According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in every five people will develop cancer during their lifetime, with the disease claiming one in nine men and one in 12 women worldwide.1 Despite advances in treatment, conventional therapies often come with significant side effects and are not always effective, leaving many patients searching for alternative or complementary approaches to improve their quality of life.
One emerging solution lies in the integration of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a practice with a history spanning thousands of years. By combining the strengths of modern oncology and TCM, researchers and clinicians are developing innovative approaches to cancer care that aim to address both the disease and its symptoms holistically.
TCM Herbs With Anti-Cancer Properties
TCM herbs and herbal formulas are proving to be valuable adjuncts to conventional cancer care. Research has shown that several herbs possess notable anti-cancer properties, offering potential benefits for both prevention and symptom management. By enhancing immune responses, reducing inflammation and targeting cancer cell pathways, these remedies provide a multifaceted approach to care.
One widely studied herb, huang qi (astragalus), is known for its immune-boosting effects. Studies show that it can enhance anti-tumor efficacy when used in combination with conventional cancer treatment.2 Ren shen (ginseng) has demonstrated the ability to reduce cancer treatment-related fatigue. It also shows promise in decreasing cancer risk by supporting immune health and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation.3
Jiang huang (turmeric), known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, has shown signs of being effective in the treatment and prevention of prostate cancer.4 Resveratrol, a compound found in grapeseed extract, offers antioxidative and anti-carcinogenic qualities that aid in cancer prevention.
These examples represent only a fraction of the many TCM herbal remedies that have demonstrated potential in oncology care. Each herb offers unique properties that can complement conventional treatments, providing an integrated approach to patient health.
Herbal Solutions for Unmet Symptom Needs
Many patients with cancer seek alternative therapies to complement conventional cancer treatments, aiming to manage symptoms like pain and fatigue. Combining traditional remedies with standard treatments can be effective, but it is essential that these approaches are overseen by trained, licensed practitioners who can safely manage the use of herbal medicine to avoid adverse interactions or unintended effects.
To address this need, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) developed and implemented the Herbal Oncology Program, collaborating with patients to encourage open communication about the safe use of herbs, identify symptom-specific needs and recommend classic TCM herbal formulas.5
Integrative medicine service providers at MSKCC monitored and documented patient feedback, collecting valuable data to guide future research and advance evidence-based practices in herbal medicine in cancer centers across the United States.
Over 70% of participants reported significant relief from symptoms, including pain, fatigue and digestive issues, which are among the most common challenges faced by cancer patients. Importantly, adverse effects were observed in less than 7% of cases, highlighting the safety of these interventions when administered under professional supervision.
Notably, the program emphasized open communication between patients and health care providers. In the survey conducted, participants valued the opportunity to participate in their own care and appreciated the holistic approach to addressing their concerns.
In the context of severe illness, such humanizing elements are essential yet often overlooked, underscoring the importance of integrating patient-centered care into clinical practice.
The integration of traditional remedies into cancer care is increasingly recognized for its potential benefits. These remedies often address symptoms that conventional treatments may not fully alleviate, such as pain, fatigue and emotional distress. By incorporating practices like acupuncture, herbal medicine and mindfulness techniques, integrative oncology provides a more comprehensive approach to symptom management.
New Research Regarding TCM and Breast Cancer
Breast cancer accounts for approximately a quarter of all cancer cases globally, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide.6 According to the WHO, approximately half of breast cancer cases occur in women without identifiable risk factors beyond sex and age.7 This highlights the challenges of effective prevention and emphasizes the need for continued research into reliable cures and preventative strategies.
A recently published review of seven epidemiology studies conducted in Taiwan examined the potential of TCM herbal medicine in preventing breast cancer and improving survival rates among breast cancer patients.8 In Taiwan, TCM herbal medicines are included in the National Health Insurance (NHI) single-payer system, which not only integrates seamlessly with conventional health care, but also guarantees universal coverage for both TCM and standard medical treatments.
Additionally, cancer patients in Taiwan can apply for catastrophic illness status, which covers all medical costs. This policy promotes the inclusion of a socioeconomically diverse patient population and provides more unbiased insights.
The findings suggest a potential preventative effect of TCM. When combined with exogenous hormonal therapy (EHT) – commonly prescribed for menopausal women, TCM herbs appeared to mitigate the increased risk of breast cancer associated with EHT. Herbal formulations containing danggui (Angelica sinensis), a widely used treatment for menopausal symptoms, have been found to be associated with breast cancer prevention.
While a causal relationship cannot be established, researchers suggest that incorporating danggui may help reduce the associated breast cancer risk while preserving the therapeutic benefits of EHT for menopausal symptoms. Additional prospective clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Evidence also indicates that integrating TCM with conventional cancer treatments can enhance survival rates. Receiving a combination of TCM and conventional therapies was associated with lower mortality rates compared to relying solely on conventional treatments.
However, research in this field remains limited, and further studies are necessary to validate these findings across more diverse populations. Expanding such investigations will be critical for establishing the broader applicability of TCM in breast cancer care.
Take-Home Points
Although current research is limited, evidence suggests that herbal medicine holds potential in the prevention and treatment of various cancer types. Traditional herbal remedies have been utilized for symptom management for centuries, offering a foundation for further exploration in oncology care.
To provide the most comprehensive treatment, medical professionals are encouraged to collaborate with TCM practitioners to advance research and integrate evidence-based herbal therapies into patient care. As the global burden of cancer continues to rise, leveraging all available resources is essential to reduce mortality rates and improve patient outcomes.
References
One of the longest nerves in the body is known as the vagus nerve (VN). The VN is the 10th pair of cranial nerves that originates at the brain stem in the medulla oblongata. This nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is a part of the ANS. Research suggests ear acupuncture can activate the VN.
In prior issues, Neil discussed the Gallbladder Official as a whole (March 20 including points 17 and 24); points 37-41 (June 2013); points 1, 16, and 20 (May 2021); and points 2-3, 8-9, and 12-13 (April 2024). This article focuses on GB points 7, 10, 14-15, 18-19, 21, and 23.
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability, often managed with pharmacological and surgical interventions. However, acupuncture has long been used as a non-invasive treatment for knee pain, and recent research provides new insights into its underlying mechanisms.
