Hepatitis C is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis C virus, which leads to swelling of the liver. Abdominal pain and swelling, jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and fever are the common symptoms of hepatitis C infection, which affects about 1.5 percent of the U.S. population, according to PubMed Health. Antiviral medications are commonly used, and surgery may be needed to treat complications. Certain herbs may also help manage the condition. Talk to your doctor first before taking herbal remedies to treat any condition.
Milk Thistle
Extracts from the seeds of milk thistle or Silybum marianum plants have been used extensively to treat hepatitis C infections, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Silymarin is the active ingredient of milk thistle that reduces inflammation of the liver while protecting its healthy cells. The herb is available in capsule form and as a liquid extract and is generally safe to use, although mild side effects such as upset stomach and diarrhea may occur. It is important to note that scientific data regarding the efficacy of milk thistle is limited. Hence, consult a doctor before using milk thistle to treat hepatitis C.
Licorice Root
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that licorice root, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, which contains the active compound glycyrrhizin, may benefit hepatitis C patients when administered intravenously. The herb is available in capsule, tablet and liquid extract form. Licorice supplements should, however, be used only under the supervision of a doctor as overuse of the herb may lead to high blood pressure and heart problems.
Coffee
Drinking three or more cups of coffee per day slowed down the progression of liver disease in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection, according to a study published in the November 2009 edition of the journal "Hepatology." The exact component of coffee that is responsible for these benefits has not been identified. Coffee is also associated with a variety of neurological side effects, including anxiety and insomnia. The Herb Research Foundation notes that coffee is an herbal stimulant.
Ginseng
Extracts from the root of Panax ginseng or Asian ginseng possess significant antiviral and hepatoprotective properties, and may thereby benefit hepatitis C patients, says Stephen Harrod Buhner, author of the book "Herbs for Hepatitis C and Liver." Short-term use of ginseng extracts is safe. However, prolonged use can lead to headache, insomnia and upset stomach. The dosage of the herbs also varies according to the age and the overall condition of the patient. Talk to your doctor to determine a dose that is right for you.
References
- PubMed Health: Hepatitis C
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Milk Thistle
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: CAM and Hepatitis C: A Focus on Herbal Supplements
- "Hepatology"; Coffee Intake Is Associated With Lower Rates of Liver Disease Progression in Chronic Hepatitis C; Neal D. Freedman, et al.; November 2009
- "Herbs for Hepatitis C and the Liver"; Stephen Harrod Buhner; 2000
- The Herb Research Foundation: Herbal Stimulants
