Herbs, dietary supplements and homeopathic remedies are all the rage. Every year, Americans spend about $11 billion on these treatments, which make up just a small part of CAM, or complementary and alternative medicine. While everyone may not be using reflexology, acupuncture or some other alternative system, it seems everyone is taking a pill or drinking a tonic for some ailment. Here are four natural treatments that people take to treat various forms of viral hepatitis. Unfortunately, there is no real evidence that they work.
1. St. John's Wort
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This herb, common in many parts of the world, is well-known for treating anxiety and depression. However, since it traditionally also has antiviral properties, people sometimes use it as a treatment for hepatitis C. Unfortunately, the evidence for using St. John's Wort to treat hepatitis C isn't very strong. This herb has been studied considerably, so much is known about it, especially for certain uses. Doctors know that it usually has mild side effects but that it can interact badly with many other drugs. In general, it's considered safe to use in accepted doses, except for pregnant and nursing women.
2. Chanca Piedra
Chanca piedra is a small plant that grows in the Amazon rain forest. As an herb, it is traditionally used to treat gallstones and kidney stones, hence the translation from Spanish as "stone breaker." Since some people believe it has antiviral properties and is able to protect the liver, they take this to treat hepatitis B. However, little reliable information supports its effectiveness as a treatment. Also, there isn't a lot of information to show that this herb is safe, especially for pregnant and nursing women. For these reasons, people should avoid taking this herb to help treat hepatitis B.3. Phosphatidylcholine
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This supplement is an important biochemical found in the membranes that enclose every cell in the body. In the world of health food stores it is known by several names, but it is a major component of commercially sold lecithin. Some people take phosphatidylcholine to help treat hepatitis B, but the evidence is conflicting. For those using it to help reduce bilirubin levels or liver enzymes in hepatitis A, the evidence is weak.
4. Olive Leaf
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Native to the Mediterranean climates, the olive tree has a rich history of medicinal uses. Current interest in the leaf is focused on its suspected antiviral properties and is sometimes suggested as a treatment for viral hepatitis. While some laboratory studies suggest good effects, no strong clinical studies that support using it for hepatitis treatment.
