According to the University of California, about 4 million Americans are infected with hepatitis C. There is no known cure for the disease, but herbal supplements have become popular for those hoping it will offer one. If you are considering an herbal supplement to treat hepatitis C, it is important to know the risks and potential benefits.
Hepatitis C
According to the University of California, hepatitis C virus is the most common chronic blood-borne virus in the United States and a major cause of liver disease. The disease can go undetected for years and those infected might not know they have it. Between 60 percent and 70 percent of those infected develop chronic hepatitis C. The disease can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer and is the leading reason for liver transplants in the United States. Hepatitis C is spread through blood contact, such as sharing needles.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances in the body that neutralize and destroy free radicals, which are waste products created when the body turns energy into food. Free radicals cause chemical reactions that damage organs and body tissues. They can damage cells in the body and make it difficult for the body to fight an infection. Antioxidant-rich supplements such as milk thistle, selenium and alpha-lipoic acid are some of the popular choices among those with hepatitis C.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is an herbal supplement that has been used for many years for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According the University of Maryland, scientific studies suggest that substances in milk thistle protect the liver from toxins. Milk thistle contains silymarin, a powerful antioxidant, and often is used to treat hepatitis C, with mixed results. Most studies have shown an improvement in liver function with milk thistle, but the studies were done on a small number of participants. As of 2010, there have been no conclusive studies on the real effects of milk thistle.
Selenium
Selenium is a mineral in the body that works as an antioxidant. It helps to neutralize free radicals floating in the body that might cause damage otherwise. The National Institutes of Health reports that in an independent study, three patients with hepatitis C who took alpha-lipoic acid, silymarin and selenium recovered quickly and their laboratory values improved remarkedly. Other studies have reported that long-term use of selenium increases the risk for developing diabetes. Additional studies are needed to understand the effects of selenium treatment.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is found in every cell in the body and turns glucose into energy. It is an antioxidant that works throughout the body and helps regenerate other antioxidants. There has been no evidence to support its ability to help with hepatitis C. Consult with your doctor before using milk thistle, selenium or alpha-lipoic acid.
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