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Benefits of Botanical Supplements Enhancing Cancer Treatment
Cancer is a serious health issue worldwide, with about 19.3 million new cases and almost 10
million deaths in 2020. In 2021, experts expect cancer to cause over 600,000 deaths and around
1.9 million new cases in the USA. For many years, people have used botanical supplements as cancer
treatments. They have anti-inflammatory effects and contain various components that can fight
cancer directly and indirectly. They affect tumor growth and the immune system and can help
with chemotherapy.
While herbs might appear innocuous, they can potentially disrupt cancer therapy. Some herbs hinder chemotherapy and radiation, impeding their effectiveness in eradicating cancer cells. Moreover, certain herbs can exacerbate the toxicity of chemotherapy, resulting in undesirable
side effects.
Medical professionals advise patients to steer clear of herbs while undergoing treatment. Take safety precautions until research determines which herbs can be safely integrated with cancer therapy. This caution extends to products like botanical wellness kratom as well.
Exploring Safe Combinations: Integrative Oncology Research:
Efforts in the emerging field of integrative oncology aim to assess the safety and efficacy of combining complementary therapies, such as herbal remedies, with traditional cancer treatments.
Conventional cancer drugs sometimes contain active herbal components, such as Taxol
(paclitaxel), derived from the bark of the yew tree. However, herbal supplements made from
yew tree bark do not replicate the effects of Taxol.
While herbal medicines may relieve mild symptoms or side effects, they are generally less
effective than prescription medications. Many individuals find more significant relief from
conventional treatments.
Herbal Medicine’s Role in Cancer Care:
We explore herbal remedies for their potential to enhance immune function, alleviate cancer
symptoms, mitigate treatment side effects, hinder cancer metastasis, and combat cancer cells.
However, research indicates that herbal medicine cannot substitute conventional cancer
treatment. Scientists have not scientifically validated any herb to manage or cure any form of
cancer.
While some studies have been conducted in laboratory settings or on animals, human research
is limited, with no large-scale, double-masked clinical trials conducted in the United States.
Exploring Traditional Herbal Remedies for Breast Cancer:
Although many of their mechanisms remain unclear, Researchers have investigated numerous
traditional herbal medicines for their potential as anti-breast cancer agents. These herbs,
categorized into six groups, including alkaloids, coumarins, polyphenols and flavonoids,
terpenoids, quinone, and artesunate, have demonstrated promising properties. Some, like
curcumin and artemisinin, have well-known chemical structures. Despite being considered
healthy food components for years, further preclinical and clinical studies are necessary to
determine their suitability for regular human consumption and precise clinical applications.
Astragalus Potentially Mitigates Side Effects of Platinum-Based Chemotherapy:
Research indicates that astragalus may help alleviate side effects associated with platinum-
based chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin and carboplatin, which are highly effective in treating
mesothelioma.
In 2012, a study carried out in China and published in Medical Oncology showcased that lung
cancer patients who were administered a combination injection comprising astragalus,
cisplatin, and vinorelbine reported an improved quality of life in contrast to those who solely
received cisplatin and vinorelbine. Patients administered astragalus reported improvements in
physical function and appetite and reduced fatigue, pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Dong Quai in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Cancer Care:
Dong quai is a herb commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to promote overall
wellness. Some studies indicate potential benefits for cancer patients undergoing doxorubicin
chemotherapy, particularly in mesothelioma treatment.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that dong quai may interact with certain medications and is
not advised for women with estrogen-sensitive cancers. Its safety for mesothelioma patients is
still uncertain, necessitating further clinical trials to assess its effects.
Burdock Root: Potential Benefits and Risks for Cancer Patients:
A 2011 review in Inflammopharmacology highlights laboratory findings suggesting that burdock
root possesses anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and liver-protective properties.
While there’s no evidence that it treats cancer in humans, it may aid in reducing inflammation
and supporting liver recovery post-cancer treatment.
However, cancer patients should approach herbal products cautiously due to potential quality
control issues. A historical incident from the 1970s underscores the risks; a burdock root tea
was found contaminated with atropine, a substance linked to irregular heartbeats and vision
problems. It’s essential for patients to carefully monitor the effects of any herbal remedies they
consider using.
Essiac Tea: Immune-Boosting Herbal Blend:
Essiac tea, a blend of herbs like burdock root renowned for their immune-boosting properties,
has garnered attention. While it doesn’t cure cancer, research suggests it contains higher
antioxidants than red wine or green tea.
Studies conducted by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the 1970s and 1980s, comprising around 18 trials, concluded that Essiac tea failed to enhance the immune system or exhibit cancer-killing properties.
Conclusion: In conclusion, botanical supplements offer promising potential in supporting cancer treatment,
helping to alleviate side effects and enhance overall well-being. While research continues
exploring their efficacy, it’s essential to proceed cautiously and consult healthcare
professionals. Remember, even though botanical wellness kratom may be tempting, it’s crucial
to prioritize safety and evidence-based care when incorporating botanical supplements into
your cancer treatment journey.