Cancer

Many natural healers consider cancer the result of a long-standing ecological imbalance of the body involving a number of systems. One common theory proposes that a change of cellular genetic structure or function from free-radical damage can lead to uncontrollable cellular growth. Because of this and other factors, it may be that potentially malignant cancer cells are constantly being created in our body. Our immune system’s job is to eliminate these cells before they become established.

When our immune system has been weakened from chronic stress, overwork, or emotional and dietary factors, it is much easier for cancer to develop. Environmental toxins, such as herbicides and pesticides, and hormonal imbalances, such as abnormally high or low levels of estrogen or testosterone, have also been targeted as possible causative factors.

Natural support for cancer treatment is as complex and varied as the origins and types of cancer, but it generally involves creating a high level of wellness through meditation, diet, exercise, and emotional and psychological development through counseling, inner awareness, and other methods. A macrobiotic diet is commonly recommended, partly because it is rich in vegetables that are known to be anti-carcinogenic.

Commonly recommended herbal programs include blood purifiers, immune strengtheners, immune stimulants, and herbal enzymes. A number of different herbs are used to purify the blood. Immune tonic herbs, especially astragalus, ligustrum, and the medicinal mushrooms are also commonly used adjuncts for cancer treatment. The extracts of medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, shiitake, and maitake have been shown to increase life span and improve quality of life in patients with some types of cancer, and several of these mushrooms are approved drugs for cancer therapy in Japan. Their use is highly recommended. While echinacea may be contraindicated for cancer, other immune-stimulant herbs are thought to aid the cancer-fighting potential of the immune system. It is thought that some herbs contain protein-dissolving, and thus tumor-dissolving properties. Escarotic herbs, which are acrid and caustic, are sometimes recommended to help break down tumors. It is also important to address adrenal and digestive weaknesses with the appropriate herbs.