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% |