Alternative Therapies And Natural Remedies For Liver Cancer Treatment

Liver cancer often results from liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. While there are various options of standard treatment for liver cancer, many natural treatments can help control the spread of the disease, alleviate symptoms, and help cope with the side effects of standard treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy - as the alternative medicine site explains.

Several herbs and pharmaceutical agents are therapeutic. Berberine is found in the Oregon grape root which is alleged to stop the growth of liver cancer cells. Barberry and goldenseal are also similar natural remedies. Herbal remedies do not have any side effects and are non-toxic. Astragalus, from the legume family, commonly known as milk-vetch, locoweed, and goat's-horn, is said to stimulate the immune system. Lentinan, found in the shiitake mushroom, inhibits the growth of tumors. Lentinan can be intravenously administered. The Linghzi mushroom has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 4000 years. It is also known as Reishi, and helps prevent the growth of liver cancer cells.

Essaic tea is made from a mixture of four herbs that contain antioxidants that can prevent the spread of cancer cells. It is also alleged to have DNA protective properties that prevent cells from modifying and changing to cancer cells. Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10, ellagic acid and green tea are also known to be effective. Some reports indicate that Essaic tea reduces the side effects of chemotherapy.

Some herbal treatments such as Astragalus should not be taken by those with a fever or a skin infection. Pregnant women are advised to avoid Oregon grape root, coptis and barberry. A diet rich in polyunsaturated omega 6 fatty acids can suppress liver cancer. These are found in safflower and perilla oil, which can be used in salads and cooking. Foods such as coconut, hazelnuts, chocolate, and sunflower seeds are rich in amino acids, which is another substance that prevents the growth of tumors. Bitter melon, and raw beet juice ought to be included in a liver cancer patient's diet. However, these alternative therapies need to be combined with conventional methods of treatment in order to be effective.

A well balanced diet with Vitamin and nutrient supplements with foods rich in beta carotene, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and selenium is advised. These help to boost the levels of nutrients in the body and strengthen the immune system. Many traditional alternative healing therapies such as naturopathy, acupuncture, acupressure, and hypnotherapy can help relieve symptoms such as pain, which is normally associated with liver cancer.

While the disease itself can cause emotional stress leading to anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, it is advisable to seek counseling from a behavioral therapist. Medications can also cause side effects that could be difficult to cope with. Several stress management and meditation programs can help reduce stress levels patient, cope better with the side effects of treatment, and develop a positive attitude towards treatment and their lifestyle. It is important to realize that alternative therapies are not curative, but are useful in enhancing the effectiveness of conventional treatment.