Natural Health & Counteracting the Side Effects of Radiation Treatment

Radiation therapy is a conventional treatment for cancer. However, certain side effects are associated with this therapy, most notably nausea, fatigue and a reduced white cell blood count (anemia). Natural health therapies can help counteract the side effects of radiation treatment.

Herbal Therapies

• Natural approaches to combat nausea from radiation treatment include supplementing with herbs that possess carminative properties, such as fennel, ginger, chamomile and caraway. The Chinese herbal formula Qi Zao Granule---which contains astragalus, jujube, hoelen, and millettia---is reputed to increase while cell production while a patient undergoes radiation treatment.

Ganoderma

• According to The Cancer Cure Foundation, this fungus contains polysaccharides that provide several anti-cancer benefits in addition to reducing nausea, fatigue, hair loss, decreased appetite and compromised immunity due to radiation treatment.

Nutritional Therapy

• Antioxidants like coenzyme Ql0, vitamin E, beta-carotene, alpha lipoic acid and B-complex vitamins may offer protection from nerve damage (neuropathy) and the toxic effects of radiation.

Acupuncture

• Some patients experience relief of nausea and pain associated with radiation treatment from acupuncture.

Mind-Body Medicine

• Guided imagery, visualization, and gentle movements performed in yoga, Tai Chi and Qigong help some patients overcome anxiety and stress associated with radiation treatment.