Hepatitis is the name given to a "family of viral infections that affect the liver," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hepatitis A, B and C are common in the United States. It can cause acute or chronic inflammation of the liver that is caused by bacterial and viral infections, side effects from medications, or excessive alcohol. There are home remedies that work to support the immune system and liver function to reduce inflammation.
Dandelion
Dandelion is recognized as an effective detox for cleansing the liver and blood. It also helps restore normal liver function, according to "New Medicine: Complete Family Health Guide." The use of dandelion can fight the viral infection much like other medicinal herbs for the liver by preventing chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C from developing. Those with hepatitis A usually experience a full recovery.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is an effect detox for the liver. It allows the body to regroup to fight the invading virus. According to Best Remedies, licorice root, is a strong "anti-viral" herb with anti-inflammatory properties. The recommended dose is 250 to 500 mg two or three days daily. Best Remedies suggest taking this herb under a doctor's supervision because there's a possibility for blood pressure levels to increase and potassium levels to drop. Licorice can be used to treat hepatitis A, B, and C, as stated by Regenerative Nutrition.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is known for healing and restoring health to the liver. According to Mayo Clinic, the herb contains the ingredient, silymarin, a powerful antioxidant that prevents toxins from infecting the liver and keeps liver cells strong. You can take between 200 and 400 mg of milk thistle extract three times a day for hepatitis.
Vitamins
Vitamins C and E can improve the health of the immune system and liver. Vitamin C fights virus, heals tissue and prevents any long-term damage to the liver that may occur such as from chronic hepatitis. For those with acute hepatitis, you should take 2 g of vitamin C three times a day. If you're experiencing chronic hepatitis, 1 g of vitamin C twice a day is recommended.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that has been effective in treating chronic hepatitis B, as stated in "New Medicine: Complete Family Health Guide." Vitamin E has also exhibited the ability to protect the liver from damage that can occur in people with hepatitis C.
Warning
If you're taking prescribed medication for hepatitis, check with your doctor before using herbal or nutrition remedies as a complementary treatment for hepatitis.
Tags: chronic hepatitis, antioxidant that, Best Remedies, Complete Family, Complete Family Health, Family Health