Despite advances in medical research and technology, breast cancer is on the rise. According to the National Cancer Institute, there were nearly 195,000 new cases reported in 2009 alone, with more than 40,500 deaths from breast cancer. While women should always consult their physician or healthcare provider before trying alternative therapies, there are a few simple natural treatments for cancer that are considered safe and effective.
TCM and Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is type of natural, or holistic, healthcare. Doctors of TCM may use herbs, acupuncture, moxibustion (a type of heat therapy) and/or dietary recommendations to treat illnesses. Although still generally considered a form of alternative medicine in the United States, TCM has been the standard medical practice in China for thousands of years. Ongoing research is helping acupuncture and TCM to gain acceptance in the United States, and there are many hospitals and clinics that offer TCM therapies, including acupuncture, as part of their complementary or integrative medicine programs.
Although there is no specific research to date on the use of TCM for breast cancer alone, there is evidence supporting acupuncture and chinese herbs in the treatment of cancer in general. Additionally, chinese herbs help to relieve symptoms of chemotherapy, and improve overall quality of life. One study published by the American Society for Clinical Oncology recognized that acupuncture helps to reduce pain and dry mouth following cancer surgery and radiation treatment. Acupuncture is safe to use in conjunction with conventional medical treatments. When looking for a TCM physician, look for the designations, OMD (or DOM), LAc, or TCM practitioner.
Turmeric
Turmeric is an herb well known for its anti-cancer properties. There is sufficient evidence which identifies the main chemical constituent, curcumin, as a powerful anticarcinogen. Researchers feel that synthetic versions of curcumin may be able to fight other cancers, such as cancer of the breast, pancreas, stomach and lungs. Further evidence suggests that taking turmeric can inhibit the growth of tumors. Herbalists recommend taking 1000 mg up to three times per day.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is considered part of herbal medicine. Essential oils are the volatile oils obtained from herbs and other plants which have medicinal qualities. They are generally not ingested, but used externally, and can be used along with massage or acupuncture treatments. In a clinical trial of frankincense essential oil, researchers found that the oil suppressed the growth of cancers cells. They concluded frankincense may actually provide an alternative medical treatment for cancer. Frankincense may be applied topically or diluted in water or milk and taken internally.
Precautions
The above natural therapies may be used alone, in combination with one another, or in conjunction with conventional medical treatments. Always discuss any alternative treatments you may want to try with your treating physician. Never discontinue medication or other medical treatments without first consulting your doctor.
