Individuals who are dealing with cancer and the related side effects of the treatment are finding relief with various alternative therapies.
It is not uncommon for people undergoing cancer treatment to become very aware of approaches which boost the immune system and promote general health. These two subjects play a large part in the battle against cancer. For many, this awareness includes a desire to find natural ways rather than introducing additional chemicals into the body, which leads to the research and utilization of many CAM therapies (Complimentary and Alternative Medicine).
Common complaints of conventional treatment side effects include nausea, lack of appetite and taste, as well as cotton mouth. There are a few ingredients from the produce isle of the grocery store that can be used to counter these issues. Lemon can be used to handle dry mouth and added to foods to gain flavor. Ginger and peppermint addresses nausea and helps to promote a healthy appetite. Mistletoe is another surprising plant that can also boost the immune system and may actually stop cancer cell growth.
A lack of energy typically plagues individuals dealing with cancer. Herbal approaches to this problem include the use of ginseng and green tea. These substances are reputed to provide a bump in energy levels. Green and white teas are also known to be an excellent source of phytochemicals, which provide protection against free radicals and aid in promoting general health.
Many other herbs are also employed for the protective qualities, anti-inflammatory abilities, and other such features.
Acupuncture is gaining recognition as a method to lessen nausea as well as decrease pain for cancer sufferers. This form of therapy has been used for hundreds of years for these symptoms, but has only recently been applied as an effective alternative for patients.
There have been numerous studies which have indicated the benefits individuals receive from massage therapy. Massage, Reiki, and other such techniques lower the stress levels and provide a calming effect to the recipient. People state that there is an overall feeling of wellbeing that is obtained through these types of sessions.
Meditation allows individuals to focus, center, and release emotional and mental stressors. This provides the immune system with the best chances of fighting the disease. There are several forms of meditation to suit the needs of the individual seeking to utilize this method of CAM.
Many doctors and nurses that work with patients that have been diagnosed with an aggressive cancer such as, phyllodes tumors, pancreatic cancer, or mesothelioma, suggest adopting an alternative therapy to go along with conventional therapies. Some patients either listen to this advice or just follow the alternatives. These people say that they would rather enjoy the life they have left then feel the pain of chemotherapy of radiation.
Author Bio
Allison Brooks is a recent graduate of the University of Mississippi where she earned her B.S. in Biomedical Anthropology. She is currently doing research to work towards a completed ethnography to support her Master’s.
