CAM and Hepatitis C: A Focus on Herbal Supplements
November 4, 2008 by NCCAM Featured Content
Filed under Uncategorized
Hepatitis C, a liver disease caused by a virus, is usually chronic (long-lasting), with symptoms ranging from mild (or even none) to severe. Conventional medical treatments are available for hepatitis C; however, some people also try complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, especially herbal supplements. This fact sheet provides basic information on hepatitis C, summarizes scientific research on the effectiveness and safety of selected supplements, and suggests sources for additional information.
Key Points
- No CAM treatment has yet been proven effective for treating hepatitis C or its complications.
- It is important not to replace conventional medical therapy for hepatitis C with an unproven CAM therapy.
- Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
- No CAM treatment has yet been proven effective for treating hepatitis C or its complications.
- It is important not to replace conventional medical therapy for hepatitis C with an unproven CAM therapy.
- Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
