Conventional meds VS Holistic

[Guest guest]

Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena

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[Guest guest]

Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie

[Guest guest]

Hi Sheena, I've been doing chinese herbs as well as changing my diet,stopped drinking of course.I'm 1a as well. I was diagnosed a year and a half ago. The important thing is to stay calm you have lots of time to decide what you want to do. I'm also doing milk thistle and things to keep my immune system built up. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, get plenty of protein.(half a gram of protein per pound of what you weigh). Exercise, meditate or yoga is a good idea. Stay positive,don't mind f#%* yourself too much, were all in this together. Don't hesitate to ask questions.Get educated about this dis-ease. Good luck, Steve ......................Opossum Hollow <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates.

[Guest guest]

Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with

standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie

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[Guest guest]

LOL, I like your advice, "stay calm". I needed to talk to you weeks ago when my primary doc first called with the shocking news. :-o How does the extra protein help? Which herbs, besides the Milk Thistle? Have you used any Conventional treatment? Thank you, I wish you all the best, too, mighty scary stuff.. Sheena steve brewer <brewmon2003@...> wrote: Hi

Sheena, I've been doing chinese herbs as well as changing my diet,stopped drinking of course.I'm 1a as well. I was diagnosed a year and a half ago. The important thing is to stay calm you have lots of time to decide what you want to do. I'm also doing milk thistle and things to keep my immune system built up. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, get plenty of protein.(half a gram of protein per pound of what you weigh). Exercise, meditate or yoga is a good idea. Stay positive,don't mind f#%* yourself too much, were all in this together. Don't hesitate to ask questions.Get educated about this dis-ease. Good luck, Steve ......................Opossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates.

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[Guest guest]

Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies

OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really

believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out

Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie

[Guest guest]

GREAT ADVISE Steve! nice to see you again, its been awhile,, steve brewer <brewmon2003@...> wrote: Hi Sheena, I've been doing chinese herbs as well as changing my diet,stopped drinking of course.I'm 1a as well. I was diagnosed a year and a half ago. The important thing is to stay calm you have lots of time to decide what you want to do. I'm also doing milk thistle and things to keep my immune system built up. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, get plenty of

protein.(half a gram of protein per pound of what you weigh). Exercise, meditate or yoga is a good idea. Stay positive,don't mind f#%* yourself too much, were all in this together. Don't hesitate to ask questions.Get educated about this dis-ease. Good luck, Steve ......................Opossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie

[Guest guest]

On this page Introduction Key Points What is hepatitis C? What does conventional treatment for chronic hepatitis C consist of? Why do people use CAM for hepatitis C? How commonly do people with hepatitis C use CAM therapies, and what do they use? What CAM therapies are discussed in this Research Report? What is known from scientific evidence about CAM modalities for hepatitis C? What should I do to take care of myself if I have hepatitis C? Scientific Research Findings: Selected CAM Treatments for Hepatitis C For More Information Sources Appendix Introduction Hepatitis C is a disease of the liver that is caused by the hepatitis C virus. The disease occurs in acute and chronic forms; symptoms can range from mild (or even no symptoms) to severe. There are conventional medical treatments available for hepatitis C, but some patients also try complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).a This Research Report answers some frequently asked questions on hepatitis C and CAM, reviews findings from scientific research on some dietary supplements that have been used as CAM treatments for hepatitis C (milk thistle, licorice root, ginseng, thymus extract, schisandra, and colloidal silver), and suggests sources for further information. aConventional medicine is medicine as practiced by holders of M.D. (medical doctor) or D.O. (doctor of osteopathy) degrees and their allied health professionals, such as physical therapists, psychologists, and registered nurses. Other terms for conventional medicine include allopathy; Western, mainstream, orthodox, and regular medicine; and biomedicine. Some conventional medical practitioners are also practitioners of CAM. CAM, as defined by NCCAM, is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Top Key Points Conventional medical treatment (consisting of a combination drug regimen) for hepatitis C has shown sustained benefit in approximately 55 percent of patients. Some of the

reasons hepatitis C patients try CAM are that they find conventional drug treatment difficult to tolerate or they do not experience a sustained response to treatment. No CAM treatment has yet been proven safe and effective for treating hepatitis C. There are many CAM treatments for which benefits for health are claimed. However, it is important to find out what scientific studies have been done on the safety and effectiveness of the CAM treatment in which you are interested. Clinical trialsb are needed of CAM therapies that may show some potential for benefit for hepatitis C, such as milk thistle. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is sponsoring a clinical trial of milk thistle. It is important to inform all of your health care providers about any therapy that you are currently using or considering, including any dietary

supplements. This is to help ensure a safe and coordinated course of care. bClinical trials are research studies in people. To find out more, see "About Clinical Trials and Complementary and Alternative Medicine." Top What is hepatitis C? Hepatitis C is a communicable (contagious) disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV).c The liver, the largest organ in the body, is found behind the ribs on the right side of the abdomen. It has many important functions, including removing harmful material from the blood and converting food into substances needed for life and growth. The term "hepatitis" means

inflammation of the liver. There are other viruses in the hepatitis family (such as hepatitis A and hepatitis , but HCV is not related to them. Quick Facts About Hepatitis C Hepatitis C is the most common bloodborne infection in the United States. About 35,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Hepatitis C is transmitted primarily when an infected person's blood comes into contact with the blood of a noninfected person. People who are at the highest risk for HCV infection are those who have used or experimented with injection drugs; received a blood transfusion, blood product, or organ transplant before July 1992; worked in health care and had a needlestick accident involving HCV-infected blood; or had multiple sex partners. A risk exists but is low (1 to 5 percent)

for babies born to a mother with hepatitis C and for people who are in a monogamous sexual relationship with someone with hepatitis C; who have had other sexually transmitted diseases; who have had tattooing or body piercing done with unsterilized tools; or who have used cocaine intranasally (i.e., "snorted" it). Hepatitis C is not spread through sneezing, coughing, kissing, hugging, food or water, or casual contact. People who are newly infected have what is called acute hepatitis C. For about 15 to 40 percent of this group, the infection is short-term, goes away, and does not return. Others develop chronic (or long-lasting) hepatitis C, in which the virus stays in the liver, replicates itself, and injures the liver over time. Among people with chronic hepatitis C, most show no symptoms for up to 20 to 30 years; some have mild symptoms; and some have more serious symptoms. Chronic hepatitis C can cause liver

disease, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver cancer, and liver failure. However, persons who have been diagnosed with hepatitis C need to know that serious illness or death from the disease is by no means inevitable--especially if they take proper care of themselves and get the health care they need. cTo find out more about hepatitis C and conventional treatment for it, consult the Federal agencies listed under "For More Information." Top What does conventional treatment for chronic hepatitis C consist of? People who have a mild case of hepatitis C may only need to manage it by visiting their doctor regularly and following their doctor's recommendations--such as eating a

nutritious diet, avoiding alcohol (because of its impact on the liver), and getting regular exercise. For people with more severe hepatitis C, however, drug therapy may be needed. A drug called interferon is the mainstay of conventional treatment. Interferon is often combined with an antiviral (virus-fighting) drug called ribavirin. Such combination therapies are usually taken for 6 months to 1 year. Approximately 55 percent of patients treated with the combination of interferon and ribavirin for 1 year will achieve a sustained response (that is, a sustained benefit from treatment).1 If a patient does not achieve a sustained response, his doctor may decide whether another course of treatment (re-treatment) is appropriate. Combination regimens benefit many patients. However, their side effects can be difficult for some patients to tolerate. These side effects can include

flu-like symptoms (such as body aches, fever, chills, and fatigue); nausea and other gastrointestinal problems; hair loss; emotional changes; skin reactions; and, in more severe cases, depression, organ damage, blood conditions, and other problems. Top Why do people use CAM for hepatitis C? There are various reasons why people use CAM for hepatitis C, including: They have not had a response to initial treatment or to re-treatment with drugs. They are not willing to have drug treatment or continue it--for example, because of the side effects or length of treatment. They would like to support their body's fight against damage by hepatitis C, and they hear of benefits claimed for some CAM treatments--such as "strengthens the immune system" or "cleanses or rejuvenates the liver" (or other organs). They are

experiencing problems from other diseases and conditions that can be caused by or worsened by hepatitis C. They are not satisfied with their conventional medical treatment. Top How commonly do people with hepatitis C use CAM therapies, and what do they use? While there have been no surveys yet on the use of CAM by persons with hepatitis C specifically, there is some data from a survey published in 2002 on the use of CAM by persons who have chronic liver diseases (such as hepatitis, liver cancer, alcoholic liver disease, or cirrhosis).2 This survey of 989 patients being treated for various liver diseases at six clinics in the United States found that 39 percent used some form of "alternative therapy." The therapy they used the most was

herbals or botanicalsd (21 percent). However, the herbals and botanicals were used for reasons besides liver disease, such as depression. Thirteen percent of all survey participants used herbals or botanicals specifically for their liver disease, and they used only milk thistle (12 percent) or licorice root (1 percent). The other most commonly used CAM therapies were self-prayere (18 percent), and (from 6 to 9 percent each) relaxation, megavitamins, massage, chiropractic, and spiritual healing.2 dHerbs are plants or plant parts valued for their flavor, scent, and/or therapeutic properties. "Herbals" and "botanicals" are synonyms and mean herbal and botanical products. eSelf-prayer is when an individual prays for himself. It can be contrasted with intercessory prayer, in which an individual prays for others. Top What CAM therapies are discussed in this Research Report? There is a range of medical concerns associated with hepatitis C, and the number of CAM therapies that are tried is large.f Therefore, it is beyond the scope of this Research Report to discuss all possible CAM therapies used for hepatitis C. The report focuses on a number of dietary supplements that are used: milk thistle, licorice root, ginseng, thymus extract, schisandra, and colloidal silver (See "Scientific Research Findings: Selected CAM Treatments for

Hepatitis C"). About Dietary Supplements Dietary supplements were defined in a law passed by Congress in 1994. A dietary supplement must meet all of the following conditions: It is a product (other than tobacco) intended to supplement the diet, which contains one or more of the following: vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, or any combination of the above ingredients. It is intended to be taken in tablet, capsule, powder, softgel, gelcap, or liquid form. It is not represented for use as a conventional food or as a sole item of a meal or the diet. It is labeled as being a dietary supplement. Sources for this 2003 update consist of the peer-reviewed medical and scientific journals indexed in the National Library of Medicine's

MEDLINE/PubMed database, in English, from January 1999 through May 2003.g Sources that you can use to research additional science-based information are in the "Sources" sections. fTo read about the major of areas of CAM, see the NCCAM fact sheet "What Is Complementary and Alternative Medicine?" gThis report also incorporates information from the NCCAM fact sheet "Hepatitis C: Treatment Alternatives," published in 2000. Top What is known from the scientific evidence about CAM modalities for hepatitis C? No CAM treatment has been

scientifically proven to successfully treat hepatitis C. Authors who have done recent analyses of the scientific work have found some results that are intriguing and even promising, but they have noted that more research--especially in the form of controlled clinical trials--is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn. The authors of a 2003 systematic review of medicinal herbs for hepatitis C concluded that there is not enough evidence to support using herbs to treat the disease. This team identified 13 clinical trials that were of sufficient quality for them to analyze. Compared to placebo,h they found that none of the herbs tested showed effects on liver enzymes or reduced the amount of HCV in the bloodstream, except for milk thistle, which did show a significant reduction of liver enzymes in one trial.3 Two general reviews from 2000 that covered a variety of CAM modalities for hepatitis C concluded that conventional therapies are the only scientifically proven treatments for the disease.4,5 NIH released a Consensus Statement in 2002 on the management of hepatitis C.i This assessment by a panel of medical and scientific experts found that "alternative and nontraditional medicines" should be studied. hA placebo is designed to resemble as much as possible the treatment being studied in a clinical trial, except that the placebo is inactive. An example of a placebo is a pill

containing sugar instead of the drug or other substance being studied. By giving one group of participants a placebo and the other group the active treatment, the researchers can compare how the two groups respond and get a truer picture of the active treatment's effects. In recent years, the definition of placebo has been expanded to include other things that could have an effect on the results of health care, such as how a patient and a health care provider interact, how a patient feels about receiving the care, and what he or she expects to happen from the care. iSee "Sources: General," item A. Top What should I do to take care of myself if I have hepatitis C? Make sure you have received an accurate

diagnosis. Hepatitis C can be diagnosed reliably only through sophisticated blood tests used in conventional medicine. See your health care provider regularly. Discuss treatment options with your provider. Ask any questions you have to make sure you understand any treatment and possible side effects. Follow her recommendations for any changes to your diet and/or lifestyle. Tell your provider about any herbal supplements, other dietary supplements, or medications (whether prescription or over-the-counter) that you are using or considering. This is important for your safety. Even if your provider does not know about the actions or interactions of an herbal supplement or other CAM treatment, he can access the most current medical guidance. Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. Infection with hepatitis C does not prevent a person from becoming infected with other types of hepatitis; if this happens, it can be serious,

even life-threatening. Be an informed consumer. Seek high-quality, science-based information on any CAM modality that you are using or considering. There is free information from NCCAM, the National Library of Medicine, and other Federal sources to help you distinguish science-based information from other types, including word-of-mouth and manufacturers' claims. If you decide to try herbal supplements, do so with care. (See the NCCAM fact sheet "Herbal Supplements: Consider Safety, Too.") If you would like to find out about clinical trials of treatments for hepatitis C, go to www.clinicaltrials.gov or contact the NCCAM Clearinghouse. Top Scientific Research Findings: Selected CAM Treatments for Hepatitis C This section describes six CAM therapies that people have used to treat hepatitis C. More-detailed discussions of individual studies are available in the Appendix. Reviews are discussed where available.j jThere are different types of review articles: In a general review, a broad picture of the scientific studies and evidence available on a particular topic is presented. In a systematic review, data from a set of studies on a particular question or topic are collected, analyzed, and critically reviewed. A meta-analysis uses statistical techniques to analyze results from a collection of individual studies. Milk Thistle Milk thistle

(scientific name Silybum marianum) is a plant from the aster family. The active extract of milk thistle believed to be responsible for the herb's medicinal qualities is silymarin, found in the fruit.6 Milk thistle has been used in Europe as a treatment for liver disease and jaundice since the 16th century.7 Summary of the research findings The results of scientific studies to date do not definitively find that milk thistle is beneficial in treating hepatitis C in humans. Studies in laboratory animals suggest that silymarin may have various benefits to the liver, such as promoting the growth of certain types of liver cells, having a protective effect upon liver cells, fighting a chemical process called oxidation that can damage cells, and inhibiting inflammation.7-14 However, in some cases, a consistent pattern of benefit was not seen, and these studies did not specifically examine the effects of silymarin on hepatitis C. There have been some studies on silymarin or milk thistle in humans. These studies have generally been small and on liver diseases rather than on hepatitis C infection specifically, and the results have been contradictory (with some positive and some negative).15-17 A review and a meta-analysis published in 2001 on silymarin in the treatment of liver diseases found it to be generally safe, but contained no firm conclusions with regard to its use to treat viral hepatitis.18,19 A 2002 systematic review on

milk thistle for liver disease found "no reduction in mortality (frequency of death as an outcome), in improvements in histology (tissue studies) observed through liver biopsy, or in biochemical markers of liver function" and that the data was too limited to support recommending milk thistle for treatment of liver disease.20 To obtain more extensive and reliable data, NCCAM is sponsoring a clinical trial on the use of milk thistle for hepatitis C. Side effects and other risksMilk thistle is generally well-tolerated and has shown few side effects in clinical trials. It can cause a laxative effect; less common effects include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, fullness, and pain. Milk thistle can produce allergic reactions, which tend to be more common among people who are allergic to plants in the same family (e.g., ragweed, chrysanthemum,

marigold, and daisy). Licorice RootLicorice root is the peeled or unpeeled dried root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). The primary active component of licorice root is a substance called glycyrrhizin. Licorice root has been in use in China since the second and third century B.C. and in the West since Egyptian, Greek, and Roman times.21 Summary of the research findings Laboratory studies of glycyrrhizin in cell cultures suggest that it may have antiviral properties.21 In a review of several randomized controlled trials, researchers reported that glycyrrhizin has potential for reducing long-term complications in chronic hepatitis C in those patients who may not respond to interferon.22 Several of the trials reviewed indicated improvements in liver tissue damaged by hepatitis. Some also showed improvements in how well the liver did its job after treatment. A 1997 study and a 2002 review suggest that long-term administration of glycyrrhizin might prevent liver cancer in patients with chronic hepatitis C.23,24 The use of glycyrrhizin as a complementary therapy (i.e., used in addition to conventional interferon therapy) has been studied, but no significant benefit has been found.25,26 Recent clinical trials have shown that taking glycyrrhizin lowers the levels of

liver enzymes (increased levels of certain liver enzymes indicate liver damage or inflammation). However, taking the herb did not reduce the amount of HCV in patients' blood, a critical indicator of the long-term progress of the infection.27-29 Side effects and possible risksTaking licorice over a prolonged period of time can lead to potentially serious side effects, including high blood pressure, salt and water retention, swelling, depletion of potassium, headache, and/or sluggishness.30 Glycyrrhizin can worsen ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, a condition that can be caused by cirrhosis.31 The herb also can interact with certain drugs, such as diuretics, digitalis, antiarrhythmic

agents, and corticosteroids. GinsengThe herb ginseng comes in two types: American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng). Among the Asian forms of ginseng are Chinese, Japanese, and Korean ginseng. (So-called "Siberian ginseng" is not a true ginseng.) Ginseng has been used for thousands of years in Asia. It is usually used with the belief that it will boost the immune system and increase stamina; such properties are thought to be more useful for the elderly and those recovering from illness.32 Summary of the research findings The research on ginseng that has been done to date has been primarily in animal models and human tissue in the laboratory. Some beneficial effects of ginseng on the liver were seen in these studies. Researchers concluded that ginseng may also help strengthen

glandular systems and the ability to resist disease.33-36 One study found that ginseng may be helpful for elderly people with liver conditions similar to hepatitis.37 No conclusions can be drawn about the possible usefulness and safety of ginseng as a treatment in people who have hepatitis C, because it has not yet been studied formally in people. Side effects and possible risksGeneral adverse (negative) effects of ginseng can include insomnia, headache, nosebleed, nervousness, and vomiting. Prolonged use of caffeine and a high dose of ginseng may be associated with hypertension, which is of particular concern for people with cardiovascular disease or diabetes. In addition, people with diabetes who use insulin should be aware that ginseng has demonstrated

hypoglycemic effects (lowering of the blood sugar). Ginseng has been shown in laboratory studies to inhibit grouping of platelets in the blood, increasing bleeding risk. Because of this, using ginseng along with NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, should be discussed with your health care provider.32 Thymus ExtractThe thymus is a gland that is involved in the regulation of the body's immune response. Thymus extract products consist of peptides taken from the thymus glands of cows or calves and are sold as dietary supplements. Often, these products carry claims of boosting immune system functioning to combat diseases, such as hepatitis C. These over-the-counter supplements should not be confused with the prescription drug thymosin alpha-1. Summary of the research findingsThere has been

little testing of bovine thymus extract for treatment of hepatitis C. A small clinical trial of a product called Complete Thymic Formula, which contains bovine thymus extracts along with vitamins, herbs, minerals, and enzymes, did not find the product beneficial for hepatitis C patients who had not responded previously to interferon therapy.38 However, this small study does not provide sufficient evidence to draw firm conclusions about either Complete Thymic Formula or thymus extracts in general. Side effects and possible risksIn the study of Complete Thymic Formula, one adverse event was reported: a patient developed thrombocytopenia, a drop in the number of platelet cells in the blood; the patient recovered after treatment was stopped.38 In general, no adverse effects from thymus extracts have

been reported. However, since thymus extracts are derived from animals, there can be concern related to possible contamination from diseased animal parts.k Accordingly, people on immunosuppressive drugs or who have suppressed immune systems, such as transplant recipients or persons with HIV/AIDS, should use caution about thymus extracts and consult with their health care provider. kWith regard to side effects, see "Sources: General," item F, entry on thymus extract. Schisandra Schisandra is a plant that has been used (through extracts from its fruit) in traditional Chinese medicine and in Kampo, traditional Japanese medicine. There are several species, including Schisandra chinensis, native to northeastern China and Korea, and

Schisandra sphenanthera, native to China. Summary of the research findings Research has primarily focused on the various lignans (a class of plant nutrients) and essential oils in the dried fruit of schisandra.39 Major constituents include the lignans gomisin A, schizandrins and schizandrol, vitamins C and E, and others. Studies of the effects of schisandra in the liver have mostly been in animal models. These studies have suggested that extracts of the fruit have a liver-protective effect, a helpful effect on some liver enzymes, and an antioxidant effect.l,39,40 Schisandra is also

used in herbal formulas. For example, an herbal medicine called TJ-108 (Ninjin-yomei-to is one of its Japanese names) used in Kampo has schisandra fruit among its herbal components. In one very small study, TJ-108 was compared with two other Kampo herbal formulas for effects in 37 patients who had chronic hepatitis C and had been treated before with interferon.41 The findings were that TJ-108 may have antiviral properties, which the authors attributed to schisandra fruit and its lignan gomisin A.7,41 These findings need to be interpreted with caution because of the study's small size and because use of an herbal formula, not schisandra alone, was evaluated; herbal formulas contain many ingredients that could cause a variety of effects. There are no reports on the safety and effectiveness of using schisandra alone for treatment of hepatitis C in humans in the sources reviewed for this report. Side effects and other risksSchisandra is considered generally safe. In some people, however, it may cause heartburn, acid indigestion, decreased appetite, stomach pain, or allergic skin rashes. lAntioxidants are substances (such as vitamin E) that help prevent oxygen from reacting with other chemicals in cells (oxidation), a process that can have negative effects. Colloidal SilverSilver is a metallic element that is mined as a precious metal. People are exposed to silver, usually in tiny amounts, through their environment, drinking water, food, and possibly work or hobbies. Colloidal silver supplements consist of tiny silver particles suspended in a liquid base. They are often marketed with a

variety of unproven health claims, including for immunity, diabetes, cancer, and AIDS. Summary of the research findingsSilver has had some medicinal uses going back for centuries. However, more modern and less toxic drugs have eliminated the vast majority of these uses. Reviews in the scientific literature on colloidal silver have concluded that42,43: Silver has no known function in the body. Silver is not an essential mineral supplement or a cure-all and should not be promoted as such. Claims that there can be a "deficiency" of silver in the body and that such a deficiency can lead to disease are unfounded. Claims made about the effectiveness of colloidal silver products for numerous diseases are unsupported scientifically. Colloidal silver products can have serious

side effects (discussed below). Laboratory analysis has shown that the amounts of silver in these supplements vary greatly, which can pose risks to the consumer. Side effects and other risksAnimal studies have shown that silver builds up in the tissues of the body. In humans, this accumulation can have a serious side effect called argyria, a bluish-gray discoloration of the body, especially of the skin, other organs, deep tissues, nails, and gums. How this happens is not fully known, but silver-protein complexes are thought to deposit in the skin and then be processed by sunlight (similar to traditional photography).44,45 Argyria is not treatable or reversible. Other possible problems include neurologic problems (such as seizures), kidney damage, stomach distress, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. Colloidal silver may interfere with the body's absorption of

the following drugs: penacillamine, quinolones, tetracyclines, and thyroxine. For more information about colloidal silver, see the NCCAM fact sheet "Colloidal Silver Products." Top For More Information NCCAM Clearinghouse Toll-free in the U.S.: 1-888-644-6226International: 301-519-3153TTY (for deaf and hard-of-hearing callers): 1-866-464-3615 E-mail: info@...Web site: nccam.nih.govAddress: NCCAM Clearinghouse, P.O. Box 7923, Gaithersburg, MD 20898-7923 Fax: 1-866-464-3616Fax-on-Demand service: 1-888-644-6226 NCCAM is a component of NIH. The NCCAM Clearinghouse provides information on CAM and on

NCCAM. Services include fact sheets, other publications, and searches of Federal databases of scientific and medical literature. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals to practitioners. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) is also a component of NIH. NIDDK's National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse provides materials about hepatitis C and its conventional treatment. Go to digestive.niddk.nih.gov or call 1-800-891-5389 or 301-654-3810. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, also a component of NIH, has hepatitis C information. Go to www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/hepatitis.htm or call 301-496-5717. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides

information on hepatitis C. Go to www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hepatitis/index.htm or call 1-888-443-7232. The National Library of Medicine's (NLM's) PubMed database contains citations from over 4,500 peer-reviewed scientific and medical journals. Most citations include an abstract, and a number link to the full text of the article. Go to www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi. CAM on PubMed, a subset of PubMed (see above), contains citations to literature on CAM. It is sponsored by NCCAM and NLM. Go to www.nlm.nih.gov/nccam/camonpubmed.html. The FDA provides information on dietary supplements at www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/supplmnt.html or via an

information line at 1-888-723-3366. The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements provides information on supplements at ods.od.nih.gov and through its International Bibliographic Information on Dietary Supplements (IBIDS) database (ods.od.nih.gov/Health_Information/IBIDS.aspx). ClinicalTrials.gov is a database of information on clinical trials, primarily in the United States and Canada, for a wide range of diseases and conditions. It is sponsored by the NIH and the FDA. Go to www.clinicaltrials.gov. Top SourcesGeneral National Institutes of Health. National Institutes of

Health Consensus Development Conference Statement. Management of Hepatitis C: 2002. National Institutes of Health Web site. Accessed at odp.od.nih.gov/consensus/cons/116/116cdc_intro.htm on July 15, 2003. Also available from the NIH Consensus Program Information Center; toll-free in the U.S.: 1-888-644-2667. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Viral Hepatitis: A Through E and Beyond. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Web site. Accessed at digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/viralhepatitis/index.htm on July 15, 2003. Also available from the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; toll-free in the U.S.: 1-800-891-5389 (NIH publication no. 03-4762, 2003). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney

Diseases. What I Need To Know About Hepatitis C. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Web site. Accessed at digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/hepc_ez/index.htm on July 15, 2003. Also available from the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; toll-free in the U.S.: 1-800-891-5389 (NIH publication no. 02-4229, 2002). National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. What You Should Know About Hepatitis C. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Web site. Accessed at www.niaid.nih.gov/dmid/hepatitis/hepcfacts.htm on July 15, 2003. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, eds. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 2nd ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc.; 2000. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.

Accessed at www.naturaldatabase.com on May 15, 2003. Herrine SK. Approach to the patient with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. ls of Internal Medicine. 2002;136(10):747-757. Bren L. Hepatitis C: an update. FDA Consumer. July-August 2001. Accessed at www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2001/401_hepc.html on July 15, 2003.References National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Chronic Hepatitis C: Disease Management. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Web site. Accessed at digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/viralhepatitis/index.htm on September 3, 2003. Strader DB, Bacon BR, KL, et al. Use of

complementary and alternative medicine in patients with liver disease. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2002;97(9):2391-2397. Liu J, Manheimer E, Tsutani K, et al. Medicinal herbs for hepatitis C virus infection: a Cochrane hepatobiliary systematic review of randomized trials. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2003;98(3):538-544. Kasahara A. Treatment strategies for chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Journal of Gastroenterology. 2000;35(6):411-423. Sarin SK. Management of hepatitis C: what should we advise about adjunctive therapies, including herbal medicines, for hepatitis C? Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2000;15(suppl):E164-E171. Bean P. The use of alternative medicine in the treatment of hepatitis C. American Clinical Laboratory. 2002;21(4):19-21. Seeff LB, KL, Bacon BR, et al.

Complementary and alternative medicine in chronic liver disease. Hepatology. 2001;34(3):595-603. Flora K, Hahn M, Rosen H, et al. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) for the therapy of liver disease. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 1998;93(2):139-143. O'Hara M, Kiefer D, Farrell K, et al. A review of 12 commonly used medicinal herbs. Archives of Family Medicine. 1998;7(6):523-536. Muriel P, pina T, -Alvarez V, et al. Silymarin protects against paracetamol-induced lipid peroxidation and liver damage. Journal of Applied Toxicology. 1992;12(6):439-442. Letteron P, Labbe G, Degott C, et al. Mechanism for the protective effects of silymarin against carbon tetrachloride-induced lipid peroxidation and hepatotoxicity in mice: evidence that silymarin acts both as an inhibitor of metabolic activation and as a chain-breaking antioxidant.

Biochemical Pharmacology. 1990;39(12):2027-2034. Davila JC, Lenherr A, Acosta D. Protective effect of flavonoids on drug-induced hepatotoxicity in vitro. Toxicology. 1989;57(3):267-286. Fuchs EC, Weyhenmeyer R, Weiner OH. Effects of silibinin and of a synthetic analogue on isolated rat hepatic stellate cells and myofibroblasts. Arzneimittel-Forschung. 1997;47(12):1383-1387. Boigk G, Stroedter L, Herbst H, et al. Silymarin retards collagen accumulation in early and advanced biliary fibrosis secondary to complete bile duct obliteration in rats. Hepatology. 1997;26(3):643-649. Ferenci P, Dragosics B, Dittrich H, et al. Randomized controlled trial of silymarin treatment in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. Journal of Hepatology. 1989;9(1):105-113. Pares A, Planas R, M, et al. Effects of silymarin in alcoholic patients

with cirrhosis of the liver: results of a controlled, double-blind, randomized and multicenter trial. I. 1998;28(4):615-621. Buzzelli G, Moscarella S, Giusti A, et al. A pilot study on the liver protective effect of silybin-phosphatidylcholine complex (IdB1016) in chronic active hepatitis. International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, Therapy and Toxicology. 1993;31(9):456-460. Wellington K, Jarvis B. Silymarin: a review of its clinical properties in the management of hepatic disorders. BioDrugs: Clinical Immunotherapeutics, Biopharmaceuticals and Gene Therapy. 2001;15(7):465-489. Saller R, Meier R, Brignoli R. The use of silymarin in the treatment of liver diseases. Drugs. 2001;61(14):2035-2063. s BP, C, G, et al. Milk thistle for the treatment of liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of

Medicine. 2002;113(6):506-515. Shibata S. A drug over the millennia: pharmacognosy, chemistry, and pharmacology of licorice. Yakugaku Zasshi (Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan). 2000;120(10):849-862. van Rossum TG, Vulto AG, de Man RA, et al. Review article: glycyrrhizin as a potential treatment for chronic hepatitis C. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 1998;12(3):199-205. Arase Y, Ikeda K, Murashima N, et al. The long term efficacy of glycyrrhizin in chronic hepatitis C patients. Cancer. 1997;79(8):1494-1500. Kumada H. Long-term treatment of chronic hepatitis C with glycyrrhizin [stronger neo-minophagen C (SNMC)] for preventing liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncology. 2002;62(suppl 1):94-100. Abe Y, Ueda T, Kato T, et al. Effectiveness of interferon, glycyrrhizin combination therapy in

patients with chronic hepatitis C. Nippon Rinsho (Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine). 1994;52(7):1817-1822. Okuno T, Arai K, Shindo M. Efficacy of interferon combined glycyrrhizin therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C resistant to interferon therapy. Nippon Rinsho (Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine). 1994;52(7):1823-1827. van Rossum TG, Vulto AG, Hop WC, et al. Intravenous glycyrrhizin for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase I/II trial. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 1999;14(11):1093-1099. Tsubota A, Kumada H, Arase Y, et al. Combined ursodeoxycholic acid and glycyrrhizin therapy for chronic hepatitis C virus infection: a randomized controlled trial in 170 patients. European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology. 1999;11(10):1077-1083. van Rossum TG, Vulto AG, Hop

WC, et al. Glycyrrhizin-induced reduction of ALT in European patients with chronic hepatitis C. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2001;96(8):2432-2437. Radix glycyrrhizae. In: WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants. Vol. 1. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization; 1999:183-194. JH. Licorice for hepatitis C: yum-yum or just ho-hum? The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2001;96(8):2291-2292. Abebe W. Herbal medication: potential for adverse interactions with analgesic drugs. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. 2002;27(6):391-401. Jeong TC, Kim HJ, Park JI, et al. Protective effects of red ginseng saponins against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague Dawley rats. Planta Medica. 1997;63(2):136-140. Matsuda H, Samukawa K, Kubo M. Anti-hepatitic activity of ginsenoside Ro.

Planta Medica. 1991;57(6):523-526. Nguyen TD, Villard PH, Barlatier A, et al. Panax vietnamensis protects mice against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity without any modification of CYP2E1 gene expression. Planta Medica. 2000;66(8):714-719. Tran QL, Adnyana IK, Tezuka Y, et al. Hepatoprotective effect of majonoside R2, the major saponin from Vietnamese ginseng (Panax vietnamensis). Planta Medica. 2002;68(5):402-406. Zuin M, Battezzati PM, Camisasca M, et al. Effects of a preparation containing a standardized ginseng extract combined with trace elements and multivitamins against hepatotoxin-induced chronic liver disease in the elderly. The Journal of International Medical Research. 1987;15(5):276-281. RS, Fallon MB, Abrams GA. Oral thymic extract for chronic hepatitis C in patients previously treated with interferon: a randomized,

double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. ls of Internal Medicine. 1998;129(10):797-800. Sinclair S. Chinese herbs: a clinical review of Astragalus, Ligusticum, and Schizandrae. Alternative Medicine Review: A Journal of Clinical Therapeutics. 1998;3(5):338-344. Liu GT. Pharmacological actions and clinical use of fructus schizandrae. Chinese Medical Journal. 1989;102(10):740-749. Cyong JC, Kim SM, Iijima K, et al. Clinical and pharmacological studies on liver diseases treated with Kampo herbal medicine. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2000;28(3-4):351-360. Fung MC, Bowen DL. Silver products for medical indications: risk-benefit assessment. Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology. 1996;34(1):119-126. Gulbranson SH, Hud JA, Hansen RC. Argyria following the use of dietary supplements containing colloidal silver

protein. Cutis. 2000;66(5):373-374. White JM, AM, Brady K, et al. Severe generalized argyria secondary to ingestion of colloidal silver protein. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology. 2003;28(3):254-256. Hori K, TG, Rainey P, et al. Believe it or not--silver still poisons! Veterinary and Human Toxicology. 2002;44(5):291-292. Top Appendix Research Findings on Selected CAM Treatments for Hepatitis C Citation Description Findings Liu et al., 20033 Systematic review The researchers conducted searches in several databases to identify 13 randomized trials of medicinal herbs for hepatitis C (trial quality was rated adequate in only 4 trials). The selected trials, involving a total of 818 patients with mainly HCV, evaluated 14 different medicinal herbs versus various control interventions such as placebo. Compared to placebo, they found that none of the herbs tested showed effects on liver enzymes or in reducing the amount of HCV, except for milk thistle, which did show a significant reduction of liver enzymes in one trial. The authors concluded, "There is no firm evidence supporting medicinal herbs for HCV infection, and further randomized trials are justified." Milk Thistle

(Silymarin) Letteron et al., 199011 Animal study Researchers tested the liver-protective effects of silymarin against the damaging effects of carbon tetrachloride by administering 800 mg/kg of silymarin to mice before administering carbon tetrachloride. The researchers concluded that giving silymarin to mice prior to exposure to carbon tetrachloride prevented in part both lipid peroxidation (damage to the membrane) and liver cell death. Davila et al., 198912 Animal study Using cultures of liver cells from newborn rats, researchers studied the protective effects of an active component of silymarin. Pretreatment of the liver cells with silybin before

exposure to liver cell toxins led to less damage and reduction of leakage of liver enzymes. The researchers concluded that the silymarin component "may act by stabilizing the plasma membrane against toxic insult." Fuchs et al., 199713 Animal study Using a specific type of liver cell (hepatic stellate cells) whose proliferation and transformation are associated with progression to fibrosis in liver disease, researchers studied the effects of an active component of silymarin. The component reduced the proliferation of rat hepatic stellate cells by about 75% and reduced the transformation of the cells to myofibroblasts. Boigk et al., 199714 Animal study Using

an animal model of liver fibrosis, researchers studied the effects of silymarin on collagen accumulation, which occurs during the progression of liver fibrosis. After the 6-week experiment, the researchers found that rats with induced liver fibrosis who were given silymarin had from 30% to 35% reduction in the amount of collagen accumulated. This suggests that silymarin may have antifibrotic activity. Ferenci et al., 198915 Randomized, controlled trial Eighty-seven patients with cirrhosis of the liver from various causes, including alcohol abuse, were given 140 mg of silymarin 3 times a day for 2 years, and 83 patients received placebo. A total of 146 patients completed the 2-year study. The researchers noted that the 4-year survival rate of patients in the treatment group was approximately 58% and the 4-year

survival rate in the placebo group was approximately 39%. The beneficial effects of silymarin were especially seen in patients with cirrhosis as a result of alcohol. According to the researchers, results suggest "mortality of patients with cirrhosis was reduced by treatment with silymarin." Pares et al., 199816 Randomized, double-blind, controlled trial Researchers studied 200 patients with cirrhosis of the liver caused by alcohol. In the 2-year trial, 103 patients received 150 mg of silymarin 3 times a day, and 97 patients received a placebo. A total of 125 patients finished the trial. The researchers measured time to death and worsening of the disease to test effectiveness of silymarin. They found that survival of patients was similar in the treatment and placebo groups, and silymarin did not seem to improve the

course of the disease in the treatment group. Buzzelli et al., 199317 Randomized, controlled, pilot study This small trial of hepatitis patients suggests that a component of silymarin may be beneficial in managing chronic hepatitis. Ten patients with chronic hepatitis were assigned to receive 240 mg of the silymarin component 2 times a day for 1 week, and 10 other patients received placebo. The results of tests that show how well the liver is functioning showed significant improvement in the treatment group. Wellington and Jarvis, 200118 Review The authors reviewed the properties of silymarin and its uses in treating liver diseases and concluded that the

"antioxidant properties of silymarin...have been demonstrated in vitro and in animal and human studies. However, studies evaluating relevant health outcomes associated with these properties are lacking." Furthermore, they stated "silymarin was largely ineffective in the treatment of patients with viral hepatitis." Saller et al., 200119 Meta-analysis Thirty-six studies were analyzed. Regarding viral hepatitis, the authors concluded, "Several small trials involving silymarin...have been published. Most of them are methodologically outdated...." Furthermore, they stated, "In spite of some positive results in patients with acute viral hepatitis, no formally valid conclusion can be drawn regarding the value of silymarin in the treatment of these infections." s et

al., 200220 Systematic review, meta-analysis Fourteen randomized, placebo-controlled trials in patients with chronic liver disease met inclusion criteria. Authors found "no reduction in mortality, in improvements in histology and liver biopsy, or in biochemical markers of liver function...." They found the data to be too limited to support recommending milk thistle for treatment of liver disease. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhizin) van Rossum et al., 199822 Review In this review the authors found treatment with glycyrrhizin to be effective in easing liver disease in some people. Some trials reviewed indicated improvements in liver tissue that had been

damaged by hepatitis. Others showed improvements in liver function. The authors concluded "glycyrrhizin is a potential drug in reducing long-term complications in chronic viral hepatitis C in patients who do not respond with viral clearance to interferon therapy." Arase et al., 199723 Retrospective study This retrospective study examined the long-term preventive effect of glycyrrhizin on the development of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Of 453 patients with chronic hepatitis C identified, 84 had been treated with glycyrrhizin. A control group of 109 patients not treated long-term with either glycyrrhizin or interferon was identified. At 10 years out from diagnosis, the researchers found 7% of those treated with glycyrrhizin had developed liver cancer compared to 12% in the control group. At 15 years, the

rates were 12% and 25%, respectively. They concluded that glycyrrhizin may help prevent the development of liver cancer. Kumada, 200224 Non-randomized clinical trial The author assessed clinical data from non-randomized chronic hepatitis C patients who received glycyrrhizin in the form of a Japanese pharmaceutical product called Stronger Neo-Minophagen C (SNMC). He concluded, "SNMC can suppress necro-inflammation in chronic hepatitis C. Long-term treatment with SNMC, therefore, would be able to prevent liver cirrhosis and the development of HCC [liver cancer]." van Rossum et al., 199927 Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase I/II trial Fifty-seven chronic hepatitis C patients were randomized to receive 240, 160, or 80 mg of glycyrrhizin or placebo for 4 weeks with 4 weeks of followup. Glycyrrhizin lowered liver enzymes during treatment, but did not decrease the level of HCV. The authors concluded that glycyrrhizin was safe and that further investigation is needed. Tsubota et al., 199928 Randomized, controlled clinical trial One hundred sixty-seven patients completed this 24-week study. Eighty-four patients received glycyrrhizin alone, and 83 took glycyrrhizin plus ursodeoxycholic acid. Liver enzyme levels were significantly decreased by both treatments. However, levels of HCV did not change in either group. van Rossum et al., 200129 Part I: randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial;Part II: open trial Part I: Sixty-nine patients with chronic hepatitis C received glycyrrhizin as SNMC 3 times per week for 4 weeks with a 4-week followup. Part II: Fifteen of the original patient group then participated in an open trial where they received 200 mg of glycyrrhizin 6 times per week for 4 weeks. Researchers' overall conclusion is that glycyrrhizin induces significant decreases in liver enzyme (ALT) levels in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Administering glycyrrhizin 6 times per week appeared more effective than 3 times per week. Ginseng Nguyen et al., 200035 Animal study This

study showed that treating mice with either crude ginseng extract or total saponins (ginseng's active ingredients) before receiving the liver-damaging chemical carbon tetrachloride decreased carbon tetrachloride-induced increase of certain liver enzyme levels by 50% and 49%, respectively. According to the researchers, the data suggest that Panax vietnamensis could be used as a hepatoprotectant. Tran et al., 200236 Animal study A mouse model of liver failure, which is applicable to a broad range of liver diseases, was used to test the liver protective effect of Vietnamese ginseng. Mice were pretreated with a ginseng extract, Majonoside R2, at 12 hours and 1 hour before being given a liver cell death and failure inducing combination of D-galactosamine and lipopolysaccharide. The ginseng extract was seen to

significantly inhibit liver cell death. Thymus Extract et al., 199838 Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial Thirty-eight patients who had not responded or did not tolerate interferon received Complete Thymic Formula (CTF) for 3 or 6 months or placebo for 3 months. No differences were noted at 3 months between the placebo group and the treatment group. Nineteen patients who completed 6 months of treatment with CTF still had levels of HCV similar to those they had when treatment began. The researchers concluded that CTF did not benefit patients who had previously received interferon therapy. Schisandra Cyong et al., 200041 Two clinical studies, not controlled or randomized Additional studies done in vitro and in animal models In a short-term study 34 hepatitis C patients were treated with one of three Kampo medicines for 6 months (TJ-108, TJ-48, or TJ-8). Eight patients had a decrease in virus levels; 6 of these were treated with TJ-108. In a long-term study 37 patients were treated with Kampo medicines, mainly TJ-108, for 1 year. The researchers determined that after 1 year of Kampo medicine, 8 patients (about 21%) tested negative for the virus and symptoms were improved in all patients. The researchers then tested the ability of TJ-108 to inhibit virus infection in vitro by adding TJ-108 to MOLT-4 cells (human lymphoblastoma cells) followed by HCV. They found that TJ-108 inhibited virus infection in a dose-dependent

manner. Researchers identified the active ingredient in TJ-108 as schisandra fruit. The researchers then identified gomisin A as the active ingredient in the fruit. They then tested it in a mouse model of induced acute hepatic failure and concluded it increased survival. Colloidal Silver Fung and Bowen, 199642 Review Authors review the history of silver products in conventional medicine and the marketing of oral colloidal silver protein supplements for the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases. Also address its chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and case reports of adverse events. Authors emphasize "the lack of established effectiveness and potential toxicity of these products." Gulbranson et al.,

200043 Review and case report Authors review the historical use of silver for medicinal purposes and discuss the case of a man who developed argyria after taking colloidal silver supplements for his allergies and colds. White et al., 200344 Case report History of a man who developed argyria after taking colloidal silver to prevent and treat various diseases, including cancer. Top NCCAM has provided this material for your information. It is not intended

to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your primary health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy in this information is not an endorsement by NCCAM. This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged. National Institutes of HealthU.S. Department of Health and Human Services NCCAM Publication No. D004Reviewed May 2004 TopSheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: LOL, I like your advice, "stay calm". I needed to talk to you weeks ago when my primary doc first called with the shocking news. :-o How does the extra protein help? Which herbs, besides the Milk Thistle? Have you used any Conventional treatment? Thank you, I wish you all the best, too, mighty scary stuff.. Sheena steve brewer <brewmon2003 > wrote: Hi Sheena, I've been doing chinese herbs as well as changing my diet,stopped drinking of course.I'm 1a as well. I was diagnosed a year and a half ago. The important thing is to stay calm you have lots of time to decide what you want to do. I'm also doing milk thistle and things to keep my immune system built up. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, get plenty of protein.(half a gram of protein per pound of what you weigh). Exercise, meditate or yoga is a good idea. Stay positive,don't mind f#%* yourself too much, were all in this together. Don't hesitate to ask questions.Get educated about this dis-ease. Good luck, Steve ......................Opossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone

Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Tim Parsons knoxville,tn 37931 865-588-2465 x107 work www.knoxville1.com

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hello sheena, here are some basics i used.to get started.milk thistle,alpha l acid,vit.c,selinum,sam-e,wobenzyne,nac,multi,no iron,co 10, Sheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: LOL, I like your advice, "stay calm". I needed to talk to you weeks ago when my primary doc first called with the shocking news. :-o How does the extra protein help? Which herbs, besides the Milk

Thistle? Have you used any Conventional treatment? Thank you, I wish you all the best, too, mighty scary stuff.. Sheena steve brewer <brewmon2003 > wrote: Hi Sheena, I've been doing chinese herbs as well as changing my diet,stopped drinking of course.I'm 1a as well. I was diagnosed a year and a half ago. The important thing is to stay calm you have lots of time to decide what you want to do. I'm also doing milk thistle and things to keep my immune system built up. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, get plenty of protein.(half a gram of protein per pound of what you weigh). Exercise, meditate or yoga is a good idea. Stay positive,don't

mind f#%* yourself too much, were all in this together. Don't hesitate to ask questions.Get educated about this dis-ease. Good luck, Steve ......................Opossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Tim Parsons knoxville,tn 37931 865-588-2465 x107 work www.knoxville1.com

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[Guest guest]

Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow

when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn

campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk

thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie

Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.

[Guest guest]

You are welcome sheena,, No viral load does not tell how long you have had this virus OR how much damage you have,, the virus replicates quickly but your body works hard to keep it at bay but sometimes you can have a very low viral load and lots of damage or a very high viral load and NO damage,, there is no way to tell without a biopsy.. unfortunately.. You are right, an ultrasound can show if you have any lesions or other severe abnormality but wont tell much about anything else. Well keep us informed and dont be afraid to ask any questions,, we will really try to help ya hon,, jaxSheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really

easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that

Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx

better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Jackie

[Guest guest]

Thank you again, so much to learn. I thankfully came to the right place, so many of you have steered me in the right direction and are so very supportive. That means the world right now..not to be alone..though if I could take it from you, I surely would! Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote: You are welcome sheena,, No viral load does not tell how long you have had this

virus OR how much damage you have,, the virus replicates quickly but your body works hard to keep it at bay but sometimes you can have a very low viral load and lots of damage or a very high viral load and NO damage,, there is no way to tell without a biopsy.. unfortunately.. You are right, an ultrasound can show if you have any lesions or other severe abnormality but wont tell much about anything else. Well keep us informed and dont be afraid to ask any questions,, we will really try to help ya hon,, jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the

viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we

stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did

clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Jackie

All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster.

[Guest guest]

sheena its not you.i just like your name lol.not really i think nbc should rename big brother to big hepper invite all of us from this group.then watch liz and jax vote all of us out.lolSheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Thank you again, so much to learn. I thankfully came to the right place, so many of you have steered me in the right direction and are so very supportive. That means the world right now..not to be alone..though if I could take it from you, I surely would! Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: You are welcome sheena,, No viral load does not tell how long you have had this virus OR how much damage you have,, the virus replicates quickly but your body works hard to keep it at bay but sometimes you can have a very low viral load and lots of damage or a very high viral load and NO damage,, there is no way to tell without a biopsy.. unfortunately.. You are right, an ultrasound can show if you have any lesions or other severe abnormality but wont tell much about anything else. Well keep us informed and dont be afraid to ask any questions,, we will really try to help ya hon,, jaxSheena

<mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that

way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and

was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate

tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Jackie All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster. Tim Parsons knoxville,tn 37931 865-588-2465 x107 work www.knoxville1.com

Get your email and more, right on the new .com

[Guest guest]

awww tim,, WHY would we vote you all out????Hillbilly Tim <knoxweb1@...> wrote: sheena its not you.i just like your name lol.not really i think nbc should rename big brother to big hepper invite all of us from this group.then watch liz and jax vote all of us out.lolSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you again, so much to learn. I thankfully came to the

right place, so many of you have steered me in the right direction and are so very supportive. That means the world right now..not to be alone..though if I could take it from you, I surely would! Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: You are welcome sheena,, No viral load does not tell how long you have had this virus OR how much damage you have,, the virus replicates quickly but your body works hard to keep it at bay but sometimes you can have a very low viral load and lots of damage or a very high viral load and NO damage,, there is no way to tell without a biopsy.. unfortunately.. You are right, an ultrasound can show if you have any lesions or other severe

abnormality but wont tell much about anything else. Well keep us informed and dont be afraid to ask any questions,, we will really try to help ya hon,, jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also

have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for

sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over

my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research

and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather

than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Jackie All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster. Tim Parsons knoxville,tn 37931 865-588-2465 x107 work www.knoxville1.com Get your email and more, right on the new .com Jackie

[Guest guest]

Sheena,, you are family here with us, you are NOT alone any longer!Sheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Thank you again, so much to learn. I thankfully came to the right place, so many of you have steered me in the right direction and are so very supportive. That means the world right now..not to be alone..though if I could take it from you, I surely would! Sheena Jackie on

<redjaxjm > wrote: You are welcome sheena,, No viral load does not tell how long you have had this virus OR how much damage you have,, the virus replicates quickly but your body works hard to keep it at bay but sometimes you can have a very low viral load and lots of damage or a very high viral load and NO damage,, there is no way to tell without a biopsy.. unfortunately.. You are right, an ultrasound can show if you have any lesions or other severe abnormality but wont tell much about anything else. Well keep us informed and dont be afraid to ask any questions,, we will really try to help ya hon,, jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to

come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on

<redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground

and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Jackie All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster. Jackie

[Guest guest]

Sheena, I haven't done the "chemo" yet. That's what I call it any way. I'm just not ready to put my body through that yet. Once you do your liver biopsy then you'll know what condition your liver is in, (Stage 1,2,3.or 4) Then you can make your decision from there on what approach to take. Of course most people 'live their life in fear' and take the advise of their DR. which may or may not be the right choice for you at this time. Life is Good, BREATH Where are you from? Peace love, out Steve Sheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on

<redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this

disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least

'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.

[Guest guest]

Hi Steve, From all I've read, that's about what I thought it sounded like, too..chemo.. not a picnic.. I'm trying to keep a very open mind as I research and listen carefully to all that everyone has to say.. I'm not big on Conventional medicine, either, unless there is NO alternative.. I am also not really fond of doctor's in general.. I'm not sure what those liver numbers denote, they sound rather ominous, but I guess I'll know by the time I need to.. I'm still breathing and intend to keep right on until the end! I'm in Southern California, but was born in Ohio, how about you? Jax, are you the ONLY one here that is a "1" and has gone into remission using the Schering-Plough Drug Company's treatment? Does anyone know why a few do, but so many do not respond? Blessings, Sheena steve brewer <brewmon2003@...> wrote: Sheena, I haven't done the "chemo" yet. That's what I call it any way. I'm just not ready to put my body through that yet. Once you do your liver biopsy then you'll know what condition your liver is in, (Stage 1,2,3.or 4) Then you can make your decision from there on what approach to take. Of course most people 'live their life in fear' and take the advise of their DR. which may or may not be the right choice for you at this time. Life is Good, BREATH Where are you from? Peace love, out Steve Sheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only

able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your

biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with

standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.

Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min.

[Guest guest]

Sheena,

I too am a type 1A and am currently doing treatment. I'm on week 27 of 72. I am totally undetectable so it does work. I started with a 2.25 million viral load too and now it is gone. Please don't be so quick to think it is impossible for type 1s to have a successful go of it. It IS possible. Yes, it is harder but I was willing to jump right in because I didn't want one more day to go by with my liver being more damaged then it had to but that is just my personal opinion. I think diet and exercise make a big difference too on treatment side effects.

I wish you the best on making your decision but just know that treatment isn't as horrible as everyone makes it out to be for everyone a 100% of the time. For some people it can be horrible yes but for others it can turn out to be more than manageable. It effects everyone differently.

Take care, Ally

On 10/5/06, Sheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote:

Hi Steve,

From all I've read, that's about what I thought it sounded like, too..chemo..

not a picnic..

I'm trying to keep a very open mind as I research and listen carefully

to all that everyone has to say..

I'm not big on Conventional medicine, either, unless there is NO alternative..

I am also not really fond of doctor's in general..

I'm not sure what those liver numbers denote, they sound rather ominous,

but I guess I'll know by the time I need to..

I'm still breathing and intend to keep right on until the end!

I'm in Southern California, but was born in Ohio, how about you?

Jax, are you the ONLY one here that is a " 1 " and has gone into remission

using the Schering-Plough Drug Company's treatment?

Does anyone know why a few do, but so many do not respond?

Blessings,

Sheena

steve brewer <brewmon2003 > wrote:

Sheena,

I haven't done the " chemo " yet. That's what I call it any way. I'm just not ready to put my body through that yet. Once you do your liver biopsy then you'll know what condition your liver is in, (Stage 1,2,

3.or 4) Then you can make your decision from there on what approach to take. Of course most people 'live their life in fear' and take the advise of their DR. which may or may not be the right choice for you at this time. Life is Good, BREATH Where are you from?

Peace love, out

Steve

Sheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hi,

Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy,

no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done.

Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long

you have been infected?

No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule

an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much.

Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages

printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which

I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle..

Thanks again,

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote:

Hi Sheena

Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,,

I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,,

Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called " conscious sedation " , you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy!

You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along...

What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,,

Let us know how we can help ya

once again, welcome!

jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information.

Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and

learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to.

How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron?

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote:

Hi Sheena

Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year.

Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more.

Anyway, welcome to the group,

jax

moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hello all,

I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C,

Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still

waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a " 1 " tried

Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds?

Thanks,

Sheena

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PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie

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to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.

Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls.

Great rates starting at 1¢/min.

[Guest guest]

Tim,

Would never vote you out, I like you too much.

Hee Hee

Janet> > > Hello all,> I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C,> Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still > waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried > Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds?> > Thanks,> Sheena> > ---------------------------------> How low will we go? Check out Messenger's low PC-to-Phone call rates. > > > > > > > Jackie > > > > > ---------------------------------> Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. > > > > > > > Jackie > > > > > ---------------------------------> Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. > > > > > > > Jackie > > > > > ---------------------------------> All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster. > > > > > > > Tim Parsons > > knoxville,tn 37931 > > 865-588-2465 x107 work> > > www.knoxville1.com> > ---------------------------------> Get your email and more, right on the new .com > > > > > Jackie>

[Guest guest]

very good to hear that ally.i do here that there are a small % like yourself that get thru it with no sides.if you dont mind me asking how old are you. and other then hcv,do you have any other issues as in your health.keep up the good fight hun i think #1 above all attutide is the best weapon.Conventional meds VS Holistic. with that in you ally you allready won.Ally <4thMoon@...> wrote: Sheena, I too am a type 1A and am currently doing treatment. I'm on week 27 of 72. I am

totally undetectable so it does work. I started with a 2.25 million viral load too and now it is gone. Please don't be so quick to think it is impossible for type 1s to have a successful go of it. It IS possible. Yes, it is harder but I was willing to jump right in because I didn't want one more day to go by with my liver being more damaged then it had to but that is just my personal opinion. I think diet and exercise make a big difference too on treatment side effects. I wish you the best on making your decision but just know that treatment isn't as horrible as everyone makes it out to be for everyone a 100% of the time. For some people it can be horrible yes but for others it can turn out to be more than manageable. It effects everyone differently. Take care, Ally On 10/5/06, Sheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hi Steve, From all I've read, that's about what I thought it sounded like, too..chemo.. not a picnic.. I'm trying to keep a very open mind as I research and listen carefully to all that everyone has to say.. I'm not big on Conventional medicine, either, unless there is NO alternative.. I am also not really fond of doctor's in general.. I'm not sure what those liver numbers denote, they sound rather ominous, but I guess I'll know by the time I need

to.. I'm still breathing and intend to keep right on until the end! I'm in Southern California, but was born in Ohio, how about you? Jax, are you the ONLY one here that is a "1" and has gone into remission using the Schering-Plough Drug Company's treatment? Does anyone know why a few do, but so many do not respond? Blessings, Sheena steve brewer <brewmon2003 > wrote: Sheena,

I haven't done the "chemo" yet. That's what I call it any way. I'm just not ready to put my body through that yet. Once you do your liver biopsy then you'll know what condition your liver is in, (Stage 1,2, 3.or 4) Then you can make your decision from there on what approach to take. Of course most people 'live their life in fear' and take the advise of their DR. which may or may not be the right choice for you at this time. Life is Good, BREATH Where are you from? Peace love, out Steve Sheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hi, Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy, no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done. Do the numbers in the viral

load give any indication of how long you have been infected? No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much. Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle.. Thanks again, Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did

clear and remain clear,,, I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,, Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy! You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along... What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,, Let us know how we

can help ya once again, welcome! jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information. Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to. How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron? Sheena Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote: Hi Sheena Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years

since I finished tx in Feb this next year. Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more. Anyway, welcome to the group, jax moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote: Hello all, I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C, Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds? Thanks, Sheena How low will we go? Check out Messenger's low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates

starting at 1¢/min. Jackie Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Tim Parsons knoxville,tn 37931 865-588-2465 x107 work

www.knoxville1.com

Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min.

[Guest guest]

Thank you Janet.at times i take things a Lil far.but you really helped make my day.i pray that God will continue to Bless you and your family.Janet <doc_jade@...> wrote: Tim, Would never vote you out, I like you too much. Hee Hee Janet> > > Hello all,> I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C,> Genotype 1. I am

not yet under any treatment, as I am still > waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried > Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds?> > Thanks,> Sheena> > ---------------------------------> How low will we go? Check out Messenger's low PC-to-Phone call rates. > > > > > > > Jackie > > > > > ---------------------------------> Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. > > > > > > > Jackie > > > > > ---------------------------------> Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. > > > > > > > Jackie >

> > > > ---------------------------------> All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster. > > > > > > > Tim Parsons > > knoxville,tn 37931 > > 865-588-2465 x107 work> > > www.knoxville1.com> > ---------------------------------> Get your email and more, right on the new .com > > > > > Jackie> Tim Parsons knoxville,tn 37931 865-588-2465 x107 work www.knoxville1.com

Get your own web address for just $1.99/1st yr. We'll help. Small Business.

[Guest guest]

Hmmm and your meaning would be ??

Re: Conventional meds VS Holistic

sheena its not you.i just like your name lol.not really i think nbc should rename big brother to big hepper invite all of us from this group.then watch liz and jax vote all of us out.lolSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Thank you again, so much to learn. I thankfully came to the right place, so many of you have steered me in the right direction and are so very supportive.

That means the world right now..not to be alone..though if I could take it from you,

I surely would!

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote:

You are welcome sheena,,

No viral load does not tell how long you have had this virus OR how much damage you have,, the virus replicates quickly but your body works hard to keep it at bay but sometimes you can have a very low viral load and lots of damage or a very high viral load and NO damage,, there is no way to tell without a biopsy.. unfortunately.. You are right, an ultrasound can show if you have any lesions or other severe abnormality but wont tell much about anything else.

Well keep us informed and dont be afraid to ask any questions,, we will really try to help ya hon,,

jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hi,

Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy,

no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done.

Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long

you have been infected?

No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule

an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much.

Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages

printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which

I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle..

Thanks again,

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote:

Hi Sheena

Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,,

I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,,

Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called "conscious sedation", you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy!

You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along...

What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,,

Let us know how we can help ya

once again, welcome!

jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information.

Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and

learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to.

How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron?

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm > wrote:

Hi Sheena

Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year.

Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more.

Anyway, welcome to the group,

jax

moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hello all,

I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C,

Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still

waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a "1" tried

Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds?

Thanks,

Sheena

How low will we go? Check out Messenger’s low PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie

Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. Jackie

Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Jackie

All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster.

Tim Parsons knoxville,tn 37931

865-588-2465 x107 work

www.knoxville1.com

Get your email and more, right on the new .com

[Guest guest]

I'm doing the extra weeks because I didn't get to negative till I was at week 20 so that is what is recommended for my best chance of getting SVR. Although the thought of doing so many more weeks is daunting, I jumped on the chance to give myself whatever opportunity I could. At this point I am used to my side effects so can live with them though they are annoying. I've kind of forgot what it is like to not have them and be normal to be honest, kind of weird. I don't know if anyone else has experienced that too but I just can't remember what " normal " feels like. Anyway, I think age does make a difference, at least according to my Dr but that's really all I know. She stressed too how important it is for me to keep up with my exercise so I've done that. I take medication as well for the side effects which help immensely. If it wasn't for them, I would be flat on my back sleeping thru this whole thing. I personally think though that it is a roll of the dice on who it works for and who it doesn't. But the 50-70% chance they gave me was good enough for me.

Ally

On 10/6/06, Sheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote:

Hi Ally,

Thanks, two out of 700+ members, not truly helping my decison

making process, as yet, but I can tell you honestly that I am

more than happy for you!

I thought the treatment was 48 weeks for a " 1 " , why the extra

14 weeks?

I did know the treatment could be difficult, at best, but it's the whether

it's worth it in my case that is keeping me continuing to look for answers.

WHY did you and Jax do so well, could age also be a factor?

Sheena

Ally <4thMoon@...> wrote:

Sheena,

I too am a type 1A and am currently doing treatment. I'm on week 27 of 72. I am totally undetectable so it does work. I started with a 2.25 million viral load too and now it is gone. Please don't be so quick to think it is impossible for type 1s to have a successful go of it. It IS possible. Yes, it is harder but I was willing to jump right in because I didn't want one more day to go by with my liver being more damaged then it had to but that is just my personal opinion. I think diet and exercise make a big difference too on treatment side effects.

I wish you the best on making your decision but just know that treatment isn't as horrible as everyone makes it out to be for everyone a 100% of the time. For some people it can be horrible yes but for others it can turn out to be more than manageable. It effects everyone differently.

Take care, Ally

On 10/5/06, Sheena <mom4possums2002@...

> wrote:

Hi Steve,

From all I've read, that's about what I thought it sounded like, too..chemo..

not a picnic..

I'm trying to keep a very open mind as I research and listen carefully

to all that everyone has to say..

I'm not big on Conventional medicine, either, unless there is NO alternative..

I am also not really fond of doctor's in general..

I'm not sure what those liver numbers denote, they sound rather ominous,

but I guess I'll know by the time I need to..

I'm still breathing and intend to keep right on until the end!

I'm in Southern California, but was born in Ohio, how about you?

Jax, are you the ONLY one here that is a " 1 " and has gone into remission

using the Schering-Plough Drug Company's treatment?

Does anyone know why a few do, but so many do not respond?

Blessings,

Sheena

steve brewer <brewmon2003 > wrote:

Sheena,

I haven't done the " chemo " yet. That's what I call it any way. I'm just not ready to put my body through that yet. Once you do your liver biopsy then you'll know what condition your liver is in, (Stage 1,2, 3.or 4) Then you can make your decision from there on what approach to take. Of course most people 'live their life in fear' and take the advise of their DR. which may or may not be the right choice for you at this time. Life is Good, BREATH Where are you from?

Peace love, out

Steve

Sheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hi,

Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy,

no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done.

Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long

you have been infected?

No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule

an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much.

Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages

printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which

I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle..

Thanks again,

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote:

Hi Sheena

Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,,

I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,,

Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called " conscious sedation " , you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy!

You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along...

What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,,

Let us know how we can help ya

once again, welcome!

jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information.

Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and

learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to.

How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron?

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote:

Hi Sheena

Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year.

Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more.

Anyway, welcome to the group,

jax

moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hello all,

I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C,

Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still

waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a " 1 " tried

Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds?

Thanks,

Sheena

How low will we go? Check out Messenger's low

PC-to-Phone call rates. Jackie

Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls.

Great rates starting at 1�/min. Jackie

Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2�/min or less.

Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls.

Great rates starting at 1�/min.

Talk is cheap. Use Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls.

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I'm doing the extra weeks because I didn't get to negative till I was at week 20 so that is what is recommended for my best chance of getting SVR. Although the thought of doing so many more weeks is daunting, I jumped on the chance to give myself whatever opportunity I could. At this point I am used to my side effects so can live with them though they are annoying. I've kind of forgot what it is like to not have them and be normal to be honest, kind of weird. I don't know if anyone else has experienced that too but I just can't remember what " normal " feels like. Anyway, I think age does make a difference, at least according to my Dr but that's really all I know. She stressed too how important it is for me to keep up with my exercise so I've done that. I take medication as well for the side effects which help immensely. If it wasn't for them, I would be flat on my back sleeping thru this whole thing. I personally think though that it is a roll of the dice on who it works for and who it doesn't. But the 50-70% chance they gave me was good enough for me.

Ally

On 10/6/06, Sheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote:

Hi Ally,

Thanks, two out of 700+ members, not truly helping my decison

making process, as yet, but I can tell you honestly that I am

more than happy for you!

I thought the treatment was 48 weeks for a " 1 " , why the extra

14 weeks?

I did know the treatment could be difficult, at best, but it's the whether

it's worth it in my case that is keeping me continuing to look for answers.

WHY did you and Jax do so well, could age also be a factor?

Sheena

Ally <4thMoon@...> wrote:

Sheena,

I too am a type 1A and am currently doing treatment. I'm on week 27 of 72. I am totally undetectable so it does work. I started with a 2.25 million viral load too and now it is gone. Please don't be so quick to think it is impossible for type 1s to have a successful go of it. It IS possible. Yes, it is harder but I was willing to jump right in because I didn't want one more day to go by with my liver being more damaged then it had to but that is just my personal opinion. I think diet and exercise make a big difference too on treatment side effects.

I wish you the best on making your decision but just know that treatment isn't as horrible as everyone makes it out to be for everyone a 100% of the time. For some people it can be horrible yes but for others it can turn out to be more than manageable. It effects everyone differently.

Take care, Ally

On 10/5/06, Sheena <mom4possums2002@...

> wrote:

Hi Steve,

From all I've read, that's about what I thought it sounded like, too..chemo..

not a picnic..

I'm trying to keep a very open mind as I research and listen carefully

to all that everyone has to say..

I'm not big on Conventional medicine, either, unless there is NO alternative..

I am also not really fond of doctor's in general..

I'm not sure what those liver numbers denote, they sound rather ominous,

but I guess I'll know by the time I need to..

I'm still breathing and intend to keep right on until the end!

I'm in Southern California, but was born in Ohio, how about you?

Jax, are you the ONLY one here that is a " 1 " and has gone into remission

using the Schering-Plough Drug Company's treatment?

Does anyone know why a few do, but so many do not respond?

Blessings,

Sheena

steve brewer <brewmon2003 > wrote:

Sheena,

I haven't done the " chemo " yet. That's what I call it any way. I'm just not ready to put my body through that yet. Once you do your liver biopsy then you'll know what condition your liver is in, (Stage 1,2, 3.or 4) Then you can make your decision from there on what approach to take. Of course most people 'live their life in fear' and take the advise of their DR. which may or may not be the right choice for you at this time. Life is Good, BREATH Where are you from?

Peace love, out

Steve

Sheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hi,

Thank you for the information, I am sure I do need a biopsy,

no telling how long I've had this, or how much damage it has done.

Do the numbers in the viral load give any indication of how long

you have been infected?

No, I have not even seen the specialist yet, my primary did schedule

an ultrasound for this Friday, but they don't generally tell much.

Thank you, I have a ton of bookmarks in my computer and many pages

printed out. I also have copies of my labs, except the very last, which

I am picking up on Friday. Always a good idea not to go blindly into battle..

Thanks again,

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote:

Hi Sheena

Yes I was on Peg-intron for 48 weeks and then my doc switched me to Pegasys and we planned to do another 12 but I was only able to do 6 and then we stopped.. but I did clear and remain clear,,,

I know it was a shock, I was totally in shock myself,, I was a 911 paramedic and got the call from my husband while on duty,, I was just overwhelmed,, so I know how you are feeling,, but its gonna be ok,,

Do you know how much damage you have? Yes, you DO need a biopsy to know that for sure,, but if you have what is called " conscious sedation " , you are awake to follow when they tell you to hold your breath,, but you NEVER REMEMBER IT.,, its a piece of cake if you do it that way! Really easy!

You have PLENTY of time to learn about this disease and then make up your mind if you want to treat or wait for better tx to come along...

What we advise everyone is to start your own file at home,, get copies OF EVERYTHING and keep it at home for your own research etc,, your doc should NOT have a problem with giving you copies of your labs, your biopsy, etc,,

Let us know how we can help ya

once again, welcome!

jaxSheena <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Thank you for the warm welcome, as well as the information.

Once I got over my initial shock and anger, I have been on a seek and

learn campaign! I very much appreciate having others to talk to.

How many weeks were you on treatment and was that Peg-Intron?

Sheena

Jackie on <redjaxjm@...> wrote:

Hi Sheena

Welcome to our group.. I am/was geno 1 myself but treated with standard tx and did clear and remain clear, it will be 4 years since I finished tx in Feb this next year.

Honestly, I DO believe in alternative treatments but I dont know anyone who actually cleared this virus with holistic meds/herbs. They CAN be dangerous if you dont know what you are doing too, but then again, so can standard tx for hep. Each person has to research and decide for themselves what to do. I took siliphos bound milk thistle and another product called CM Plex while on tx and I really believe it helped me clear and be able to tolerate tx better.. We do have some members who are treating or at least 'using' alternative herbs to at least help their livers hold their ground and hopefully not get any worse. Tim will be able to tell you more.

Anyway, welcome to the group,

jax

moderatorOpossum Hollow <mom4possums2002 > wrote:

Hello all,

I'm new to the Group, just recently diagnosed with Hepatitis C,

Genotype 1. I am not yet under any treatment, as I am still

waiting to see the specialist. Has anyone that is a " 1 " tried

Holistic methods, rather than Conventional meds?

Thanks,

Sheena

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[Guest guest]

Sheena, I was in my late 50's when I did tx and overweight and it DID make a difference. I also hear that some just get more sides than others. Use this group, you;ll get your soul soothed, but not your poor body. It stinks, the dx, the tx, the docs, the world when on tx, but all things pass and this will too, will success and NO virus. SharonSheena <mom4possums2002@...> wrote: Hi Ally, Thanks, two out of 700+ members, not truly helping my decison making process, as yet, but I can tell you honestly that I am more than happy for you! I thought the treatment was 48 weeks for a "1", why the

extra 14 weeks? I did know the treatment could be difficult, at best, but it's the whether it's worth it in my case that is keeping me continuing to look for answers. WHY did you and Jax do so well, could age also be a factor? Sheena

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