Hep C Be Gone

Hepatitis C ( inflammation of the liver), is one of the                             dreaded diseases that an iv drug user can contract from using a dirty needle. This is one reason why I favor the clean needle exchange. But even willing addicts can’t always be at the distribution spot during the limited hours they pass out clean works, and subsequently and reluctantly dirty needles get used and viruses get passed on. I have compiled a list of herbal and natural remedies to both reduce the viral count and relieve symptoms of Hep C;

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is the most popular herbal remedy for hepatitis C and among the best studied. Milk thistle is thought to both reduce liver inflammation and have an antiviral effect on the hepatitis C infection. A very small study presented at the 2008 European Association for the Study of the Liver conference suggested that milk thistle might decrease levels of the hepatitis C virus in patients who didn’t respond to standard medical treatment.
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) uses the active component found in the dried root of the licorice plant. Some studies indicate that it might reduce some of the complications of hepatitis C (including liver cancer) and improve liver function. Licorice root is either taken on its own or combined with other herbs. In one study, patients who took a combination of licorice root, milk thistle, and several other herbs had improved measures of liver enzymes (a marker of liver damage and inflammation) and tests of liver function. Licorice root should be used carefully because it can have significant side effects, including high blood pressure, salt and water retention, and potassium loss. It also can have potentially dangerous interactions with medications such as diuretics, certain heart medications, and corticosteroids.

Ginseng has been used to boost the immune system, and there is evidence that it might help people with other types of liver conditions. And because ginseng can decrease blood sugar and increase risk for bleeding, it should be used very carefully.

Schisandra is a plant that has been used for centuries as part of traditional Japanese medicine. In one small study, a Japanese herbal medicine called TJ-108 containing schisandra fruit had an antiviral effect on hepatitis C.

St. John’s wort has gained popularity for treating mild to moderate depression. Some patients with hepatitis C take the herbal remedy to counter the side effects of conventional treatment.

Lactoferrin is a protein found in milk, as well as in the tears and saliva. A few small studies have found that when it is taken as part of a dietary supplement, lactoferrin may lower levels of the hepatitis C virus in the blood and improve liver function. It may be useful when taken together with standard medication.

Garlic improves the liver’s ability to metabolize and neutralize carcinogens. The sulfur compounds in garlic, the most well known is Allicin, promote the body’s detoxifying activities. Laboratory studies have shown garlic to be antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal. Garlic is helpful both raw and cooked, but the most effect for viral control comes from eating it raw. Add it to baked potatoes, sandwiches, salads, and fermented vegetables. Pesto is a common and delicious way to eat more garlic.

Turmeric is an antiviral, antioxidant,  anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antibacterial, and immune system stimulant. It also promotes production and flow of bile, protects against liver damage, reduces cholesterol and relieves arthritis. Turmeric is widely available as a dietary supplement as capsules or tinctures, but it is most economical to buy the spice. Some stores have a bulk bin section for spices, and this is the most cost effective option. One teaspoon is a good serving size, which can be blended into smoothies or simply stirred into a glass of water. Curry is a delicious way to add more turmeric into your diet.

Licorice is an immune system stimulator, and it is antibacterial, antiviral, anti-tumor, and anti-ulcer. Licorice has a long history of use for coughs, colds and ulcers. Scientific studies have reported licorice as a modulator of the immune system: if the immune system is overactive, licorice calms it down; if it’s under-active, licorice pumps it up. It increases the number and aggressiveness of white blood cells, stimulates interferon production, and enhances antibody formation. Licorice has a sweet taste well loved by some people. It can be used as a tincture, powder, tea, or capsule. DGL Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice is available as a tasty chewable tablet.

Castor Oil increases circulation, improves lymphatic flow and increases lymphocyte production and activity. A castor oil pack over the liver is effective for reducing inflammation and for relief of pain. It also relieves chronic fluid retention, and congestion in the gallbladder and liver. Castor oil can be effective in preventing the growth of viruses, bacteria, yeasts and molds. For a Castor oil pack use a cotton or wool flannel cloth folded in several layers and a good quality, cold-pressed oil. Saturate the cloth in oil and apply it to the skin. Put plastic over the pack to keep the oil from dripping, then wrap an old towel around the pack for more protection. A hot water bottle placed over the pack will increase the effectiveness of the treatment. It can be left in place as long as all night. Because of the antimicrobial properties of the oil, the same pack can be used over again many times before discarding.

Also, wild oil of oregeno has been used not only for the Norwalk virus, bronchitis, abscesses and any infection, but for reducing Hep C symptoms as well. Can be taken orally or topically.

There is a homeopathic combination on the market called Viral Plus which contains, amongst others, belladona and arcenicum, 2 remedies Jimmie has found through dowsing to be helpful in reducing Hep C symptoms.

I also recommend the Sai Sanjeevini pattern for Hep C.

And lastly, per Robert F. Cathcart, M.D.,                               

“Intravenous infusion of vitamin C when                                                                    administered immediately and in sufficient                                                               quantity,cures the entire hepatitis alphabet, A to E.       http://www.orthomed.com