Can ZC008 Herbal Supplement Help Manage Liver Cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis issues

Hello doctor, my father was diagnosed with liver fibrosis eight or nine years ago, and it has now progressed to cirrhosis.
I came across some articles online mentioning a herbal remedy called ZC008 developed by a technician from Taichung Veterans General Hospital, which is said to repair liver cells.
It is currently being sold as a dietary supplement called Lian Sheng Jin Hua Ding ZC008.
I would like to know if my father can take this product.

Mimi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/09/28

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Mimi/1/32 netizen,
Hello!
1.
Obesity, hyperlipidemia, poorly controlled diabetes, alcohol consumption, hepatitis B or C, and improper medication can lead to increased uptake and synthesis of fat by the liver, as well as decreased utilization.
This can result in the accumulation of fat within liver cells, leading to fatty liver, which can progress to cirrhosis in severe cases.
2.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there is no corresponding disease name for cirrhosis.
Based on its symptom characteristics, it may be classified under "distension" or "accumulation." In the late stages of cirrhosis, the liver is unable to produce albumin, resulting in weight loss, ascites, and lower limb edema.
In the late stages, Western medicine primarily adopts conservative treatment.
Besides ample rest, both Western and TCM treatments can potentially improve cirrhosis and reduce the risk of mortality associated with it.
Therefore, both TCM and Western medicine have their unique treatment methods and medications, and patients often have their preferences.
The best approach is to integrate both TCM and Western medicine.

In my clinical practice, the treatment of cirrhosis often depends on the following TCM patterns:
1.
Qi stagnation,
2.
Liver meridian obstruction and spleen dysfunction,
3.
Dampness and turbidity obstructing the flow, with qi, blood, phlegm, and stasis intermingling beneath the ribs.

Each pattern is treated respectively with:
1.
Soothe the liver and relieve depression, promote qi and harmonize the middle,
2.
Soothe the liver, nourish the blood, invigorate blood circulation and resolve stasis, or
3.
Eliminate dampness and transform turbidity, clarify and smooth the middle.

Pattern differentiation treatment can improve liver microcirculation and reduce liver size.
3.
Currently, ZC008 is still in laboratory cell research at Chung Rong and has not yet entered clinical trials in humans, so its efficacy remains to be confirmed through further human trials.
At present, it is marketed as a food product, and it is not recommended as a treatment method.
The treatment for cirrhosis varies at each stage of symptoms, and it is advisable to consult qualified TCM and Western medicine practitioners for diagnosis and treatment, as this approach tends to yield better results.
In addition to abstaining from alcohol and getting plenty of rest, please follow the instructions of your TCM and Western medicine doctors regarding medication.
Finally, I wish you well.
Dr.
Lin Qingzhong, Director of the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital, Assistant Professor
[email protected]

Reply Date: 2008/09/28

More Info

The question of whether ZC008, a herbal supplement developed in Taiwan, can help manage liver cirrhosis is a complex one. Based on the information provided, it appears that ZC008 is still in the experimental stages and has not yet undergone rigorous clinical trials to establish its efficacy and safety for patients with liver conditions, including cirrhosis.
Liver cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, which impairs liver function. The causes of cirrhosis can vary, including chronic viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, fatty liver disease, and other factors. Once cirrhosis develops, the liver's ability to regenerate and heal is significantly compromised.
The use of herbal supplements like ZC008 should be approached with caution, especially in patients with liver cirrhosis. While some herbal remedies may offer potential benefits, they can also interact with conventional medications or exacerbate liver damage. The lack of substantial clinical evidence supporting the use of ZC008 for liver cirrhosis means that its safety and effectiveness remain uncertain.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), liver health is often addressed through a holistic approach that includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and herbal remedies tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and constitution. However, it is essential to consult with qualified healthcare providers, including both Western and TCM practitioners, to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that considers the patient's overall health, liver function, and any other underlying conditions.

For patients with liver cirrhosis, the primary focus should be on managing the underlying causes, preventing further liver damage, and addressing complications. This may involve lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing comorbid conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Regular monitoring of liver function tests and imaging studies is also crucial to assess the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of any treatment regimen.

In summary, while ZC008 may hold promise as a herbal supplement, its use in managing liver cirrhosis should be carefully considered and discussed with healthcare professionals. The current lack of clinical evidence means that patients should prioritize established treatment methods and lifestyle changes that have been shown to support liver health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially in the context of a serious condition like liver cirrhosis.

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