Complementary Herbal Treatments for Cancer

Evidence indicates that several botanical medicines may be able to restrict the growth of cancer cells; others ease the side effects associated with chemotherapy and other conventional treatment options.

Several anticancer herbs can support -- but not replace -- conventional care and chemotherapy. Preliminary evidence indicates that these complementary herbs for cancer treatment may increase survival rate and quality of life among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

However, "natural" does not mean "safe". These products may cause unanticipated side effects or drug interactions. Before taking any herbal medicine, consult a qualified oncologist trained in botanical medicine.

Garlic

An ideal complementary treatment for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, garlic offers relief from chemotherapy side effects while strengthening the body's defenses against cancerous cells. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that garlic may increase appetite in chemotherapy patients; it also helps to protect the colon and heart from chemotherapy-related damage. Garlic also helps to improve immunity in peopel with inoperable late-stage cancer and may restrict the growth of malignant tumors.

Green Tea

The American Cancer Society notes that green tea may reduce the risk of several forms of cancer, including those affecting the breast, stomach, colon, lungs, prostate, bladder and esophagus. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns against the use of green tea supplements in people undergoing chemotherapy treatment for prostate cancer, since it may make prostate cells less sensitive to chemotherapy drugs.

Turmeric

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, extracts of turmeric appear to restrict bloodflow to cancerous tumors. This fragrant spice is also a potent antioxidant; it may strengthen healthy cells and protect against the dangerous side effects associated with chemotherapy. Consider using turmeric-- or ginger, its close botanical relative-- to ease nausea and other digestive upsets associated with chemotherapy and surgery.

Ginseng

Asian ginseng is widely hailed as an adaptogen; it enables the body to adjust to physical or emotional stress with fewer fluctuations in sleep, appetite, mood or stamina. Because of this, ginseng may be an ideal complementary herbal treatment for chemotherapy patients. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that people taking ginseng supplements have lower rates of lung, liver, pancreatic, ovarian, and stomach cancers; it may inhibit the growth of several types of tumor. More studies are needed to prove these effects, but preliminary evidence is encouraging.

Cat's Claw

This popular arthritis remedy may also be a helpful complementary treatment for cancer patients. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine acknowledges cat's claw's long-standing use as a traditional cancer treatment; integrative oncologists frequently recommend it as a treatment for pain and immune dysfunction associated with chemotherapy. However, its anticancer properties are thus far only supported by small-scale laboratory tests-- not large-scale clinical trials.

Red Clover

A component of several anticancerous herbal formulas, red clover has been used as a component of cancer treatment since the 19th century. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns that there is insufficient evidence to support its therapeutic use in complementary cancer treatment or prevention technique. Because it contains estrogen-like compounds, it may actually stimulate the growth of breast, uterine and ovarian cancers.

Pau d'Arco

This tropical evergreen has been investigated as a treatment for hundreds of ailments. The American Cancer Society reports that lapachol, a chemical component of pau d'arco, appears to kill or restrict sarcoma cancer cells. Pau d'arco is rarely recommended for cancer patients who will need surgery; its anticoagulant properties increase the risk of a fatal hemorrhagic event. Nevertheless, it appears to be a viable complementary treatment for some forms of malignant tumor. Discontinue use of pau d'arco two weeks before surgery; avoid it entirely if you have a bleeding disorder.