Alternative Medicine For Treating Cancer Symptoms And Treatment Side Effects

Certain Herbs And Supplements

Certain herbs and substances may help improve a cancer patient's quality of life. Herbs and supplements are defined as an extract, metabolite, concentrate, or constituent derived from plant sources. These herbs and supplements often come in capsules, gel caps, powders, tablets, and liquids. Patients who utilize herbs and supplements for their cancer do so to help stimulate their immune system, improve physical health, treat adverse side effects of traditional cancer treatment methods, prolong their life, and support their mental health. Turmeric is a supplement cancer patients often use, and it was proven in studies to decrease cachexia that occurs with malignancy. Maitake is a herbal supplement proven to boost monocyte and neutrophil activity in individuals affected by a group of cancers called myelodysplastic syndromes. Some other common herbal supplements cancer patients use include cranberry, ginseng, echinacea, garlic, and ginkgo. While herbs and supplements can be beneficial for individuals who have cancer, drug interactions should be considered before taking them.

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Music And Art Therapy

Music and art therapy have proven to be effective alternative treatment methods that can help ease the mind and emotions when going through cancer. Music therapy is a type of therapy where patients listen to music, move to music, sing, write and discuss lyrics, use guided imagery with music, and make music with simple instruments. Music therapy is not used for an individual to learn how to play an instrument or sing, but for help with mental wellbeing, emotional well being, and relaxation. Art therapy is a type of therapy where a patient works with their therapist to create objects or pictures with personal meaning. Art therapy is used by cancer patients because it can help them better express and explore hard feelings and thoughts that may come along with cancer.

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