Although I am extremely cautious about making claims for "getting rid of the damn virus" I am certain that Chinese Herbs can help at many other levels. They can boost immune levels in ways that Western Medicine cannot touch. We can lessen the seriousness of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. We can improve your physical complaints, particularily gastrointestinal and energy problems.
Why take Chinese Herbs for HCV?
- Relieve the symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.
- Create an environment that lessens the chances of complications due to the virus.
- Make the virus go away.
Taking Chinese herbs for HCV has three objectives.
What do you mean in point number two above?
Simply put, herbs can help to "soften the liver" allowing blood to flow smoothly. Also our herbs can protect the liver by boosting the immune system.
Can I take Milk Thistle while on Chinese Herbs?
Yes, yes, yes, please do. Milk thistle is great at will not interfere or interfere with Chinese herbs.
Can I take Chinese Herbs with Interferon?
Yes, but only with the close monitoring of a qualified practitioner. And preferably with the cooperation of your Western doctor although finding one who will be will to do this, to say the least, could be problematic.
Can Chinese Herbs cure Hepatitis C?
I've seen studies from China that report a 40 percent rate of remission. This is comparable to the rate of remission from interferon. I can not say at this time that we, in the USA, can match this with Chinese herbs. Also we don't know if the 60 percent who don't respond to the interferon are the same who won't respond to Chinese herbs. Also, Hepatitis C is a different animal from Hepatitis B and studies in China have focused on HBV.
Are Chinese herbs safe?
Yes, if prescribed by a qualified practitioner of Chinese Medicine. Many reports of problems come from MD's or others with little knowledge of the Chinese medical theory. I have studied in hospitals in China where thousands of people get herbs every day. The rate of problems is much, much less than Western medicines. Our herbs are better seen as foods with very specific purposes. Because they are whole "foods" they tend to be tolerated and moderated better in the body. One exception is Chai Hu/Buplereum which is toxic when used with Interferon therapies. But herbs are powerful and getting the wrong prescription can cause problems but that are probably less dangerous than Western medicines which tend to be specific molecular constituents.
Many people including doctors will say that "herbs are not safe" based on a single report. This is like saying that Western Medicine is dangerous because people (actually many people) have died while taking them. No, just because it is "natural" doesn't mean it's 100 percent safe and Chinese Medicine can do damage at times but it is undoubtably more "safe".
How do I find a qualified practitioner of Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Chinese Medicine is a true art and you have go with someone you feel comfortable with. My own prejudice is for those who follow Traditional Chinese Medicine, a "label" given to those who practice what is taught in China and other parts of Asia. Most ethnic Chinese doctors will follow this style. Ethinic Asian practitioners are often very good but so are many of us who have learned in the West. In particular you should assess what type of herbal skills and background your doctor has. Be aware of people who have one pill or herb for HCV. This is a complex disease and so far there is no miracle herb or formula which can be bought at your local health food store.
How will I know if the herbs are working?
Even in Western medicine there is less reliance on viral loads and enzyme levels. The truth is you will have to either look at the studies or simply trust this is the best course of action for you. Sorry, at this time, I don't have a better answer than this.
How do I take the herbs?
You will be taking 10-15 capsules, twice a day.