Re: There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

[Guest guest]

I think our is going to have something to say about this one!!!!

anne

(putting up her fireproof shield)

There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917c.htm?track=rss9/17/04Chinese herbsThere is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferersBy Helen FieldsNot everyone can tolerate the side effects of interferon, the standard treatment for hepatitis C. That leaves a lot of hepatitis C carriers stuck with fatigue and a less healthy life, which has led many to try herbal treatments. But the data on herbs are inconclusive. A group of Minnesota researchers tried out some traditional Chinese herbal medicines that are used extensively in Asia to treat hepatitis C.What the researchers wanted to know: Do Chinese herbal medicines help hepatitis C patients?What they did: The researchers recruited patients through clinics and advertising. Patients were excluded if they'd had antiviral treatment recently, if they had other liver disease, or if they consumed more than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five patients entered the study, and 31 made it all the way through the follow-up visits. Half the subjects took a combination of 10 traditional Chinese herbs and the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew whether a patient was getting the herbs or the placebo. Both groups took the tablets twice a day for 12 weeks. At several office visits, the participants were asked how they were doing and had blood taken to check on their liver and kidneys.What they found: The herbal medicines were no different from the placebo. Liver function was the same in people taking herbs and placebo. Neither group had less virus at the end of the trial, and quality of life showed no improvement, either. Side effects were mild, and there were about the same number in the two groups.What it means to you: The evidence on using herbs for hepatitis C is still shaky.Caveats: This is a very small pilot study. Most of the subjects were middle-aged, white, and male, so the results might not apply to others.Find out more: Information on Radix astragali, one of the 10 herbs in this study, from a database of Chinese herbs http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm

[Guest guest]

Hahaha I was thinkin of when I found this in my archives .lol

There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917c.htm?track=rss9/17/04Chinese herbsThere is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferersBy Helen FieldsNot everyone can tolerate the side effects of interferon, the standard treatment for hepatitis C. That leaves a lot of hepatitis C carriers stuck with fatigue and a less healthy life, which has led many to try herbal treatments. But the data on herbs are inconclusive. A group of Minnesota researchers tried out some traditional Chinese herbal medicines that are used extensively in Asia to treat hepatitis C.What the researchers wanted to know: Do Chinese herbal medicines help hepatitis C patients?What they did: The researchers recruited patients through clinics and advertising. Patients were excluded if they'd had antiviral treatment recently, if they had other liver disease, or if they consumed more than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five patients entered the study, and 31 made it all the way through the follow-up visits. Half the subjects took a combination of 10 traditional Chinese herbs and the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew whether a patient was getting the herbs or the placebo. Both groups took the tablets twice a day for 12 weeks. At several office visits, the participants were asked how they were doing and had blood taken to check on their liver and kidneys.What they found: The herbal medicines were no different from the placebo. Liver function was the same in people taking herbs and placebo. Neither group had less virus at the end of the trial, and quality of life showed no improvement, either. Side effects were mild, and there were about the same number in the two groups.What it means to you: The evidence on using herbs for hepatitis C is still shaky.Caveats: This is a very small pilot study. Most of the subjects were middle-aged, white, and male, so the results might not apply to others.Find out more: Information on Radix astragali, one of the 10 herbs in this study, from a database of Chinese herbs http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm

[Guest guest]

You tease! Hahahaha

Love

anne

There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917c.htm?track=rss9/17/04Chinese herbsThere is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferersBy Helen FieldsNot everyone can tolerate the side effects of interferon, the standard treatment for hepatitis C. That leaves a lot of hepatitis C carriers stuck with fatigue and a less healthy life, which has led many to try herbal treatments. But the data on herbs are inconclusive. A group of Minnesota researchers tried out some traditional Chinese herbal medicines that are used extensively in Asia to treat hepatitis C.What the researchers wanted to know: Do Chinese herbal medicines help hepatitis C patients?What they did: The researchers recruited patients through clinics and advertising. Patients were excluded if they'd had antiviral treatment recently, if they had other liver disease, or if they consumed more than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five patients entered the study, and 31 made it all the way through the follow-up visits. Half the subjects took a combination of 10 traditional Chinese herbs and the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew whether a patient was getting the herbs or the placebo. Both groups took the tablets twice a day for 12 weeks. At several office visits, the participants were asked how they were doing and had blood taken to check on their liver and kidneys.What they found: The herbal medicines were no different from the placebo. Liver function was the same in people taking herbs and placebo. Neither group had less virus at the end of the trial, and quality of life showed no improvement, either. Side effects were mild, and there were about the same number in the two groups.What it means to you: The evidence on using herbs for hepatitis C is still shaky.Caveats: This is a very small pilot study. Most of the subjects were middle-aged, white, and male, so the results might not apply to others.Find out more: Information on Radix astragali, one of the 10 herbs in this study, from a database of Chinese herbs http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm

[Guest guest]

> There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

> By Helen Fields

Au contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual

proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root

has been shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence

in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have

heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.

One obvious problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never

really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant

herb and its 'assistants.' Western medicine on the other hand,

places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is

to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward

they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do

is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm

wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply

not enough budget to test multiple combinations with any particular

substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small

combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds

are typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is

derived from the combination effect.

Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even

cure hep B. In China, for example, thousands die from both diseases.

However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs

struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but if I

was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen

my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on

Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc.

Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus?

I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this

diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little

help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies

are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug

therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable, combination

herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. .

[Guest guest]

Well I gotta have something to occupy my time now ,lol

There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917c.htm?track=rss9/17/04Chinese herbsThere is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferersBy Helen FieldsNot everyone can tolerate the side effects of interferon, the standard treatment for hepatitis C. That leaves a lot of hepatitis C carriers stuck with fatigue and a less healthy life, which has led many to try herbal treatments. But the data on herbs are inconclusive. A group of Minnesota researchers tried out some traditional Chinese herbal medicines that are used extensively in Asia to treat hepatitis C.What the researchers wanted to know: Do Chinese herbal medicines help hepatitis C patients?What they did: The researchers recruited patients through clinics and advertising. Patients were excluded if they'd had antiviral treatment recently, if they had other liver disease, or if they consumed more than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five patients entered the study, and 31 made it all the way through the follow-up visits. Half the subjects took a combination of 10 traditional Chinese herbs and the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew whether a patient was getting the herbs or the placebo. Both groups took the tablets twice a day for 12 weeks. At several office visits, the participants were asked how they were doing and had blood taken to check on their liver and kidneys.What they found: The herbal medicines were no different from the placebo. Liver function was the same in people taking herbs and placebo. Neither group had less virus at the end of the trial, and quality of life showed no improvement, either. Side effects were mild, and there were about the same number in the two groups.What it means to you: The evidence on using herbs for hepatitis C is still shaky.Caveats: This is a very small pilot study. Most of the subjects were middle-aged, white, and male, so the results might not apply to others.Find out more: Information on Radix astragali, one of the 10 herbs in this study, from a database of Chinese herbs http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm

[Guest guest]

This was origanlly written back in 2004 , and since then there have been a couple of studies done like on the benefits of Milk Thistle . I would like to see research on licorice though , lol

Re: There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

> There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen FieldsAu contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root has been shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.One obvious problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant herb and its 'assistants.' Western medicine on the other hand, places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply not enough budget to test multiple combinations with any particular substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds are typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is derived from the combination effect.Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even cure hep B. In China, for example, thousands die from both diseases. However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but if I was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc. Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus? I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable, combination herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. .

[Guest guest]

See!!!!!!!!! I knew someone would know better! Thanks

anne

Re: There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

> There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen FieldsAu contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root has been shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.One obvious problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant herb and its 'assistants.' Western medicine on the other hand, places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply not enough budget to test multiple combinations with any particular substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds are typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is derived from the combination effect.Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even cure hep B. In China, for example, thousands die from both diseases. However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but if I was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc. Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus? I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable, combination herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. .

[Guest guest]

Before anyone goes out and starts using licorice be aware that it also contains coumadins which can thin the blood dangerously .

Description

Licorice, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a purple and white flowering perennial, native of the Mediterranean region and central and southwest Asia. It is cultivated widely for the sweet taproot that grows to a depth of four ft (1.2 m). Licorice is a hardy plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers rich, moist soil. It may grow to a height of 3-7 ft (1-2 m). The wrinkled, brown root has yellow interior flesh and is covered with a tangle of rootlets branching from the stolons. The aerial parts of the plant are erect and branching with round stems that become somewhat angular near the top. The leaves are alternate, odd, and pinnate, dividing into as many as eight pairs of oblong leaflets. Licorice blossoms in late summer. The sweet-pea like flowers grow in clusters forming in the angle where the stem joins the branch. The maroon colored seed pods are about 1-2 in (3-5 cm) long and contain one to six kidney-shaped seeds.

Licorice is a sweet and soothing herb that has been appreciated for its medicinal qualities for thousands of years. Hippocrates named the herb glukos riza, or sweet root. Several species of this member of the Leguminosae, or pea, family, are used medicinally. Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as sweet wood or sweet licorice, is cited first in most herbals. Chinese licorice, G. uralenis or G. viscida, known as the peacemaker, was included in the Chinese classic herbal Pen Tsao Ching over 2,000 years ago, and is believed to promote longevity. An American variety, G. lepidota or wild licorice, was a common Native American remedy and was also used by early settlers. Dominican friars brought the herb to England in the sixteenth century. The abbess Hildegard of Bingen added licorice to her materia medica, and this well-loved herb was a favorite of German and English herbalists.

General use

The medicinal benefits of licorice root have been studied extensively, and its use in traditional medicine is well documented. Licorice is an expectorant, helpful in the treatment of upper respiratory tract catarrh. The root extract is demulcent, and commonly used as a component of many medicinal syrups and drops providing relief to a sore throat and for coughs. The glycoside glycyrrhizin, found in the root, is more than 50 times as sweet as sucrose. Glycyrrhizin, which becomes glycyrrhizic acid when ingested, has been credited with much of the pharmacological action of licorice. The herb is also effective as a mild laxative, cleansing the colon. Licorice is a liver tonic and is used as an anti-inflammatory medicine, useful in the treatment of arthritis. Along with other herbs, licorice is used to treat muscle spasms. It also acts to reduce stomach acid and relieves heartburn. Other active chemical constituents in licorice root include asparagine, flavonoids and isoflavonoids, chalcones, coumarins, sterols, triterpenoid saponins, and estrogenic substances, which give the herb estrogen-like hormone effects. Studies have shown that licorice also stimulates the production interferon.

Licorice preparations have been used in the healing of peptic ulcers. The demulcent action of the root extract coats and soothes the ulcerated tissue. Licorice also has a beneficial effect on the endocrine system and is helpful in treatment of problems with the adrenal gland, such as disease. Phytochemicals in the root act similarly to and stimulate the secretion of the body's natural adrenal cortex hormone, aldosterone. This sweet herb also has antibacterial action and is beneficial in treatment of hypoglycemia. Licorice increases bile flow and acts to lower blood cholesterol levels. Licorice root, when boiled to extract its sweetness, has been used traditionally in candy making. Commercially it is a flavoring in beer, soft drinks, and tobacco. Singers chew the root to ease throat irritation and to strengthen their voice. Many women's herbal formulas include licorice for its estrogenic properties as an aid to normalize and regulate hormone production during menopause. Licorice is frequently used in medicinal compounds with other herbs. In Chinese medicine, this herb is always used in compound, as it can minimize the bitter taste of some herbal components, and help to blend and harmonize the entire mixture.

Re: There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

> There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen FieldsAu contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root has been shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.One obvious problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant herb and its 'assistants.' Western medicine on the other hand, places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply not enough budget to test multiple combinations with any particular substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds are typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is derived from the combination effect.Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even cure hep B. In China, for example, thousands die from both diseases. However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but if I was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc. Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus? I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable, combination herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. .

[Guest guest]

ahh yes the herbal conflict!. cant wait to hear

chriss reaction WAKE UP Chris. lol I do think

(without any prroof) that milk thistle is a good agent

for liver health- licorice, not a clue. I am looking

forward to the upcoming posts .

--- elizabethnv1 <elizabethnv1@...> wrote:

> Well I gotta have something to occupy my time now

> ,lol

> There is no

> proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C

> sufferers

>

>

>

>

http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917

> c.htm?track=rss

> 9/17/04

> Chinese herbs

> There is no proof that herbal remedies help

> hepatitis C sufferers

> By Helen Fields

>

> Not everyone can tolerate the side effects

> of interferon, the

> standard treatment for hepatitis C. That

> leaves a lot of hepatitis C

> carriers stuck with fatigue and a less

> healthy life, which has led

> many to try herbal treatments. But the data

> on herbs are

> inconclusive. A group of Minnesota

> researchers tried out some

> traditional Chinese herbal medicines that

> are used extensively in

> Asia to treat hepatitis C.

>

> What the researchers wanted to know: Do

> Chinese herbal medicines help

> hepatitis C patients?

>

> What they did: The researchers recruited

> patients through clinics and

> advertising. Patients were excluded if

> they'd had antiviral treatment

> recently, if they had other liver disease,

> or if they consumed more

> than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five

> patients entered the

> study, and 31 made it all the way through

> the follow-up visits. Half

> the subjects took a combination of 10

> traditional Chinese herbs and

> the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew

> whether a patient was

> getting the herbs or the placebo. Both

> groups took the tablets twice

> a day for 12 weeks. At several office

> visits, the participants were

> asked how they were doing and had blood

> taken to check on their liver

> and kidneys.

>

> What they found: The herbal medicines were

> no different from the

> placebo. Liver function was the same in

> people taking herbs and

> placebo. Neither group had less virus at the

> end of the trial, and

> quality of life showed no improvement,

> either. Side effects were

> mild, and there were about the same number

> in the two groups.

>

> What it means to you: The evidence on using

> herbs for hepatitis C is

> still shaky.

>

> Caveats: This is a very small pilot study.

> Most of the subjects were

> middle-aged, white, and male, so the results

> might not apply to

> others.

>

> Find out more: Information on Radix

> astragali, one of the 10 herbs in

> this study, from a database of Chinese herbs

>

> http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> It's a pleasure having you join in our

> conversations. We hope you have found the support

> you need with us.

>

> If you are using email for your posts, for easy

> access to our group, just click the link--

> Hepatitis C/

>

> Happy Posting

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

He must be out on another date , LOL cause I havent really had much contact with this whole day . Oh and recent studies showed that milk thistle had no benefits , but that was just one study .......

There is no> proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C> sufferers> > > >http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917> c.htm?track=rss> 9/17/04> Chinese herbs> There is no proof that herbal remedies help> hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen Fields> > Not everyone can tolerate the side effects> of interferon, the > standard treatment for hepatitis C. That> leaves a lot of hepatitis C > carriers stuck with fatigue and a less> healthy life, which has led > many to try herbal treatments. But the data> on herbs are > inconclusive. A group of Minnesota> researchers tried out some > traditional Chinese herbal medicines that> are used extensively in > Asia to treat hepatitis C.> > What the researchers wanted to know: Do> Chinese herbal medicines help > hepatitis C patients?> > What they did: The researchers recruited> patients through clinics and > advertising. Patients were excluded if> they'd had antiviral treatment > recently, if they had other liver disease,> or if they consumed more > than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five> patients entered the > study, and 31 made it all the way through> the follow-up visits. Half > the subjects took a combination of 10> traditional Chinese herbs and > the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew> whether a patient was > getting the herbs or the placebo. Both> groups took the tablets twice > a day for 12 weeks. At several office> visits, the participants were > asked how they were doing and had blood> taken to check on their liver > and kidneys.> > What they found: The herbal medicines were> no different from the > placebo. Liver function was the same in> people taking herbs and > placebo. Neither group had less virus at the> end of the trial, and > quality of life showed no improvement,> either. Side effects were > mild, and there were about the same number> in the two groups.> > What it means to you: The evidence on using> herbs for hepatitis C is > still shaky.> > Caveats: This is a very small pilot study.> Most of the subjects were > middle-aged, white, and male, so the results> might not apply to > others.> > Find out more: Information on Radix> astragali, one of the 10 herbs in > this study, from a database of Chinese herbs> > http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm> > > > > > > > It's a pleasure having you join in our> conversations. We hope you have found the support> you need with us. > > If you are using email for your posts, for easy> access to our group, just click the link--> Hepatitis C/> > Happy Posting > > > >

[Guest guest]

Well for every ONE post that says that something doesnt work, there is another ONE that says it does,, you have to look at WHO did the study too, to see what is at stake here,, the drug pharmies do a lot of the(limited, small) studies that show herbals dont work,, gotta wonder what is in it for them... lots more money for THEIR chemicals... ann <agann_01@...> wrote: ahh yes the herbal conflict!. cant wait to hearchriss reaction WAKE UP Chris. lol I do think(without any prroof) that milk thistle is a good agentfor liver health- licorice, not a clue. I am lookingforward to the upcoming posts .--- elizabethnv1 <elizabethnv1@...> wrote:> Well I gotta have something to occupy my time now> ,lol> There is no> proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C> sufferers> > > >http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917> c.htm?track=rss> 9/17/04> Chinese herbs> There is no proof that herbal remedies help> hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen Fields>

> Not everyone can tolerate the side effects> of interferon, the > standard treatment for hepatitis C. That> leaves a lot of hepatitis C > carriers stuck with fatigue and a less> healthy life, which has led > many to try herbal treatments. But the data> on herbs are > inconclusive. A group of Minnesota> researchers tried out some > traditional Chinese herbal medicines that> are used extensively in > Asia to treat hepatitis C.> > What the researchers wanted to know: Do> Chinese herbal medicines

help > hepatitis C patients?> > What they did: The researchers recruited> patients through clinics and > advertising. Patients were excluded if> they'd had antiviral treatment > recently, if they had other liver disease,> or if they consumed more > than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five> patients entered the > study, and 31 made it all the way through> the follow-up visits. Half > the subjects took a combination of 10> traditional Chinese herbs and > the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew>

whether a patient was > getting the herbs or the placebo. Both> groups took the tablets twice > a day for 12 weeks. At several office> visits, the participants were > asked how they were doing and had blood> taken to check on their liver > and kidneys.> > What they found: The herbal medicines were> no different from the > placebo. Liver function was the same in> people taking herbs and > placebo. Neither group had less virus at the> end of the trial, and > quality of life showed no improvement,>

either. Side effects were > mild, and there were about the same number> in the two groups.> > What it means to you: The evidence on using> herbs for hepatitis C is > still shaky.> > Caveats: This is a very small pilot study.> Most of the subjects were > middle-aged, white, and male, so the results> might not apply to > others.> > Find out more: Information on Radix> astragali, one of the 10 herbs in > this study, from a database of Chinese herbs>

> http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm> > > > > > > > It's a pleasure having you join in our> conversations. We hope you have found the support> you need with us. > > If you are using email for your posts, for easy> access to our group, just click the link--> Hepatitis C/> > Happy Posting > > > >

[Guest guest]

They just don't believe it's important to tell you.BOY! you sure that THAT one right,, it would dig deep into their pockets,,, brain_child846 <peter_tocco@...> wrote: > There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen FieldsAu contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root has been shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.One obvious problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant herb and its 'assistants.' Western

medicine on the other hand, places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply not enough budget to test multiple combinations with any particular substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds are typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is derived from the combination effect.Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even cure hep B. In China, for example, thousands die from both diseases. However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but

if I was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc. Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus? I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable, combination herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. . Jackie

[Guest guest]

I really don't want to argue with anyone, especially when I know I'm outmatched. I did respond. Hopefully in a civil manner. But as I started to read that, the first thing I noticed was that it was a 2 and a half year old story... if I'd read that when it came out, and believed it, perhaps I'd have stopped taking the Chinese herbals, and just accepted death like the US doctors advised. Fate had me somewhat out of touch with the drug industry's news. Thank the fates! Eat well, sleep well, be well!anne <kanga2@...> wrote: I think our is going to have something to say about this one!!!! anne (putting up her fireproof shield) There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917c.htm?track=rss9/17/04Chinese herbsThere is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferersBy Helen FieldsNot everyone can tolerate the side effects of interferon, the standard treatment for hepatitis C. That leaves a lot of hepatitis C carriers stuck with fatigue and a less healthy life, which has led many to try herbal treatments. But the data on herbs are inconclusive. A group of Minnesota researchers tried out some traditional Chinese herbal medicines that are used extensively in Asia to treat hepatitis C.What the researchers wanted to know: Do Chinese herbal medicines help hepatitis C patients?What they did: The researchers recruited patients through clinics and advertising. Patients were excluded if they'd had antiviral treatment recently,

if they had other liver disease, or if they consumed more than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five patients entered the study, and 31 made it all the way through the follow-up visits. Half the subjects took a combination of 10 traditional Chinese herbs and the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew whether a patient was getting the herbs or the placebo. Both groups took the tablets twice a day for 12 weeks. At several office visits, the participants were asked how they were doing and had blood taken to check on their liver and kidneys.What they found: The herbal medicines were no different from the placebo. Liver function was the same in people taking herbs and placebo. Neither group had less virus at the end of the trial, and quality of life showed no improvement, either. Side effects were mild, and there were about the same number in the two groups.What it means to you: The evidence on using herbs for hepatitis C is

still shaky.Caveats: This is a very small pilot study. Most of the subjects were middle-aged, white, and male, so the results might not apply to others.Find out more: Information on Radix astragali, one of the 10 herbs in this study, from a database of Chinese herbs http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm

Bring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze.

[Guest guest]

Thanks Pete, for the support. You said, "Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented." I agree in part. I would only add, that the magic bullet will make them millions. THAT is the reason I believe herbals are defamed and poo pood! brain_child846 <peter_tocco@...> wrote: > There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen FieldsAu contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root has been shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.One obvious

problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant herb and its 'assistants.' Western medicine on the other hand, places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply not enough budget to test multiple combinations with any particular substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds are typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is derived from the combination effect.Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even cure hep B. In China, for example,

thousands die from both diseases. However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but if I was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc. Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus? I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable, combination herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. . It's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you have found the

support you need with us. If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group, just click the link-- Hepatitis C/Happy Posting

[Guest guest]

Thank you ! this is one of my biggest points. Nobody should be taking herbals without expert supervision. Eat well, sleep well, be safe!elizabethnv1 <elizabethnv1@...> wrote: Before anyone goes out and starts using licorice be aware that it also contains coumadins which can thin the blood dangerously . Description Licorice, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a purple and white flowering perennial, native of the Mediterranean region and central and southwest Asia. It is cultivated widely for the sweet taproot that grows to a depth of four ft (1.2 m). Licorice is a hardy plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers rich, moist soil. It may grow

to a height of 3-7 ft (1-2 m). The wrinkled, brown root has yellow interior flesh and is covered with a tangle of rootlets branching from the stolons. The aerial parts of the plant are erect and branching with round stems that become somewhat angular near the top. The leaves are alternate, odd, and pinnate, dividing into as many as eight pairs of oblong leaflets. Licorice blossoms in late summer. The sweet-pea like flowers grow in clusters forming in the angle where the stem joins the branch. The maroon colored seed pods are about 1-2 in (3-5 cm) long and contain one to six kidney-shaped seeds. Licorice is a sweet and soothing herb that has been appreciated for its medicinal qualities for thousands of years. Hippocrates named the herb glukos riza, or sweet root. Several species of this member of the Leguminosae, or pea, family, are used medicinally. Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as sweet wood or sweet licorice, is cited first in most herbals. Chinese

licorice, G. uralenis or G. viscida, known as the peacemaker, was included in the Chinese classic herbal Pen Tsao Ching over 2,000 years ago, and is believed to promote longevity. An American variety, G. lepidota or wild licorice, was a common Native American remedy and was also used by early settlers. Dominican friars brought the herb to England in the sixteenth century. The abbess Hildegard of Bingen added licorice to her materia medica, and this well-loved herb was a favorite of German and English herbalists. General use The medicinal benefits of licorice root have been studied extensively, and its use in traditional medicine is well documented. Licorice is an expectorant, helpful in the treatment of upper respiratory tract catarrh. The root extract is demulcent, and commonly used as a component of many medicinal syrups and drops providing relief to a sore throat and for coughs. The glycoside glycyrrhizin, found in the root, is

more than 50 times as sweet as sucrose. Glycyrrhizin, which becomes glycyrrhizic acid when ingested, has been credited with much of the pharmacological action of licorice. The herb is also effective as a mild laxative, cleansing the colon. Licorice is a liver tonic and is used as an anti-inflammatory medicine, useful in the treatment of arthritis. Along with other herbs, licorice is used to treat muscle spasms. It also acts to reduce stomach acid and relieves heartburn. Other active chemical constituents in licorice root include asparagine, flavonoids and isoflavonoids, chalcones, coumarins, sterols, triterpenoid saponins, and estrogenic substances, which give the herb estrogen-like hormone effects. Studies have shown that licorice also stimulates the production interferon. Licorice preparations have been used in the healing of peptic ulcers. The demulcent action of the root extract coats and soothes the ulcerated tissue. Licorice also has a

beneficial effect on the endocrine system and is helpful in treatment of problems with the adrenal gland, such as disease. Phytochemicals in the root act similarly to and stimulate the secretion of the body's natural adrenal cortex hormone, aldosterone. This sweet herb also has antibacterial action and is beneficial in treatment of hypoglycemia. Licorice increases bile flow and acts to lower blood cholesterol levels. Licorice root, when boiled to extract its sweetness, has been used traditionally in candy making. Commercially it is a flavoring in beer, soft drinks, and tobacco. Singers chew the root to ease throat irritation and to strengthen their voice. Many women's herbal formulas include licorice for its estrogenic properties as an aid to normalize and regulate hormone production during menopause. Licorice is frequently used in medicinal compounds with other herbs. In Chinese medicine, this herb is always used in compound, as it can minimize the bitter taste of some

herbal components, and help to blend and harmonize the entire mixture. Re: There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers > There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C

sufferers> By Helen FieldsAu contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root has been shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.One obvious problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant herb and its 'assistants.' Western medicine on the other hand, places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply not enough budget

to test multiple combinations with any particular substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds are typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is derived from the combination effect.Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even cure hep B. In China, for example, thousands die from both diseases. However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but if I was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc. Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus? I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little

help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable, combination herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. .

Bring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze.

[Guest guest]

Ann, sweetheart, please do not revel in conflict. This is said to be as detrimental to your spirit as participating in the conflict yourself. "Come on people now, smile on your brother. Everybody come together, try n love one another right now." Peace and Love Chrisann <agann_01@...> wrote: ahh yes the herbal conflict!. cant wait to hearchriss reaction WAKE UP Chris. lol I do think(without any prroof) that milk thistle is a good agentfor liver health- licorice, not a clue. I am lookingforward to the upcoming posts .--- elizabethnv1 wrote:> Well I gotta have something to occupy my time now> ,lol> There is no> proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C> sufferers> > > >http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917> c.htm?track=rss> 9/17/04> Chinese herbs> There is no proof that herbal remedies help> hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen Fields> > Not everyone can tolerate the side effects> of interferon, the > standard treatment for hepatitis C. That> leaves a lot of hepatitis C > carriers stuck with fatigue and a less> healthy life, which has led > many to try herbal treatments. But the data> on herbs are >

inconclusive. A group of Minnesota> researchers tried out some > traditional Chinese herbal medicines that> are used extensively in > Asia to treat hepatitis C.> > What the researchers wanted to know: Do> Chinese herbal medicines help > hepatitis C patients?> > What they did: The researchers recruited> patients through clinics and > advertising. Patients were excluded if> they'd had antiviral treatment > recently, if they had other liver disease,> or if they consumed more > than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five> patients entered the > study, and 31 made it all the way through> the follow-up visits. Half > the subjects took a combination of 10> traditional Chinese herbs and > the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew> whether a patient was > getting the herbs or the placebo. Both> groups took the tablets

twice > a day for 12 weeks. At several office> visits, the participants were > asked how they were doing and had blood> taken to check on their liver > and kidneys.> > What they found: The herbal medicines were> no different from the > placebo. Liver function was the same in> people taking herbs and > placebo. Neither group had less virus at the> end of the trial, and > quality of life showed no improvement,> either. Side effects were > mild, and there were about the same number> in the two groups.> > What it means to you: The evidence on using> herbs for hepatitis C is > still shaky.> > Caveats: This is a very small pilot study.> Most of the subjects were > middle-aged, white, and male, so the results> might not apply to > others.> > Find out more: Information on Radix> astragali,

one of the 10 herbs in > this study, from a database of Chinese herbs> > http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm> > > > > > > > It's a pleasure having you join in our> conversations. We hope you have found the support> you need with us. > > If you are using email for your posts, for easy> access to our group, just click the link--> Hepatitis C/> > Happy Posting > > > >

[Guest guest]

Yes, today I spent the day in a park with another nice lady and her son. I gotta go to dinner now, but I'll be back this evening to read the rest of the 2 dozen email I got today. Eat well, sleep well, be well!elizabethnv1 <elizabethnv1@...> wrote: He must be out on another date , LOL cause I havent really had much contact with this whole day . Oh and recent studies showed that milk thistle had no benefits , but that was just one study ....... There is no> proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C> sufferers> > > >http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917> c.htm?track=rss> 9/17/04> Chinese herbs> There is no proof that herbal remedies help> hepatitis C sufferers> By

Helen Fields> > Not everyone can tolerate the side effects> of interferon, the > standard treatment for hepatitis C. That> leaves a lot of hepatitis C > carriers stuck with fatigue and a less> healthy life, which has led > many to try herbal treatments. But the data> on herbs are > inconclusive. A group of Minnesota> researchers tried out some > traditional Chinese herbal medicines that> are used extensively in > Asia to treat hepatitis C.> > What the researchers wanted to know: Do>

Chinese herbal medicines help > hepatitis C patients?> > What they did: The researchers recruited> patients through clinics and > advertising. Patients were excluded if> they'd had antiviral treatment > recently, if they had other liver disease,> or if they consumed more > than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five> patients entered the > study, and 31 made it all the way through> the follow-up visits. Half > the subjects took a combination of 10> traditional Chinese herbs and > the other 10 took a

placebo; no one knew> whether a patient was > getting the herbs or the placebo. Both> groups took the tablets twice > a day for 12 weeks. At several office> visits, the participants were > asked how they were doing and had blood> taken to check on their liver > and kidneys.> > What they found: The herbal medicines were> no different from the > placebo. Liver function was the same in> people taking herbs and > placebo. Neither group had less virus at the> end of the trial, and > quality of life

showed no improvement,> either. Side effects were > mild, and there were about the same number> in the two groups.> > What it means to you: The evidence on using> herbs for hepatitis C is > still shaky.> > Caveats: This is a very small pilot study.> Most of the subjects were > middle-aged, white, and male, so the results> might not apply to > others.> > Find out more: Information on Radix> astragali, one of the 10 herbs in > this study, from a database of Chinese herbs>

> http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm> > > > > > > > It's a pleasure having you join in our> conversations. We hope you have found the support> you need with us. > > If you are using email for your posts, for easy> access to our group, just click the link--> Hepatitis C/> > Happy Posting > > > >

[Guest guest]

Sounds like you have an active social life , lol good for you !

There is no> proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C> sufferers> > > >http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917> c.htm?track=rss> 9/17/04> Chinese herbs> There is no proof that herbal remedies help> hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen Fields> > Not everyone can tolerate the side effects> of interferon, the > standard treatment for hepatitis C. That> leaves a lot of hepatitis C > carriers stuck with fatigue and a less> healthy life, which has led > many to try herbal treatments. But the data> on herbs are > inconclusive. A group of Minnesota> researchers tried out some > traditional Chinese herbal medicines that> are used extensively in > Asia to treat hepatitis C.> > What the researchers wanted to know: Do> Chinese herbal medicines help > hepatitis C patients?> > What they did: The researchers recruited> patients through clinics and > advertising. Patients were excluded if> they'd had antiviral treatment > recently, if they had other liver disease,> or if they consumed more > than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five> patients entered the > study, and 31 made it all the way through> the follow-up visits. Half > the subjects took a combination of 10> traditional Chinese herbs and > the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew> whether a patient was > getting the herbs or the placebo. Both> groups took the tablets twice > a day for 12 weeks. At several office> visits, the participants were > asked how they were doing and had blood> taken to check on their liver > and kidneys.> > What they found: The herbal medicines were> no different from the > placebo. Liver function was the same in> people taking herbs and > placebo. Neither group had less virus at the> end of the trial, and > quality of life showed no improvement,> either. Side effects were > mild, and there were about the same number> in the two groups.> > What it means to you: The evidence on using> herbs for hepatitis C is > still shaky.> > Caveats: This is a very small pilot study.> Most of the subjects were > middle-aged, white, and male, so the results> might not apply to > others.> > Find out more: Information on Radix> astragali, one of the 10 herbs in > this study, from a database of Chinese herbs> > http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm> > > > > > > > It's a pleasure having you join in our> conversations. We hope you have found the support> you need with us. > > If you are using email for your posts, for easy> access to our group, just click the link--> Hepatitis C/> > Happy Posting > > > >

[Guest guest]

and I totally AGREE with you on this one Chris..Hunter <us2china2@...> wrote: Thanks Pete, for the support. You said, "Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented." I agree in part. I would only add, that the magic bullet will make them millions. THAT is the reason I believe herbals are defamed and poo pood! brain_child846 <peter_tocco@...> wrote: > There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers> By Helen FieldsAu contraire, mon frere! The statement is incorrect. There is actual proof that some herbs have helped hep c. For example, licorice root has been

shown in clinical trials to reduce liver cancer incidence in hep c patients with cirhosis, I believe it was. Many doctors have heard of this. They just don't believe it's important to tell you.One obvious problem with Chinese herbs is that these herbs are never really meant to be taken individually, there is usually a dominant herb and its 'assistants.' Western medicine on the other hand, places great faith in the belief that the best way to find a cure is to find and test single compounds. True, it's a major step forward they are testing anything. But one thing medical science doesn't do is test herbal or drug combinations. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I'm no expert. Do the math, and its obvious there is simply not enough budget to test multiple combinations with any particular substance. So they chose single compound testing, or at least small combinations, such as interferon/Ribavirin. Chinese herbal compounds are

typically a half dozen or more. It is believed the benefit is derived from the combination effect.Okay, so herbs probably don't cure hep C. In fact, they don't even cure hep B. In China, for example, thousands die from both diseases. However, who says herbs can help maintain the health of organs struggling to cope with a disease? I don't know about you, but if I was treating a disease, I'd rather be taking things that strengthen my natural ability to fight viruses etc., rather than gorging on Twinkies, Coke, french fries, etc. Didn't indicate he believes herbs helped him clear the virus? I'd like to know his explanation. Fact is, if some people clear this diseases spontaneously, then why can't others clear it with a little help from herbs? We simply don't know the answer. Our drug companies are loaded for bear of a different kind, the magic bullet drug therapy that can be patented. Forget the unpatentable,

combination herb therapies with cure rates much lower than interferon/riba. . It's a pleasure having you join in our conversations. We hope you have found the support you need with us. If you are using email for your posts, for easy access to our group, just click the link-- Hepatitis C/Happy Posting

[Guest guest]

Yep,, , I have, in my studies been reading about the "placebo" effect and the thing that is so amazing is that when the person believes that something IS going to cure them,, it usually does,, there IS a mind-body connection.. They have even seen the placebo effect with new allopathic meds as well,, typically the BEST results are seen within the first several months after a drug is released,, then in time,, they lose their effects,, and that makes me wonder if some of the allopathic drugs are a placebo effect too,, but who cares,, I mean ,, if it works, who cares,, I truely hope they do more studies in this area,, as placebo have no side effects and are not harmful as apposed to many other drugs and treatments that ARE harmful... I really like Dr. Weil as he is an MD who has integrated some eastern meds into his practice and has seen some pretty remarkable things... Keep believing and WHO cares if someone "says" it wont work,, if it

did, it did,, and phooey on them,, hugs jaxHunter <us2china2@...> wrote: I really don't want to argue with anyone, especially when I know I'm outmatched. I did respond. Hopefully in a civil manner. But as I started to read that, the first thing I noticed was that it was a 2 and a half year old story... if I'd read that when it came out, and believed it, perhaps I'd have stopped taking the Chinese herbals, and just accepted death like the US doctors advised. Fate had me somewhat out of touch with the drug industry's news. Thank the fates! Eat well, sleep well, be well!anne <kanga2@...> wrote: I think our is going to have something to say about this one!!!! anne (putting up her fireproof shield) There is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917c.htm?track=rss9/17/04Chinese herbsThere is no proof that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferersBy Helen FieldsNot everyone can tolerate the side effects of interferon, the standard treatment for hepatitis C. That leaves a lot of hepatitis C carriers stuck with fatigue and a less healthy life, which has led many to try herbal treatments. But the data on herbs are inconclusive. A group of Minnesota researchers tried out some traditional Chinese herbal medicines that are used extensively in Asia to treat hepatitis C.What the researchers wanted to know: Do Chinese herbal medicines help hepatitis

C patients?What they did: The researchers recruited patients through clinics and advertising. Patients were excluded if they'd had antiviral treatment recently, if they had other liver disease, or if they consumed more than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five patients entered the study, and 31 made it all the way through the follow-up visits. Half the subjects took a combination of 10 traditional Chinese herbs and the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew whether a patient was getting the herbs or the placebo. Both groups took the tablets twice a day for 12 weeks. At several office visits, the participants were asked how they were doing and had blood taken to check on their liver and kidneys.What they found: The herbal medicines were no different from the placebo. Liver function was the same in people taking herbs and placebo. Neither group had less virus at the end of the trial, and quality of life showed no

improvement, either. Side effects were mild, and there were about the same number in the two groups.What it means to you: The evidence on using herbs for hepatitis C is still shaky.Caveats: This is a very small pilot study. Most of the subjects were middle-aged, white, and male, so the results might not apply to others.Find out more: Information on Radix astragali, one of the 10 herbs in this study, from a database of Chinese herbs http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm Bring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze. Jackie

[Guest guest]

If its a complete placebo affect then why do the

herbalists and western drug companies need to cash in

on this? can't we learn to do our own mind body thing

and make it work? why does it matter b/c everyone says

in this forum that its about money- don't pay someone

for your mind to work- that should be for free

--- Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote:

> Yep,, , I have, in my studies been reading

> about the " placebo " effect and the thing that is so

> amazing is that when the person believes that

> something IS going to cure them,, it usually does,,

> there IS a mind-body connection.. They have even

> seen the placebo effect with new allopathic meds as

> well,, typically the BEST results are seen within

> the first several months after a drug is released,,

> then in time,, they lose their effects,, and that

> makes me wonder if some of the allopathic drugs are

> a placebo effect too,, but who cares,, I mean ,, if

> it works, who cares,,

> I truely hope they do more studies in this area,,

> as placebo have no side effects and are not harmful

> as apposed to many other drugs and treatments that

> ARE harmful...

> I really like Dr. Weil as he is an MD who has

> integrated some eastern meds into his practice and

> has seen some pretty remarkable things...

> Keep believing and WHO cares if someone " says " it

> wont work,, if it did, it did,, and phooey on them,,

>

> hugs

> jax

>

> Hunter <us2china2@...> wrote:

> I really don't want to argue with anyone,

> especially when I know I'm outmatched. I did

> respond. Hopefully in a civil manner. But as I

> started to read that, the first thing I noticed was

> that it was a 2 and a half year old story... if I'd

> read that when it came out, and believed it, perhaps

> I'd have stopped taking the Chinese herbals, and

> just accepted death like the US doctors advised.

> Fate had me somewhat out of touch with the drug

> industry's news. Thank the fates!

> Chris

> Eat well, sleep well, be well!

>

> anne <kanga2@...> wrote:

> I think our is going to have

> something to say about this one!!!!

>

> anne

> (putting up her fireproof shield)

> There is no proof

> that herbal remedies help hepatitis C sufferers

>

>

>

http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/briefs/infectiousdiseases/hb040917

> c.htm?track=rss

> 9/17/04

> Chinese herbs

> There is no proof that herbal remedies help

> hepatitis C sufferers

> By Helen Fields

>

> Not everyone can tolerate the side effects of

> interferon, the

> standard treatment for hepatitis C. That leaves a

> lot of hepatitis C

> carriers stuck with fatigue and a less healthy life,

> which has led

> many to try herbal treatments. But the data on herbs

> are

> inconclusive. A group of Minnesota researchers tried

> out some

> traditional Chinese herbal medicines that are used

> extensively in

> Asia to treat hepatitis C.

>

> What the researchers wanted to know: Do Chinese

> herbal medicines help

> hepatitis C patients?

>

> What they did: The researchers recruited patients

> through clinics and

> advertising. Patients were excluded if they'd had

> antiviral treatment

> recently, if they had other liver disease, or if

> they consumed more

> than two alcoholic drinks a day. Forty-five patients

> entered the

> study, and 31 made it all the way through the

> follow-up visits. Half

> the subjects took a combination of 10 traditional

> Chinese herbs and

> the other 10 took a placebo; no one knew whether a

> patient was

> getting the herbs or the placebo. Both groups took

> the tablets twice

> a day for 12 weeks. At several office visits, the

> participants were

> asked how they were doing and had blood taken to

> check on their liver

> and kidneys.

>

> What they found: The herbal medicines were no

> different from the

> placebo. Liver function was the same in people

> taking herbs and

> placebo. Neither group had less virus at the end of

> the trial, and

> quality of life showed no improvement, either. Side

> effects were

> mild, and there were about the same number in the

> two groups.

>

> What it means to you: The evidence on using herbs

> for hepatitis C is

> still shaky.

>

> Caveats: This is a very small pilot study. Most of

> the subjects were

> middle-aged, white, and male, so the results might

> not apply to

> others.

>

> Find out more: Information on Radix astragali, one

> of the 10 herbs in

> this study, from a database of Chinese herbs

> http://www.herbasin.com/database/huangqi.htm

>

>

>

>

>

> ---------------------------------

>

> Bring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a

> breeze.

>

> It's a pleasure having you join in our

> conversations. We hope you have found the support

> you need with us.

>

> If you are using email for your posts, for easy

> access to our group, just click the link--

> Hepatitis C/

>

> Happy Posting

>

>

>

>