Homeopathic medicines for adverse effects of cancer treatments
Cancer treatment is an incredibly difficult process for patients and their families, both physically and emotionally. It can be life-altering due to the enormous changes that these treatments bring in its wake. One of the most common treatments used in cancer care is chemotherapy, which helps to kill off cancer cells but also has many significant side effects. Fortunately, emerging research and clinical studies now offer some hope for finding natural remedies to help alleviate some of those painful or uncomfortable chemo-related side effects. In this blog post, we’re going delve into two recent clinical studies suggesting beneficial results from using topical calendula cream on acute dermatitis during radiotherapy as well as Traumeel S mouthwash for chemo-induced stomatitis sores in the mouth – both of which may prove invaluable resources for people undergoing chemo treatment or caring for a loved one who’s doing so.
A recent review found that homeopathic medicines may be beneficial and helpful in relieving adverse effects caused by cancer treatments. Eight studies with a total of 664 participants were included in this review, which looked at the potential use of homeopathic medicines to reduce side effects from chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Out of the eight studies, two trials with low risk of bias demonstrated benefit – one with 254 participants demonstrated benefits from calendula ointment in the prevention of radiotherapy‐induced dermatitis, and another with 32 participants demonstrated benefits from Traumeel S (a complex homeopathic medicine) over placebo as a mouthwash for chemotherapy‐induced stomatitis. The research suggests that these medicines could potentially provide relief to patients experiencing adverse effects associated with cancer treatments such as chemo therapy and radiation treatment. Furthermore, no serious adverse effects or interaction with conventional treatment was seen from the use of these homeopathic medicines.
Eight controlled trials were conducted involving a total of 664 participants. Among these trials, seven were placebo-controlled, while one compared against an active treatment. The studies focused on various areas, including adverse effects of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and menopausal symptoms associated with breast cancer treatment.
The findings from two studies with low risk of bias were particularly notable. One study, involving 254 participants, highlighted the superiority of topical calendula in preventing radiotherapy-induced dermatitis compared to trolamine, a topical agent without corticosteroids. Another study with 32 participants demonstrated the effectiveness of Traumeel S, a proprietary complex homeopathic medicine, as a mouthwash for chemotherapy-induced stomatitis, outperforming the placebo.
Two additional studies reported positive results, but the risk of bias in these studies was unclear. On the other hand, four studies reported negative results. Importantly, no serious adverse effects or interactions were reported in relation to the use of homeopathic medicines.
Homeopathic medicines can be a valuable addition to traditional cancer treatments. Through clinical observations, research and patient reports, evidence is building of the effectiveness of homeopathy as an agent of supportive care in cancer. By reducing symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and pain, homeopathy has helped many patients achieve a better quality of life throughout their treatment course. Although more research needs to be done in this field, homeopathy practitioners are providing data on benefits for patients experiencing the side effects of mainstream cancer treatments and suggest there is a window for preventative use. As we work together to provide optimal cancer care through integrated medicines, we invite you to share your experience with homeopathic medicine: let us know what has worked for you or your family? Together we can gain insight into how individual cases benefit from both traditional and non-traditional treatments so that together we can find better ways to help people affected by cancer.
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Homeopathic medicines for adverse effects of cancer treatments
