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ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS FOR HEPATITIS C

While there are many antiviral medications available for treating hepatitis C, some alternative solutions also seem promising.

The complementary solutions to hepatitis C range from certain herbal remedies like licorice root, milk thistle, thymus extract and ginseng to certain therapies like massages, relaxations techniques and chiropractic care. Above 40% of the people suffering from hepatitis C, who have not benefited form the complementary treatment options say that these alternative solutions and therapies are a great help in lessening fatigue, boosting the immune system and giving them a well improved gastrointestinal function.

Some of the best alternative treatments for hepatitis C are noted herein:

MILK THISTLE (SILYBUM MARIANUM)

It is one of the most popular herbal remedies for hepatitis C and is a well researched ingredient. Milk thistle can actually reduce the liver inflammation and can act as an antiviral solution to the infection. The herb can essentially reduce the symptoms of hepatitis C infection in cases where they fail to respond to drugs like interferon. Though there isn’t any conclusive evidence on milk thistle, but it does not have any side effects and is regarded as safe to be used for liver infections.

LICORICE ROOT (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA)

The root is basically the active component derived from the licorice plant. Studies have revealed that this root can actually reduce some of the associated complications of hepatitis C, including liver cancer. It can as well improve liver functions. The root can either be taken as it is or can be taken in combination with other drugs. However, licorice root needs to be used carefully as it can have significant side effects like high blood pressure, water and salt retention and loss of potassium.

THYMUS EXTRACT

It is derived from cow’s thymus glands. Since the thymus assists in regulating the immune function, it has been assumed that the extract of thymus can as well boost the immune system of patients suffering from hepatitis C. but there are very few studies to validate the fact.  However, people suffering from certain immune problems must be careful while choosing this option as it can have some side effects as well.

GINSENG

Ginseng is known as an immune booster and evidences have proved that it can help in dealing with certain liver complications as well. However, there haven’t been many studies about ginseng and its efficacy in treating hepatitis C completely. Since ginseng has certain disadvantages, it can decrease the level of blood sugar and increase the risk of bleeding, it must be used carefully.

SCHISANDRA

This is a Japanese plant and has been used for making traditional medicines in Japan. It has antiviral properties that can help in regulating the hepatitis C virus. However, there aren’t any evidences to support this fact related to the efficacy of the herb in treating hepatitis C.

LACTOFERRIN

This is a typical milk protein and is also found in our saliva and tears. Some studies have revealed that when lactoferrin is taken in the form of a dietary supplement, it can help in lowering the levels of hepatitis C, thus improving the liver function.

Apart from these, some relaxation techniques and acupuncture is said to be very useful in treating hepatitis C.