Breast cancer when caught early enough can often be treated and cured. However, treatments such as radiation, chemotherapy and surgery can cause their own side effects. During these times, there are holistic breast cancer treatments that can be used alongside traditional medical care to help manage the side effects of treatment. Before using any holistic or complementary therapy it is essential to discuss it with a physician. Even natural remedies can have side effects, and can cause negative interactions with treatments being received.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves placing very small needles in specific points on the body to help restore the flow of Qi or Chi energy. In most cases it is painless. The goal is to help stimulate the body to heal itself.
Acupuncture may help control the side effects of treatment for breast and other forms of cancer, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue and pain. It may also lower stress levels. Given this, acupuncture combined with traditional medicine can help the body heal, states the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a practice in which essential oils from flowers, herbs and trees are used to help stimulate healing and promote relaxation. These essential oils give off aromas which may cause changes in the brain and body to support healing. Aromatherapy oils can be inhaled; other products can be applied to the skin.
According to the National Cancer Institute, aromatherapy may help to control symptoms such as headache, fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and pain. It can also help to manage stress and anxiety.
While in most cases aromatherapy is safe, you should always consult a physician because aromatherapy is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Breast cancer patients may develop sensitive skin as a side effect of treatment, so it may not be advisable to apply oils to the skin during this time.
Yoga
The practice of yoga involves learning various breathing techniques, postures designed to help stretch and strengthen the body, and relaxation or meditation techniques to help reduce stress and tension. The American Cancer Society suggests talking to a health care provider about attending yoga classes to improve your quality of life.
Yoga can help to calm the body and mind, which can support healing. The right yoga practice may help manage symptoms such as pain, fatigue, headaches and nausea that can occur with treatment.
There are many forms of yoga.Try various styles and teachers to find the right fit. During radiation and chemotherapy, a gentle or restorative practice may be best. A more challenging practice can be started after treatment has ended.
Diet
Eating a healthy, well balanced diet will help to support the body when it is fighting breast cancer. However, according to the National Cancer Institute, certain factors may increase the chances of breast cancer returning after treatment.
Consuming beer, eating a diet high in fat and being overweight are all linked to developing breast cancer and increasing the chances it will recur. The risk climbs if a patient is also sedentary. A registered dietitian can help create a meal plan to support the body during and after breast cancer treatment.
Guided Imagery
Guided imagery is a form of meditation in which the practitioner imagines herself in peaceful surroundings to help relax the body and mind. Guided imagery can be used to visualize positive changes in the body, such as tumors shrinking and treatments working.
While it should never be used as the only type of treatment, the Breastcancer.org website states that guided imagery can help reduce stress, improve mood and enhance quality of life. It may temporarily increase the number of immune cells (natural killer cells) in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand this link.
