Natural Treatments for Managing Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system. This, in turn, reduces the functioning of the immune system. Researchers have discovered many subtypes of lymphoma with different sets of symptoms. However, the general symptoms of lymphoma include night sweats, hardened or enlarged lymph nodes, respiratory distress, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss. It is extremely important to visit an oncologist at the earliest if any of these symptoms are seen.
While radiation therapy and chemotherapy are standard treatments, many researchers and even cancer survivors highly recommend going for natural treatments for lymphoma as well. These natural treatments for lymphoma can also be used in conjunction with the usual course of treatment to boost the chances of survival by a significant margin. Here are the top options lymphoma patients can go for:
1. Ginger
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), in an article on complementary cancer medication, states that ginger has a vital role in treating and managing the side effects of chemotherapy like nausea. While extensive research is yet to be done, the initial results indicate a vast potential for ginger to be used as one of the best natural treatments for lymphoma that patients may benefit from.
2. Quit smoking
Another study found in the Cancer Causes & Control journal has stated that quitting smoking or the consumption of any other form of tobacco gives the body a chance to stop carcinogenic cells from growing and spreading. Among the long list of harmful effects smoking has on the body, it makes the immune system weaker and elevates the chances of chronic diseases. It is wise to take all necessary measures to quit smoking at the earliest.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids
Research states that omega-3 fatty acids play an important part in decreasing the risk of various types of cancers by simply boosting one’s immune response. Omega-3 fatty acids can be added to one’s diet through walnuts and chia seeds.
4. Milk thistle
Milk thistle is a highly popular herb and is used as a natural treatment for various health conditions. It primarily detoxifies the body and improves the liver’s functionality. This is one of the easiest treatments for lymphoma patients. All that needs to be done is to add milk thistle to the patient’s daily intake. This significantly increases the chances of the body fighting not only lymphoma but also other types of cancer.
5. Stress-relieving techniques
Most lymphoma patients also suffer from anxiety due to stress about their on-going treatment. Emotional health is never to be ignored as suffering from anxiety disorders and stress can tire out metabolism, leading to low energy levels and many other issues. Some natural treatments for lymphoma focus on techniques that help in reducing stress. These include yoga and meditation, which help reduce stress and eliminate surplus cortisol from the body. This, in turn, decreases oxidative stress in the body and improves overall health.