In China, the use of herbs in conjunction with chemotherapy or radiation therapy has become routine and much very accepted. The complementary use of Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture and western medicine in the treatment of cancer has been extensively researched and documented.

Traditional Chinese medicine is noted as an effective adjunctive therapy when used in conjunction with conventional oncology. It is used extensively not only to manage side effects of conventional cancer therapies but also to increase and support the patient’s immune system in combating the disease.

The exact cause of cancer has evaded both Chinese and Western medicines. Both systems provide only partial answers. The TCM view sees cancer as a continuous process that begins with a minor imbalance. If the balance of Qi is upset, there will be a slowing down of the energy flow, which prevents toxins and metabolic waster from being sufficiently removed. This slowing down can evolve into stagnation if it is not corrected. The blocked energy can become concentrated to form a mass. In the case of cancer, when the mass absorbs certain toxins, it can become malignant. TCM pay attention to the relationship between cancer and the entire body, particularly the condition of the immune system. Strengthening the immune system is pivotal in prevention, treatment and improving the quality of the patient’s life.

The modalities of TCM in cancer treatment include: acupuncture, Chinese herb, nutrition, and energy enhancement exercise. TCM has helped patients undergoing chemotherapy and / or radiation treatments reduce and recover from nausea, vomiting, nerve damage, muscle and joint pain, fatigue and dizziness much quickly as compared to no supportive measures at all. When used in careful coordination with conventional therapy, TCM can increase a patient’s quality of life while safely and effectively reducing side effects from his or her treatments, thereby, furthering the chance of success in conquering the disease.