Certain herbs and nutrients can help. Your naturopath might recommend different nutrients or combinations of dietary supplements to complement your medical treatment with your doctor. Always discuss any nutrient intake with your doctor.

Naturopaths believe that cancer arises from an imbalance that causes a systemic breakdown within the body. They help people restore internal balance and build their resistance to disease by empowering them to make lifestyle and dietary changes. Naturopaths suggest dietary supplements that strengthen the body and mind. Always discuss any nutrient intake with your GP. The naturopathic therapies that are right for you will depend on your diagnosis, health status, and primary treatment.

Naturopaths use a variety of therapies to help people with cancer, including:

Clinical Nutrition:
Naturopaths believe that good nutrition is one of the foundations of good health. Studies show that people with cancer who maintain high-quality nutrition fight off secondary infections, recover more quickly, and tolerate conventional therapy better.

Depending on your needs, your naturopath will likely recommend dietary changes and may supplement your diet with shakes rich in protein and vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are usually taken in pill form.

Acupuncture and Acupressure:
Among the best-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) procedures, acupuncture and acupressure have been shown to relieve pain, nausea from chemotherapy, and the side effects of hormonal therapies. Both are based on the concept of Qi, or the flow of vital energy through the body. Acupressure is based on the massage of key energy points within the body to realign Qi. Acupuncturists painlessly insert fine needles into strategic points on the body to redirect the flow of energy.

Botanical Medicine:
Plants have been used to help medical conditions since the beginning of civilization. Today, 80% of the world’s population uses botanical remedies, and many medications are derived from plants, including some of the most powerful chemotherapy agents.

Naturopaths use herbal medicines to strengthen the body and relieve symptoms. For example, aromatic herbs like ginger, fennel, and peppermint can relieve nausea. Green tea contains antioxidants. Chinese herbs, such as astragalus, are often used to relieve symptoms and boost the immune system.