The National Institutes of Health states that lung cancer is the most common cause of death by cancer in the U.S. Conventional medical treatment includes chemotherapy and surgical intervention. In addition, there are natural herbs and supplements which may be used to help combat the progression of cancer. Although herbs have been time tested, many have not yet received FDA approval and should be used only under the direction of a health care professional.
Stop Smoking
No amount of treatment, natural or otherwise, will be completely effective without first eliminating the main cause of lung cancer. According to the American Lung Association smoking is responsible for more than 393,000 deaths each year in the U.S., and is the number-one preventable cause of cancer. Researchers have discovered that cigarette smoke contains at least 20 known carcinogens, or cancer-causing chemicals. The first step in the fight against lung cancer is quitting smoking. There are a number of smoking cessation programs available. Smokers should review options with their medical doctor.
Antioxidant Vitamins
Dietary intake of vitamins and minerals may also be helpful in the fight against lung cancer. Vitamins such as A, C and E are naturally antioxidant, meaning they help prevent free radical damage. Free radical damage is thought to be one cause of cancer. Additionally, minerals like magnesium, selenium and zinc help strengthen the immune system and combat disease. Berries and citrus fruits, as well as colorful vegetables, are rich in vitamins, fiber and other natural antioxidants. Trace minerals can also be found in dark green leafy vegetables, fish, eggs, legumes and nuts. Patients should consult a health care practitioner about meeting specific dietary needs.
Herbal Remedies
Along with healthy changes in lifestyle and diet, a few herbs may be used to help reverse cancer's effects. Both curcumin, the main chemical in the spice turmeric, and acai berries have been scientifically shown to effectively fight cancer. In a study published by Oxford University Press in 2009, researchers found that curcumin extract successfully inhibited the progression of lung cancer cells in laboratory mice. In another study conducted by Stephen Talcott of the University of Florida, an extract of acai berries was actually able to kill 86 percent of cancer cells in laboratory tests. Although these results are promising, researchers note that more studies are needed. Both curcumin and acai extracts may provide additional methods to treat cancer; however, natural therapies should be used in conjunction with and not in place of medical care.
References
- American Lung Association: Health Effects of Smoking
- Oxford Journals: Carcinogenesis: Curcumin inhibits COPD inflammation...and lung cancer progression in mice: September 2009.
- Vita Guide: Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements.
- National Institutes of Health: A Primary Xenograph Model of Small Cell Lung Cancer: April 2009.
- Oxford Journals: Tobacco Smoke Carcinogens and Lung Cancer: July 1999.
