The American Cancer Society would like to draw a clear distinction between complementary medicine and alternative therapies. In complementary medicine, the addition of non-medical treatments such as therapeutic touch or aromatherapy is used along with traditional medical treatments. Alternative therapies, however, are generally used in lieu of traditional medical treatments and, in the case of cancer, can have seriously negative effects on disease prognosis and outcome. As always, before embarking on any new treatment, seek consultation from a licensed medical professional first.
Orthomolecular Medicine
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, orthomolecular medicine was coined in the 1950s by Dr. Linus Pauling. As a means to correct chemical imbalances in the brain and body, Pauling suggested the concept of "mega-vitamin dosing" therapy. It is believed that by replacing important vitamins and minerals relevant to disease formation, the body could repair itself to the point of becoming disease-free. While this method is frowned upon by traditional medicine, certain alternative approaches borrow from the concept--especially in treating disease that compromises the immune system.
714X
The product 714X was designed in the 1950s and marketed in the 1980s by the biologist Gaston Naessens. This product is promoted to shrink or eliminate cancerous tumors using a nitrogen-rich base of camphor and organic salts. "Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide" suggests that this compound has been highly effective in attracting cancer cells in animal studies and in reports of treating bone and breast cancers.
Metabolic Therapy
Kelley's Nutritional-Metabolic Therapy from 1969 is a plan consisting of nutritional supplements, detoxification and the use of pancreatic enzymes to fight cancer. This diet also includes taking coffee enemas, eliminating cooked foods, meat and other proteins, and encouraging a wheatgrass/raw foods approach. No clinical trials have determined a raw diet or strict regimen of cleansing to be effective at treating cancer. This raw diet strategy is gaining in popularity, especially among celebrities, creating the need for increased clinical trials to evaluate the many claims.
References
- "American Cancer Society: Complete Guide to Complementary & Alternative Cancer Therapies"; 2009
- The Linus Pauling Institute: What is Orthomolecular Medicine?
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: 714X
- American Cancer Society: Metabolic Therapy
