Generally referred to as complementary therapies or integrative medicine for lung cancer, these methods are typically used alongside conventional lung cancer treatment. In contrast, alternative treatments for lung cancer (sometimes called natural remedies for lung cancer or home remedies for lung cancer) typically replace regular medical care. This can have serious consequences, says the National Institute for Complementary and Integrative Health. (1) Sometimes, people with lung cancer are interested in exploring palliative care, which aims to improve quality of life for people with life-threatening diseases. RELATED: How to Manage the Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Acupuncture
This traditional Chinese practice involves inserting small needles to stimulate certain points on your body. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center says it is safe and effective for treating side effects of cancer treatment such as:
PainFatigueInsomniaDry mouthNeuropathy symptoms (pain caused by nerve damage)Nausea and vomiting (2)
Herbal and Dietary Supplements
Some people with cancer take dietary supplements, such as vitamins, herbs, minerals, or products made from plants, animal parts, algae, seafood, or yeasts. According to the American Lung Association, there is no proof that any supplement can help cure or fight lung cancer. (3) Talk to your doctor about any supplement you’re taking or are considering using, asking for an open, honest conversation about the risks and potential benefits, says the American Cancer Society. (4)
Meditation
Taking time to quietly reflect and focus your mind, says Memorial Sloan Kettering, can help with:
StressAnxietyPainFatigueSleep (5)
Yoga
This ancient form of exercise combines gentle stretches with meditation and breathing techniques. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering, yoga therapy helps with:
StressFatigueAnxiety and depressionChemotherapy symptoms (2)
Massage
According to the American Cancer Society, a number of studies suggest that massage can help with:
StressAnxiety and depressionPainAlertness (6)
Some massage therapists specialize in treating cancer patients. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering, oncology massage can help with:
FatigueLymphedemaNeuropathy symptomsConstipationMood (2)
Essential Oils
Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils from plants to improve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. While studies on the benefits of aromatherapy have shown mixed results, according to the National Cancer Institute, there have been some reports that it can help some cancer patients with:
AnxietySleepPainNausea (7)
Essential oils are usually inhaled or applied to the skin in a diluted form. Examples include lavender, jasmine, peppermint, frankincense, and rosemary. RELATED: Does Stress Play a Role in Cancer?
Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana isn’t legal in every state, but a growing number have passed laws to allow it. Marijuana contains biologically active chemicals called cannabinoids, which cause drug-like effects throughout the body. According to the American Cancer Society, a number of small studies suggest marijuana may help with:
Nausea and vomitingLoss of appetiteAnxietyNeuropathy pain (8)
It should be noted that there isn’t conclusive evidence confirming that marijuana can help with these symptoms. Marijuana also may cause harm: While it may lead to a euphoric “high,” it can also result in disorientation and unpleasant thoughts or feelings of anxiety and paranoia. (8)
Hypnosis
Some people feel better and improve their thought processes after being hypnotized, says the Mayo Clinic. Additionally, hypnosis can help with:
NauseaPainAnxiety (9)
Diet and Nutrition: Foods to Eat
There is no evidence that any particular food can help you fight cancer, says the American Lung Association, though a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help you feel your best and make it easier to tolerate treatment. (10) RELATED: 9 Ways to Relieve Anxiety When You Have Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Precautions When Using Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Many alternative and complementary therapies haven’t been proved to work, and some may even be dangerous. The American Cancer Society suggests you use caution when trying any of these approaches. Look for “red flags” that might indicate fraud. For example, if the product or therapy makes grand claims based on a few people’s experiences or offers vague references to “scientific proof,” you should be skeptical. Always talk to your doctor before trying any unconventional therapy, so you can make an informed decision. (11) RELATED: Your Everyday Guide to Living Well With Cancer
Palliative Care to Improve Quality of Life
Palliative care focuses on relieving pain and making you more comfortable. While doctors in many specialties receive training in palliative care, many institutions have a team of nurses, doctors, and social workers who specialize in providing this type of care. These experts will work with your primary care doctor, oncologist, and the rest of your lung cancer care team, according to the National Cancer Institute. (12) The goal of palliative care isn’t to cure a person, but to improve quality of life. While some people decide to have palliative care when their lung cancer treatments stop working, you can have it at any time. In fact, palliative care can be effectively given while you’re receiving standard medical therapies aimed at curing the lung cancer, says the Center to Advance Palliative Care. (13) Some palliative care approaches include talk therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques. Complementary strategies are sometimes used as a part of palliative care to make you more comfortable. If you’re interested in palliative care, ask your doctor for a referral. RELATED: 6 Steps to Take After You’ve Been Diagnosed With Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Patients Who Opt Out of Treatment Can Benefit From Supportive Care
Some people may opt to forgo medical treatment entirely, especially if their lung cancer is advanced. If you do make this choice, remember that you can still receive supportive and palliative care to manage pain and discomfort, says the American Cancer Society. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before deciding not to get treatment for lung cancer. (14) Additional reporting by Pamela Kaufman.
