Herbs for the liver work only after the virus has been killed. They are ineffective as long as the virus is alive.
Huey said
Aug 13, 2014
all of the same thing can be said for Aloe , I prefer that, My A2 F2 status after 30+years has to say something. I was using this vary heavy before tx. Going back on it after my EOT test.
Luckydog1953 said
Aug 13, 2014
I couldn't disagree more. Glutathione has been shown to be quite helpful in HCV. Studies show that HCV targets glutathione production and depletes availability. It has also been shown that the resulting extreme oxidative stress caused by glutathione depletion is the trigger for fibrogenesis in HCV. If you do some research on glutathione you will find lots of studies showing its benefits for HCV.
Metabolomic studies have shown that HCV alters the glutathione biosynthetic pathway and reduce availability of GSH. Glutathione is essential for cell metabolism - cells die 12 hours after glutathione depletion. The extremely deleterious effects of glutathione depletion in HCV is well established
Further, while it is true that pre-formed glutathione cannot penetrate cell walls to get into the intracellular compartment where it is needed, 80% of ingested N-acetylcysteine is converted into glutathione inside the cells.
This is another one of those metabolites that your body needs, produces, and which HCV depletes. I have taken N-acetylcysteine for four years for GSH replacement and not only am I very healthy but I have reversed my fibrosis staging while still infected. A lot of that has to do with GSH.
mallani said
Jul 12, 2013
Hi Wayne,
In my opinion, GSH is a waste of money. As you say, it is difficult to absorb. It may be a powerful antioxidant but so what. Viral Loads go up and down and have no relation to liver damage. I first read about GSH in 1995, and there has not been any significant evidence that it is of any use in HCV. Cheers.
ivan said
Jul 11, 2013
Glutathrone (GSH) I've read through couple published white papers concerning benefits and one "documentary" claiming a reduction of VL from 4mil to 3thousand after two years of TRANSFUSIONS. Youtube also shows stuff. Person soliciting info sales pills yet most evidence shows orally doesn't sufficiently enter bloodstream. Course VL does not indicate HVC damage and No longer sure I can endure until "nucs" come available mid2014 (geno 1a) thus my question ?snakeoil?
-- Edited by ivan on Thursday 11th of July 2013 10:43:13 PM
greenqueen said
Jan 18, 2013
Ket, perhaps you could post the lab results here that show you're undetectable, otherwise our members will be rightly sceptical without any hard evidence to prove your claims.
To say that someone can live an extra 50 years due to using Turmeric is a pretty ridiculous statement to make. I'm sure if that were the case, people would be rushing out to buy this wonderful elixir!
Turmeric contains compounds called circuminoids that are considered to aid the immune system and are currently being reseached, but your claims are not backed up by any facts.
If you have any evidence to back up your words, we would love to hear it, so please feel free to post it on the forum.
Steff
ket said
Jan 18, 2013
yes 1t-spoon of organic tumerac with lemon even twice a day and the morning 1 shot of wheatgrass i chew dried ginger at night watching movies and i chew milkthistle seeds and i eat only organic foods from the co-op or wholefoods or traders beware of gmo's i had a 6 million viral count and now undetectable and everyone should eat this way with or without hep c tumerac can kill cancer and is anti- inflamatory very very powerful root most studied spice in the world you can live 50 years more with this spice i have strong immunity the virus is afraid to be in my body and also 15% of people can completely eliminate the virus when they get it i wouldn't be surprised if this root helped your body get rid of it & don't eat pesticide foods, tumerac will eliminate toxin from tobacco and pesticides etc...and can cure many things and a high alkiline body will not get cancer so keep your body at a high akiline, a acidic body can create inflamation, and cancer. lots of wheatgrass & kale very high alkiline eat at least 80% of your meals of the alkiline foods the Doctor's medicine almost kills the body to cure and the cancer still comes back & the hep c medicine makes you crippled it's the conventional food and chemicals,vaccines that cause most cancer so eat organic stay away from chemicals and that cancer will go away(cancer is a natural warning that somthing is wrong)(look at chemical and pesticide warning labels/ it says may cause cancer) you would also have to alkiline your body full time with baking soda & water cancer cannot live in a alkiline enviornment a guy won a nobel prize for proving that theory I also drink dandelion it is thought to possess antiviral 1 t-spoon of that in the tumerac tea. i know people that did the treatment all have side effects forever their quality of life screwed up with tumors ,heart problems,etc.. and they eat pesticide foods, a hole that they can't crawl out of the results from taking the hep c medicine and their bad diet keeps them in a state of lingering death . This lady that runs the hep-c trials says it's only about the money if the cure was to good then no money interest for the big pharm / baking soda is 50 cents no money curing cancer with water and baking soda and herbs too without a patent is not something big pharm can invest in if most of us can control hep c with herbs then big pharm would lose money and then they will come out with a 1 shot cure ? take a blood test before you drink organic tumerac root powder for a month test again keep doing blood work and you will reverse all liver effects from the virus the test will throw the doctor off that is what i did just use organic tumerac root powder from fair trade in shri lanka or india fresh from bulk from a co-op store or elliots natural foods or wholefoods make sure it has a strong fresh smell ask how many pounds or ounces they sell a day so you are not getting old tumerac that is weak if they don't sell a lot at that store then don't get it i hope somebody can read this i did a vapor of real tested organic cannabis earlier with my tea and that and i'm not afraid of that french study about thc in the fat of the liver well i work out everyday and the vapor without smoke once at night and i tested still undetectable my doctor tried a scare tactic on me too and now he i shut him up
-- Edited by ket on Friday 18th of January 2013 10:18:27 AM
-- Edited by ket on Friday 18th of January 2013 10:43:10 AM
Islandgrl said
Feb 12, 2012
Hi Tio, I have also taken Milk Thistle for about 6 years. My brother in law is a Dr. and we have done our own research with Milk Thistle. Before I started taking Milk Thistle my liver function test were abnormal. He did bloodwork on me once a month for the first year and my liver functions stayed in normal range. So I figured if my liver functions were within normal limits maybe my liver wasn't being damaged. I didn't have insurance at the time and I was doing anything I could to protect my liver. But, I still did everything I could to get insurance and try to get rid of the virus. I am now on Ribavin and Interferon. I told my hepatologists that I was taking Milk Thistle and he said that it was O.K. that it wouldn't hurt me but it is not for everybody. Milk Thistle thins your blood and could be harmful to some people. Everyone should ALWAYS check with your Dr. before taking any new medication especially while on treatment.
Minerva said
Feb 12, 2012
Hi Tio and a warm welcome to the forum from me.
Wish you all the very best with your treatment (tx) and would recommend that you check with your Dr before taking any herbs/supplements whilst on tx (some are known to give false blood readings).
The following extract has a few suggestions for nutrition, that i hope will be helpful.
Hugs
Heather xxx
People living with chronic hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) commonly ask, What should we eat? Here are guidelines upon which many nutrition experts agree:
Avoid trans fats. These can be found in margarine, shortening, fast and processed
foods. Examine labels for partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, which means trans fat.
Check cookie and cracker labels for trans fats.
Everything passes through the liver. Dietary supplements may harm the liver. Evaluate
everything before you take it.
Strive for a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Some fat is essential, but
restrict fat consumption to 30% of daily intake. Butter, cheese, ice cream, whole milk,
and red meat are typical sources of saturated fat. Avoid or limit foods using palm and
coconut oil. Skip fried foods, especially deep-fried.
Eat generous amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables. Make colorful choices produce
from each color group targets certain vitamins and minerals. Juice and dried fruits are
high in calories and not optimal replacements for fresh fruit.
Opt for real rather than processed food, such as whole grains. Frozen, canned, and
fast food is likely to be packed with salt (sodium), sugar, fat and chemicals. Those who
avoid white food tend to eat a high fiber diet.
Choose plant-based proteins. Beans, nuts, and seeds are protein-sources. When eating
animal protein choose fish and poultry rather than red meat.
Avoid foods with pesticides.
Select a variety of foods.
Do not exceed sodium (salt) levels that are recommended for your health condition.
Processed foods often have high sodium levels.
Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily.
Do not eat more calories than you use, unless you need to gain weight.
Resist fad diets. Look for a diet that has a record of long-term success.
Choose a food plan you can live with and maintain.
Skip deprivation. Deprivation may be endured for short periods, but it usually sabotages
the best intentions.
Be skeptical of wild claims. Beware of products, such as herbs and supplements, that
promise weight loss without diet or exercise.
(From: HCV Advocate).
Tio said
Feb 12, 2012
Hi. I was reading that tumeric is helpful in healing the liver and one article i read said that it can reduce scaring of the liver. I wonder if you are anyone here has heard of this. I have taken milk thistle for a couple of years, but I can't say it did any good or harm. A hepatologist told me it would not harm me, but he thought there was no evidence that it would do any good.
-- Edited by Tio on Sunday 12th of February 2012 08:11:18 AM
Minerva said
Feb 17, 2008
Interesting list Col. I have the complete collection of Bach Flower Remedies. Never completely got into them and most/some of them may well have evaporated by now, but the idea behind them always fascinated me...plus i liked the little bottles!! Used to also be interested in all the healing properties of plants as well as connections with planets/gems/stones/organs etc....fascinating stuff!! Rescue Remedy was always to hand when me kids were growing up too!!...
Just to repeat what Col already said, some herbs are/do affect conventional tx for Hep C and can falsify blood readings so it is worth checking with your nurse before taking anything herbal alongside tx, in my humble opinion...and generally worth consulting with a homeopathist and/or reputable practioner before taking any herbs, even if not on tx. Our own personal health/meds may make us interract differently/individually to certain herbs....also sadly, there are a lot of charlatans out there!!
Love and hugs Heather xxx
CeeGee2 said
Feb 17, 2008
WARNING THIS IS FOR INTREST AND THE USES OF HERBS. MANY ARE TOXIC OR HAVE BAD AND ADVERSE REACTIONS WHEN COMBINED WITH OTHERS OR CONVENTIONAL MEDICATION. I DO NOT INTEND TO BE DISRESPECTFUL OF ANY RELIGIOUS VIEWS BUT THERE IS REFRENCE TO MAGIK AND MAY OFFEND SOME.
The herbal antidepressant supported by the strongest evidence is St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) extract. Over twenty clinical studies have demonstrated that pharmaceutical-grade St. John's Wort extract effectively relieves depression. In fact, studies comparing high-quality St. John's Wort to prescription antidepressant drugs (such as Paxil ®, Zoloft ®, and Prozac ®) show that St. John's Wort works just as well or better than these drugs, but causes fewer side effects. Therefore, the most effective herbs for depression are those that contain a full dose of pharmaceutical-grade St. John's Wort extractSt. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Several studies indicate that St. John's wort may be as effective as tricyclic antidepressants, but with fewer side effects. Reported side effects include gastrointestinal complaints, fatigue, and oversensitivity to sunlight. Because of potential adverse interactions, St. John's wort should not be taken in conjunction with other antidepressants or with certain medications, including indinivir (a protease inhibitor used for HIV), oral contraceptives, theophylline, warfarin, digoxin, reserpine, cyclosporine, and loperamide.
Although they have yet to be scientifically evaluated for their use in treating depression, the following are a few examples of herbs that may be recommended by professional herbalists for depression or its related symptoms:
Valerian root (Valerian officinalis)may improve symptoms of insomnia associated with depression Damiana (Turnera diffusa)may reduce sexual dysfunction associated with many antidepressant medications Ginseng (Panax ginseng)may help the body resist stress
herbal associations and uses Buckeyes Jupiter For arthritis & rheumatism-divination; very lucky; attracts money & wealth Camphor Moon Kills germs, pain relief; heals skin, lips, nose, burns-prophecy in dreams; purification; physical energy; celibacy. Catnip Venus Tonic; treats colds, fever, indigestion, flatulence, colic; mild astringent-psychic bond with animals; power; courage; love & happiness. Chamomile flower Sun / Leo Soothing sedative; treats indigestion, pain-marriage proposals; luck gambling; prevents lightning strikes; prosperity; meditation.; tea is sweet tasting Cloves whole Uranus Culinary spice-oil eases toothache pain; ground cloves calms stomach, relieves gas-banish hostile/negative forces; gain what is sought; clears head; friendship/love. Coltsfoot leaf Venus To disperse illness; pain relief; cough remedy-wealth & prosperity; love. Comfrey leaf Saturn / Capricorn Highly nutritious; soothes stomach, heals sprains, strains, fractures, sores, etc.; rheumatism/ arthritis- protection; safety traveling.; tea is tonic, aids digestion. Damiana leaf Pluto Tonic; aphrodisiac; improves digestion; relieves coughsuse in sex magick; taken to increase magickal energy; divination; dreams / clairvoyance. Tea is mild euphoric & aphrodisiac Dandelion leaf Jupiter / Sagittarius Tonic; highly nutritious; internally cleansing / mild laxative; treats skin disorders/urinary tract infection-summons spirits; purification; dreams/prophecy. Epsom salts Hydrated magnesium sulfates; use as a purge; reduces inflammation. Eucalyptus Pluto Great healing properties; kills germs/infections; eases lung congestion; heart stimulant-attracts healing vibrations; protection. Fennel seed Mercury Flavoring agent-aids digestion & weight loss; relieves gas-imparts strength, vitality, sexual virility; protection; prevents cures, possession & negative problems. Galangal root (Lo John) Sun / Leo Cleanses system; flatulent colic; take at onset of colds; sore throat stimulate saliva; aphrodisiac-to win at court; doubles money; psychic; hex breaking, sex magick Garlic powder Mars / Aries Culinary spice-nutrient, for colds/flu/infection; reduce blood pressure/cholesterol-magickal healing; protection; exorcism. Ginseng powder Uranus Rejuvenation; longevity; sexual potency; antidepressant, equalizes blood pressure; digestion-love spells; beauty; healing; protection Hibiscus Flower Venus Aphrodisiac; soothes nerves; antispasmodic; itchy skin; stomach problems; sweeten breath - attract love/lust; divination; dreams. Tea is red color, vitamin C source Jasmine flower Jupiter / Cancer / Moon Calms nerves, snakebite, eye problems - attract love, prosperity & money; divination; psychic dreams; good for charging quartz crystals. To flavor black teas. Juniper berries Mars / Aries / Sun Digestion problems; intestinal cramps; diuretic; arthritis banishes all things injurious to good health; attract good healthy energies & love; protection. Kava Kava Root Pluto / Venus very effective aphrodisiac potent sacramental drink; potions; induces visions; astral work; travel protection Lavender flowers Mercury / Venus Tonic; stomach problems, nausea/vomiting healing; inner calm, peace of mind; freedom from stress; love; money; protection; attract good spirits; purification. Lemon Verbena leaf Venus Protection; love spells; excite spiritual love; wear to prevent dreaming; ads power to charms; purification. Tea is mild sedative. Lobelia Neptune Can be toxic; strong antispasmodic for epileptic seizure, asthma menstrual cramps, foot/calf cramps; bronchitis, pneumonia; bruises, bites, fungus infections expectorant, emetic. Mandrake Uranus/mercury Consume with extreme caution, energetic purgative0enhances creativity; increases magickal potency/psychism; exorcism; fertility; love; protection. Mistletoe Sun / Jupiter (berries poison) treatment of hypertension, epilepsy, menstrual problems, headache & hemorrhage; improves circulation; aphrodisiac fertility; love; protection; visions Mugwort Neptune / Venus Appetite; digestion; visionary dreams; clairvoyance; protection; travel stamina/ safety; consecrate,, divinatory tools; add power to scrying tools. Tea induces dreams. Mullein leaf Saturn Expectorant; lung ailments; diarrhea; hemorrhoids-protection; courage; involves spirits; keeps away demons & nightmares while asleep. Nettles leaf Mars / Aries Tonic; highly nutritive; for anemia, skin disorders & allergies; restores health; expectorant. Stops bleeding removes spells/curses; protection; exorcism. Nutmeg Uranus/Jupiter Use small doses, appetite; digestion; mild hallucinogen physical & magickal energy; psychism; attract money/ prosperity; luck; protection; breaks hexes. Orris root powder Moon Diuretic; bronchitis/coughs/sore thrat0physical & spiritual protection; bring love, romance, companionship & a loving mate; attract money; dreams; divination Passion flower Neptune Relieves nerve pain; for seizures/hysteria; restful sleep, calming & soothing promotes emotional balance; peace; attract friendship & prosperity; heightens libido Patchouly leaf Pluto Reverse spells; drive troublemakers away, clairvoyance; divination; passion; love; sex magick; manifest money; physical strength. Pennyroyal leaf Venus Repels insects/calms itch; antiseptic; nausea; treat colds; stimulate menses; induce abortion (w/brewers yeast) peace & tranquility; protection; exorcism; consecration rituals. Peppermint leaf Venus Tonic; upset stomach; heartburn; nausea; colds/flu; calming; promotes sleep-visionary dreams; increase psychic ability; healing; purification. Tea is invigorating, good to flavor over other herbs Raspberry leaf Venus Pregnancy/ childbirth; kidneys; diarrhea; nausea/vomiting; calming; promotes sleep-visions; healing; protection; love.. tea is womans system tonic. Rosemary leaf Sum / Aries Circulatory, digestive & nerve stimulant, memory; headache; depression; halitosis-protection; exorcism; healing; purification; love stimulator. Red rose buds & petals Venus For headache, dizziness, mouth sores & menstrual cramps; heart/nerve tonic- attract love; beauty; clairvoyance; domestic peace/ happiness; promotes joy of giving. Rose hips Jupiter Vitamin C source; colds/flu; mild laxative; tonic; healing to acne-brings good luck; calls in good spirits. Tea has tangy flavor, vitamin C source. Rue leaf Sun / Leo Poison in large doses, strong antispasmodic, stimulates menes/ eases cramps, arthritic pain; nervine - protection; consecration/ blessings/ healings; exorcism; soothe aching heart. Sage leaf Jupiter/ Venus / Leo Tonic; antiperspirant, wounds; digestion; muscle/ joint pain; gargle; colds/fever; preservative-wisdom; money; healing; longevity; protection; sacred ritual. Salt Petre For women who do not want their partners to have outside sexual relationships Red Sandalwood powder / chips Jupiter Bruises; indigestion; fever clairvoyance; healing; protection; purification; spirituality; meditation; sacred rituals; magickal work; stimulate sex Skull cap Saturn Tranquilizer/ insomnia sedative, nervous tension, drug / alcohol withdrawal & PMS ensure everlasting fidelity & commitment; alleviates anxiety; relaxation peace. Tea is good for insomnia. Sea Salt Seasoning for cleansing crystals, magic mirrors; purification; consecration; grounding; protection; magick & ritual St. Johns Wort Sun / Leo Wound healing; immune system stimulant; insomnia; headache; menstrual cramps; colds; antidepressant & protection; exorcism; courage; battle invincibility; divination. Sulfur powder (brimstone) Dispels or prevents a hex on you; destroys an enemys power over you. Tonka Beans Venus Harmful if ingested; good luck; strong money magnet; attract hearts desire; makes love endure; strength;; wishes Valerian Root Mercury Calms nerves; sleep aid; treats spasmodic/ nervous conditions; reduces blood pressure love; harmony; purification; protection; black magick. Vervain Venus / Libra, Gemini For minor pains / inflammation (headache, toothache, arthritis); restful sloop; calming - protection; purification; divination; consecration; love potions; creativity Wormwood Pluto Mars / Scorpio Small doses are poison stomach disorders; liver / cardiac stimulant; expels intestinal worms banish anger / negativity; divination; protection; exorcism; black arts. CG
Herbs for the liver work only after the virus has been killed. They are ineffective as long as the virus is alive.
all of the same thing can be said for Aloe , I prefer that, My A2 F2 status after 30+years has to say something. I was using this vary heavy before tx. Going back on it after my EOT test.
I couldn't disagree more. Glutathione has been shown to be quite helpful in HCV. Studies show that HCV targets glutathione production and depletes availability. It has also been shown that the resulting extreme oxidative stress caused by glutathione depletion is the trigger for fibrogenesis in HCV. If you do some research on glutathione you will find lots of studies showing its benefits for HCV.
Metabolomic studies have shown that HCV alters the glutathione biosynthetic pathway and reduce availability of GSH. Glutathione is essential for cell metabolism - cells die 12 hours after glutathione depletion. The extremely deleterious effects of glutathione depletion in HCV is well established
Further, while it is true that pre-formed glutathione cannot penetrate cell walls to get into the intracellular compartment where it is needed, 80% of ingested N-acetylcysteine is converted into glutathione inside the cells.
This is another one of those metabolites that your body needs, produces, and which HCV depletes. I have taken N-acetylcysteine for four years for GSH replacement and not only am I very healthy but I have reversed my fibrosis staging while still infected. A lot of that has to do with GSH.
Hi Wayne,
In my opinion, GSH is a waste of money. As you say, it is difficult to absorb. It may be a powerful antioxidant but so what. Viral Loads go up and down and have no relation to liver damage. I first read about GSH in 1995, and there has not been any significant evidence that it is of any use in HCV. Cheers.
Glutathrone (GSH) I've read through couple published white papers concerning benefits and one "documentary" claiming a reduction of VL from 4mil to 3thousand after two years of TRANSFUSIONS. Youtube also shows stuff. Person soliciting info sales pills yet most evidence shows orally doesn't sufficiently enter bloodstream. Course VL does not indicate HVC damage and No longer sure I can endure until "nucs" come available mid2014 (geno 1a) thus my question ?snakeoil?
-- Edited by ivan on Thursday 11th of July 2013 10:43:13 PM
Ket, perhaps you could post the lab results here that show you're undetectable, otherwise our members will be rightly sceptical without any hard evidence to prove your claims.
To say that someone can live an extra 50 years due to using Turmeric is a pretty ridiculous statement to make. I'm sure if that were the case, people would be rushing out to buy this wonderful elixir!
Turmeric contains compounds called circuminoids that are considered to aid the immune system and are currently being reseached, but your claims are not backed up by any facts.
If you have any evidence to back up your words, we would love to hear it, so please feel free to post it on the forum.
Steff
yes 1t-spoon of organic tumerac with lemon even twice a day and the morning 1 shot of wheatgrass i chew dried ginger at night watching movies and i chew milkthistle seeds and i eat only organic foods from the co-op or wholefoods or traders beware of gmo's i had a 6 million viral count and now undetectable and everyone should eat this way with or without hep c tumerac can kill cancer and is anti- inflamatory very very powerful root most studied spice in the world you can live 50 years more with this spice i have strong immunity the virus is afraid to be in my body and also 15% of people can completely eliminate the virus when they get it i wouldn't be surprised if this root helped your body get rid of it & don't eat pesticide foods, tumerac will eliminate toxin from tobacco and pesticides etc...and can cure many things and a high alkiline body will not get cancer so keep your body at a high akiline, a acidic body can create inflamation, and cancer. lots of wheatgrass & kale very high alkiline eat at least 80% of your meals of the alkiline foods the Doctor's medicine almost kills the body to cure and the cancer still comes back & the hep c medicine makes you crippled it's the conventional food and chemicals,vaccines that cause most cancer so eat organic stay away from chemicals and that cancer will go away(cancer is a natural warning that somthing is wrong)(look at chemical and pesticide warning labels/ it says may cause cancer) you would also have to alkiline your body full time with baking soda & water cancer cannot live in a alkiline enviornment a guy won a nobel prize for proving that theory I also drink dandelion it is thought to possess antiviral 1 t-spoon of that in the tumerac tea. i know people that did the treatment all have side effects forever their quality of life screwed up with tumors ,heart problems,etc.. and they eat pesticide foods, a hole that they can't crawl out of the results from taking the hep c medicine and their bad diet keeps them in a state of lingering death . This lady that runs the hep-c trials says it's only about the money if the cure was to good then no money interest for the big pharm / baking soda is 50 cents no money curing cancer with water and baking soda and herbs too without a patent is not something big pharm can invest in if most of us can control hep c with herbs then big pharm would lose money and then they will come out with a 1 shot cure ? take a blood test before you drink organic tumerac root powder for a month test again keep doing blood work and you will reverse all liver effects from the virus the test will throw the doctor off that is what i did just use organic tumerac root powder from fair trade in shri lanka or india fresh from bulk from a co-op store or elliots natural foods or wholefoods make sure it has a strong fresh smell ask how many pounds or ounces they sell a day so you are not getting old tumerac that is weak if they don't sell a lot at that store then don't get it i hope somebody can read this i did a vapor of real tested organic cannabis earlier with my tea and that and i'm not afraid of that french study about thc in the fat of the liver well i work out everyday and the vapor without smoke once at night and i tested still undetectable my doctor tried a scare tactic on me too and now he i shut him up
-- Edited by ket on Friday 18th of January 2013 10:18:27 AM
-- Edited by ket on Friday 18th of January 2013 10:43:10 AM
Hi Tio, I have also taken Milk Thistle for about 6 years. My brother in law is a Dr. and we have done our own research with Milk Thistle. Before I started taking Milk Thistle my liver function test were abnormal. He did bloodwork on me once a month for the first year and my liver functions stayed in normal range. So I figured if my liver functions were within normal limits maybe my liver wasn't being damaged. I didn't have insurance at the time and I was doing anything I could to protect my liver. But, I still did everything I could to get insurance and try to get rid of the virus. I am now on Ribavin and Interferon. I told my hepatologists that I was taking Milk Thistle and he said that it was O.K. that it wouldn't hurt me but it is not for everybody. Milk Thistle thins your blood and could be harmful to some people. Everyone should ALWAYS check with your Dr. before taking any new medication especially while on treatment.
Hi Tio and a warm welcome to the forum from me.
Wish you all the very best with your treatment (tx) and would recommend that you check with your Dr before taking any herbs/supplements whilst on tx (some are known to give false blood readings).
The following extract has a few suggestions for nutrition, that i hope will be helpful.
Hugs
Heather xxx
People living with chronic hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) commonly ask, What should we eat? Here are guidelines upon which many nutrition experts agree:
Avoid trans fats. These can be found in margarine, shortening, fast and processed
foods. Examine labels for partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, which means trans fat.
Check cookie and cracker labels for trans fats.
Everything passes through the liver. Dietary supplements may harm the liver. Evaluate
everything before you take it.
Strive for a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Some fat is essential, but
restrict fat consumption to 30% of daily intake. Butter, cheese, ice cream, whole milk,
and red meat are typical sources of saturated fat. Avoid or limit foods using palm and
coconut oil. Skip fried foods, especially deep-fried.
Eat generous amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables. Make colorful choices produce
from each color group targets certain vitamins and minerals. Juice and dried fruits are
high in calories and not optimal replacements for fresh fruit.
Opt for real rather than processed food, such as whole grains. Frozen, canned, and
fast food is likely to be packed with salt (sodium), sugar, fat and chemicals. Those who
avoid white food tend to eat a high fiber diet.
Choose plant-based proteins. Beans, nuts, and seeds are protein-sources. When eating
animal protein choose fish and poultry rather than red meat.
Avoid foods with pesticides.
Select a variety of foods.
Do not exceed sodium (salt) levels that are recommended for your health condition.
Processed foods often have high sodium levels.
Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily.
Do not eat more calories than you use, unless you need to gain weight.
Resist fad diets. Look for a diet that has a record of long-term success.
Choose a food plan you can live with and maintain.
Skip deprivation. Deprivation may be endured for short periods, but it usually sabotages
the best intentions.
Be skeptical of wild claims. Beware of products, such as herbs and supplements, that
promise weight loss without diet or exercise.
(From: HCV Advocate).
Hi. I was reading that tumeric is helpful in healing the liver and one article i read said that it can reduce scaring of the liver. I wonder if you are anyone here has heard of this. I have taken milk thistle for a couple of years, but I can't say it did any good or harm. A hepatologist told me it would not harm me, but he thought there was no evidence that it would do any good.
-- Edited by Tio on Sunday 12th of February 2012 08:11:18 AM
Interesting list Col. I have the complete collection of Bach Flower Remedies. Never completely got into them and most/some of them may well have evaporated by now, but the idea behind them always fascinated me...plus i liked the little bottles!! Used to also be interested in all the healing properties of plants as well as connections with planets/gems/stones/organs etc....fascinating stuff!!
Just to repeat what Col already said, some herbs are/do affect conventional tx for Hep C and can falsify blood readings so it is worth checking with your nurse before taking anything herbal alongside tx, in my humble opinion...and generally worth consulting with a homeopathist and/or reputable practioner before taking any herbs, even if not on tx. Our own personal health/meds may make us interract differently/individually to certain herbs....also sadly, there are a lot of charlatans out there!!
Love and hugs
Heather
xxx
WARNING THIS IS FOR INTREST AND THE USES OF HERBS. MANY ARE TOXIC OR HAVE BAD AND ADVERSE REACTIONS WHEN COMBINED WITH OTHERS OR CONVENTIONAL MEDICATION.
I DO NOT INTEND TO BE DISRESPECTFUL OF ANY RELIGIOUS VIEWS BUT THERE IS REFRENCE TO MAGIK AND MAY OFFEND SOME.
The herbal antidepressant supported by the strongest evidence is St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) extract. Over twenty clinical studies have demonstrated that pharmaceutical-grade St. John's Wort extract effectively relieves depression. In fact, studies comparing high-quality St. John's Wort to prescription antidepressant drugs (such as Paxil ®, Zoloft ®, and Prozac ®) show that St. John's Wort works just as well or better than these drugs, but causes fewer side effects. Therefore, the most effective herbs for depression are those that contain a full dose of pharmaceutical-grade St. John's Wort extractSt. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Several studies indicate that St. John's wort may be as effective as tricyclic antidepressants, but with fewer side effects. Reported side effects include gastrointestinal complaints, fatigue, and oversensitivity to sunlight. Because of potential adverse interactions, St. John's wort should not be taken in conjunction with other antidepressants or with certain medications, including indinivir (a protease inhibitor used for HIV), oral contraceptives, theophylline, warfarin, digoxin, reserpine, cyclosporine, and loperamide.
Although they have yet to be scientifically evaluated for their use in treating depression, the following are a few examples of herbs that may be recommended by professional herbalists for depression or its related symptoms:
Valerian root (Valerian officinalis)may improve symptoms of insomnia associated with depression
Damiana (Turnera diffusa)may reduce sexual dysfunction associated with many antidepressant medications
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)may help the body resist stress
herbal associations and uses
Buckeyes
Jupiter
For arthritis & rheumatism-divination; very lucky; attracts money & wealth
Camphor
Moon
Kills germs, pain relief; heals skin, lips, nose, burns-prophecy in dreams; purification; physical energy; celibacy.
Catnip
Venus
Tonic; treats colds, fever, indigestion, flatulence, colic; mild astringent-psychic bond with animals; power; courage; love & happiness.
Chamomile flower
Sun / Leo
Soothing sedative; treats indigestion, pain-marriage proposals; luck gambling; prevents lightning strikes; prosperity; meditation.; tea is sweet tasting
Cloves whole
Uranus
Culinary spice-oil eases toothache pain; ground cloves calms stomach, relieves gas-banish hostile/negative forces; gain what is sought; clears head; friendship/love.
Coltsfoot leaf
Venus
To disperse illness; pain relief; cough remedy-wealth & prosperity; love.
Comfrey leaf
Saturn / Capricorn
Highly nutritious; soothes stomach, heals sprains, strains, fractures, sores, etc.; rheumatism/ arthritis- protection; safety traveling.; tea is tonic, aids digestion.
Damiana leaf
Pluto
Tonic; aphrodisiac; improves digestion; relieves coughsuse in sex magick; taken to increase magickal energy; divination; dreams / clairvoyance. Tea is mild euphoric & aphrodisiac
Dandelion leaf
Jupiter / Sagittarius
Tonic; highly nutritious; internally cleansing / mild laxative; treats skin disorders/urinary tract infection-summons spirits; purification; dreams/prophecy.
Epsom salts
Hydrated magnesium sulfates; use as a purge; reduces inflammation.
Eucalyptus
Pluto
Great healing properties; kills germs/infections; eases lung congestion; heart stimulant-attracts healing vibrations; protection.
Fennel seed
Mercury
Flavoring agent-aids digestion & weight loss; relieves gas-imparts strength, vitality, sexual virility; protection; prevents cures, possession & negative problems.
Galangal root (Lo John)
Sun / Leo
Cleanses system; flatulent colic; take at onset of colds; sore throat stimulate saliva; aphrodisiac-to win at court; doubles money; psychic; hex breaking, sex magick
Garlic powder
Mars / Aries
Culinary spice-nutrient, for colds/flu/infection; reduce blood pressure/cholesterol-magickal healing; protection; exorcism.
Ginseng powder
Uranus
Rejuvenation; longevity; sexual potency; antidepressant, equalizes blood pressure; digestion-love spells; beauty; healing; protection
Hibiscus Flower
Venus
Aphrodisiac; soothes nerves; antispasmodic; itchy skin; stomach problems; sweeten breath - attract love/lust; divination; dreams. Tea is red color, vitamin C source
Jasmine flower
Jupiter / Cancer / Moon
Calms nerves, snakebite, eye problems - attract love, prosperity & money; divination; psychic dreams; good for charging quartz crystals. To flavor black teas.
Juniper berries
Mars / Aries / Sun
Digestion problems; intestinal cramps; diuretic; arthritis banishes all things injurious to good health; attract good healthy energies & love; protection.
Kava Kava Root
Pluto / Venus
very effective aphrodisiac potent sacramental drink; potions; induces visions; astral work; travel protection
Lavender flowers
Mercury / Venus
Tonic; stomach problems, nausea/vomiting healing; inner calm, peace of mind; freedom from stress; love; money; protection; attract good spirits; purification.
Lemon Verbena leaf
Venus
Protection; love spells; excite spiritual love; wear to prevent dreaming; ads power to charms; purification. Tea is mild sedative.
Lobelia
Neptune
Can be toxic; strong antispasmodic for epileptic seizure, asthma menstrual cramps, foot/calf cramps; bronchitis, pneumonia; bruises, bites, fungus infections expectorant, emetic.
Mandrake
Uranus/mercury
Consume with extreme caution, energetic purgative0enhances creativity; increases magickal potency/psychism; exorcism; fertility; love; protection.
Mistletoe
Sun / Jupiter
(berries poison) treatment of hypertension, epilepsy, menstrual problems, headache & hemorrhage; improves circulation; aphrodisiac fertility; love; protection; visions
Mugwort
Neptune / Venus
Appetite; digestion; visionary dreams; clairvoyance; protection; travel stamina/ safety; consecrate,, divinatory tools; add power to scrying tools. Tea induces dreams.
Mullein leaf
Saturn
Expectorant; lung ailments; diarrhea; hemorrhoids-protection; courage; involves spirits; keeps away demons & nightmares while asleep.
Nettles leaf
Mars / Aries
Tonic; highly nutritive; for anemia, skin disorders & allergies; restores health; expectorant. Stops bleeding removes spells/curses; protection; exorcism.
Nutmeg
Uranus/Jupiter
Use small doses, appetite; digestion; mild hallucinogen physical & magickal energy; psychism; attract money/ prosperity; luck; protection; breaks hexes.
Orris root powder
Moon
Diuretic; bronchitis/coughs/sore thrat0physical & spiritual protection; bring love, romance, companionship & a loving mate; attract money; dreams; divination
Passion flower
Neptune
Relieves nerve pain; for seizures/hysteria; restful sleep, calming & soothing promotes emotional balance; peace; attract friendship & prosperity; heightens libido
Patchouly leaf
Pluto
Reverse spells; drive troublemakers away, clairvoyance; divination; passion; love; sex magick; manifest money; physical strength.
Pennyroyal leaf
Venus
Repels insects/calms itch; antiseptic; nausea; treat colds; stimulate menses; induce abortion (w/brewers yeast) peace & tranquility; protection; exorcism; consecration rituals.
Peppermint leaf
Venus
Tonic; upset stomach; heartburn; nausea; colds/flu; calming; promotes sleep-visionary dreams; increase psychic ability; healing; purification. Tea is invigorating, good to flavor over other herbs
Raspberry leaf
Venus
Pregnancy/ childbirth; kidneys; diarrhea; nausea/vomiting; calming; promotes sleep-visions; healing; protection; love.. tea is womans system tonic.
Rosemary leaf
Sum / Aries
Circulatory, digestive & nerve stimulant, memory; headache; depression; halitosis-protection; exorcism; healing; purification; love stimulator.
Red rose buds & petals
Venus
For headache, dizziness, mouth sores & menstrual cramps; heart/nerve tonic- attract love; beauty; clairvoyance; domestic peace/ happiness; promotes joy of giving.
Rose hips
Jupiter
Vitamin C source; colds/flu; mild laxative; tonic; healing to acne-brings good luck; calls in good spirits. Tea has tangy flavor, vitamin C source.
Rue leaf
Sun / Leo
Poison in large doses, strong antispasmodic, stimulates menes/ eases cramps, arthritic pain; nervine - protection; consecration/ blessings/ healings; exorcism; soothe aching heart.
Sage leaf
Jupiter/ Venus / Leo
Tonic; antiperspirant, wounds; digestion; muscle/ joint pain; gargle; colds/fever; preservative-wisdom; money; healing; longevity; protection; sacred ritual.
Salt Petre
For women who do not want their partners to have outside sexual relationships
Red Sandalwood powder / chips
Jupiter
Bruises; indigestion; fever clairvoyance; healing; protection; purification; spirituality; meditation; sacred rituals; magickal work; stimulate sex
Skull cap
Saturn
Tranquilizer/ insomnia sedative, nervous tension, drug / alcohol withdrawal & PMS ensure everlasting fidelity & commitment; alleviates anxiety; relaxation peace. Tea is good for insomnia.
Sea Salt
Seasoning for cleansing crystals, magic mirrors; purification; consecration; grounding; protection; magick & ritual
St. Johns Wort
Sun / Leo
Wound healing; immune system stimulant; insomnia; headache; menstrual cramps; colds; antidepressant & protection; exorcism; courage; battle invincibility; divination.
Sulfur powder (brimstone)
Dispels or prevents a hex on you; destroys an enemys power over you.
Tonka Beans
Venus
Harmful if ingested; good luck; strong money magnet; attract hearts desire; makes love endure; strength;; wishes
Valerian Root
Mercury
Calms nerves; sleep aid; treats spasmodic/ nervous conditions; reduces blood pressure love; harmony; purification; protection; black magick.
Vervain
Venus / Libra, Gemini
For minor pains / inflammation (headache, toothache, arthritis); restful sloop; calming - protection; purification; divination; consecration; love potions; creativity
Wormwood
Pluto Mars / Scorpio
Small doses are poison stomach disorders; liver / cardiac stimulant; expels intestinal worms banish anger / negativity; divination; protection; exorcism; black arts.
CG