By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Viral Hepatitis
Herbal tinctures for viral hepatitis are liquid extracts made from plants, roots, or flowers that have been traditionally used to support liver health and reduce symptoms associated with viral hepatitis.
These tinctures help by boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and promoting detoxification. Examples of herbal tinctures that benefit viral hepatitis include Milk Thistle, which protects the liver from damage, and Dandelion Root, which helps to stimulate liver function and eliminate toxins.
By using these tinctures, individuals with viral hepatitis can experience improved liver function, reduced fatigue, and enhanced overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for viral hepatitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Silybum marianum
- 2. Taraxacum officinale
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Panax ginseng
- 5. Curcuma longa
- 6. Zingiber officinale
- 7. Althaea officinalis
- 8. Boswellia serrata
- 9. Cinnamomum verum
- 10. Matricaria chamomilla
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for viral hepatitis?
- What ailments similar to viral hepatitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Silybum marianum
Milk thistle tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because of its ability to protect and regenerate liver cells damaged by the virus.
The silymarin complex in milk thistle has been shown to possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce liver inflammation and scarring caused by viral infection.
By supporting liver function and promoting cellular renewal, milk thistle tinctures may help to alleviate symptoms of viral hepatitis, such as fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain, allowing the body to more effectively fight off the infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Silybum marianum tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Silymarin: A polyphenolic flavonoid complex that helps protect liver cells from oxidative damage, inflammation, and viral replication, thereby supporting liver health and function.
- Isosilybin: A key component of silymarin that has been shown to inhibit viral replication, reduce liver inflammation, and promote liver regeneration, making it an effective agent against viral hepatitis.
- Silychristin: A flavonoid glycoside in silymarin that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce liver damage, scarring, and fibrosis associated with viral hepatitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milk thistle used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Seeds: They are used for their high content of silymarin, a flavonoid complex that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which have been shown to have hepatoprotective effects against viral hepatitis.
- Flowers: They contain silymarin and other flavonoids, which have been traditionally used to support liver health and treat viral hepatitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milk thistle for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of silybum marianum seeds in the fall when the seed pods are dry and brittle.
- Dry the harvested seeds in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Grind 1-2 ounces of dried silybum marianum seeds into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice grinder.
- Mix 1 part of the ground silybum marianum seeds with 2 parts of 80-100 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
2. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because it has been traditionally used to stimulate liver function, improve digestion, and enhance bile production.
The tannins in dandelion root have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and damage caused by the virus. Additionally, dandelion's high levels of antioxidants can help combat oxidative stress and scavenge free radicals, which may contribute to liver cell death.
By supporting liver health and function, dandelion tinctures may aid in the recovery from viral hepatitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help alleviate liver inflammation and promote healing in viral hepatitis patients.
- Taraxasterol acetate: Similar to taraxasterol, taraxasterol acetate has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce liver damage and inflammation associated with viral hepatitis.
- Taraxanthone: This flavonoid has potent antioxidant properties, which can help neutralize free radicals that damage liver cells in viral hepatitis patients, thereby promoting liver health and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Leaves: Rich in saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate viral hepatitis symptoms.
- Roots: Contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health and promotes immune system function, which is crucial in fighting viral infections.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties, helping to reduce liver inflammation and support recovery.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest 100 grams of taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the early morning or late evening when the plant is at its peak potency.
- Clean the harvested plant material by gently rinsing it with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the cleaned plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area for better extraction.
- Steep 100 grams of chopped plant material in 500 milliliters of 35% ethanol at room temperature for 14 days.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the herbal tincture.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce liver inflammation and damage caused by the virus.
The tincture's flavonoids also have antiviral properties, inhibiting the replication of the virus and helping to prevent further liver damage.
Additionally, licorice root has been shown to stimulate the immune system, promoting the body's natural defense against the infection and aiding in the recovery process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has potent antiviral properties that help inhibit the replication of viral hepatitis viruses, thereby reducing liver inflammation and promoting recovery.
- Licoricidin: Licoricidin, a triterpenoid saponin, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help mitigate liver damage caused by viral hepatitis, while also modulating the immune response to aid in recovery.
- Licorice flavonoids: Licorice flavonoids, particularly glabridin and isoliquiritigenin, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce liver inflammation, scavenge free radicals, and promote liver cell regeneration in cases of viral hepatitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of viral hepatitis.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and glycosides that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with viral hepatitis.
- Roots: Also rich in triterpenoids, which have been shown to exhibit antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, potentially helping to combat viral hepatitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for viral hepatitis.
- Gather 250g of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and store them in a cool dry place.
- Combine the roots with 500ml of 80% ethanol and allow the mixture to steep for 2 weeks.
- Shake the mixture vigorously 2 times a day for 14 days to ensure proper extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a glass container and discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 months to mature.
4. Panax ginseng
Ginseng tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because it has been traditionally used to stimulate the immune system, which plays a crucial role in fighting off viral infections.
The antioxidant properties of ginseng help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by the virus, while its anti-inflammatory compounds may help to alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Additionally, ginseng has been shown to increase the production of interferon, a protein that helps to combat viral replication, making it a potential adjunct therapy for patients with chronic hepatitis B and C infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Ginsenosides: These triterpenoid saponins have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce liver damage and inflammation caused by viral hepatitis.
- Ginsenoside rg1: This specific ginsenoside has been shown to have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help inhibit the replication of viral hepatitis and reduce liver fibrosis.
- Ginsenoside rb1: This ginsenoside has been found to have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the liver from oxidative stress and damage caused by viral hepatitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Roots: They are the primary source of ginsenosides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that can help combat viral hepatitis.
- Leaves: They contain smaller amounts of ginsenosides and other compounds that may contribute to the overall therapeutic effect of the tincture.
- Stems: Some traditional formulations may include stems, as they are thought to have a synergistic effect when combined with the roots and leaves, enhancing the overall efficacy of the tincture.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh or dried panax ginseng roots from a reputable source.
- Clean and dry the ginseng roots by gently brushing off dirt and drying for 2 weeks.
- Chop the dried ginseng roots into small pieces and combine them with 80-proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass jar for 2-4 weeks, shaking the jar daily for 5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
5. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce liver inflammation and scarring.
The curcuminoids in turmeric have been shown to inhibit the replication of the hepatitis B virus, reducing the severity of symptoms and improving overall liver function.
Additionally, turmeric's antimicrobial properties may help combat opportunistic infections that often occur with viral hepatitis, promoting a more rapid recovery and reduced risk of complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce liver inflammation and oxidative stress associated with viral hepatitis.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has shown to have strong anti-viral activity against hepatitis B and C viruses, inhibiting their replication and spread in liver cells.
- Curcuminoid-derived cpd 29: Cpd 29 has been found to have potent anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in the liver, helping to reduce liver scarring and fibrosis associated with viral hepatitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part, as they contain high amounts of curcumin, a bioactive compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
- Roots: Also rich in curcumin, roots are used as a substitute for rhyzomes or in combination with them to enhance the therapeutic effects.
- Seeds: Although less commonly used, seeds of Curcuma longa are also employed to make tinctures due to their potential in treating viral hepatitis, possibly due to the presence of other bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh turmeric roots in the morning to ensure optimal oil content.
- Chop 1-2 pounds of the harvested roots into small pieces to release their active compounds.
- Combine 1-2 pounds of the chopped turmeric roots with 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar in a ratio of 1:5.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and use the resulting tincture as needed.
6. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tincture's active compounds, gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to suppress the replication of viral particles and reduce liver inflammation, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Additionally, ginger's antimicrobial properties help combat opportunistic infections that can exacerbate hepatitis, promoting a healthy liver environment and supporting its natural healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Gingerol: Gingerol has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce liver inflammation and oxidative stress associated with viral hepatitis.
- Shogaol: Shogaol has potent antiviral activity, which may help inhibit the replication of hepatitis viruses, thus reducing liver damage and promoting recovery.
- 6-gingerol: 6-Gingerol has antioxidant properties, which may help protect liver cells from oxidative damage and reduce liver fibrosis, a common complication of viral hepatitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Buds: The Buds are also used, as they are believed to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that may help combat viral hepatitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest the fresh roots of zingiber officinale in late summer when they are mature and firm.
- Chop the roots into small pieces weighing a total of about 250 grams for a standard batch.
- Combine the chopped roots with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container discarding the solids.
7. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because its mucilages soothe and protect the liver, reducing inflammation and irritation.
The herb's anti-inflammatory properties also help to calm the immune system's overactive response, which can contribute to liver damage. Additionally, marshmallow's antioxidant compounds neutralize free radicals that can cause oxidative stress in the liver cells, promoting healing and regeneration.
This natural approach can complement conventional treatments and support overall liver health during the recovery process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Saponins: Saponins help with viral hepatitis by inhibiting the replication of the hepatitis virus and reducing liver inflammation.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as gallic acid and ellagic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce liver damage and improve overall liver health.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly pectic polysaccharides, have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which can help stimulate the immune system to fight off viral infections and promote liver recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Roots: Rich in mucilages, which provide soothing and protective properties for the liver.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver.
- Barks: Contain glycosides and other compounds that may aid in reducing liver inflammation and promoting overall liver health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest 100g of fresh roots of the plant, usually available in late summer to early fall.
- Wash the roots thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris present.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
- Steep the chopped roots in 500ml of high-proof neutral spirit at a ratio of 1:5.
- Strain and filter the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter, discarding the solids.
8. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
The boswellic acids present in frankincense have been shown to inhibit the replication of viruses, including those that cause hepatitis. Additionally, frankincense's ability to reduce liver inflammation and damage can help alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and nausea associated with viral hepatitis.
By modulating the immune response, frankincense tinctures may also aid in the body's natural defense against viral infections, promoting a more effective recovery from hepatitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Aleuric acid: A triterpenoid saponin with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce liver inflammation and oxidative stress associated with viral hepatitis.
- Beta-boswellic acid: A boswellic acid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help protect liver cells from damage and support the body's natural response to viral infections.
- 3-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid: A potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant boswellic acid, which may help reduce liver inflammation, improve liver function, and support the body's natural immune response.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of boswellic acids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
- Seeds: The seeds contain boswellic acids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and combat viral infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest 100g of dry boswellia serrata resin from sustainably sourced trees in the summer months.
- Grind the resin into a fine powder using a coffee grinder to increase surface area.
- Mix 50g of the powdered resin with 250ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
9. Cinnamomum verum
Ceylon cinnamon tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the replication of viral pathogens, including those that cause hepatitis. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's anti-inflammatory effects help reduce liver inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common hallmarks of hepatitis.
By targeting both the viral infection and underlying inflammation, herbal Ceylon cinnamon tinctures may provide a natural and effective adjunct to conventional treatment for patients with viral hepatitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic compound has been shown to exhibit potent antiviral properties, inhibiting the replication of viral particles and reducing liver inflammation associated with viral hepatitis.
- Cinnamic acid: As a phenolic compound, cinnamic acid has been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver caused by viral hepatitis.
- Eugenol: This phenolic compound has been reported to exhibit antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce liver damage and inflammation associated with viral hepatitis, as well as modulate the immune response to combat the virus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Barks: Rich in cinnamaldehyde, which has been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Contain various compounds like linalool and limonene, which have been reported to exhibit antiviral and antioxidant activities.
- Rhyzomes: Rich in cinnamaldehyde and other compounds, which have been traditionally used to treat various liver-related issues, including viral hepatitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest 250g of cinnamomum verum bark from mature trees during the spring or summer months.
- Dry the harvested bark in a warm oven at 50c for 2 hours to remove moisture.
- Grind 100g of the dried cinnamomum verum bark into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Combine 100g of the ground cinnamomum verum bark with 750ml of high-proof vodka in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking daily to combine.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with viral hepatitis because it exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate symptoms of liver inflammation, such as fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.
The apigenin and luteolin flavonoids present in chamomile interact with the liver's natural defense mechanisms to reduce oxidative stress and promote detoxification processes, thereby improving the body's ability to combat viral infections.
Additionally, chamomile's soothing effects help regulate bowel function, reducing the risk of secondary complications associated with hepatitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with viral hepatitis.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce liver inflammation caused by viral hepatitis.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid, luteolin exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help mitigate liver damage caused by viral hepatitis.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce liver inflammation and oxidative stress associated with viral hepatitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for viral hepatitis.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids, particularly apigenin and luteolin, which have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They possess sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, contributing to their potential antiviral and antioxidant effects.
- Seeds: Although not as commonly used, the seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain apigenin and other flavonoids, which may help in inhibiting viral replication.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for viral hepatitis.
- Harvest the flowers of matricaria chamomilla when in full bloom on a dry sunny morning with scissors.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer on paper bags for 2 weeks in a well-ventilated area.
- Combine 1 part of the dried flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking occasionally to combine.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for viral hepatitis?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with viral hepatitis is a blend of Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), and Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).
Milk Thistle's silymarin has antioxidant properties, while Turmeric's curcumin reduces inflammation and oxidative stress. Licorice Root's glycyrrhizin soothes the liver and reduces viral replication.
This trio of tinctures may help alleviate symptoms, support liver regeneration, and boost immune function, making it a holistic approach to managing viral hepatitis.
What ailments similar to viral hepatitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to viral hepatitis that are treated with herbal tinctures are those characterized by inflammation and damage to the liver or bile ducts.
These include autoimmune disorders such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), which can be managed with herbal remedies like turmeric, milk thistle, and dandelion root tinctures that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.