 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 depressionsadness, 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. 