Constipation is the most common. The likelihood of dependency is also lower for herbal remedies. The U. Food and Drug Administration designate most herbs as GRAS, or generally recognized as safe. But patients must remember herbal remedies are still a type of medicine. Make sure to get approval first from your oncologist.

Herbal medicine may come in the form of tablets or capsules, creams, teas or tinctures an alcohol-based concentrate. Research does not indicate that herbal medicine can replace conventional cancer treatment. No herb has been proven to control or cure any kind of cancer.

Most of the research has been conducted in test tube studies or mouse studies. Some research involving humans has been conducted, but no large, double-blind controlled clinical trials have been conducted in the U. Research indicates that some herbs may help cancer patients cope with cancer symptoms and side effects of cancer treatment.

Research on astragalus shows that it may reduce side effects of platinum-based chemotherapy agents such as cisplatin and carboplatin. These are two of the most effective chemotherapy drugs for mesothelioma.

A Chinese study published in Medical Oncology found improved quality of life among lung cancer patients who received a combination injection of astragalus, cisplatin and vinorelbine compared to patients who only received cisplatin and vinorelbine.

Patients who received astragalus had better physical function, improved appetite, and they experienced less fatigue, pain, nausea and vomiting. Make sure you discuss astragalus with your oncologist because it is a potent herb.

It can alter the way your body processes chemotherapy in ways that may help or hurt depending on the patient. Traditional Chinese Medicine uses the herb dong quai to support overall wellness. The herb may offer additional benefits to cancer patients receiving doxorubicin, which is a chemotherapy drug used in the treatment of mesothelioma.

While there have been studies suggesting potential benefits of dong quai, it is important to note that this herbal supplement can interact with certain medications and is not recommended for women with estrogen-sensitive cancers.

Furthermore, its safety for mesothelioma patients remains uncertain, and further clinical trials are needed to evaluate its effects. One study published in in Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology indicated that dong quai may have a protective effect against heart damage caused by doxorubicin.

Additionally, a study published in in Oncology Reports suggested that dong quai may offer protection against lung inflammation induced by radiation therapy. However, due to the complexities of interactions and the specific considerations for different cancer types, it is crucial for mesothelioma patients to consult with their healthcare providers before considering the use of dong quai or any other herbal supplement.

A review published in Inflammopharmacology discusses laboratory studies of burdock root that indicate the herb has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer and liver-protecting properties. Cancer patients should exercise caution when using herbal products, as the quality control of these products may be inadequate.

An example from the s highlights the potential risks: a commercially available burdock root tea was discovered to be contaminated with atropine, a chemical known to cause irregular heartbeat and blurry vision.

It is crucial for cancer patients to closely observe and assess the effects of any herbal remedies they consider using. An herbal tea blend known as Essiac tea contains herbs known for their immune-boosting effects, including burdock root. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center conducted about 18 studies on Essiac in the s and s.

These studies found Essiac did not boost the immune system or kill cancer cells. This compound is found in St. According to a study published in the Medical Journal of Australia, hypericin makes certain cancer cells more likely to die after photodynamic therapy , which is an experimental treatment for mesothelioma.

This herb shows anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects in lab studies. It can also reduce chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting, according to a review published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia.

But ginger should be strictly avoided before and after surgery. It promotes bleeding and should be avoided by patients with a low platelet count.

A review published in Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews reported that taking aloe vera during chemotherapy helped prevent mouth sores in some patients. Also known as Iscador, research done in humans suggests that mistletoe reduces symptoms and improves quality of life.

A study published in the European Journal of Cancer found that mistletoe reduces side effects of chemotherapy in lung cancer patients. A study published in Evidenced Based Complementary Alternative Medicine found that cancer patients with advanced tumors were able to tolerate higher doses of gemcitabine a chemotherapy drug used to treat mesothelioma with the addition of mistletoe.

This herb contains a compound know as curcumin. A study published in Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology shows that curcumin extract may be safe to combine with gemcitabine chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer patients.

Turmeric is used as an anti-inflammatory. It may reduce bruising in surgery patients when combined with bromelain an extract from pineapples and arnica an herbaceous plant. A test tube study published in the Journal of Experimental Therapeutics in Oncology found a compound in moringa tree effective at killing ovarian cancer cells.

Other research suggests it may help cancer symptoms including difficulty breathing, cough, sore throat, fever and joint pain. Several herbs may help control the side effects of conventional cancer treatment.

However, doctors do not recommend that cancer patients take herbal medicine while undergoing cancer treatment. If you want to try herbal medicine during cancer treatment, talk to your oncologist about it so they can monitor your response and warn you of potential drug interactions. Some of these herbs might be safe to take after cancer treatment is completed, but you should get approval from your oncologist first.

A review of studies looking at the effects of herbal medicine on oral mucositis caused by cancer treatment found several herbs effective at improving tissue swelling in the mouth. For example, curcumin, honey and chamomile were reportedly effective at preventing and treating swollen tissue and sores in the mouth.

Certain herbal medicines may help mesothelioma cancer symptoms such as pain and difficulty breathing. Herbal medicines may be less likely to cause side effects than traditional drugs.

But patients can still experience complications. Some herbs can cause negative interactions with chemotherapy drugs. Others may prevent blood from clotting properly after surgery. Closely monitor how you feel before and after taking herbal remedies.

Patients should always consult with their doctor before trying herbs to avoid complications. Dietary supplements do not have to undergo FDA testing before reaching the market. Some patients have unknowingly bought supplements contaminated with arsenic, lead and mercury. To avoid contaminated herbs, patients should only buy products from reputable companies with a United States Pharmacopeia USP label.

Patients can also look for one or more of the following quality labels on their herbal supplements:. Although some herbs may be able to slow cancer growth, patients should avoid herbal medicines that are marketed as cures for cancer. The importance of discussing herbal remedies with your oncologist before buying or trying them cannot be stressed enough.

All too often patients hide the supplements and herbs they want to take from their doctor. Your oncologist has your best interest at heart and only wants to protect you from potentially harmful interactions. In many cases, your doctor will give their approval to take herbal remedies after you complete treatment.

You can also inquire about joining a clinical trial that is investigating an herb in combination with cancer treatment. These trials are not common, but they do closely monitor patients for harmful interactions. They take the precautions necessary to prevent unwanted side effects such as testing herbs for contaminants before administration.

Many natural substances, such as arsenic and tobacco, are poisonous and carcinogenic. The effects of herbs can range from mild to potent depending on the person taking them and the medications they are using. It is wise to thoroughly research the herbs you want to try and take your research to your oncologist.

This allows your doctor to advise you with as much information as possible. However, as required by the new California Consumer Privacy Act CCPA , you may record your preference to view or remove your personal information by completing the form below.

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Your web browser is no longer supported by Microsoft. Tip: Mix with black pepper piperine and olive oil to activate and help with absorption. It can be used as a dry rub or added to soups, sauces and stews.

It is also used as a herbal remedy for upset stomach and nausea, and can serve as an appetite stimulant. Tip: Steep a few thin slices in hot water for 10 minutes to create a soothing tea. Cayenne also contains beta-carotene. It is known to be toxic to cancer cells and helps prevent growth of cancer cells.

It contains crocins water-soluble carotenoids that may inhibit tumor growth and progression of cancer. It carries antibacterial properties and is a natural disinfectant. Tip: Marinating with oregano can help reduce the formation of heterocyclic amines HCAs created when meat is cooked at high temperatures.

Garlic helps boost the immune system to help fight diseases, as well as colds and flu. It also decreases the growth of cancer cells. Cynthia Wigutow is a registered and licensed dietitian with about two decades of experience in acute and long-term care settings.

Research suggests that drinking coffee may help protect against uterine and liver cancer. This is true for both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee. Herbal teas are made up of a combination of different flowers, herbs and spices. Herbal teas do not have the same antioxidant benefits as green or black tea, but drinking them can help you stay hydrated.

Drinking very hot beverages might increase your cancer risk. Make sure that your hot drinks are at a temperature below 65°C. Let your coffee or tea cool down for a few minutes before taking a sip. Genetically modified foods sometimes called genetically modified organisms or GMOs are foods that are changed by altering or adding genes in plants.

Crops can be genetically modified to add taste and nutrition and make them easier to grow. Organic foods are grown and processed differently than non-organic foods.

Although people may choose organic foods because they believe that they are healthier and safer, there is not enough research to confirm this. People often choose organic foods because they are concerned about the use of pesticides and the environment.

Pollutants may be found on both organic and non-organic foods, so all vegetables and fruit should be washed well. Learn more about pesticides. But diets that include lean white meat and fish, and red meat in small amounts, can also be healthy. Home Cancer information Reduce your risk Eat well Eating well extras to consider.

Eating well extras to consider. Have questions about vitamin D supplements, antioxidants, organic foods or vegetarian diets? Let us help you navigate the information available on these topics.

Should I take a vitamin D supplement? The best way to get all the vitamins and minerals you need is to make healthy food choices. The one exception: vitamin D Vitamin D is needed for healthy bones and muscles, especially in children and the elderly.

Vitamin D and cancer. Can you have too much of a good thing? What are antioxidants and phytochemicals? What are antioxidants? Some types of antioxidants are: vitamin A vitamin C vitamin E selenium. What are phytochemicals?

Some types of phytochemicals are: carotenoids beta carotene, lycopene and lutein flavonoids indoles isoflavones. Why do we need them? Can coffee and tea protect against cancer?

Oestrogen can stimulate some cancers, such as breast cancer, to grow. People often worry that foods or soy supplements containing isoflavones might have the same effect as oestrogen and cause cancer to grow.

But current research says that foods containing natural isoflavones are safe. Early studies also show that isoflavones may have some benefits in certain cancers. It may:. In breast and prostate cancer isoflavones may reduce the risk of cancer coming back.

This is because isoflavones are similar to the hormone oestrogen and bind to the oestrogen receptors on cells. By doing so, it blocks cancer cells from absorbing oestrogen.

However, these studies are based on Asian diets that contain large amounts of soy. Soy can be a meat free source of protein and fibre in your diet. One trial showed that selenium might protect against the overall risk of prostate cancer in men with a history of non melanoma skin cancer. But a later systematic review found that selenium supplements had no benefit in protecting against cancer.

Some randomised controlled trials showed a higher incidence of high grade prostate cancer and type 2 diabetes in people taking selenium supplements. Research in this area has produced mixed results.

Doctors don't recommend that people take it to treat cancer or reduce the risk of cancer. People often take vitamin C in much higher doses than the recommended nutrient intake RNI of 40mg per day.

Some people take it as a drip into the bloodstream IV. There is no good quality research to say that vitamin C helps chemotherapy to work better or help to reduce its side effects.

Research continues to look at the role of vitamin D in the development and recurrence of different cancers.

Some early studies suggest that there is a link between low levels of vitamin D and the development of cancer. However, vitamin D is important for keeping our bones healthy. We need it to absorb calcium. Most of our vitamin D comes from sunlight, but some comes from our diet. The Government recommends that all people in the UK consider take 10 micrograms of vitamin D in the autumn and winter.

Some adults at risk of vitamin D deficiency are recommended to take a supplement throughout the year. Check with your healthcare team or GP if you think you should be taking vitamin D supplements.

MedlinePlus in the USA has information about vitamins and minerals used as dietary supplements. They provide information about possible side effects and research about vitamins and cancer. A complementary therapy means you can use it alongside your conventional medical treatment.

It may help you to feel better and cope better with your cancer and treatment. An alternative therapy is generally used instead of conventional medical treatment.

Some therapies may be harmful or could interact with other treatments you're having. Talk to your doctor before starting any complementary or alternative therapy. Find detailed information and research into some of the many different complementary and alternative therapies used by people with cancer.

Research into complementary and alternative therapies is important so that we know if they are safe to use, whether they work, and to find out if they interact with conventional cancer treatments.

Many people use the internet to get medical information. This can affect their treatment choices. It is important to use reliable and professional organisation websites for this.

Cancer Chat is our fully moderated forum where you can talk to others affected by cancer, share experiences, and get support. Cancer Chat is free to join and available 24 hours a day. Visit the Cancer Chat forum. About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since Questions about cancer?

Call freephone 9 to 5 Monday to Friday or email us. Skip to main content. Home About cancer Treatment for cancer Complementary and alternative therapies Individual therapies Vitamins, diet supplements and cancer.

Summary Try to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Low levels of nutrients can make you feel ill. Use supplements under the supervision of your medical team and a dietitian. What are vitamins, minerals and other nutrients?

Some examples of these various nutrients are: vitamins A, C, D and E minerals — like zinc, calcium, selenium and magnesium essential fats essential amino acids — like phenylalanine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, isoleucine, methionine, leucine, and lyseine some plant compounds phyto nutrients or botanicals — like carotenoids, flavonoids, and isoflavones You might find that your cancer or your cancer treatment makes it difficult to eat or drink properly.

Read about cancer and diet problems Why people with cancer use dietary supplements Dietary supplements are also called nutritional supplements. How you have them Vitamins and dietary supplements come as pills, tablets or a liquid.

Side effects Some vitamins or minerals could interfere with how well cancer drugs work. How much it costs Supplements can vary in their price. Individual supplements and vitamins There is no reliable evidence that dietary or nutritional supplements can prevent, cure or control the growth of cancer.

Bromelain Bromelain is a natural enzyme found in pineapples. Researchers used it in studies of patients with: burn and skin conditions diarrhoea osteoporosis osteoarthritis Animal studies showed that bromelain might prevent or treat certain cancers. Essiac Essiac is a herbal remedy from Canada.

People use Essiac because they believe it can: cure or control their cancer boost their immune system help them to feel better Several studies and reviews found that Essiac had no anti cancer effects.

Read more about Essiac. Read more about laetrile. Read more about turmeric. Read about diet and reducing cancer risk. Related links.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in dietetics and nutrition from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas, and her Master of Science in dietetics and nutrition from Florida International University in Miami.

Cynthia currently serves as president of the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Home News and Media Six cancer-fighting herbs and spices.

Cancer Fighting Herbs and Spices. September 22, Cancer protection starts with your spice rack. Herbs and spices. Six herbs and spices to help fight cancer. Carotenoids alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene , lutein, cryptoxanthin, etc.

are derivatives of vitamin A found in many citrus fruits, sweet potatoes , berries, pumpkin, squashes and other plant foods.

One of the most researched is beta-carotene , an essential nutrient for immune functioning, detoxification, liver health, and fighting cancers of the skin, eyes and organs. Two nutrients that give these foods their signature dark hues include lutein and zeaxanthin, which have been shown to help prevent eye and skin-related disorders since they act as antioxidants that filter harmful high-energy blue wavelengths, protecting healthy cells in the process.

When it comes to carbohydrate-rich veggies, studies show that complex carbs, including sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, other tubers and whole-grain foods, is related to a reduced risk of several types of cancer, particularly of the upper digestive tract.

This is likely due to a favorable role of fiber, but the issue is still open to discussion. In contrast, refined grain intake and high glycemic load foods are not apart of an anti-cancer diet.

These have been associated with increased risk of different types of cancer, including breast and colorectal. A molecular compound found in colorful, spicy peppers, capsaicin is a top cancer-fighting food and is found to have positive effects on shrinking tumors, preventing metastasis new tumors found away from the original cancer site , causing apoptosis in various cancer models and even potentially preventing cancer from occurring in the first place.

Also, pineapple is now recognized in the scientific community as one of the top cancer-fighting foods. In studies, bromelain has been found to have natural anti-cancer effects, including promoting apoptotic cell death and preventing tumor growth.

Studies have linked bromelain to increased protection against breast and lung cancer, and the journal Anticancer Drugs published results from a clinical trial that suggested it affects malignant peritoneal mesothelioma — a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

Along with easy-to-use black pepper, turmeric absorption is enhanced and better able to fight inflammation. You can also take curcumin supplements; aim for 1, milligrams daily. Meanwhile, the seeds of the cilantro plant, called coriander, possess anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in disease and even cancer.

Ashwagandha benefits include its ability to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. Perhaps most striking is the Chinese root spice galangal , suggested by a growing body of scientific research, is its ability to fight and potentially prevent a broad number of cancers and tumors.

See our list of healing herbs and spices. Detoxifying with rich sources of selenium , zinc and B vitamins helps purify blood; produce the bile needed to digest fats; balance hormones naturally; and store essential vitamins, minerals and iron.

These mineral-rich foods can help counteract the effects of alcohol, prescription drugs, hormone disruptions, high triglyceride levels, low potassium, obesity and viral infections. One of the easiest ways to consume more probiotics is in their most natural state, which includes raw milk products such as cheese, kefir and yogurt.

Raw and cultured are key here, since fermentation produces probiotics but high heat processing used to pasteurize dairy can damage many of the vital nutrients, including the enzymes, proteins and probiotics.

Most dairy today is loaded with hormones, antibiotics, pain killers and pesticide residue so buying organic is also important. Aim for six ounces of cultured dairy daily probiotic yogurt , cottage cheese, goat milk kefir or amasai.

Cottage cheese, which is rich in sulfur protein and saturated fats, was found to be especially beneficial as part of the Budwig diet for cancer protocol. You can also increase your probiotic food intake without dairy by consuming cultured vegetables like kimchi , sauerkraut, coconut kefir, kombucha or natto.

Cultured dairy is also a great source of calcium. Calcium , particularly when combined with vitamin D3 form, may reduce the incidence of cancer.

Calcium seems to be especially beneficial for preventing cancer and rectal cancers. Some studies have also found that it helps reduce breast cancer and ovarian cancer risk. Sunlight exposure and marine oils such as cod liver oil or krill oil are great sources of vitamin D that help with calcium absorption.

Calcium should ideally be obtained from foods like organic dairy products. Chia seeds and flaxseeds are two of the most nutrient-dense seeds in the world. They provide fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of important minerals.

Chia is rich in alpha-linolenic acid ALA , a type of omega-3 fatty acid that gives it the potential to act as a cancer-fighting food.

One in-vitro study published in the Journal of Molecular Biochemistry found that ALA helped limit the growth of both breast and cervical cancer cells. Researchers also found that it caused cell death of the cancer cells without harming the normal healthy cells in the body.

Meanwhile, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Cancer Research discovered that consuming flaxseeds may defend against breast cancer by decreasing tumor growth.

In addition, hemp seeds , sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are also beneficial and full of healthy fatty acids. Their health benefits and are best sprouted and can be used easily in smoothies, baked goods and with yogurt. Aim for two tablespoons daily. Many studies find a link between nut consumption and cancer prevention , including a reduced risk for colon, prostate and breast cancers.

Did you know that your brain and nervous system control the function of your entire body and that about 60 percent of your nervous system is made up of fatty acids? Some phytochemicals act like antioxidants. Some types of phytochemicals are:. Free radicals can damage cells, which may lead to cancer.

Antioxidants are thought to help protect cells by removing free radicals before they cause damage. Phytochemicals may help reduce the risk of cancer, but there is still a lot to learn about the activity of phytochemicals and their protective effects. The best way to benefit from different antioxidants and phytochemicals is to eat a variety of vegetables, fruit and grains each day.

Wouldn't it be great if a daily pleasure helped reduce your cancer risk? In some cases, that might be true! Research suggests that drinking coffee may help protect against uterine and liver cancer. This is true for both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee.

Herbal teas are made up of a combination of different flowers, herbs and spices. Herbal teas do not have the same antioxidant benefits as green or black tea, but drinking them can help you stay hydrated. Drinking very hot beverages might increase your cancer risk.

Make sure that your hot drinks are at a temperature below 65°C. Let your coffee or tea cool down for a few minutes before taking a sip.

Genetically modified foods sometimes called genetically modified organisms or GMOs are foods that are changed by altering or adding genes in plants.

Crops can be genetically modified to add taste and nutrition and make them easier to grow. Organic foods are grown and processed differently than non-organic foods. Although people may choose organic foods because they believe that they are healthier and safer, there is not enough research to confirm this.

People often choose organic foods because they are concerned about the use of pesticides and the environment. Pollutants may be found on both organic and non-organic foods, so all vegetables and fruit should be washed well.