uses
Milk thistle is available in the form of liquid extract, tincture and capsules. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends a dose of 280 mg to 400 mg per day for adults in divided doses. Milk thistle should not be administered to children as there are no studies showing that it is safe. If you are taking prescription medications, consult with your physician before adding milk thistle to your diet as it may have adverse effects.
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