Determining whether or not to investigate any herbal detoxifiers is something you must first discuss with your integrative healthcare professional and your oncologist. Because herbs are “natural,” many people assume that herbs are entirely safe. This is not true!
There are certain times during cancer treatment, when taking herbal supplements or drinking herbal teas may not be appropriate and may even be dangerous. Never self-prescribe herbal supplements without first coordinating with your medical team of alternative medicine professionals, mainstream doctors, and oncologists.
It is also important to remember that there have been no “scientific” studies affirming the effectiveness of herbal remedies or their ability to aid or promote detoxification. Despite the lack of formal evidence, many women with breast cancer have enjoyed relief from treatment side-effects via the use of herbal agents.
With any detoxification program, it is best to work with your oncologist and integrative healthcare professional. Let them help guide you through the process. Several herbal agents are highly effective in aiding the detoxification process. Here are just a few:
Cat’s Claw is a large woody vine that is indigenous to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical areas of South and Central America. This herb has been used for centuries by native population of South Americans to bolster the immune system. Cat’s claw contains alkaloids and quinovic acid glycosides that are known to enhance the immune system.
Chlorella is a single-celled freshwater algae which contains the largest concentration of chlorophyll than any other plant. Chlorophyll is one of the most effective detoxifiers known. A potent immune system activator, chlorella stimulates cancer-combating T-cells and macrophages by increasing the level of interferon, one of the body’s greatest natural defenses against cancer.
Chlorella is also believed to help stimulate the growth of white blood cells. This is particularly important for patients undergoing chemotherapy who suffer a decreased number of white blood cells and the consequent side effects of fatigue and a weakened immune system.
Many studies have shown that chlorella also helps the body neutralize or eliminate heavy metals and other chemical toxins. Furthermore, chlorella also is believed to help keep the bloodstream clean and maximize the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen. A clean bloodstream, with plenty of red blood cells to carry oxygen, is a critical component of the body’s natural defense system, especially in the fight against cancer cells.
Many cancer patients take up to 30 grams of chlorella per day. But, as with all herbs and supplements, exact dosages should be gauged and monitored by a patient’s integrative healthcare professional.
Spanish black radish, a member of the brassica family, helps combat free radical damage and supports gastrointestinal detoxification. Black radish is rich in Vitamin B, Vitamin C, sulfur, and fiber.
Mitake mushrooms are large mushrooms (some weighing in as much as fifty pounds) native to the mountain forests of Japan. The Japanese have prized mitake mushrooms as agents of good health for thousands of years. In fact, during the feudal era, mitake mushrooms were worth their weight in silver.
Many studies have shown mitake mushrooms to be a powerful supporter of the immune system, which assists in encouraging cell growth and repair of cells, particularly in the lungs and breasts. |
