Role of traditional Chinese medicine in the management of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Table 1 Types of herbal medicines and frequency of use in the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma

Category	Relative frequency	Category	Relative frequency
Herbs that supplement deficiency: Baizhu, Huangqi, Dangshen, Danggui, Shanyao, Gancao, Baishao, Biejia	27.70%	Herbs that drain downwards: Dahuang, Yuanhua	1.37%
Herbs that clear the heat: Baihuasheshecao, Banzhilian, Shengdihuang, Zhizi, Huangqin, Qinghao	19.26%	Herbs that astringe: Wuweizi, Shanzhuyu	1.01%
Herbs that invigorate blood and dissolve stasis: Ezhu, Danshen, Yujin, Tubiechong	13.67%	Herbs that counteract toxins, kill parasites and relieve itching: Fengfang	0.68%
Herbs that promote urination and percolate dampness: Fuling, Yiyiren, Yinchen, Cheqianzi, Yumixu	12.04%	Herbs that warm the interior: Wuyao	0.54%
Herbs that rectify qi: Zhiqiao, Chenpi	8.39%	Herbs that expel wind and damp: Sangjisheng, Qinjiao	0.46%
Herbs that release the exterior: Chaihu, Guizhi	4.14%	Herbs that calm the mind: Suanzaoren, Longgu	0.42%
Herbs that promote digestion: Jineijin	3.18%	Herbs that calm the liver and extinguish wind: Muli, Wugong	0.25%
Herbs that relieve cough, dissolve phlegm and calm panting: Banxia, Tinglizi, Walengzi	2.94%	Herbs that open the orifices: Shexiang	0.11%
Herbs that stanch bleeding: Sanqi, Xianhecao, Baimaogen	1.91%	Herbs that expel parasites: Binglang	0.08%
Herbs that transform dampness: Houpo	1.86%	Herbs that induce vomit: Changshan	0.02%