Potential Liver Damage from Unregulated Herbal Remedies
Recently, Vietnamese hospitals have seen a rise in severe liver complications due to the use of unverified traditional herbal medicines, particularly a product known as “Mountain Herbal Formula (Gia Truyền Liên Hoa Sơn Trí Liễu).” This article details the concerning trend and provides critical advice for the public.
Liver Inflammation Cases Linked to Unregulated Herbal Remedies
According to the Central Institute of Tropical Diseases, there has been a significant increase in acute liver inflammation cases recently, directly related to the use of unverified traditional remedies. A prominent example is patient T., a 66-year-old from Bắc Ninh.
Despite generally good health, Ms. T. had a habit of self-treating with traditional herbal remedies when feeling unwell. Approximately two months before hospitalization, she began taking high doses of an unverified herbal medicine – 50 pills twice daily for 20 days. Following this treatment, her health deteriorated rapidly, exhibiting symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, yellowing eyes, and dark urine.
Case Study: Mountain Herbal Formula (Gia Truyền Liên Hoa Sơn Trí Liễu)
Another notable case involves Ms. M., a 54-year-old from Hà Nội, with a history of joint pain. Ms. M. frequently used remedies purchased online, specifically a product called “Liên Hoa Sơn,” combined with papaya leaves and other home remedies.
The “Liên Hoa Sơn” medicine, produced in Tri Tôn, An Giang, was taken continuously for over a month before ceasing use approximately two months prior to hospitalization. About 20 days before admission, Ms. M. experienced fatigue and poor appetite, leading to a diagnosis of elevated liver enzymes.
Following tests, doctors diagnosed acute liver inflammation, likely caused by the unverified herbal medicine.
Causes and Effects of Mountain Herbal Formula (Gia Truyền Liên Hoa Sơn Trí Liễu)
Dr. Vũ Thị Hương Giang, a liver specialist at the Central Institute of Tropical Diseases, explains that while liver conditions can manifest differently depending on the herbal component and individual responses, the liver’s multiple functions mean potential damage can vary significantly among patients.
Consumption of unverified traditional remedies like “Mountain Herbal Formula (Gia Truyền Liên Hoa Sơn Trí Liễu)” can lead to serious consequences such as liver failure, potentially fatal. Medical professionals strongly discourage the use of unverified remedies, particularly those widely advertised online. If traditional medicine is desired, seeking consultation and treatment at reputable establishments is essential.
Medical Expert Recommendations
Dr. Giang emphasized the extreme danger of self-treating with unverified herbal remedies. The public should be cautious of alluring advertisements promising “miraculous” cures. Instead, seek medical advice and treatment from trusted healthcare providers.
Furthermore, combining traditional and Western medicine should only occur with the consent and close monitoring of a specialist to ensure safety and effective treatment, avoiding potential complications.
Conclusion
Herbal remedies, including “Mountain Herbal Formula (Gia Truyền Liên Hoa Sơn Trí Liễu),” pose significant risks if not used correctly. Exercise caution when selecting and using remedies. Follow the guidance of medical experts. Prioritize your and your family’s well-being through safe and scientifically-sound treatments.
If you or someone you know experiences unusual symptoms after using a traditional herbal remedy, promptly contact the nearest medical facility for examination and timely treatment.
Sources:
- Central Institute of Tropical Diseases
- Tuổi Trẻ Newspaper
