Effects of Sho-saiko-to, a Herbal Formula, in Reducing Viral Load in Hepatitis C

The purpose of this study is to (1) determine the effects of the herbal formula Sho-saiko-to (SST) compared to placebo in treating hepatitis C virus (HCV) in persons who have not responded to the current conventional therapy (peginterferon alfa and ribavirin) or who have relapsed or in those for whom conventional therapy is contraindicated; (2) determine the influence that SST will have on participant reports of depression/sadness, fear and uncertainty related to the HCV disease progression, and renewal of hope in these individuals; and (3) collect preliminary data needed to examine feasibility, patient acceptance, and any potential limitations of the study.