Can drinking rock coptis (Yan Huang Lian) steeped in water treat hepatitis B small three positives?

Sep 26, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Ziyi
Introduction
Generally, "small three positives" refers to a condition in which the results of the hepatitis B virus serological test ("two pairs and a half") show positive for hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B e antibody, and hepatitis B core antibody. This indicates that viral replication is suppressed in patients with hepatitis B, suggesting improvement in the disease condition, or possibly indicating a mutation in the hepatitis B virus.

In general, "small three positives" refers to a condition identified during the serological testing of hepatitis B virus (known as the "two pairs and a half" test), in which hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B e antibody (HBeAb), and hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb) are all positive. This may indicate that viral replication is suppressed in patients with chronic hepatitis B and that the condition is improving. However, it could also suggest a mutation in the hepatitis B virus, so clinical interpretation should be based on the patient's overall health status. Drinking rock yellowcress (Yan Huang Lian) infusion cannot treat the "small three positives." Detailed explanations are as follows:

Rock yellowcress is a traditional Chinese herb known for its effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, promoting blood circulation to remove stasis, reducing swelling, and eliminating dampness. However, drinking rock yellowcress infusion has no therapeutic effect on hepatitis B virus infection and cannot treat the "small three positives." Hepatitis B is a contagious disease. In the early stages, symptoms may be mild but can include recurrent fatigue, dizziness, and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, signs such as palmar erythema (liver palms), spider angiomas, and hepatosplenomegaly may appear. When the condition advances to decompensated cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma, severe liver dysfunction symptoms may develop. Patients are advised to maintain a healthy diet and avoid consuming excessive high-fat and high-calorie foods. In severe cases, medications such as entecavir tablets or lamivudine tablets should be used under medical guidance. Liver transplantation may also be considered as per doctor’s recommendations.

Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention when experiencing any discomfort and to undergo standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician, which helps promote recovery.