Alternative medicine for side effects of chemo

06/15/2009 - Questions and Answers

Alternative medicine for side effects of chemo

By: Novoviva webmaster

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Question

My father-in-law was going to have surgery to remove stomach and thorax cancer.
But it turned out to be inoperable. He intends to follow through with chemotherapy and radiation to prolong his life.

What herbs do you recommend to lessen the side effects of the chemo and radiation?

 

Answer

We can understand your concern for your father-in-law. The Cancer Cure Research Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to research and education in alternative cancer therapies - see the first link below.
 

For nausea, both ginger and caraway seed can often help. Caraway seed can be used to make a tea to be drunk after radiation treatment. To prevent nausea, hold a slice of fresh ginger in your mouth while undergoing therapy; if you become nauseous, chew on it. Fennel tea calms the stomach and prevents nausea. Acupuncture or an acupressure wrist band may also help.
 

Adapting to the changes brought about by having cancer is easier for both patients and their families when they have helpful information and support services. Often, the social service office at the hospital or clinic can suggest local and national agencies that will help with emotional support, financial aid, transportation, home care, or rehabilitation. The American Cancer Society is a non-profit organization that offers a variety of services to patients and their families. Their local offices may be listed in the telephone book.
 

These links below may be helpful to you in learning more about how to be a help and support to your father-in-law.

 

Related Links
Cancer Cure Research Foundation
WebMD: Mind-Body Medicine for Cancer
National Cancer Institute: Support and Services
Dealing with Cancer Pain

Created on: 12/14/2004
Reviewed on: 06/15/2009

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