For many, a cancer diagnosis is a scary reality. Unfortunately, many of the traditional methods of treating cancer (i.e., radiation and chemotherapy) can have incredibly harsh and invasive side effects. Chemotherapy is a systemic form of treatment that relies on the administration of various cancer-fighting drugs via injections, oral intake, or direct skin application. Chemo may cause severe side effects such as nausea, loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhea, hair loss, bruising, risk of infection, and anemia.
While radiation, when provided either internally or externally, can severely damage healthy cells in your heart, kidneys, bladder, lungs, and nervous system. In an effort to combat the severe symptoms and side effects that result from chemo and radiation, patients often turn to several natural cancer remedies for some much-needed relief:
1. Essential oils and aromatherapy
Aromatherapy, or the use of essential oils derived from plants, can be used as a means of supportive care for cancer patients. When used either as a topical treatment or via inhalation, essential oils may exert a powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. As a result, essential oils can provide a sense of relaxation to the patient. When used correctly, aromatherapy serves as a great weapon against stress while providing incredible anxiety relief benefits.
2. Dietary supplements
Dietary supplements, which include things like plant-based vitamins, minerals, herbs, algae, or yeast, can be used as a means of incorporating much needed dietary elements for cancer patients. As both nausea and loss of appetite can develop as symptoms of harsh cancer treatments, many cancer patients may find it increasingly difficult to maintain a well-balanced diet that meets all of their needs. With the use of the proper dietary supplements, cancer patients can fill in the nutritional gaps that may be present in their diet, ultimately helping them achieve an overall improved health status.
3. Oxygen therapy
Oxygen therapy is a form of treatment that can provide patients with extra oxygen if their body is struggling to produce it on its own. This may be the case with various forms of cancer, such as lung cancer. Without oxygen therapy, a patient may experience rapid breathing, shortness of breath, a rapid heart rate, coughing or wheezing, sweating, and confusion. All of these symptoms can put major stress on the body and result in serious, sometimes fatal injuries. With the help of oxygen therapy, a patient can experience a form of anxiety relief as their difficulties breathing are alleviated.
4. Talk to a doctor first
These are just a few of the various forms of natural cancer remedies and treatments that can be used in conjunction with more traditional forms of cancer treatment. After conducting more research on potential natural treatments and remedies for you or your loved one, always consult with your doctor about which method may be suitable and safe for you.
