Traditional Chinese Medicine Reduces Side Effect Of Cancer Treatment
Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases, and its treatment can be painful and exhausting. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the two most common treatments for cancer. Although these treatments are effective in killing cancer cells, they also have side effects that can make the patient's life miserable. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including cancer. Recent studies have shown that TCM can reduce the side effects of cancer treatment.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese medicine is a holistic approach to treating diseases that originated in China over 2000 years ago. It is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), which is the vital energy that flows through the body. According to TCM, illness occurs when there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of Qi. TCM practitioners use various techniques, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary therapy, to restore the balance of Qi and promote healing.
How Traditional Chinese Medicine Reduces Side Effects of Cancer Treatment?
The side effects of cancer treatment can be debilitating, and patients often struggle to cope with them. TCM can reduce the side effects of cancer treatment by:
- Boosting the Immune System: TCM herbal remedies can strengthen the immune system, which helps the body fight off infections and diseases.
- Reducing Inflammation: Inflammation is a common side effect of cancer treatment, and TCM can reduce it by using anti-inflammatory herbs.
- Relieving Pain: Acupuncture is a technique used in TCM that involves inserting needles into specific points on the body. It can help relieve pain caused by cancer treatment.
- Improving Digestion: TCM dietary therapy can improve digestion and reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
- Reducing Fatigue: TCM can help reduce fatigue by using herbs that have adaptogenic properties.
TCM Herbal Remedies for Cancer Treatment
TCM herbal remedies can be used in conjunction with conventional cancer treatments to reduce their side effects. Some commonly used TCM herbs for cancer treatment include:
- Ganoderma Lucidum (Lingzhi): This mushroom is used in TCM to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. It has been shown to have anti-cancer properties and can be used as an adjuvant therapy for cancer.
- Scutellaria Baicalensis (Huang Qin): This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to reduce inflammation caused by cancer treatment. It also has anti-cancer properties and can be used as an adjuvant therapy for cancer.
- Astragalus Membranaceus (Huang Qi): This herb is used in TCM to boost the immune system and reduce fatigue. It can also be used as an adjuvant therapy for cancer.
- Curcuma Longa (Jiang Huang): This herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties and can be used to reduce inflammation caused by cancer treatment.
Acupuncture for Cancer Treatment
Acupuncture is a technique used in TCM that involves inserting needles into specific points on the body. It can help relieve pain and reduce the side effects of cancer treatment. Acupuncture can also stimulate the immune system and improve overall well-being. Some studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
Conclusion
Traditional Chinese medicine has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including cancer. Recent studies have shown that TCM can reduce the side effects of cancer treatment. TCM can boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, relieve pain, improve digestion, and reduce fatigue. TCM herbal remedies and acupuncture can be used in conjunction with conventional cancer treatments to reduce their side effects. If you are undergoing cancer treatment, it is worth considering TCM as a complementary therapy.