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CHINESE HERBS

1. BUPLEURUM ROOT (CHAI HU):

Bupleurum is one of the most important herbs used in Chinese herbalism. Because of its detoxifying and anti-microbial properties, it has the ability to relieve liver tension and digestive disturbances. It is the primary herb regulating body energy, for relieving blockages in the body and then allowing the toxins to be discharged safely out of the system. Combined with white peony, bupleurum will detoxify the blood and eliminate heat. Bupleurum root is used in chronic hepatitis, enlarged liver, depression and irregular menstruation. It increases protein synthesis in the liver, and reduces inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin production.

The primary chemical constituents of bupleurum root include: saikosaponins, fatty acids, glycosides, oleic acid, palmitic acid, quercetin and narcissin. Research in Japan, beginning in the early 1960s and continuing today, has revealed that the saikosides are potent medicines. They appear to protect the liver from toxicity and strengthen liver function, even in people suffering from immune system disorders. Bupleurum grows in China and has been taken by the Chinese for over 2,000 years. Clinical trials have demonstrated that bupleurum is a safe and effective treatment for hepatitis C and other chronic liver problems. [1-12]

2. WHITE PEONY (BAI SHAO YAO):

The peony flower is the national flower of China. Peony root is highly prized for its ability to relax muscle and cleanse the blood. It relieves cramps and spasms anywhere in the body and is highly effective in relieving menstrual pain. It is believed to extend life and to promote beauty. Men should use peony as well, since it has an anti-aging effect without affecting hormones. In hepatitis, white peony is used primarily to nourish the blood circulation and to smooth and relax the liver. There are no known drug interactions with white peony root. [13-19]

3. PRIVET FRUIT-LIGUSTRUM (NU ZHEN ZI):

Privet fruit (ligustrum) is a shrub native to China and eastern Asia, but is now grown ornamentally in the United States. Used for a wide range of conditions, privet fruit is a tonic for the liver and kidneys. It helps to lower liver enzymes, inhibits degeneration and reduces necrosis of liver cells. It raises the white blood cell count, and can rapidly reduce jaundice.

Privet fruit has gained a reputation as a powerful immune enhancing herb. In a study done in the United States, supported by the National Institutes of Health, privet fruit was found to prevent breakdown of the immune system when cancer patients were given chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Subsequent studies around the world have supported this action. It is now used clinically for this purpose in Japan and China. It is often combined with Lycium fruit or astragalus. The major constituent in privet fruit is ligustrin (oleanolic acid).

Studies in China suggest that privet fruit stimulates the immune system, decreases inflammation and protects the liver. At regular doses, privet fruit has practically no toxicity. [20-27]

4. ECLIPTA (HAN LIAN CAO):

Eclipta is found in the lowlands of East Asia from China to Australia. The leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable and also used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a cooling and restorative herb that supports the liver, the mind and eyes. The leaf extract is considered to be a powerful liver tonic and rejuvenative, and especially good for the hair. In India, Ayurvedic tradition uses eclipta to address liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, liver enlargement, jaundice and other liver conditions.

Studies in mice show protective effects of Eclipta against known liver toxins. Eclipta can be applied topically to treat nosebleeds and bleeding caused by traumatic injury. Compounds found in eclipta suggest that it has anti-inflammatory properties, and can be used in the fight against liver disease. In Chinese Medicine, eclipta clears deficient heat and cools the blood. It is often used in combination with privet fruit and lycium to boost the immune system. It is well tolerated and has a high margin of safety. The American Herbal Products Association has stated there are no known drug interactions with eclipta. [28-33]

5. LYCIUM BERRY-WOLFBERRY FRUIT (GOU QI ZI):

Lycium berry fruit contains polysaccharides which have been demonstrated to strongly fortify the immune system. It is very rich in Vitamins C and B, and is the richest source of carotenoids, (including beta-carotene) in the world. It also contains 18 amino acids, numerous trace elements including germanium, and beta-sitosterol, a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

Lycium fruit traditionally has been a long favorite herb of Chinese martial artists and athletes because it strengthens the legs and increases vitality. It is also one of the fundamental sexual tonic herbs used in Chinese herbalism, especially when combined with other herbs such as cordyceps, astragalus, ginseng and schizandra.

As an immune enhancer, when lycium extract was provided to 20 elderly people, once a day for 3 weeks, more than 67% of the patients' T cell transformation functions tripled and the activity of the patients' white cell interleukin-2 doubled. Lycium berry has been undergoing intense scrutiny as an anti-cancer drug in China and Japan. The fruit can kill many kinds of cancer cells in vitro because it contains germanium which has been demonstrated in Japanese studies to have anti-cancer activity. The berries are very nourishing and can inhibit the precipitation of fat in liver cells and promote the regeneration of the liver. Lycium fruit has absolutely no toxicity. [34-39]

6. ANDROGRAPHIS (CHUAN XIN LIAN):

Andrographis is used to rid the body of heat, as in fevers, and to dispel toxins from the body. In Scandinavian countries, it is commonly used to prevent and treat common colds. Research has confirmed that, properly administered, andrographis can be: anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, cardio-protective, digestive-promoting, liver-protective, immune- enhancing and anti-cancer. The primary medical component of andrographis is andrographolide.

The herb has been used medicinally for centuries and has been extensively studied; most of these studies have been performed within the last half of the 20th century. It is now being tested in cancer and HIV patients.

In Ayurvedic medicine (a system used in India), there are at least 26 different formulations containing andrographis that are used to treat liver disorders. An Indian study of hepatitis patients demonstrated a marked improvement in the majority patients tested after giving them the herb. Appetite improved on the 5th day of treatment, jaundice gradually diminished and completely disappeared within 24 days, and fever subsided after 7 days on average. Other indications of effectiveness included improvement in liver function tests. Grown in the subtropical areas of China and Southeast Asia, safety studies and clinical trials using andrographis have not reported any toxic effects. [40-51]

7. SICHUAN LOVAGE ROOT-LIGUSTICUM (CHUAN XIONG):

The Sichuan lovage rhizome is a perennial plant with white flowers, grown in Sichuan, China, that bear fruit in August and September of each year. It is considered by Eastern medical view to regulate and invigorate the blood, dispel wind and to relieve pain. It is most commonly used as an analgesic in the treatment of cold, headache and rheumatic pain, swelling, and pain due to traumatic injury.

Studies dating back as far as 1958 show that lovage root is effective in the treatment of headaches by decreasing vascular resistance while increasing blood flow in the brain. In recent years, it has been used in the treatment of coronary heart disease and angina pectoris. The herb dilates the capillaries and other blood vessels and thus lowers blood pressure. In liver disease it primarily promotes an increased blood circulation, especially to the liver, and imparts a vital energy to the body. [52-56]

8. ASTRAGALUS ROOT (HUANG QI):

Astragalus is one of the oldest known herbs in Chinese Medicine and has been used for over 2000 years to strengthen the body as a whole, strengthen muscle, and improve metabolic functions. It is considered a deep immune tonic that increases the body's ability to produce more immune T cells, protecting us from pathogens.

Studies at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Research Center at the University of Houston, Texas, demonstrated that astragalus improves the immune response in humans undergoing radiation and chemotherapy as a treatment for cancer. In China, astragalus is sometimes considered superior to ginseng as an energizer for young people. Astragalus has been proven to have potent immune-modulating effects in both animals and humans. Extracts of astragalus enhance macrophage activity and reduce the activity of suppresser T cells. The herbal extract significantly increases natural killer cell cytotoxicity. It helps antibody response. It tends to protect the white blood cells from leucopenia and has hematopoietic (red blood cell building) activity as well.

The polysaccharides found in astragalus are potent anti-oxidants, hundreds of times stronger than Vitamin E, and stronger than that of grape seed extract. Astragalus is rich in zinc and selenium, components which have shown powerful anti-cancer activity. Astragalus may be added to almost any tonic formulation designed to strengthen the entire body. It is superb for young or old people, male or female. There are no known side effects associated with standardized astragalus extract. [57-72]

9. PORIA (FU LING):

Poria is very widely used in Chinese herbalism as a tonic to benefit the internal organs. It is a solid fungus which grows on the roots of old pine trees. It is a mild, safe and effective diuretic, used in hundreds of classical formulas to improve the flow of water through the body. Recent research has discovered that poria is a powerful immune system tonic. It has been found to induce the production in human beings of a-interferon. Poria is tranquilizing to the mind, and taken for a long time it can relieve hunger and lengthen the life. Poria is a very safe herb. [73-80]

10. MELIA FRUIT (CHUAN LIAN ZI):

Also known as the Sichuan pagoda tree, melia regulates qi (energy pathways) and stops pain, especially flank pain and pain in the lower ribs or abdomen. This is usually caused by liver-stomach disharmony or liver qi (energy) stagnation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the 2 main functions of the liver are to store the blood and to regulate body energy (qi). The liver regulates qi by promoting its free flow. When the liver is dysfunctional, qi does not flow freely and smoothly, thereby stagnating. This stagnation of the liver-energy (qi) involves the stomach and is manifested as stomachache, abdominal and rib pain. By regulating the liver qi, the herb calms the liver and alleviates pain. [81-85]

11. PEACH KERNEL (TAO REN):

Peach kernel is found in all parts of China. Peach kernel helps promote circulation, dissolves accumulated clots, and acts as a laxative for dry intestines. It is said to "loosen the belly" and open stoppages of the liver. It helps to regulate menstruation and can be used after traumatic injuries with swelling and pain. Its major constituents are: oleic acid, glyceric acid, linoleic acid, and amygdalin emulsion. [86-91]

12. SCHIZANDRA FRUIT (WU WEI ZI):

Schizandra is one of the primary liver cleansing and hepatic protective herbs used in Chinese herbalism. By taking schizandra regularly, it is possible to rid the body of toxins before they have a chance to do serious damage. It can promote the regeneration of liver tissue, and enhance protein and nucleic acid synthesis.

The protective action of schizandra is partly due to its ability to promote the regeneration of mitochondria in hepatic cells. This can improve the function of the cell membranes, detoxify, and reduce elevated ALT liver enzymes in about 80% of patients. From the fruit of schizandra, 7 active liver enzyme-lowering ingredients have been currently isolated. Schizandra fruit also contains various lignans, mainly schizandrins, which have been found to prevent liver damage, stimulate liver repair and preserve normal liver functioning. These properties appear to be related to the various anti-oxidant abilities of the schizandrins.

There also have been numerous reports on schizandra's ability to quicken reflexes, control anger and combat insomnia, headaches and dizziness. A recent study concluded that schizandra might be helpful to reverse depression. Schizandra generates vitality and radiant beauty when used regularly. It is a safe and powerful tonic herb which is mildly calming for both men and women. [92-100]

13. SOPHORA ROOT (SHAN DOU GEN):

The active ingredient in sophora root is oxymatrine. Oxymatrine can prevent liver cell damage through its affect on the cytochrome P450 pathway. Thus, it can strengthen the detoxification capability of the liver. It also has shown anti-viral effects and it is immune regulatory. In China, the alkaloids are often given by injection, but since this method of administration is not currently available in the west, oral dosing is used here instead.

Chinese researchers have also used the alkaloids in capsule form, with results that appear similar to the injection. Tests done at the Shanghai Second Medical University confirmed that sophora inhibited viral replication, not just causing a reduction in liver damage, but it actually inhibited viral activity, thereby reducing the viral load in hepatitis patients. By adding other Chinese herbs, effects at the Amoy Municipal Hospital in China were deemed to be comparable to those attained with interferon therapy, except that adverse reactions were avoided. In addition, the use of oxymatrine and Chinese herb formulas also inhibited liver fibrosis. [101-111]

14. SICHUAN OX KNEE ROOT (CHUAN NIU XI):

This is the root of the Achyranthes, a perennial plant, grown in China, Japan and India. It promotes blood circulation, regulates menstruation, nourishes the liver and kidneys and strengthens bones and muscles. Ox knee root acts predominantly on the lower half of the body and is used also in the treatment of aching back and knees. Used in combination with peach kernel, it helps soreness and pain of the waist and knees due to prolonged arthralgia. It disperses heat from the liver (due to inflammation) which can be responsible for dizziness, headaches and nose bleeding, thereby calming the liver.

The Chinese consider emotions to have very powerful effects on the functioning of the internal organs, and strong or unresolved emotions can damage the organs with which they are associated. The primary emotion associated with the liver is anger, however, the liver is also responsible for keeping all of the emotions in a state of smooth flow. When there is emotional stress, the liver is overwhelmed and several types of liver dysfunction can result. Ox knee root helps nourish the liver and keep it healthy by promoting good blood circulation. [112-118]

15. LICORICE (GAN CAO):

Licorice is the most frequently used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been extensively studied. It is a sweet, mild herb and has many functions. It has anti-viral effects and can inhibit virus proliferation. It can normalize liver ALT and AST enzymes and restore liver function from damage due to carbon tetrachloride. Licorice can reduce degeneration and necrosis and promote regeneration of liver cells, and inhibit fibrosis.

Licorice is the most broad-spectrum natural detoxifying agent known, ridding the body of over 1200 different toxins, without any distressful side effects. It is often used as an anti-inflammatory agent because it contains chemical components which act similarly to cortisone, but without the side effects. When combined with white peony root, it is a superb anti-spasmodic to relax both smooth and striated muscle and is famous for relieving cramps in the stomach, calves, and feet.

Licorice root is rich in flavonoids, amino acids and biotin. As a tea, it acts as an anti-tussive (anti-cough) action similar to codeine, but without the drowsiness. It is safe in a carefully prepared formulation. Taken by itself, in large doses and for long term, it can raise blood pressure in some individuals. Since the herb is powerful, only small doses are usually sufficient to achieve excellent results.

Many Chinese formulas use licorice as a harmonizing ingredient. It is believed that licorice harmonizes the ingredients in an herbal formulation, eliminating harshness of action and promoting smooth activity of the herbs. [119-143]

REFERENCES

( Click on Author(s) for more Information )

CHINESE HERBS

BUPLEURUM ROOT

1. Chiang LC, Ng LT, Liu LT, Shieh DE, Lin CC. Cytotoxicity and anti-hepatitis B virus activities of saikosaponins from Bupleurum species. Planta Med. 2003 Aug; 69(8):705-9.

2. Be-Jen Wang , Chu-Ting Liu , Chin-Yin Tseng , Chien-Ping Wu and Zer-Ran Yu Hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of Bupleurum kaoi Liu (Chao et Chuang) extract and its fractions fractionated using supercritical CO2 on CCl4-induced liver damage Food and Chemical Toxicology, Volume 42, Issue 4, April 2004, Pages 609-617

3. Chou CC, Pan SL, Teng CM, Guh JH. Pharmacological evaluation of several major ingredients of Chinese herbal medicines in human hepatoma Hep3B cells.

Eur J Pharm Sci. 2003 Aug; 19(5):403-12.

4. Hsu YL, Kuo PL, Lin CC. The proliferative inhibition and apoptotic mechanism of Saikosaponin D in human non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells. Life Sci. 2004 Jul 23; 75(10):1231-42.

5. Guinea MC, Parellada J, Lacaille-Dubois MA, Wagner H. Biologically active triterpene saponins from Bupleurum fruticosum. Planta Med. 1994 Apr;60 (2):163-7.

6. Yen MH, Lin CC, Chuang CH, Liu SY. Evaluation of root quality of Bupleurum species by TLC scanner and the liver protective effects of "xiao-chai-hu-tang" prepared using three different Bupleurum species. J Ethnopharmacol. 1991 Sep; 34(2-3):155-65.

7. Yamamoto M, Kumagai A, Yamamura Y. Structure and actions of saikosaponins isolated from Bupleurum falcatum L. I. Anti-inflammatory action of

saikosaponins. Arzneimittelforschung. 1975 Jul; 25(7):1021-3.

8. Yamamoto M, Kumagai A, Yamamura Y. Structure and action of saikosaponins isolated from Bupleurum falcatum L. II. Metabolic actions of saikosaponins, especially a plasma cholesterol-lowering action. Arzneimittelforschung. 1975 Aug;25 (8):1240-3.

9. Chow LW, Loo WT, Sham JS. Effects of a herbal compound containing

bupleurum on human lymphocytes. Hong Kong Med J. 2001 Dec; 7(4):408-13.

10. Chow WC, Loo TY, Sham ST. Cytokine production by human lymphocytes stimulated by a herbal compound containing Bupleurum (KY88 LIVER LIVO).

Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2003 Feb; 24(2):140-4.

11. Chow LW, Loo WT, Sham JS, Cheung MN. Radix bupleuri containing compound (KY88 liver-livo) induces apoptosis and production of interleukin-4 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in liver cancer cells in vitro. Am J Chin Med. 2004; 32(2):185-93.

12. Abe H, Sakaguchi M, Odashima S, Arichi S. Protective effect of saikosaponin-d isolated from Bupleurum falcatum L. on CCl4-induced liver injury in the rat. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 1982 Sep; 320(3):266-71.

WHITE PEONY

13. Xie C. [Effects of danggui shaoyao powder on blood rheological indexes and prostaglandin F2 alpha in dysmenorrhea patients. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1990 Jul; 10(7):410-2, 389.

14. Sun Y, Chen T, Xu Q. Si-Ni-San, a traditional Chinese prescription, and its drug-pairs suppress contact sensitivity in mice via inhibition of the activity of metalloproteinases and adhesion of T lymphocytes. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2003 Jun; 55(6):839-46.

15. Li YC, Sun YF, Feng ZJ. Experimental study on antagonizing liver fibrosis of radix Paeoniae rubra Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2003 Oct; 23(10):767-8. No abstract available.

16. Prieto JM, Recio MC, Giner RM, Manez S, Giner-Larza EM, Rios JL. Influence of traditional Chinese anti-inflammatory medicinal plants on leukocyte and platelet functions. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2003 Sep; 55(9):1275-82

17. Qin L, Zhang SH, Li XL. Studies on immunoregulating effect of monkshood root and peony root used singly and in combination. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2002 Jul; 27(7):541-4.

18. Lee SM, Li ML, Tse YC, Leung SC, Lee MM, Tsui SK, Fung KP, Lee CY, Waye MM. Paeoniae Radix, a Chinese herbal extract, inhibit hepatoma cells growth by inducing apoptosis in a p53 independent pathway. Life Sci. 2002 Sep 27; 71 (19) : 2267-77.

19. Tabata K, Matsumoto K, Murakami Y, Watanabe H. Ameliorative effects of paeoniflorin, a major constituent of peony root, on adenosine A1 receptor-mediated impairment of passive avoidance performance and long-term potentiation in the hippocampus. Biol Pharm Bull. 2001 May; 24(5):496-500.

PRIVET FRUIT (LIGUSTRUM)

20. Yim TK, Wu WK, Pak WF, Ko KM. Hepatoprotective action of an oleanolic acid-enriched extract of Ligustrum lucidum fruits is mediated through an enhancement on hepatic glutathione regeneration capacity in mice. Phytother Res. 2001 Nov; 15(7):589-92.

21. Ma SC, He ZD, Deng XL, But PP, Ooi VE, Xu HX, Lee SH, Lee SF. In vitro evaluation of secoiridoid glucosides from the fruits of Ligustrum lucidum as antiviral agents. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo). 2001 Nov; 49(11):1471-3.

22. He ZD, But PPH, Chan TW, Dong H, Xu HX, Lau CP, Sun HD. Antioxidative glucosides from the fruits of Ligustrum lucidum. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo). 2001 Jun; 49(6):780-4.

23. Konno K, Hirayama C, Yasui H, Nakamura M. Enzymatic activation of oleuropein: A protein crosslinker used as a chemical defense in the privet tree

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1999 Aug 3; 96(16):9159-64

24. Rittenhouse JR, Lui PD, Lau BH. Chinese medicinal herbs reverse macrophage suppression induced by urological tumors. J Urol. 1991 Aug; 146(2):486-90.

25. Sun Y, Hersh EM, Lee SL, McLaughlin M, Loo TL, Mavligit GM. Preliminary observations on the effects of the Chinese medicinal herbs Astragalus membranaceus and Ligustrum lucidum on lymphocyte blastogenic responses.

J Biol Response Mod. 1983; 2(3):227-37.

26. Sun Y, Hersh EM, Talpaz M, Lee SL, Wong W, Loo TL, Mavligit GM. Immune restoration and/or augmentation of local graft versus host reaction by traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Cancer. 1983 Jul 1; 52(1):70-3.

27. Jiang H, Huang X, Yang Y, Zhang Q. Studies on the antilipid peroxidation of nine sorts of Chinese herbal medicines with the function of protecting liver]

Zhong Yao Cai. 1997 Dec; 20(12):624-6.

ECLIPTA

28. Sawant M, Isaac JC, Narayanan S. Analgesic studies on total alkaloids and alcohol extracts of Eclipta alba (Linn.) Hassk. Phytother Res. 2004 Feb; 18(2):111-3.

29. Saxena AK, Singh B, Anand KK. Hepatoprotective effects of Eclipta alba on subcellular levels in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 1993 Dec; 40(3):155-61.

30. Singh B, Saxena AK, Chandan BK, Agarwal SG, Anand KK. In vivo hepatoprotective activity of active fraction from ethanolic extract of Eclipta alba leaves.Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 2001 Oct; 45(4):435-41.

31. Han Y, Xia C, Cheng X, Xiang R, Liu H, Yan Q, Xu D. Preliminary studies on chemical constituents and pharmacological action of Eclipta prostrata L.

Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1998 Nov; 23(11):680-2, 703.

32. He J, Li Y, Wei S, Guo M, Fu W. Effects of mixture of Astragalus membranaceus, Fructus Ligustri lucidi and Eclipta prostrata on immune function in mice Hua Xi Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao. 1992 Sep; 23(4):408-11.

33. Ma-Ma K, Nyunt N, Tin KM. The protective effect of Eclipta alba on carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver damage. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 1978 Sep; 45(3):723-8. No abstract available.

LYCIUM BERRY (WOLFBERRY FRUIT)

34. Chin YW, Lim SW, Kim SH, Shin DY, Suh YG, Kim YB, Kim YC, Kim J. Hepatoprotective pyrrole derivatives of Lycium chinense fruits. Bioorg Med Chem Lett. 2003 Jan 6; 13(1):79-81.

35. Kim SY, Lee EJ, Kim HP, Kim YC, Moon A, Kim YC. A novel cerebroside from lycii fructus preserves the hepatic glutathione redox system in primary cultures of rat hepatocytes. Biol Pharm Bull. 1999 Aug; 22(8):873-5.

36. Kim SY, Lee EJ, Kim HP, Lee HS, Kim YC. LCC, a cerebroside from Lycium chinense, protects primary cultured rat hepatocytes exposed to galactosamine.

Phytother Res. 2000 Sep; 14(6):448-51

37. Huang Y, Lu J, Shen Y, Lu J. The protective effects of total flavonoids from Lycium Barbarum L. on lipid peroxidation of liver mitochondria and red blood cell in rats Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 1999 Mar 30; 28(2):

115-6.

38. Kim SY, Choi YH, Huh H, Kim J, Kim YC, Lee HS. New antihepatotoxic cerebroside from Lycium chinense fruits. J Nat Prod. 1997 Mar; 60(3):274-6.

39. Gan L, Wang J, Zhang S. Inhibition the growth of human leukemia cells by Lycium barbarum polysaccharide Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2001 Nov; 30(6):333-5.

ANDROGRAPHIS

40. Rana AC, Avadhoot Y. Hepatoprotective effects of Andrographis paniculata against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage. Arch Pharm Res. 1991 Mar; 14(1):93-5.

41. Trivedi NP, Rawal UM. Hepatoprotective and antioxidant property of Andrographis paniculata (Nees) in BHC induced liver damage in mice. Indian J Exp Biol. 2001 Jan; 39(1):41-6.

42. Visen PK, Shukla B, Patnaik GK, Dhawan BN. Andrographolide protects rat hepatocytes against paracetamol-induced damage. J Ethnopharmacol. 1993 Oct; 40(2):131-6.

43. Kapil A, Koul IB, Banerjee SK, Gupta BD. Antihepatotoxic effects of major diterpenoid constituents of Andrographis paniculata. Biochem Pharmacol. 1993 Jul 6; 46(1):182-5.

44. Handa SS, Sharma A. Hepatoprotective activity of andrographolide from Andrographis paniculata against carbontetrachloride. Indian J Med Res. 1990 Aug; 92:276-83.

45. Handa SS, Sharma A. Hepatoprotective activity of andrographolide against galactosamine & paracetamol intoxication in rats. Indian J Med Res. 1990 Aug; 92:284-92.

46. Kumar RA, Sridevi K, Kumar NV, Nanduri S, Rajagopal S. Anticancer and immunostimulatory compounds from Andrographis paniculata. J Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Jun; 92(2-3):291-5.

47. Rajagopal S, Kumar RA, Deevi DS, Satyanarayana C, Rajagopalan R. Andrographolide, a potential cancer therapeutic agent isolated from Andrographis paniculata. J Exp Ther Oncol. 2003 May-Jun; 3(3):147-58.

48. Singha PK, Roy S, Dey S. Antimicrobial activity of Andrographis paniculata. Fitoterapia. 2003 Dec; 74(7-8):692-4.

49. Ram VJ. Herbal preparations as a source of hepatoprotective agents. Drug News Perspect. 2001 Aug; 14(6):353-63.

50. Choudhury BR, Haque SJ, Poddar MK. In vivo and in vitro effects of kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) extract and andrographolide on hepatic microsomal drug metabolizing enzymes. Planta Med. 1987 Apr; 53(2):135-40. No abstract available.

51. Chang RS, Ding L, Chen GQ, Pan QC, Zhao ZL, Smith KM. Dehydroandrographolide succinic acid monoester as an inhibitor against the human immunodeficiency virus. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 1991 May; 197(1):59-66.

LOVAGE ROOT (LIGUSTICUM)

52. Dai Y, But PP, Chan YP, Matsuda H, Kubo M. Antipruritic and antiinflammatory effects of aqueous extract from Si-Wu-Tang. Biol Pharm Bull. 2002 Sep; 25(9):1175-8.

53. Chen KJ, Chen K. Ischemic stroke treated with Ligusticum chuanxiong.Chin Med J (Engl). 1992 Oct; 105(10):870-3. Review.

54. Hou YZ, Zhao GR, Yang J, Yuan YJ, Zhu GG, Hiltunen R. Protective effect of Ligusticum chuanxiong and Angelica sinensis on endothelial cell damage induced by hydrogen peroxide. Life Sci. 2004 Aug 20; 75(14):1775-86.

55. Sinclair S. Chinese herbs: a clinical review of Astragalus, Ligusticum, and Schizandrae. Altern Med Rev. 1998 Oct; 3(5):338-44. Review.

56. He J, Li Y, Wei S, Guo M, Fu W. Effects of mixture of Astragalus membranaceus, Fructus Ligustri lucidi and Eclipta prostrata on immune function in mice Hua Xi Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao. 1992 Sep; 23(4):408-11.

ASTRAGALUS ROOT

57. Zhang ZL, Wen QZ, Liu CX. Hepatoprotective effects of astraglus root.J Ethnopharmacol. 1990 Sep; 30(2):145-9.

58. Zhang YD, Shen JP, Zhu SH, Huang DK, Ding Y, Zhang XL. Effects of astragalus (ASI, SK) on experimental liver injury Yao Xue Xue Bao. 1992; 27(6):401-6.

59. Chen H, Weng L. Comparison on efficacy in treating liver fibrosis of chronic hepatitis B between Astragalus Polygonum anti-fibrosis decoction and jinshuibao capsule Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2000 Apr; 20(4):255-7.

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62. Li CX, Li L, Lou J, Yang WX, Lei TW, Li YH, Liu J, Cheng ML, Huang LH. The protective effects of traditional Chinese medicine prescription, han-dan-ganle, on CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in rats.Am J Chin Med. 1998;26 (3-4):325-32.

63. Li XY. Immunomodulating Chinese herbal medicines. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 1991; 86 Suppl 2:159-64.

64. Block KI, Mead MN. Immune system effects of echinacea, ginseng, and astragalus: a review. Integr Cancer Ther. 2003 Sep; 2(3):247-67. Review.

65. Shon YH, Nam KS. Protective effect of Astragali radix extract on interleukin 1beta-induced in fl ammation in human amnion. Phytother Res. 2003 Nov; 17(9):1016-20.

66. Weng XS. Treatment of leucopenia with pure Astragalus preparation--an analysis of 115 leucopenic cases Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1995 Aug; 15(8):462-4.

67. Chen KT, Su CH, Hsin LH, Su YC, Su YP, Lin JG. Reducing fatigue of athletes following oral administration of huangqi jianzhong tang. Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2002 Aug; 23(8):757-61.

68. Cui R, He J, Wang B, Zhang F, Chen G, Yin S, Shen H. Suppressive effect of Astragalus membranaceus Bunge on chemical hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2003 Jan; 51(1):75-80. Epub 2002 Nov 26.

69. Fu QL. Experimental study on yiqi-huoxue therapy of liver fibrosis] Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1992 Apr; 12(4):228-9, 198.

70. Hong GX, Qin WC, Huang LS. Memory-improving effect of aqueous extract of Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1994 Nov; 19(11):687-8, 704.

71. Li C, Luo J, Li L, Cheng M, Huang N, Liu J, Waalkes MP. The collagenolytic effects of the traditional Chinese medicine preparation, Han-Dan-Gan-Le, contribute to reversal of chemical-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Life Sci. 2003 Feb 21; 72(14):1563-71.

72. Chu D, Sun Y, Lin J, Wong W, Mavligit G. F3, a fractionated extract of Astragalus membranaceus, potentiates lymphokine-activated killer cell cytotoxicity generated by low-dose recombinant interleukin-2 Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1990 Jan; 10(1):34-6, 5.

PORIA

73. Yu SJ, Tseng J. Fu-Ling, a Chinese herbal drug, modulates cytokine secretion by human peripheral blood monocytes. Int J Immunopharmacol. 1996 Jan; 18(1):37-44.

74. Jin Y, Zhang L, Zhang M, Chen L, Cheung PC, Oi VE, Lin Y. Antitumor activities of heteropolysaccharides of Poria cocos mycelia from different strains and culture media. Carbohydr Res. 2003 Jul 4; 338(14):1517-21.

75. Ukiya M, Akihisa T, Tokuda H, Hirano M, Oshikubo M, Nobukuni Y, Kimura Y, Tai T, Kondo S, Nishino H. Inhibition of tumor-promoting effects by poricoic acids G and H and other lanostane-type triterpenes and cytotoxic activity of poricoic acids A and G from Poria cocos. J Nat Prod. 2002 Apr; 65(4):462-5.

76. Schinella GR, Tournier HA, Prieto JM, Mordujovich D, Rios JL. Antioxidant activity of anti-inflammatory plant extracts. Life Sci. 2002 Jan 18; 70(9):1023-33.

77. Tai T, Akita Y, Kinoshita K, Koyama K, Takahashi K, Watanabe K. Anti-emetic principles of Poria cocos. Planta Med. 1995 Dec; 61(6):527-30.

78. Tseng J, Chang JG. Suppression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6 and granulocyte-monocyte colony stimulating factor secretion from human monocytes by an extract of Poria cocos. Zhonghua Min Guo Wei Sheng Wu Ji Mian Yi Xue Za Zhi. 1992 Feb; 25(1):1-11.

79. Liou CJ, Tseng J. A Chinese herbal medicine, fu-ling, regulates interleukin-10 production by murine spleen cells. Am J Chin Med. 2002; 30(4):551-60.

80. Chen YY, Chang HM. Antiproliferative and differentiating effects of polysaccharide fraction from fu-ling (Poria cocos) on human leukemic U937 and HL-60 cells. Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 May; 42(5):759-69.

MELIA FRUIT

81. Yu JC, Min ZD, Ip NY. Melia toosendan regulates PC12 Cell differentiation via the activation of protein kinase A and extracellular signal-regulated kinases. Neurosignals. 2004 Sep-Oct; 13(5):248-57.

82. Tada K, Takido M, Kitanaka S. Limonoids from fruit of Melia toosendan and their cytotoxic activity. Phytochemistry. 1999 Jul; 51(6):787-91.

83. Kim HM, Oh GT, Han SB, Hong DH, Hwang BY, Kim YH, Lee JJ. Comparative studies of adriamycin and 28-deacetyl sendanin on in vitro growth inhibition of human cancer cell lines. Arch Pharm Res. 1994 Apr; 17(2):100-3.

84. Wang ZF, Shi YL. Modulation of inward rectifier potassium channel by toosendanin, a presynaptic blocker. Neurosci Res. 2001 Jul; 40(3):211-5.

85. Xu Y, Shi Y. Action of toosendanin on the membrane current of mouse motor nerve terminals. Brain Res. 1993 Dec 17; 631(1):46-50.

PEACH KERNEL

86. Xu LM, Liu P, Liu C, Hong JH, Lu G, Xue HM, Zhu JL, Hu YY. Observation on the action of extractum semen Persicae on anti-fibrosis of liver Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1994 Aug; 19(8):491-4, 512.

87. Zhu JL, Liu C. Modulating effects of extractum semen Persicae and cultivated Cordyceps hyphae on immuno-dysfunction of inpatients with posthepatitic cirrhosis Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1992 Apr; 12(4):207-9, 195.

88. Fukuda T, Ito H, Mukainaka T, Tokuda H, Nishino H, Yoshida T. Anti-tumor promoting effect of glycosides from Prunus persica seeds. Biol Pharm Bull. 2003 Feb; 26(2):271-3.

89. Liu P, Liu C, Hu YY. Effect of fuzheng huayu recipe in treating posthepatitic cirrhosis Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1996 Aug; 16(8):459-62.

90. Park WH, Ahn JC, Kim HM, Lee YC, Kim CH. Effects of a Korean herbal formulation, Silsosangami, consisting of seven medicinal herbs, and its seven herbs on endotoxin-induced experimental thrombosis in rats. Phytother Res. 2004 Mar; 18(3):224-9.

91. Kwon HY, Hong SP, Hahn DH, Kim JH. Apoptosis induction of Persicae Semen extract in human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells. Arch Pharm Res. 2003 Feb; 26(2):157-61.

SCHIZANDRA FRUIT

92. Nomura M, Nakachiyama M, Hida T, Ohtaki Y, Sudo K, Aizawa T, Aburada M, Miyamoto KI. Gomisin A, a lignan component of Schizandora fruits, inhibits development of preneoplastic lesions in rat liver by 3'-methyl-4-dimethylamino-azobenzene. Cancer Lett. 1994 Jan 15; 76(1):11-8.

93. Mizoguchi Y, Kawada N, Ichikawa Y, Tsutsui H. Effect of gomisin A in the prevention of acute hepatic failure induction. Planta Med. 1991 Aug; 57(4):320-4.

94. Maeda S, Takeda S, Miyamoto Y, Aburada M, Harada M. Effects of gomisin A on liver functions in hepatotoxic chemicals-treated rats. Jpn J Pharmacol. 1985 Aug;38(4):347-53.

95. Takeda S, Funo S, Iizuka A, Kase Y, Arai I, Ohkura Y, Sudo K, Kiuchi N, Yoshida C, Maeda S, et al. Pharmacological studies on schizandra fruits. III. Effects of wuweizisu C, a lignan component of schizandra fruits, on experimental liver injuries in rats Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 1985 Mar; 85(3):193-208.

96. Huang L, Chen L, Zhang Z. Pathological observations of Fructus Schisandrae polysaccharide on anti-tumor effects in S180-bearing mice Zhong Yao Cai. 2004 Mar; 27(3):202-3.

97. Takeda S, Kase Y, Arai I, Ohkura Y, Hasegawa M, Sekiguchi Y, Tatsugi A, Funo S, Aburada M, Hosoya E. Effects of TJN-101, a lignan compound isolated from Schisandra fruits, on liver fibrosis and on liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in rats with chronic liver injury induced by CCl4 Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 1987 Jul; 90(1):51-65.

98. Yan-yong C, Zeng-bao S, Lian-niang L. Studies of Fructus schizandrae. IV. Isolation and determination of the active compounds (in lowering high SGPT levels) of Schizandra chinensis Baill. Sci Sin. 1976 Mar-Apr; 19(2):276-90.

99. Liu GT. Pharmacological actions and clinical use of fructus schizandrae. Chin Med J (Engl). 1989 Oct; 102(10):740-9.

100. Li XY. Bioactivity of neolignans from fructus Schizandrae. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 1991; 86 Suppl 2:31-7. Review.

SOPHORA ROOT

101. Li J, Li C, Zeng M. Preliminary study on therapeutic effect of oxymatrine in treating patients with chronic hepatitis C Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1998 Apr; 18(4):227-9.

102. Lu LG, Zeng MD, Mao YM, Li JQ, Wan MB, Li CZ, Chen CW, Fu QC, Wang JY, She WM, Cai X, Ye J, Zhou XQ, Wang H, Wu SM, Tang MF, Zhu JS, Chen WX, Zhang HQ. Oxymatrine therapy for chronic hepatitis B: a randomized double-blind and placebo-controlled multi-center trial. World J Gastroenterol. 2003 Nov; 9(11):2480-3.

103. Chen Y, Li J, Zeng M, Lu L, Qu D, Mao Y, Fan Z, Hua J. The inhibitory effect of oxymatrine on hepatitis C virus in vitro Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi. 2001 Jul; 9 Suppl:12-4.

104. Tang ZM, Peng M, Zhan CJ. Screening 20 Chinese herbs often used for clearing heat and dissipating toxin with nude mice model of hepatitis C viral infection Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2003 Jun; 23(6):447-8.

105. Mao YM, Zeng MD, Lu LG, Wan MB, Li CZ, Chen CW, Fu QC, Wang JY, She WM, Cai X, Ye J, Zhou XQ, Wang H, Wu SM, Tang MF, Zhu JS, Chen WX, Zhang HQ. Capsule oxymatrine in treatment of hepatic fibrosis due to chronic viral hepatitis: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical study. World J Gastroenterol. 2004 Nov 15; 10(22):3269-73.

106. Wang BE. Treatment of chronic liver diseases with traditional Chinese medicine.

J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2000 May; 15 Suppl:E67-70.

107. Yu YY, Wang QH, Zhu LM, Zhang QB, Xu DZ, Guo YB, Wang CQ, Guo SH, Zhou XQ, Zhang LX. A clinical research on oxymatrine for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi. 2002 Aug; 10(4):280-1.

108. Lu LG, Zeng MD, Mao YM, Wan MB, Li CZ, Chen CW, Fu QC, Wang JY, She WM. Oxymatrine in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B for one year: a multicenter random double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi. 2004 Oct; 12(10):597-600.

109. Chen YX, Mao BY, Jiang JH. Relationship between serum load of HBV-DNA and therapeutic effect of oxymatrine in patients with chronic hepatitis B Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2002 May; 22(5):335-6.

110. Yang W, Zeng M, Fan Z, Mao Y, Song Y, Jia Y, Lu L, Chen CW, Peng YS, Zhu HY. Prophylactic and therapeutic effect of oxymatrine on D-galactosamine-induced rat liver fibrosis. Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi. 2002 Jun;10(3): 193-6.

111. Kajimoto S, Takanashi N, Kajimoto T, Xu M, Cao J, Masuda Y, Aiuchi T, Nakajo S, Ida Y, Nakaya K. Sophoranone, extracted from a traditional Chinese medicine Shan Dou Gen, induces apoptosis in human leukemia U937 cells via formation of reactive oxygen species and opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pores. Int J Cancer. 2002 Jun 20; 99(6):879-90.

SICHUAN OX KNEE ROOT

112. Lu T, Mao C, Zhang L, Xu W. The research on analgestic and anti-inflammatory action of different processed products of Achyranthes bidentata Zhong Yao Cai. 1997 Oct; 20(10):507-9.

113. Li ZK, Li DD. The immunomodulatory effect of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides Yao Xue Xue Bao. 1997 Dec; 32(12):881-7.

114. Yu S, Zhang Y. Effect of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABP) on antitumor activity and immune function of S180-bearing mice. Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi. 1995 Jul; 17(4):275-8.

115. Xiang DB, Li XY. Antitumor activity and immuno-potentiating actions of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao. 1993 Nov; 14(6):556-61.

116. Xiang DB, Li XY. Effects of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides on interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from mouse peritoneal macrophages. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao. 1993 Jul; 14(4):332-6.

117. Vetrichelvan T, Jegadeesan M. Effect of alcohol extract of Achyranthes aspera Linn. on acute and subacute inflammation. Phytother Res. 2003 Jan;17(1):77-9.

118. Xie F, Li X, Sun K, Chu Y, Cao H, Chen N, Wang W, Liu M, Liu W, Mao D. An experimental study on drugs for improving blood circulation and removing blood stasis in treating mild chronic hepatic damage. J Tradit Chin Med. 2001 Sep; 21(3):225-3

LICORICE

119. Van Rossum TG, Vulto AG, de Man RA, Brouwer JT, Schalm SW. Review article: glycyrrhizin as a potential treatment for chronic hepatitis C. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 1998 Mar; 12(3):199-205. Review.

120. Van Rossum TG, Vulto AG, Hop WC, Schalm SW. Glycyrrhizin-induced reduction of ALT in European patients with chronic hepatitis C. Am J Gastroenterol. 2001 Aug; 96(8):2432-7.

121. Van Rossum TG, Vulto AG, Hop WC, Brouwer JT, Niesters HG, Schalm SW. Intravenous glycyrrhizin for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase I/II trial. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 1999 Nov; 14(11):1093-9.

122. Van Rossum TG, Vulto AG, Hop WC, Schalm SW. Pharmacokinetics of intravenous glycyrrhizin after single and multiple doses in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Clin Ther. 1999 Dec; 21(12):2080-90.

123. Fujisawa Y, Sakamoto M, Matsushita M, Fujita T, Nishioka K. Glycyrrhizin inhibits the lytic pathway of complement--possible mechanism of its anti-inflammatory effect on liver cells in viral hepatitis. Microbiol Immunol. 2000; 44(9):799-804.

124. Tsubota A, Kumada H, Arase Y, Chayama K, Saitoh S, Ikeda K, Kobayashi M, Suzuki Y, Murashima N. Combined ursodeoxycholic acid and glycyrrhizin therapy for chronic hepatitis C virus infection: a randomized controlled trial in 170 patients. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 1999 Oct; 11(10):1077-83.

125. Abe M, Akbar F, Hasebe A, Horiike N, Onji M. Glycyrrhizin enhances interleukin-10 production by liver dendritic cells in mice with hepatitis. J Gastroenterol. 2003; 38(10):962-7.

126. Jeong HG, You HJ, Park SJ, Moon AR, Chung YC, Kang SK, Chun HK. Hepatoprotective effects of 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury: inhibition of cytochrome P450 2E1 expression. Pharmacol Res. 2002 Sep; 46(3):221-7.

127. Wang JY, Guo JS, Li H, Liu SL, Zern MA. Inhibitory effect of glycyrrhizin on NF-kappaB binding activity in CCl4- plus ethanol-induced liver cirrhosis in rats.

Liver. 1998 Jun; 18(3):180-5.

128. Da Nagao Y, Sata M, Suzuki H, Tanikawa K, Itoh K, Kameyama T. Effectiveness of glycyrrhizin for oral lichen planus in patients with chronic HCV infection. J Gastroenterol. 1996 Oct; 31(5):691-5.

129. Sato H, Goto W, Yamamura J, Kurokawa M, Kageyama S, Takahara T, Watanabe A, Shiraki K. Therapeutic basis of glycyrrhizin on chronic hepatitis B. Antiviral Res. 1996 May; 30(2-3):171-7.

130. Wang GS, Han ZW. The protective action of glycyrrhiza flavonoids against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in mice. Yao Xue Xue Bao. 1993; 28(8): 572-6.

131. Yamamura Y, Kotaki H, Tanaka N, Aikawa T, Sawada Y, Iga T. The pharmacokinetics of glycyrrhizin and its restorative effect on hepatic function in patients with chronic hepatitis and in chronically carbon-tetrachloride-intoxicated rats. Biopharm Drug Dispos. 1997 Nov; 18(8):717-25.

132. Shiki Y, Shirai K, Saito Y, Yoshida S, Mori Y, Wakashin M. Effect of glycyrrhizin on lysis of hepatocyte membranes induced by anti-liver cell membrane antibody. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 1992 Jan-Feb; 7(1):12-6.

133. Wang ZY, Nixon DW. Licorice and cancer. Nutr Cancer. 2001; 39(1):1-11. Review.

134. Shibata S. A drug over the millennia: pharmacognosy, chemistry, and pharmacology of licorice. Yakugaku Zasshi. 2000 Oct; 120(10):849-62. Review.

135. Takahara T, Watanabe A, Shiraki K. Effects of glycyrrhizin on hepatitis B surface antigen: a biochemical and morphological study. J Hepatol. 1994 Oct; 21(4):601-9.

136. Eisenburg J. Treatment of chronic hepatitis B. Part 2: Effect of glycyrrhizic acid on the course of illness. Fortschr Med. 1992 Jul 30; 110(21):395-8.

137. Miyake K, Tango T, Ota Y, Mitamura K, Yoshiba M, Kako M, Hayashi S, Ikeda Y, Hayashida N, Iwabuchi S, Sato Y, Tomi T, Funaki N, Hashimoto N, Umeda T, Miyazaki J, Tanaka K, Endo Y, Suzuki H. Efficacy of Stronger Neo-Minophagen C compared between two doses administered three times a week on patients with chronic viral hepatitis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2002 Nov; 17(11):1198-204.

138. Zhang L, Wang B. Randomized clinical trial with two doses (100 and 40 ml) of Stronger Neo-Minophagen C in Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis B. Hepatol Res. 2002 Nov; 24(3):220.

139. Archakov AI, Sel'tsovskii AP, Lisov VI, Tsyganov DI, Kniazhev VA, Ipatova OM, Torkhovskaia TI. Phosphogliv: mechanism of therapeutic action and clinical efficacy. Vopr Med Khim. 2002 Mar-Apr; 48(2):139-53. Review.

140. Chayama K. Management of chronic hepatitis C and prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol. 2002; 37 Suppl 13:69-73.

141. Watanabe M, Uchida Y, Sato S, Moritani M, Hamamoto S, Mishiro T, Akagi S, Kinoshita Y, Kohge N. Report of a case showing a recovery from liver cirrhosis to chronic hepatitis, type C, after glycyrrhizin injection for 2 years and a sustained response by the following interferon therapy. Am J Gastroenterol. 2001 Jun; 96(6):1947-9. No abstract available.

142. Arase Y, Ikeda K, Murashima N, Chayama K, Tsubota A, Koida I, Suzuki Y, Saitoh S, Kobayashi M, Kumada H. The long term efficacy of glycyrrhizin in chronic hepatitis C patients. Cancer. 1997 Apr 15; 79(8):1494-500.

143. Fujioka T, Kondou T, Fukuhara A, Tounou S, Mine M, Mataki N, Hanada K, Ozaka M, Mitani K, Nakaya T, Iwai T, Miyakawa H. Efficacy of a glycyrrhizin suppository for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C: a pilot study. Hepatol Res. 2003 May; 26(1):10-14.

INDIAN HERBS

1. TRIPHALA

Triphala is one of the oldest and most famous Ayurvedic (a system of medicine founded in India over 4,000 ago) herbal preparations, and is still very popular today. It is made from the dried fruits of amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki, three fruit trees that grow in India and the Middle East. These fruits possess potent healing properties. Amalaki (emblica officinalis), or Indian gooseberry, is a strong natural antioxidant containing 20 times more vitamin C than orange juice. It strengthens the immune system and cools the body.

Haritaki (terminalia chebula) and Bibhitaki (terminalia belerica) are excellent rejuvenating, warming, and balancing herbs. Combined together, Triphala gently cleanses and detoxifies the body and actually strengthens and nourishes the bones, nervous system, and reproductive organs.

Triphala also possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties, and is believed to strengthen the liver in liver disorders. It naturally regulates and detoxifies the bowels, and improves overall health by increasing the efficiency and absorption of digestion. There are no known interactions between triphala and standard Western prescription drugs. [144-148]

2. PHYLLANTHUS

Phyllanthus is an herb found in central and southern India. It can grow from 30–60 centimeters in height and blooms with many yellow flowers. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years for a wide number of traditional uses including: jaundice, gonorrhea, frequent menstruation, and diabetes, and also topical for use as a poultice for skin ulcers, sores, swelling, and itchiness. All parts of the plant are used medicinally. Phyllanthus primarily contains 2 lignans (phyllanthine and hypophyllanthine), as well as several alkaloids, and flavonoids.

Phyllanthus has been used in hepatitis B with mixed results. Said to block DNA polymerase, the enzyme needed for the hepatitis B virus to reproduce, in one study, 59% of those infected with chronic viral hepatitis B lost one of the major blood markers of HBV infection (e.g., hepatitis B surface antigen) after using 900 mg of phyllanthus per day for 30 days. In the trials, the species P. urinaria and P. niruri seemed to work better than P. amarus.

There have been no side effects reported using phyllanthus in the recommended amounts of 900–2,700 mg per day for three months [149-154]

3. PICRORHIZA

Picrorhiza is a creeping plant native to the mountains of India, Nepal, Tibet and Pakistan. The major constituents in picrorhiza are the glycosides picroside I, kutkoside, androsin, and apocynin. They have been shown in animal studies to be antiallergic, to inhibit platelet-activating factor (an important pro-inflammatory molecule), and to decrease joint inflammation. According to test tube and animal studies, picrorhiza has antioxidant actions, particularly in the liver.

Picrorhiza increases bile production in the liver, and it has been shown to protect animals from damage by several potent liver toxins, offering protection as good as or better than silymarin (the flavonoids found in milk thistle). One small, double-blind study found picrorhiza root (375 mg, 3 times daily) more effective than placebo for reducing signs of liver damage in people with acute viral hepatitis . However, this study was highly preliminary and suffered from numerous flaws.

Based on its long history of traditional use, picrorhiza appears to be relatively safe. Between 400 and 1,500 mg of powdered, encapsulated picrorhiza per day has been recommended. This is equivalent to the use of 1–2 ml of fluid extract twice per day. Picrorhiza tastes quite bitter, but combining with ginger root powder capsules or taking as tea can improve palatability. [155-158]

INDIAN HERBS

TRIPHALA

144. Birardar, Y., Jagatap, S., Khandelwal, K. & Singhania, S. Exploring of Antimicrobial Activity of Triphala Mashi-an Ayurvedic Formulation. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2008 5:107-133.

145. Rasool, M. & Sabina, E. Antiinflammatory effect of the Indian Ayurvedic herbal formulation Triphala on adjuvant-induced arthritis in mice. Phytotherapy Research 2007 21:889-894

146. Naik GH, Priyadarsini KI, Bhagirathi RG, Mishra B, Mishra KP, Banavalikar MM, Mohan H. In vitro antioxidant studies and free radical reactions of triphala, an ayurvedic formulation and its constituents. Phytother Res. 2005 Jul;19(7):582-

147. Arora S, Kaur K, Kaur S. Indian medicinal plants as a reservoir of protective phytochemicals., Teratog Carcinog Mutagen. 2003;Suppl 1:295-300.

148. T. Vani; M. Rajani; S. Sarkar; C. J. Shishoo, Antioxidant Properties of the Ayurvedic Formulation Triphala and its Constituents; Pharmaceutical Biology, 1744-5116, Volume 35, Issue 5, 1997, Pages 313 – 317

PHYLLANTHUS

149. Wang M, Cheng H, Li Y, Meng L, Zhao G, Mai K. Herbs of the genus Phyllanthus in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B: observations with three preparations from different geographic sites. J Lab Clin Med. 1995 Oct;126(4):350-2.

150. Blumberg BS, Millman I, Venkateswaran PS, Thyagarajan SP. Hepatitis B virus and primary hepatocellular carcinoma: treatment of HBV carriers with Phyllanthus amarus. Vaccine. 1990 Mar;8 Suppl:S86-92.

151. Liu J, Lin H, McIntosh H. Genus Phyllanthus for chronic hepatitis B virus infection: a systematic review. J Viral Hepat. 2001 Sep;8(5):358-66. The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group

152. Chan HL, Sung JJ, Fong WF, et al. Double-blinded placebo-controlled study of Phyllanthus urinaris for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2003;18:339-45.

153. Thyagarajan, S P : Subramanian, S : Thirunalasundari, T : Venkateswaran, P S : Blumberg, B S Effect of Phyllanthus amarus on chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus. Lancet. 1988 Oct 1; 2(8614): 764-6

154. Leelarasamee, A., S. Trakulsomboom, P. Maunwongyathi, A. Somanabandhu, P. Pidetcha, B. Matrakool, T. Lebnak, W. Ridthimat and D. Chandanayingyong Failure of Phyllanthus amarus to eradicate hepatitis {B} surface antigen from symptomless carriers Lancet 335 (8705), 1990, 1600--1601

PICRORHIZA

155. Vaidya AB, Antarkar DS, Doshi JC, et al. Picrorhiza kurroa (Kutaki) Royle ex Benth as a hepatoprotective agent—experimental and clinical studies. J Postgrad Med. 1996;42:

105-108.

156. Picrorhiza kurroa. Monograph. Altern Med Rev. 2001;6:319-321

157. Anandan R, Devaki T. Hepatoprotective effect of Picrorrhiza kurroa on tissue defense system in D-galactosamine-induced hepatitis in rats. Fitoterapia 1999;70:54–7

158. Lee HS, Keum KY, Ku SK. Effects of Picrorrhiza rhizoma water extracts on the subacute liver damages induced by carbon tetrachloride. J Med Food. 2007 Mar;10(1):

110-7.

DANDELION ROOT

159. Jeon HJ, Kang HJ, Jung HJ, Kang YS, Lim CJ, Kim YM, Park EH. Anti-inflammatory activity of Taraxacum officinale. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008 Jan 4;115(1):82-8.

160. Schütz K, Carle R, Schieber A, Taraxacum--a review on its phytochemical and pharmacological profile. J Ethnopharmacol. 2006 Oct 11;107(3):313-23.

161. Sweeney B, Vora M, Ulbricht C, Basch E. Evidence-based systematic review of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) by natural standard research collaboration. J Herb Pharmacother. 2005;5(1):79-93.

162. Hu C, Kitts DD, Antioxidant, prooxidant, and cytotoxic activities of solvent-fractionated dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) flower extracts in vitro. J Agric Food Chem. 2003 Jan 1;51(1):301-10

MILK THISTLE

163. Pradhan SC, Girish C. Hepatoprotective herbal drug, silymarin from experimental pharmacology to clinical medicine. Indian J Med Res. 2006 Nov;124(5):491-504

164. Ferenci P, Dragosics B, Dittrich H, Frank H, Benda L, Lochs H, Meryn S, Base W, Schneider B. Randomized controlled trial of silymarin treatment in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. J Hepatol. 1989 Jul;9(1):105-13.

165. Lucena MI, Andrade RJ, de la Cruz JP, Rodriguez-Mendizabal M, Blanco E, Sánchez de la Cuesta F. Effects of silymarin MZ-80 on oxidative stress in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. Results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2002 Jan;40(1):2-8.

166. Buzzelli G, Moscarella S, Giusti A, Duchini A, Marena C, Lampertico M. A pilot study on the liver protective effect of silybin-phosphatidylcholine complex (IdB1016) in chronic active hepatitis. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol. 1993 Sep;31(9):456-60.

167. Carini R, Comoglio A, Albano E, Poli G. Lipid peroxidation and irreversible damage in the rat hepatocyte model. Protection by the silybin-phospholipid complex IdB 1016. Biochem Pharmacol. 1992 May 28;43(10):2111-5

168. Comoglio A, Leonarduzzi G, Carini R, Busolin D, Basaga H, Albano E, Tomasi A, Poli G, Morazzoni P, Magistretti MJ. Studies on the antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties of IdB 1016 a new flavanolignan complex. Free Radic Res Commun. 1990;11(1-3):109-15.

169. Torres M, Rodríguez-Serrano F, Rosario DJ, Rodríguez-Perez F, Toro DH. Does Silybum marianum play a role in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C? P R Health Sci J. 2004 Jun;23(2 Suppl):69-74.

170. Rambaldi A, Jacobs BP, Iaquinto G, Gluud C. Milk thistle for alcoholic and/or hepatitis B or C liver diseases--a systematic cochrane hepato-biliary group review with meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials. Am J Gastroenterol. 2005 Nov;100(11):2583-91

ARTICHOKE

171. Huber R, Müller M, Naumann J, Schenk T, Lüdtke R. Artichoke leave extract for chronic hepatitis C - A pilot study. Phytomedicine. 2009 May 7.

172. Mehmetçik G, Ozdemirler G, Koçak-Toker N, Cevikbaş U, Uysal M. Effect of pretreatment with artichoke extract on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury and oxidative stress. . Exp Toxicol Pathol. 2008 Sep;60(6):475-80.

173. Joy JF, Haber SL. Clinical uses of artichoke leaf extract. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2007 Sep 15;64(18):1904, 1906-9. No abstract available

174. Llorach R, Espín JC, Tomás-Barberán FA, Ferreres F. Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) byproducts as a potential source of health-promoting antioxidant phenolics. J Agric Food Chem. 2002 Jun 5;50(12):3458-64

GREEN TEA

175. Borrelli F, Capasso R, Russo A, Ernst E. Systematic review: green tea and gastrointestinal cancer risk. Aliment Pharmacol Ther Mar 1, 2004;19(5):497-510.

176. Bettuzzi S, Brausi M, Rizzi F, Castagnetti G, Peracchia G, Corti A. Chemoprevention of human prostate cancer by oral administration of green tea catechins in volunteers with high-grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasia: a preliminary report from a one-year proof-of-principle study. Cancer Res. 2006;66(2):1234-40.

177. McKenna DJ, Hughes K, Jones K. Green tea monograph. Alt Ther. 2000;6(3):61-84.

178. Nagao T, Hase T, Tokimitsu I. A green tea extract high in catechins reduces body fat and cardiovascular risks in humans. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2007;15(6):1473-83.

179. Ryu OH, Lee J, Lee KW, et al. Effects of green tea consumption on inflammation, insulin resistance and pulse wave velocity in type 2 diabetes patients. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2006;71(3):356-8.

180. Weisburger JH. Tea and health: a historic perspective. Cancer Letters. 1997;114:

315-317.

181. Imai K, Nakachi K. Cross sectional study of effects of drinking green tea on cardiovascular and liver diseases. BMJ. 1995 Mar 18;310(6981):693-6

182. JE Klaunig, Chemopreventive effects of green tea components on hepatic carcinogenesis. Preventive medicine, 1992

183. Klaunig JE. Chemopreventive effects of green tea components on hepatic carcinogenesis. Prev Med. 1992 Jul;21(4):510-9

184. Liu J, Xing J, Fei Y. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) and cancer prevention: a systematic review of randomized trials and epidemiological studies. Chin Med. 2008 Oct 22;3:12

185. Fujiki H, Suganuma M, Imai K, Nakachi K. Green tea: cancer preventive beverage and/or drug. Cancer Lett. 2002 Dec 15;188(1-2):9-13.

OLIVE LEAF EXTRACT

186. Sudjana AN, D'Orazio C, Ryan V, Rasool N, Ng J, Islam N, Riley TV, Hammer KA. Antimicrobial activity of commercial Olea europaea (olive) leaf extract. Int J Antimicrob Agents. 2009 May;33(5):461-3. Epub 2009 Jan 9

187. Pereira AP, Ferreira IC, Marcelino F, Valentão P, Andrade PB, Seabra R, Estevinho L, Bento A, Pereira JA Phenolic compounds and antimicrobial activity of olive (Olea europaea L. Cv. Cobrançosa) leaves. Molecules. 2007 May 26;12(5):1153-62

188. Markin D, Duek L, Berdicevsky I. In vitro antimicrobial activity of olive leaves. Mycoses. 2003 Apr;46(3-4):132-6.

189. Farag RS, El-Baroty GS, Basuny AM. Safety evaluation of olive phenolic compounds as natural antioxidants. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2003 May;54(3):159-74.

WESTERN HERBS

1. DANDELION ROOT

While many people think of the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) as a pesky weed, herbalists consider it a valuable herb with many culinary and medicinal uses. Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems..

Containing large amounts of numerous vitamins, including A, C, D, and B-complexes, as well as minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon, herbal healers use Dandelion to strengthen the liver and treat liver disorders. The herb is thought to promote the flow of bile and ease such conditions as hepatitis, inflammation of the liver, jaundice (caused by excess bile in the blood) and liver enlargement. By promoting the flow of bile from the liver, Dandelion is said to be helpful when used in the first stages of cirrhosis of the liver.

European herbalists regard Dandelion as one of the best herbs for building the blood and relieving anemic conditions. In India, dandelion root is considered an excellent diuretic, largely because of it high potassium content. While pharmaceutical diuretics tend to deplete the system of potassium, the mineral’s abundance in dandelion root ensures that the body will not suffer the side effect of potassium loss from the use of dandelion as a diuretic. Dandelion root can also help neutralize acids in the blood, and it is widely used as a mild laxative as well.

Dandelion root is available as a freeze-dried herb, in capsules, in liquid extracts and tinctures, and as a tea. Because of its bitter taste, dandelion is often combined with other herbs, such as licorice, sassafras or ginger to make a tea that has a flavor similar to root beer.

Dandelion leaf and root should not be used by people with gallstones without the supervision of a healthcare practitioner. In cases of stomach ulcer or gastritis, dandelion should be used cautiously, as it may cause overproduction of stomach acid. [159-162]

2. MILK THISTLE

Milk thistle (scientific name Silybum marianum) is a plant from the aster family and has been used medicinally for over 2000 years, most commonly for the treatment of liver and gallbladder disorders. The active constituents of the plant are obtained from the dried seeds and consist of a flavonoid complex collectively known as silymarin. The terms "milk thistle" and "silymarin" are often used interchangeably.

Studies in laboratory animals suggest that silymarin possesses various protective benefits to the liver. Silymarin can be useful in the management of early alcoholic liver damage, acetaminophen toxicity, and Amanita mushroom poisoning. Silymarin also acts as an antioxidant and exerts some effects through its anti-inflammatory and liver regenerating mechanisms. Although Silymarin does not have any antiviral activity against the hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, or hepatitis C virus, it promotes protein synthesis by controlling inflammation and protecting against glutathione depletion.

Milk thistle appears to be well tolerated in recommended doses for up to 6 years. Some patients in studies have experienced stomach upset, headache, and itching. [163-170]

3. ARTICHOKE

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is a member of the thistle tribe in the Asteraceae or Sunflower family and is native to southern Europe. It is a perennial plant growing to about four feet tall with large, deeply divided leaves that can themselves be three feet or longer. The fresh and dried leaves are used in herbal medicine, while the flower heads are used in cooking.

Artichoke possesses diuretic properties, increases blood circulation, helps to regenerate liver tissue and stimulates the gall bladder. Artichoke has demonstrated anti-oxidant activity in human leukocytes (white blood cells), and is beneficial in reducing blood lipids, serum cholesterol, and blood sugar.

The leaves contains numerous phenolic acids such as caffeic acid, monocaffeoylquinic acid derivatives (chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acid), dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives (cynarin) as well as bitter sesquiterpene lactone, cynaropicrin, flavonoids (rutin and luteolin) and sesquiterpenes (caryophyllene and b-selinene).

Artichoke has a long history of use as a food and is a very safe herb. However, artichoke use should be avoided in cases of complete blockage of the gallbladder or bile duct. Artichoke may also cause an allergic reaction in individuals allergic to Artichokes or other members of the Asteraceae or sunflower family. [171-174]

4. GREEN TEA

The Chinese have known about the medicinal benefits of green tea since ancient times, using it to treat everything from headaches to depression. Today, scientific research in both Asia and the west is providing hard evidence for the health benefits long associated with drinking green tea.

Green tea has been extensively studied in people, animals, and laboratory experiments. Results from these studies suggest that green tea may be useful for the following health conditions: cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease, infection, impaired immune function, and liver disease.

The secret of green tea lies in its ingredients. Green tea is rich in catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: besides inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. It has also been shown to be effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and inhibiting the abnormal formation of blood clots.

What sets green tea apart from the other teas is in the way it is processed. Rather than being boiled, green tea leaves are steamed. This prevents the EGCG compound from being oxidized. By contrast, black and oolong tea leaves are made from fermented leaves in which the EGCG polyphenols are converted into other compounds that are not nearly as effective in preventing and fighting various diseases.

Population-based clinical studies have shown that men who drink more than 10 cups of green tea per day are less likely to develop disorders of the liver. Green tea also seems to protect the liver from the damaging effects of toxic substances such as alcohol. Animal studies have shown that green tea helps protect against the development of liver tumors in mice.

People with heart problems, kidney disorders, stomach ulcers, and psychological disorders (particularly anxiety) should not take green tea. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should also avoid green tea.

Green tea can interfere with certain medications such as: benzodiazepines (commonly used to treat anxiety, such as diazepam and lorazepam), and the drugs lithium and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), used to treat depression. Also, since green tea contains vitamin K, people who take warfarin and other blood thinning medications should not drink green tea. [175-185]

5. OLIVE LEAF EXTRACT

The olive tree is an evergreen that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a hardy tree that manufactures its own potent antibiotic substances to fend off disease causing bacteria, fungi, parasites and insects. Laboratory and animal testing has shown that olive leaf possesses antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. It contains a bitter glucoside called oleuropein, and a monoterpene called elenolic acid, determined to be active against infectious microbes. Elenolic acid was eventually demonstrated to have remarkable inhibition properties towards viruses and bacteria without damaging the host cells in vitro.

According to Dr. James Privitera, M.D., an internationally acclaimed researcher, olive leaf has the ability to contain viral infection by inactivating the virus, or by preventing its shedding at the cell membrane. It can also directly penetrate infected cells and stop viral replication, and it can even stimulate the immune system response to foreign matter (i.e. bacteria and viruses).

Olive leaf extract has been shown to be effective against herpes, flu and colds, bacterial infections, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies, vaginal yeast infections, skin conditions, malaria, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. [186-189]

OTHER IMPORTANT INGREDIENTS

1. THYMUS EXTRACTS

The thymus gland is is a very powerful gland. Located in the upper chest just below the thyroid gland, the health of the thymus determines the health of the immune system. The thymus releases several hormones, such as thymosin, thymopoeitin, and serum thymic factor, that regulate many immune functions.

The thymus plays a key role in the production of T lymphocytes. These lymphocytes learn to recognize and attack pathogens and other foreign substances. The thymus also produces powerful messenger substances, the thymus peptides, through which it regulates our immune defenses. Strong immune defenses mean fewer illnesses and faster recovery.

However, as we age, the thymus gland cells begin to die off, with much of the thymus gland tissue being gradually replaced by fat and connective tissue. Thymus extracts are extracts derived from the thymus glands usually of young calves (bovine). Glandular extracts are rich in signaling factors that regulate functions of the corresponding gland, which leads to optimal physiological responses.

Thymus extracts (thymic peptides) are chemically identical to their natural counterparts, and they can play a major role in regulation of important immune system processes. Experimental data confirms that, even in severe immune defects, thymus peptides can improve immune status and help fight the disease.

Liver diseases, including chronic hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis, have been successfully treated by thymus extract. Results of clinical tests using patients with chronic hepatitis show evidence of an increase in T lymphocytes, and the ability of the immune system to fight the disease. These results are important because cellular immunity is the chief defense against viruses, fungi, or mycobacteria that can invade the liver and other organs.

Thymus extracts are usually given orally. Some liquid extracts use a process that allows for the extraction of the desired thymic proteins with small molecular weights less than 10,000 Daltons. These liquid extracts are administered sublingually which preserves the proteins. This route also allows for better absorption and avoids the destruction by the gastrointestinal tract.

Thymus extracts have been used in a broad range of conditions including: cancer, hepatitis b and hepatitis c, pulmonary and respiratory infections, fungal infection, rheumatoid arthritis, and immunodeficiency diseases such as AIDS. [190-196]

2. PHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE

Phosphatidylcholine, or “PC” for short, is a natural substance that makes up over 65% of all the cell membranes of the liver, heart and the brain. It is a highly purified phospholipid derived mainly from soybeans. Composed of 2 essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, glycerol and choline, it is found in many of the foods we eat every day. Approved by the FDA as a food additive, “PC” is internationally accepted as a safe substance in all countries around the world. Phosphatidylcholine is critical and essential for optimal liver function to continue.

Extensive research with “PC” has revealed that it protects the liver against damage from infection due to viral, bacterial and fungal causes, as well as from alcohol, pharmaceuticals and environmental pollutants. Subjects who are started on “PC” after their liver is already severely damaged, are even more likely to benefit from higher oral intakes of “PC.

From the many controlled clinical studies conducted on thousands of human subjects, we now know that phosphatidylcholine: maintains liver function, improves liver metabolism, reduces cell death, fibrosis and fatty infiltration of the liver tissue, slows down membrane damage, improves liver function tests including ALT and AST, and accelerates restoration of overall well being.

Taken orally, “PC” is very well absorbed; up to 90 percent of the administered amount is absorbed in 24 hours when taken with meals. It combines well with many substances, and nutrients are more likely to be better absorbed when taken in combination with phosphatidylcholine. [197-204]

OTHER IMPORTANT INGREDIENTS

THYMUS EXTRACTS

190. Galli M, Crocchiolo P, Negri C, et al. Attempt to treat acute type B hepatitis with an orally administered thymic extract (Thymomodulin): preliminary results. Drugs Expt Clin Res 1985;11:665–9

191. Raymond 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. Ann Intern Med.1998;129:797-800

192. Dworniak D, Tchórzewski H, Pokoca L, Tkacz B, Drobnik S, Baj Z, Luciak M. Treatment with thymic extract TFX for chronic active hepatitis B. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz). 1991;39(5-6):537-47.

193. Naylor PH, Mutchnick MG. Thymus-derived peptides in the treatment of viral chronic hepatitis. Dig Dis. 1996 Nov-Dec;14(6):362-70.

194. Naylor PH. Zadaxin (thymosin alpha1) for the treatment of viral hepatitis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs. 1999 Mar;8(3):281-7 .

195.VK Rustgi, Thymalfasin for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection. Anti Infect. Ther., 2005

196. Rustgi V. Combination therapy of thymalfasin (thymosin-alpha 1) and peginterferon alfa-2a in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection who are non-responders to standard treatment. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2004 Dec;19(12):S76-8.

PHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE

197. Lieber CS, Robins SJ, Li J, DeCarli LM, Mak KM, Fasulo JM, Leo MA. Phosphatidylcholine protects against fibrosis and cirrhosis in the baboon. Gastroenterology. 1994 Jan;106(1):152-9.

198. Wallnofer H, Hanusch M. Essential phospholipids for therapy in liver diseases. Med Monatsschr. 1973 Mar;27(3):131-6.

199. Sorrentino F, Diene G, Corvaja E, Magnano V. Use of polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine (EPL) in combination with vitamin B complex in therapy of liver diseases. Clin Ter. 1982 Jul 31;102(2):163-83.

200. Kosina F, Budka K, Kolouch Z, Lazarova D, Truksova D.Essential cholinephospholipids in the treatment of virus hepatitis. Cas Lek Cesk. 1981 Aug 13;120(31-32):957-60.

201. Hantak I, Boca M, Mikulecky M, Stancek D. Essential phospholipids in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection]. Vnitr Lek. 1990 Dec;36(12):1164-71.

202. Podobed OV, Fedorova LM, Iakusheva IV, Abakumova OIu, Tsvetkova TA, Kovaleva GG, Gavril'chak AV, Shekhter AB. The effect of phosphatidylcholine on repair processes in liver cells in acute CCl4 damage. Vopr Med Khim. 1995 Jan-Feb;41(1):13-6

203. Niederau C, Strohmeyer G, Heintges T, Peter K, Gopfert E. Polyunsaturated phosphatidyl-choline and interferon alpha for treatment of chronic hepatitis B and C: a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Leich Study Group. Hepatogastroenterology. 1998 May-Jun;45(21):797-804.

204. Singh NK, Prasad RC. A pilot study of polyunsaturated phosphatidyl choline in fulminant and subacute hepatic failure. J Assoc Physicians India. 1998 Jun;46(6):530-2.

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