Cancer is a disease that occurs when cells in the body multiply in an out-of-control manner and form a malignant tumor. Although cancer treatment largely depends on the type and stage of cancer, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery are commonly used. Alternative medicine may help promote a patient's well-being and alleviate symptoms and side effects of cancer treatment. However, alternative medicine should complement, rather then replace, conventional treatment, notes the American Cancer Society.
Acupuncture
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), acupuncture may be helpful in managing chemotherapy-associated sickness in some cancer patients. Certain studies have also found that acupuncture may be useful for the management of cancer pain and other symptoms. However, NCCAM notes that further investigations are needed. A form of acupuncture known as electroacupuncture, is a treatment worth consideration, says NCCAM. According to NCCAM, a 2008 evidence-based review found it was helpful in managing nausea and vomiting in cancer patients.
Botanics
Botanical medicines may help alleviate cancer symptoms as well as side effects from conventional cancer treatments, notes NCCAM. According to the National Cancer Institute, studies on animals show mistletoe could help decrease the side effects of conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. In addition, laboratory studies indicate mistletoe extract can kill cancer cells and boost immunity. However, the National Cancer Institute notes that no strong scientific evidence supports the use of mistletoe as a cancer therapeutic.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that dates back hundreds of years. Proposed by a German physician, homeopathy is based on the premise that "like cures like." According to Cancer Research UK, homeopathy is a commonly used complementary therapy for cancer, possibly helping patients cope better with the stress and anxiety often associated with their condition. It may also help to reduce pain, sickness and tiredness in cancer patients. However, no scientific studies show that homeopathic medicines can cure or prevent cancer.
