CANCER - Ease side effects of cancer treatment

Five natural remedies to reduce the severity 

of side effects for a range of cancer treatments

The three common treatments to combat cancer include surgery, to remove the offending tumour; chemotherapy to shrink the tumour and kill cancer cells; and radiotherapy to target the tumour's demise. Depending on the type of cancer and time of diagnosis, these treatments may cure, or at the very least retard the cancer's growth. As successful as they may be, each treatment has its downside.

Here are five natural remedies that may help reduce side effects from cancer treatment. Remember: it is very important you speak with your doctor or oncologist before taking any remedies in combination with cancer treatment.

1   Positive thinking

Creative visualisation is one technique that can be helpful during chemotherapy. As the chemo is being delivered intravenously, rather than thinking of it as a toxic chemical, visualise a team of tiny warriors entering the body determined to seek and eliminate any cancer cells they encounter. Alternatively, think of chemo as a magical golden elixir, coursing through the body delivering healing wherever it travels.

2   Skin TLC

Radiotherapy is applied externally or internally (brachytherapy). When given externally, radiation may over time burn the skin, causing it to become red, sore, itchy and tender. While nothing is permitted on the skin prior to a treatment, caring for the area after each treatment will minimise symptoms. Aloe vera gel is cooling and healing. Applying oils containing vitamin E with other healing ingredients such as lavender, rosemary and chamomile are also recommended. An interesting remedy gaining popularity is fine powdered white French clay. This is simply dusted over the area and left for an hour.

3   Tummy troubles

Chemotherapy is notorious for causing tummy upsets. A daily dose of slippery elm bark and some probiotics will reduce many symptoms (try the smoothie suggestion below too). Slippery elm is a soothing fibre that helps heal the lining of the digestive tract, while the probiotics reestablish 'good bacteria' that normalise bowel function and assist the immune system. Herbal teas such as ginger, peppermint, chamomile all help with nausea and assist in digestion too.

4   Surgery support

Whether it's for cancer or to remove an ingrown toenail, any kind of surgery causes trauma to the body. Arnica, a homoeopathic remedy, is excellent to reduce bruising and hasten healing. Take a few drops every few hours after surgery and for the next day or so. Zinc and vitamin C are a healing combination after surgery too. Take one tablet twice a day for a few weeks.

5   Drink it down

If eating has become a chore during cancer treatment, this smoothie delivers a load of nutrients in one quick gulp. It's easy to make, and tastes delicious too. 

1 serve of whey based protein powder
1 serve of milk or juice 
1 small banana
1 teaspoon of probiotics (acidophilus powder)
1 teaspoon slippery elm powder
½ cup frozen mixed berries

Add all the ingredients to a blender, whizz, and serve cold.

Source: http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/