Melanoma is a serious yet rare type of skin cancer. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom states that melanoma -- which is sometimes called malignant melanoma -- is a type of skin cancer that can spread, or metastasize, to other parts of your body. In many cases, melanoma begins in a mole, although it can also originate in skin that appears to be normal. Discuss the safety and efficacy of herbal treatments with your cancer specialist before using herbs as an adjunct therapy in treating this condition.
Melanoma and Health
The National Cancer Institute states that melanoma, which begins in your melanocytes, is uncommon in dark-skinned individuals. In men, notes the Institute, melanoma is usually found on the skin of the head and neck or between the shoulders and hips. Women typically develop this condition on the skin of the lower legs or between the shoulders and hips. There are several significant risk factors for developing melanoma, including exposure of UV radiation, excessive use of tanning booths and sunlamps, a personal or family history of the condition, skin that burns easily, and the use of certain medications.
Helpful Herbal Treatments
In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that certain herbs may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating melanoma in some individuals. Herbs that may prove beneficial in treating this condition include astragalus, which helps generate anticancer cells in your body and enhances your immune system; and herbs such as burdock, dandelion, rose hips and yellow dock, which help repair damaged tissues. Other helpful herbs may include turmeric, pau d'arco, tea tree oil and green tea. Scientific research as of March 2011 has yet to validate the beneficial health effects of many of these herbs.
Herb In Focus: Astragalus
Astragalus is an herbal remedy that may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating melanoma and other types of cancer. Naturopathic physician and herbalist Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," notes that astragalus may possess anti-tumor, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. This herb, notes Tilgner, may also be used if you are receiving chemotherapy, as it may help protect your kidney function and reduce your bone marrow suppression. You should use astragalus without first discussing its potential health risks and benefits with your skin cancer specialist.
Disclaimer
Melanoma and other types of skin cancer, if left untreated, may spread to your other organs and tissues and endanger your life. If you develop the characteristic signs and symptoms of skin cancer -- unusual looking skin lesions that vary in color and have irregular borders -- visit your doctor as soon as possible to be properly diagnosed. Avoid using herbs in place of visiting your doctor or pursuing conventional treatments for this condition suggested by your cancer specialist.
References
- National Health Service: Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
- National Cancer Institute: Melanoma and Other Skin Cancers
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
