Phytotherapy includes many methods used for cancer treatment. Of course, these practices are not the same for all types of cancer. Since phytotherapy plants affect different parts and organs of the body, the method and plant to be used are also different. It is necessary to get support from experts in the field about which phytotherapy application should be used for which cancer. Otherwise, these plants may cause toxic effects. Correct application of phytotherapy in cancer treatment is of great importance.
What is phytotherapy in cancer?
Phytotherapy is one of the frequently used supportive treatment methods for cancer treatment. This treatment, using various medicinal and aromatic herbs, can help cancer heal faster. However, it should be noted that phytotherapy is not a direct solution or treatment for cancer, but only supportive. Some plants and plant mixtures can be used as supplements in cancer treatment. In particular, turmeric has a great effect in the healing of cancer. This plant, which stands out with its anti-inflammatory properties, has also been proven to have a wide range of efficacy in cancer treatment. It is considered the most powerful anti-cancer herb among experts. Turmeric contains a natural component called curcumoid. In other words, it protects the cells against deterioration, prevents the proliferation of tumor cells and prevents the formation of metastases. It also helps the cell to restore its apoptosis ability.
Phytotherapy in cancer is a supportive treatment method for curing this disease with herbal sources. Many plants, especially the bark, contain a pigment called quercetin. This pigment, which has a high anti-tumor effect, helps to strengthen the immune system. It also protects the person against tumors that develop due to hormones. Herbs that contain quercetin include broccoli, onions, greens, cabbage, cauliflower, and apple peel.
How does phytotherapy affect cancer treatment?
Phytotherapy is applied for the treatment of various cancers. Pancreatic cancer is a disease whose recovery is supported by phytotherapy treatment. Early diagnosis is very important for phytotherapy applications to show successful results in cancer. Of course, in the last stage, phytotherapy can be applied as a supportive treatment. The decision should be made by an expert in the field. If you apply phytotherapy treatment according to your own knowledge, you may cause worse results instead of improving your cancer disease. The purposes for which phytotherapy is used in cancer treatment and the importance of this treatment can be briefly listed as follows:
- fighting cancer cells
- Strengthening the immune system and increasing the body’s resistance to other diseases
- prevent cancer cells from spreading to other organs
- To minimize side effects such as nausea, dizziness, headache, weakness and vomiting caused by illness, chemotherapy and radiotherapy
Is phytotherapy used with chemotherapy?
Phytotherapy applications are generally used in the post-chemotherapy treatment period. The question of whether phytotherapy is used with chemotherapy is being investigated by many. Although phytotherapy is preferred as a supportive treatment, it may also reduce the effectiveness of drugs. It can sometimes cause side effects when used with different treatments such as chemotherapy. Therefore, herbs that interact with drugs can lead to a decrease in the effect of chemotherapy or an increase in its side effects. Liver, breast, bowel, stomach, lung cancer phytotherapy applications should not be performed together with chemotherapy. For the treatment of any type of cancer, it is necessary to follow the doctor’s instructions.