Anybody suffering from cancer tries to take help of whatever he or she can to relieve the pain, stress, and anxiety associated with this dreaded disease. Alternative cancer treatments do not always offer cure for cancer, but cancer patients can definitely get some sort of relief. Whether somebody is suffering from liver cancer, breast cancer, or cancer in any other body part, alternative cancer treatment can lessen his/her pain. They are not natural cancer cures; and they are in no way substitutes to the conventional cancer treatments prescribed by the doctor.
Many such alternate treatment methodologies are yet to be proven and established, and can even have adverse effects. However, some of the treatment methodologies are quite safe and there are evidences that support the benefits one can expect from them. Now, we will explore briefly some of these safe, alternative cancer treatment methodologies. You need to work closely with your doctor to determine the right balance between conventional and alternative cancer treatment approaches.
Acupuncture
In this alternative form of cancer treatment, a practitioner inserts tiny needles into the skin of the cancer patient at precise points. Studies have established that acupuncture can provide some relief from the nausea caused by chemotherapy. It can also alleviate certain types of pain associated with cancer. Though safe, acupuncture should be done from a licensed practitioner only. The needles should be sterilized too. The method is unsafe for those cancer patients who have low blood counts. The doctor should be consulted first before going for acupuncture.
Aromatherapy
In aromatherapy, practitioners use fragrant oils to provide a calming sensation. The oils can either be used over the skin during massaging, or they can be applied to the bathing water. Sometimes the fragrant oil is heated to release their scents. Though aromatherapy cannot be categorized as natural cancer cures, it is helpful in lessening nausea, pain and stress.
Hypnosis
We all know that hypnosis is a highly powerful therapy for multiple ailments. It can also provide relief for cancer patients. During a hypnotherapy session, the therapist will hypnotize the patient using gentle voice and will be helping the patient to relax. The therapist will boost up the patient's mental power and help him/her to focus on the goals at hand - controlling pain and reduction of stress.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a form of exercise that stresses on gentle body movements and deep breathing. Tai Chi can be practiced under a qualified instructor, or can be learnt by reading books and watching videos. This alternative therapy is helpful in case the patient is finding difficulty to sleep at night.
Yoga
Yoga, one of the oldest curative therapies in the world, consists of stretching exercises and deep breathing. Yoga consists of "pranayamas" and "asanas". The former consists of breathing techniques and the latter consists of body stretching and formation of several postures that help stimulate positive metabolic activities in the body. For cancer patients, yoga relieves stress, helps in getting good sleep at night, and reduces fatigue.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is another form of alternative cancer treatments that relieves muscular tension and promotes relaxation. There are various flavors of massage therapy. It can be light and gentle, or it can be deep with greater pressure. Several studies have established that massages relieve pain in cancer patients. It also helps in combating stress and fatigue. Do not go for massage therapy if you have a low blood count. Ask the therapist to avoid massaging near surgical scars, radiation treatment areas, or tumors. In case of cancer in bones, light pressure should be exerted.
Apart from these popular alternative cancer treatments mentioned here, there are other methods like - music therapy, biofeedback and physical exercise as well.
