Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is known for being one of the best cancer treatment and research facilities in the world.
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| herbal medicine bottles with herbs and plants |
Their Integrative Medicine Service offers cancer patients complementary therapies alongside traditional treatments, including Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs.
These herbs are carefully selected and researched by MSK's integrative medicine experts for their potential benefits in cancer patients, such as reducing symptoms, improving quality of life, and enhancing the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
Benefits of Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs
Reduce symptoms.
Certain Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs can help alleviate symptoms associated with cancer, including pain, nausea, and fatigue. For example, ginger has been found to be effective in reducing nausea caused by chemotherapy. MSK also recommends using turmeric, chamomile, and peppermint to relieve symptoms of indigestion.
Improve quality of life
Integrating Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs into cancer care can help improve patients' quality of life. MSK recommends massage therapy with essential oils to reduce anxiety, depression, and improve sleep quality. Some of the recommended essential oils include lavender, peppermint, and rosemary.
Enhance cancer treatment
Some herbs may help enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments. For example, studies have found that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, may help enhance the effects of chemotherapy. MSK also recommends using green tea, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, to potentially reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
Boost immunity
Certain Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs have immune-boosting properties that can be beneficial for cancer patients. For example, astragalus has been found to have immune-boosting properties that may help support the immune system during cancer treatment.
Risks of Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs
Interactions with cancer treatments
Some Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs can interact with cancer treatments, potentially reducing their effectiveness or causing harmful side effects. For example, St. John's wort can interact with chemotherapy drugs, and taking echinacea may weaken the effects of certain immunosuppressant medications.
Side effects
Just like any medication, herbs can cause side effects. For example, high doses of echinacea can cause stomach upset and dizziness. MSK recommends speaking with a healthcare provider before taking any herbs as they can interact with prescription medications or cause allergic reactions.
Toxicity
Certain Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. For example, comfrey has been linked to liver damage when consumed in large amounts. MSK advises against consuming comfrey altogether and warns against using herbs that have not been researched and found to be safe.
Uses of Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs
Herbal supplements
Many of the Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs are available in supplement form, which can be taken orally. MSK advises against taking herbs in supplement form without a healthcare provider's recommendation.
Essential oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that can be used in massage therapy or inhaled through a diffuser. MSK recommends using essential oils under the guidance of a licensed aromatherapist or healthcare provider.
Herbal teas
Many of the Memorial Sloan Kettering herbs can be brewed into a tea, which can be a soothing way to consume them. MSK advises caution when brewing tea, as some herbs can interact with prescription medications or cause allergic reactions.
Topical applications
Some herbs can be applied topically to the skin to reduce pain or inflammation. For example, arnica can be applied to the skin to reduce bruising.
MSK recommends speaking with a healthcare provider before applying any herbs topically as some may cause adverse reactions or interact with other medications.
Arnica is a popular herb used for topical application due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties.
It is commonly used to treat bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness. Arnica can be applied in the form of an ointment, gel, or cream.
However, it should not be used on broken skin or applied for an extended period of time as it can cause skin irritation.
Another herb commonly used for topical application is chamomile. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and is often used to soothe skin irritations such as rashes, burns, and eczema.
Chamomile can be applied topically in the form of a cream, ointment, or poultice. It can also be used in a bath to soothe and relax the skin.
Calendula is another herb that is often used for topical applications. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and is commonly used to soothe skin irritations such as cuts, bruises, and burns.
Calendula can be applied topically in the form of a cream, ointment, or tincture.
MSK recommends speaking with a healthcare provider before using any herbs for topical application, especially if you have sensitive skin or are using other medications.
Herbs for Digestive Health
Many herbs have been traditionally used to support digestive health. Here are some of the herbs recommended by MSK for digestive health:
Peppermint: Peppermint has been traditionally used to soothe digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. It is available in the form of tea, capsules, and essential oil. However, it should be used with caution in people with acid reflux or GERD as it can worsen symptoms.
Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is often used to relieve nausea and vomiting. It is also believed to help stimulate digestion and relieve bloating. Ginger can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, or fresh ginger root.
Licorice: Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties and is often used to soothe digestive discomfort such as heartburn and acid reflux. It can be consumed in the form of tea, capsules, or as a powder.
MSK recommends speaking with a healthcare provider before using any herbs for digestive health, especially if you have a history of digestive disorders or are taking other medications.
Conclusion
Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and continue to be a popular alternative or complementary therapy.
However, it is important to remember that herbs are not regulated by the FDA and may interact with other medications or cause adverse reactions.
It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using any herbs for medicinal purposes.
MSK offers a wealth of information on the uses and safety of herbs, making it a valuable resource for those interested in herbal medicine.
