Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that commonly affects the tissue surrounding the lungs. According to Medicine World, inhaled asbestos fibers cause inflammation in the lung cavity, which may contribute to symptoms such as breathing difficulties or chest pain. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the yucca plant contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help to treat symptoms. Ray Sahelian, M.D., explains that the polyphenol antioxidants found in yucca scavenge free radicals and inhibit inflammation. Sahelian also notes, however, that limited clinical studies exist to confirm the health benefits of the yucca plant. Consult with your health care advisor before ingesting yucca.
Step 1
Prepare the root of yucca as you would a potato. The root may be sliced, breaded and baked in the oven to make potato chips or fries. Season the baked snack with chopped herbs, such as rosemary, and powdered spices, such as curry powder. Suzanna Zick, N.D., M.P.H., of the University of Michigan Health System, reports that rosemary and curry powder contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, respectively, which may help to relieve symptoms of mesothelioma.
Step 2
Incorporate yucca powder into beverages or soft foods, such as smoothies or yogurt. Since the powder contains pure yucca root extract, it may help to alleviate symptoms of mesothelioma; however, you should limit your intake of sugar when using yucca powder. Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered a link between sugar and cancer cells. According to the study, published in the August 2009 edition of Science Daily, tumor cells require more glucose for survival than normal cells. Restricting your intake of sugar may help to prevent the spread of mesothelioma to other parts of the body.
Step 3
Ingest a yucca root supplement with a full glass of water, or your beverage of choice, to prevent choking. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center reports that between two and four tablets each day is the standard dosage; however, Drugs.com states that the lack of human research makes it difficult to determine the dosage necessary for therapeutic effects. Consume yucca supplements under medical supervision until further research is available.
References
- Ray Sahelian; Yucca; Ray Sahelian, M.D.
- MayoClinic.com: Mesothelioma
- Medicine World: Mesothelioma
- Science Daily; Spice Up Your Health in the New Year With These Savory Tips; January 2007
- Science Daily; Does Sugar Feed Cancer?; August 2009
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Yucca
- Drugs: Yucca
- University of Michigan Health System: Yucca
- UCSD: Yucca
