Cirrhosis is a serious liver condition that can cause fatigue, weight loss, swelling, jaundice mental confusion and liver failure. While it is usually precipitated by alcohol abuse or chronic hepatitis, other conditions may lead to cirrhosis, including cystic fibrosis, autoimmune disease, medications and exposure to chemically toxic environments. Cirrhosis develops gradually and the liver damage is irreversible, although employing healthy measures may slow or prevent the disease's growth, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Of course, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbs for a medical condition.
Green Tea
Green tea is one of four varieties of tea, along with white, black and oolong, that come from the Camellia sinensis plant. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises people with cirrhosis to consume foods and supplements high in antioxidants, including green tea. It contains potent phytochemicals that have anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities. Phyllis A. Balch, author of the book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that green tea reduces cholesterol, offers protection from cancer and shields the body from cell-damaging free radicals. Use herbs under a doctor's supervision.
Licorice Root
For centuries, Chinese medicine has used sweet-tasting licorice root to treat liver illnesses. Balch notes that licorice root may inhibit hepatitis C from developing into cirrhosis and liver cancer. She also writes that licorice root is an anti-inflammatory and helps the body resist parasites, bacteria and viruses. If you have liver disease, it is advised to consult with your doctor before taking licorice root, as it may interact with prescription medications.
Bupleurum Root
Bupleurum root is one of the most popular Chinese herbs for liver disease, as stated by the Integrative Medical Arts Group. It is the primary ingredient in Minor Bupleurum Decoction, the famous traditional compound for hepatitis, which also consists of ginger, licorice, ginseng and other herbs. This formulation is also known as Saiboku-To and Xiao Chai Hu Tan. "The Healing Power of Chinese Herbs and Medicinal Recipes" by Joseph P. Hou cites a 1974 study that points to the efficacy of bupleurum decoction to improve liver injury and cirrhosis caused by carbon tectrachloride, a potent chemical liver toxin. Discuss this herb with your doctor before adding it to your diet.
Safety Considerations
Herbs can sometimes interact with prescription medications and cause adverse effects. For instance, The University of Maryland advises that if you suffer from kidney or heart disease, or have high blood pressure, diabetes or edema, licorice root should not be ingested. Taking large amounts of bupleurum root may induce constipation, edema, and stomach bloating, notes Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
References
- "The Healing Power of Chinese Herbs and Medicinal Recipes": Joseph P. Hou et al.; 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cirrhosis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2008
- Integrative Medical Healing Arts Group: Bupleurum and Saiboku-To
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Bupleurum
