Certain herbal supplements may be helpful in supporting your cancer treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, the three most common biomedical treatments for cancer are chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. Herbal supplements can play an important role in treating symptoms associated with your cancer care and help improve your quality of life. Before taking herbal supplements, talk with your doctor about possible side effects, proper dosage and potential drug interactions.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle, also called Silybum marianum, is an herbal supplement that may be helpful in supporting cancer treatment. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, milk thistle, a member of the aster family, is a plant native to the Mediterranean region that can reach a maximum height of about 10 feet. Milk thistle has a bitter taste. The seeds of the plant have been used to help treat numerous liver disorders, including hepatitis, cirrhosis and fatty liver. Dr. Michael T. Murray, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "The Healing Power of Herbs," states that milk thistle can both prevent liver destruction and enhance liver function. Milk thistle can also help protect the liver from toxins associated with chemotherapy, allowing your body to recover more quickly from a cycle of chemotherapy.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is another herbal supplement that may be beneficial in supporting your cancer care. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that flaxseed, also known as Linum usitatissimum, is an anti-inflammatory and a bulking, lubricating and mucilaginous agent that has been used to help treat many chronic diseases. Flaxseed has an oily, mucilaginous taste and moistening tendencies. According to the American Cancer Society, the oil extracted from flaxseeds may lower your cholesterol levels, enhance your immune system and prevent cancer. Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are believed to have beneficial effects against cancer.
Ginger
Ginger, also known as Zingiber officinale, is an herbal supplement that may also be helpful in cancer care. According to Tilgner, ginger has a spicy taste and heating, stimulating and drying tendencies. The root of the plant has been used to help treat motion sickness and nausea associated with chemotherapy. The American Cancer Society states that ginger may be helpful in treating many of the symptoms associated with chemotherapy, including upset stomach, nausea and vomiting and loss of appetite. Ginger's greatest effects may be in reducing the severity and duration of post-chemotherapy nausea. Tilgner notes that the tincture, not the tea, may be more effective for chemotherapy-induced vomiting.
