Throat cancer is the collective term for malignant tumors that affect the back of the tongue, tonsils, voice box and throat. According to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, heavy alcohol drinking, smoking tobacco and poor nutrition are all risk factors for throat cancer. Symptoms can include pain on swallowing, cough, ear pain and a persistent sore throat. Treatment may comprise laser surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy or radiation. Although there is no evidence to suggest that alternative medicine can treat throat cancer itself, Mayoclinic.com notes it may help a patient cope better with their condition.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that was developed in Germany over two hundred years ago and is based on the concept that "like treats like." Although there is no evidence that homeopathy can effectively treat throat cancer, Cancer Treatment Centers of America notes that homeopathy may help a patient to cope better with throat cancer symptoms and treatment side effects. A homeopath will select the most appropriate remedy based on a consultation with the patient; however, the Cancer Cure Foundation notes that arsenicum album is the most recommended homeopathic treatment for cancer.
Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements including herbs, vitamins and minerals may benefit throat cancer patients by strengthening the immune system and reducing treatment-related side effects, notes Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Slippery elm bark is an example of a potentially beneficial herb for throat cancer patients. When dissolved in water and swallowed, it coats the throat and stomach and helps relieve swallowing problems often experienced by throat cancer patients. Since certain herbs and nutritional supplements may interfere with conventional cancer treatments, it is important to speak to a doctor before using them.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture may help control cancer pain and relieve chemotherapy-associated nausea and vomiting, notes the National Cancer Institute. Acupuncture forms part of traditional Chinese medicine and involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. According to the British Medical Acupuncture Society, acupuncture stimulates nerves in the muscle and skin, releasing the body's own natural painkillers. Patients typically need five to eight treatment sessions, notes the British Medical Acupuncture Society.
Massage
Mayoclinic.com notes that some throat cancer patients may find massage beneficial. According to CancerHelp UK, the main reason cancer patients may opt for massage therapy is because it improved well-being. It may also improve sleep, reduce anxiety and relieve pain. CancerHelp UK notes that massage may not be suitable for all cancer patients, including those receiving active cancer treatment. People with cancer should avoid deep tissue massage.
