A variety of herbal remedies may be used in cancer treatment. These are typically meant to supplement traditional treatment and are not a substitute for medical care. These herbs can help relieve side effects and promote wellness, but may not be appropriate for everyone. Before using herbs like red clover, dandelion or yellow dock, talk with your treatment team to see if these supplements are safe for you to consume.
Red Clover
Red clover is a wild plant with red flowers at the end of the stems and is usually used for grazing cattle. It has also been used medicinally to help treat cancer, whooping cough, skin inflammation and respiratory problems, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herb contains isoflavones, which are plant chemicals that produce effects similar to estrogen in the human body. There are mixed results regarding red clover's use in cancer. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that the isoflavones may stimulate growth of estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer cells, but some isoflavones may have the opposite effect. Red clover can cause prostate cancer cells to become resistant to radiation, and should be avoided in these patients, says Memorial Sloan-Kettering. Talk with your oncologist before using red clover.
Dandelion
Dandelion is deceiving. It contains an array of vitamins that are beneficial for health, including the antioxidants vitamins A and C, vitamins D and B-complex, and iron, potassium and zinc, according to the University of Maryland. This herb has been traditionally used to settle upset stomachs and to help treat kidney disease, inflammation and skin problems. It can act as a mild appetite stimulant, which can be helpful for those undergoing cancer treatment whose appetite has been affected. Although dandelion may have anti-tumor and antimicrobial effects in the lab, more research is necessary to ascertain whether these effects will carry over into helping to treat cancer. Before using dandelion, talk with your oncologist about whether it may benefit you.
Yellow Dock
The roots of yellow dock have been used to help relieve indigestion and heartburn, since the herb is said to stimulate digestion by promoting saliva, stomach acid and digestive enzyme production, states the University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center. It is also said to have a mild laxative effect from chemicals called anthraquinone glycosides. While a laxative may be beneficial for patients experiencing constipation as a side effect from cancer treatment, this herb may not be appropriate for everyone. Consult your doctor before using this herb.
Considerations
Even though these are all natural, plant-based substances, they can still interact with chemotherapy drugs and other cancer treatments, as well as other medications or supplements you may be taking. Before using any of these remedies, talk with your treatment team to make sure it is safe for you to take and will not negatively affect your cancer treatment. Tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you consume, to avoid any adverse interactions.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Red Clover; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2008
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Red Clover; February 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Dandelion; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; December 2008
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Dandelion; February 2011
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center; Yellow Dock; December 2009
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