Lung cancer is one form of cancer that starts in your lungs and may not show symptoms until later in its progression. Symptoms include a new cough that persists, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, wheezing, weight loss, headache, and bone pain. Treatments for this cancer can include chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Certain herbal remedies may also be of benefit to help relieve and manage lung cancer and its symptoms; however you should consult a physician before using them.
American Ginseng
American ginseng is a herb that may be beneficial for lung cancer. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, research has shown that this herb may be able to boost immune strength and act as an antioxidant. Antioxidants can help fight harmful bacteria and viruses that lead to infection and illness and can worsen your cancer symptoms. However, these studies have been performed in animals. Studies are inconclusive and more are required to establish any benefit. However, the UMMC says that American ginseng has been shown to stop the growth of tumors.
Asian Ginseng
Asian ginseng may also be helpful in the treatment of lung cancer. According to the UMMC, research has shown that this herb may help prevent the onset of lung cancer. In addition, they say that research indicates this herb may prevent the growth of tumors. Studies are inconclusive and more research is required to determine any benefits.
Green Tea
Increasing your intake of green tea may be helpful to manage symptoms of lung cancer. Green tea contains antioxidants, called polyphenols, that help protect your body from free radicals, foreign substances that can cause illness, infection, and cellular damage in your body. The UMMC notes that free radicals can play a role in the onset of many health conditions, such as cancer. The polyphenols in green tea may also kill cells that are cancerous or slow their progression. Studies for the effectiveness of green tea in lung cancer are inconclusive and more research is required.
Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng has been used by people in order to treat cancers such as breast cancer, liver cancer, skin cancer and lung cancer. Evidence has been inconclusive and more studies are required to establish a benefit. This product can be taken as a capsule or a topical cream, according to MedlinePlus.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Lung Cancer: Symptoms
- University of Maryland Medical Center: American Ginseng
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs And Supplements For Lung Cancer
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asian Ginseng
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Green Tea
- MedlinePlus: Ginseng, Panax
