It is important to be aware of dangers involved in self medicating. Never take more than prescribed doses of herbal medicines. If you are considering trying herbal treatments it is advisable to seek professional advice from a doctor or naturopath with knowledge of hepatitis C and herbal remedies. It is also advisable to have ongoing testing to monitor the ongoing effects of herbal medications you are taking.

Therapuetic herbs

The following herbs and foods are believed to be beneficial to good liver health.

Artichoke contains the active ingredient cynarin. Cynarin extract has demonstrated liver protecting and regenerative effects and promotes the outflow of bile from the liver to the gallbladder. This is very important because if the bile is not transported adequately to the gallbladder, the liver has an increased risk of being damaged.

Dandelion is a perennial herb that grows prolifically in millions of gardens. Leaves can be used in salads. Dandelion root is good for all kinds of liver problems, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, jaundice, toxicity in general as well as getting rid of gallstones. Dandelion root coffee can be made by simmering 1-2 teaspoons in 1 or 2 cups of water for 5 minutes. Strain and add milk or soya milk if desired. Try and avoid instant Dandelion beverages. You can also buy roasted dandelion root which can be brewed like coffee in an espresso machine, plunger, dripolator or filtered.

Garlic is a natural antibiotic. It protects the body from infection, detoxifies the body, strengthens blood vessels, and lowers blood pressure. Garlic contains a natural antibiotic, anti-fungicide and has many antiviral properties. Eat raw garlic daily in salad dressing, dips or simply swallow pieces whole.

Liquorice Root can have positive effects on the liver. Studies have shown a component of liquorice to be effective in treating viral hepatitis, particularly chronic active hepatitis. If liquorice is used over a long time it is necessary to increase the intake of potassium rich foods.

Milk Thistle is reported to be an anti-inflammatory and mast cell stabilizer that helps protect the liver against toxins, drugs and the effects of alcohol. It contains the active flavonoid Silymarin and is used for all liver disorders such as jaundice and hepatitis. It contains some of the most potent liver protecting substances known. Milk Thistle prevents free radical damage by acting as an antioxidant, protecting the liver. Stimulates the production of new liver cells and prevents formation of damaging leukotrienes. It is usually stocked in health food stores under the names Milk Thistle, St Mary’s Thistle, Silybum or Silymarin. Take 2-4 teaspoons of ground seeds daily (add to cereal, yoghurt or juice) or tablet/capsule containing at least 70 mg silymarin. Daily dose: 210-280 mg. Can also be taken in tincture form.

People have reported finding “LivaTone” powder an easy and economical way to combine taking St Mary’s Thistle, dandelion root and globe artichoke.

Spirulina (an extract of blue-green algae) has been reported to contain a substance that shows antiviral activity against HIV. Studies have not yet been conducted on its effectiveness against the Hepatitis C virus but anecdotally there have been positive reports.

Teas, such as peppermint, spearmint, chamomile, fresh ginger root, fennel seed and aniseed, can all be used for nausea, bloating or intestinal cramps. Put 2-3 teaspoons in a teapot, pour boiling water on and leave for 5-10 minutes. Stronger preparations (up to 2 tablespoons) will have a much stronger relaxing effect on the gut. Green Tea is packed with antioxidant properties making it an excellent liver cleanser and blood purifying agent. It is not fermented and does not contain tannins.

Toxic Herbs

There are a range of herbs that are toxic to the liver. This includes many of the herbs commonly used for nervous conditions. As many people living with hepatitis C experience depression and sleep disorders there is a high probability of coming across such herbs when looking for natural remedies. Check the ingredients in natural sedative preparations before commencing on treatment. All of the herbs listed below should not be taken internally as a regular treatment for people with hepatitis C.

Always use natural herbal preparations with caution and seek professional advice before commencing treatment.

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris, also Oregon Grape[Berberis aquifolium]) has been used to promote bile flow and may be present in liver tonics.

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) has been linked in some research to liver cancer and should never be taken internally. The main uses for comfrey are external in the form of poultices and creams.

Golden Ragwort (Senecio aureus) is a close relative of groundsel and may be used for the treatment of internal haemorrhaging, genito-urinary tract infections, for female complaints and in childbirth. It is best to avoid unless under strict medical supervision as it may prove toxic.

Groundsel (Senecio vulgaris) may be used in homeopathic medicines. It was once used in conditions relating to blood circulation or haemorrhaging, however today it is most likely to be used externally as a wash for cuts. Groundsel should not be taken internally as large doses can cause liver damage.

Huang qin (Scutelaria baicalensis) is used in traditional Chinese medicine mainly to clear heat from the respiratory and digestive systems. It may also be used to treat skin and urinary tract infections, and for high blood pressure when it is associated with over heating.

Misletoe (Viscum album) lowers blood pressure and slows the heart rate. It may be used in combination with other herbs or in medical treatments for hypertension and nervous complaints.

Pennyroyal (Mentha piperita officianalis) may be used for minor gastric disturbances nausea headache and menstrual cramps or as an ingredient in a mixture for coughs and colds. The oil is potentially very toxic and should be used externally only (not to be eaten).

Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) is a carminative used in gastrointestinal complaints and as a purgative for constipation. The oil should never be taken internally as it can cause liver and kidney damage.

Scullcap (Scutelaria latiflora) is used to treat nervous conditions and can be found in herbal nerve tonics, pre-menstrual and epilepsy treatments.

Senna (Cassia senna) is used as a laxative.

Valerian (Valariana officinalis, also known as Garden Heliotrope) is a herb that is often used for nervous and sleep disorders.

Wall Germander (Teucrium chamaedrys, may be called simply germander) is mainly used in gall bladder and digestive disorders. The herb may be used as a tea to aid digestion or for the relief of gout.

Wood Sage (Tuecrium scordonia) is a close relative to germander, however whether this is also toxic to the liver is unclear. It is advised that you seek professional advice before taking preparations containing wood sage.