Cancer teatment based upon principles of natural medicine
NON-TOXIC TREATMENT
We can take advantage of the healing powers within ourselves and combine them with conventional medical treatment; This way we bestow ourselves with a greater chance for recovery, longer life expectancy and a richer quality of life.
INTRODUCTION
Over the last few years an opinion has been formed which states that the fact that people become ill with cancer is deeply related to their lifestyle and environmental factors. Risk factors exist which are liable to increase the chance of becoming ill, as opposed to other factors which assist in avoiding the illness, Much research has been carried out in the field of conventional medicine regarding cancer's causes and treatments, however cancer treatment from the point of view of natural medicine has yet to be spoken and written about,
Unfortunately, from time to time an unfounded hope is awakened within the public, that some innovative treatment in the field of natural medicine will provide the expected solution. Therefore, it is important to survey and detail various methods offered by natural medicine in order to clarify their principles and efficiency. This way, we can prevent those patients looking for salvation from becoming disillusioned by misleading advertising and "new" methods.
For treatment to succeed, we entirely sever ourselves from the conventional medical system; We must combine those methods governing natural medicine with those used in conventional medical practice,
More and more cancer patients have been discovering the benefits of various treatment methods accepted by natural medicine (holistic, complementary). These treatment methods assist patients – each one according to its own approach. Through these methods various different viewpoints are expressed, such as the nutritional, psychological, immunological and spiritual viewpoints. These methods have significantly proved to be successful in curing the disease or substantially lengthening the patient's life expectancy in a large number of cancer patients.
Parallel to the development of oncology, the approach and methods of holistic medicine are conquering a central place in the treatment of cancer patients. While classic oncological treatment is mainly focused upon suppressing the tumor or removing it by means of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, etc., the holistic approach canters upon strengthening the body as a whole and the immune system in particular by taking advantage of most of the possibilities available. This approach is derived from the basic perception of the natural medicine, VIS MEDICATRIK NATURAE, which suggests that it is possible, by intensifying the healing powers concealed within ourselves, to bring about a more complete recovery, increase the ability to deal with the illness and lengthen life expectancy.
The origin of the cancerous tumor is in a distorted growth of body tissue and the uncontrollable multiplication of cells – these calls do not develop in shape and physiological functioning, and can burst beyond the range of development of the mother tissue.
Tumors can be divided into two main groups:
A. Carcinoma – a tumor which originates in coetaneous cells and mucosa.
B. Sarcoma – a tumor which originates in connective tissue (tendons, cartilage, etc.).
There are also tumors which originate in the blood, in nerve tissue, in bones and in the lymphatic system.
Before surveying the various approaches to treatment, it is desirable to emphasize the conclusions of the main researchers in the field of natural medicine regarding general and fundamental views:
1. None of the methods constitutes a guarantee for success, Evidence of success, as well as failure of the treatment can be found in each method.
Clear evidence exists, and it has been proved that a large number of patients (who turned to various methods of complementary medicine) have substantially improved their quality of life and significantly lengthened their life expectancy; in many cases the treatment has brought about a partial of total regression of the illness (with or without oncological treatment). Nevertheless, it is important to emphasize that treatment might cause damage to the patient, especially when the person who is offering the treatment has financial motives only, when treatment is implemented by an unskilled person, or in cases of neglect.
2. Relatively few studies, conducted systematically over a long period of time, have examined the efficiency of the various methods on a large number of patients, Many studies have shown the efficiency of various methods of treatment; however at this stage we have no exact detailed scientific evaluation regarding the way or the mechanism of contribution of each method.
3. In the modern medical world there is an increasing tendency to combine oncological treatment with a large proportion of methods of complementary medicine, The main viewpoints of these methods, as presently expressed in the "conventional" world, are psychological, sociological, nutritional, and immunological, The emphasis in preventive treatment is placed on nutrition and on the aspect related to life expectancy (smoking, alcohol, and the like).
4. Patients who choose to be treated by complementary medicine, generally do so parallel with conventional treatment and not as a substitute. Most of them are characterized by understanding, interest and a relatively high level of intelligence, and a positive and optimistic nature.
5. Most natural medicine methods emphasize the inseparable connection between body and soul, the importance of regarding the person as a whole entity, the need for concentrating on physiological aspects (through proper nutrition, plant essences, etc.) and psycho-sociological aspects (support groups, which assist in acquiring peace of mind, involvement and optimism), and the hidden potential of combined treatment.
All natural therapeutic methods emphasize the inseparable connection between body and soul, and in the treatment of cancer patients or patients in general, there is a need for a treatment which combines both, in order to obtain the expected results.
All the therapeutic methods repeatedly emphasize the need to strengthen our immune system, in order to enhance the therapeutic powers concealed within our bodies.
MAPPING OF THE METHODS
The various therapeutic approaches can be classified according to their different aspects:
1. The psychological-sociological aspect
2. The nutritional aspect
3. Strengthening of the immune system
4. Spiritual aspects
5. Complementary treatment techniques
6. A healthy lifestyle.
PSYCHO-SOCIOLOGICAL VIEWPOINTS
In this article I will emphasize the psychological aspect of cancer patients.
Have you ever thought about how a person, who has always believed he is healthy, reacts when he is told by a doctor that he has cancer?
It is evident that reactions vary from one person to another, yet beyond any doubt, a person with a psychological state define as good, will be able to better deal with his illness; on the other hand, a pessimistic and depressed person will not have efficient tools needed to deal with his illness, and his chances for recovery are meager.
Without doubt, the psychological aspect of cancer is of great importance; more and more doctors maintain that a person and his family's psychological approach to cancer constitutes a decisive factor in the patient's chances for recovery and life expectancy.
One of the most prevalent and common methods in the world today is the SIMONTON METHOD (detailed in length in the book "Returning to Health" by Carl and Stephanie Simonton ).
This method is based upon the idea that the patient must be taught how to mobilize his internal resources and actively participate in the process of his own recovery. the goal being to overcome the illness and strengthen his will to live and ability to defeat the disease.
The methods are based upon psychological treatments, including relaxation and guided meditation, while strengthening the patient's internal power and his faith in his ability to recover.
High levels of psychological pressure undoubtedly intensify exposure to the illness.
Psychological pressure suppresses the immune system and enhances the production of unhealthy cells.
The various psychological methods of treatment are based upon persuading the patient to actively participate in his recovery, relaxation, guided meditation and assigning positive future goals for each and every patient.
All these serve to strengthen the immune system and its ability to deal with the illness.
From all the complementary methods, psychological work with the cancer patient gains most credit in medical circles and medical research groups.
Lawrence Le-Shan is considered one of the most important researchers in the field of personality characteristics of the cancer patient, and his book
"YOU CAN FIGHT FOR YOUR LIFE" is highly recommended.
Jahn Goller from Australia (his book – "YOU CAN BEAT CANCER") and Dr. Ainsley Neyers. Also from Australia, greatly contribute to the research regarding the function of psychological peace and meditation in dealing with the disease. Dr. Bernie Siegel (his book – "LOVE, MEDICINE AND MIRACLES"), perhaps more than others in his field, has recently acted for the spreading of this treatment method – where by the patient becomes involved, observing, open, sensitive – for professional circles and the public in general.
The general effect of psychological reinforcement and support (from a partner, group, etc.) does not constitute positive psychological influence alone, but (through body contacts and psycho-neuro-immunological aspects) also positively influence the immune system and its ability to optimistically deal with the illness, The psycho-sociological aspect has therefore, significant influence and contribution, to the quality of life as well as to life expectancy.
THE ROLE OF THE SUPPORT PERSON
A diagnosis of cancer places patients and their families in one of the most emotionally difficult situations that humankind can experience.
Cancer is an alienating disease; it awakens fears within family members and friends, leaving many no longer knowing what to do or say. As a result, the patient feels more uncomfortable and more alienated, The situation becomes emotionally traumatic for some friends and family, and they may gradually distance themselves from the patient. This leads to the patient feeling not only alienated, but isolated as well. The main fears they experience are:
? The cause of my cancer is unknown.
? Cancer is generally associated with pain and an untimely death.
? There is nothing I can do to help myself other than turn over responsibility for my well-being, and indeed my life, to a doctor.
? The treatments are exhausting, and do not help anyway.
The following factors must also be considered: family reactions; the patient's impending lack of usefulness and inability to fill an expected role; the change in the patient's physical self-perception; worries concerning sexual functioning; and of course, the underlying fear: "What will happen to my family if I die?"
Cancer provides an ultimatum for profound change, Those who have decided to take responsibility for their situation are aware that their lifestyle probably played a major role in the development of the illness and therefore a change in lifestyle might bring about health and healing.
Sometimes these changes are not easy, and this is where the role of the support person is paramount.
There are three basic areas in which a cancer patient needs assistance:
1) Physical need
2) Emotional support
3) Spiritual support
DEVELOPING A PERSONAL SUPPTORT TOLE (alias Superperson!)
1. To be a support person one must be ACTIVE not PASSIVE – more then a cup of tea and pat on the shoulder with a "you'll be all right dear" is needed! There is a need to demonstrate positivist with sincerity, enthusiasm and unconditional love. Be sensitive to the patient's needs and strive to meet them.
2. The support person also needs to realize that because lifestyle problems are probably involved they too need self-examination and the problems are probably involved they too need self-examination and the flexibility to change where necessary, A harmonious home environment is essential.
3. Although it may be difficult at first, attend to areas in the personal relationship which may be unresolved. Releasing of such unfinished business can lessen the stress burden and bring about peace.
4. Recognize that the patient often vents fears and anger in the security of their own home. There is a need to be patient and understanding and a tower of strength.
5. Assist with goal setting – long. Mid-term and short-term. This can be encouraged by tapping into all available resources, then planning the appropriate action.
6. Work at overcoming your own fears of cancer and, in particular, of death and dying, You cannot function effectively as a support person until this is done.
It is good to be honest, express your fears and look for ways to deal with them.
7. Be prepared to accept your own limitations as you strive to meet the challenges. Be aware that the support person often need support too. A support group can fulfill this need.
8. A difficult one: check on your basic motivation in helping the patient to regain health. Sometimes we are ignorant of selfish needs we place upon those close to us. There is a need to develop an unconditional love flow and to learn how to demonstrate this.
9. Do as the patient does, e.g. dietary practice, meditation, positive thinking, etc. Remember this is an opportunity for you to positively improve your lifestyle as well.
NUTRITION AND REINFORCEMENT OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Many methods and centers (for complementary treatments) recommend the integration of nutritional aspects within the treatment as a whole. The basic nutritional plan is generally similar to the one recommended by the report of the committee of the Government of the United States (DIET, NUTRITION AND CANCER), based on natural foods, low consumption of meat, very few dairy products (milk and eggs), large quantities of vegetables and vegetable fibers, a minimum of canned, processed and concentrated foods and a minimum of sugar, caffeine, alcohol and salt, Some of the approaches recommend special food supplements, It must be emphasized that the process of "body purification" by fasting techniques is not recommended within the framework of cancer treatment.
COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENT TECHNIQUES
The Gerson Method
This method was developed by Dr. Gerson, Who has applied it to many cancer patients, The basic principles are: massive use of vegetable juices; abstaining from coffee, alcohol. Fat and tobacco; based upon natural-vegetarian nutrition; fresh or steamed foods; cold pressed oils, especially olive, sesame and linseed; and special supplements, coffee enemas for encouraging cleansing and purification processes and organic liver concentrate (from young calves).
Macrobiotics
This is a nutritional system which aspires to influence the balance of the system through personal adaptation according to age, season, illness and metabolic condition. This method is based upon Japanese-Chinese medical principles. The basic food: whole grains, leguminous and vegetables, with emphasis on cooked foods and special supplements: sea weeds, misu (a soya concentrate).
The Ann Wigmore Method
A relaxation method, developed by Ann Wigmore over 40 years of work and research, (She herself recovered from cancer using this method).
The method is based upon cleansing the body of physical poisons with the help of wheat grass juice and a unique menu, mainly based upon consumption to sprouts, the use of enemas, and cleansing the body of mental poisons with the aid of relaxation techniques and positive thinking,
It is a good method and is appropriate for most of the population, through individual adaptation. A steady lifestyle according to this method can significantly improve the patient's health.
Fasting
There has been much written about various fasting methods as a means of cleansing the system from poisons and waste materials which accumulate in our bodies due to inappropriate nutrition, medicines, polluted water, air pollution, contact with chemicals and lack of physical activity,
Fasting methods are not recommended for cancer patients, as fasting weakens the body. The cancer patient is many times already in a weakened state, and therefore it is senseless to weaken him further.
Vitamins, Food Supplements, Minerals and Enymes
Vitamins were intended not only for body reinforcement and satisfaction of it’s nutritional needs. But also to moderate the negative accompanying symptoms (nutritional) side effects of the radiation treatments, chemotherapy or surgery, Specific vitamins play an important role in cancer prevention, but they are being used more and more often in treatment as well. Among the most important vitamins we can list the vitamins which prevent oxidation (ANTI OXIDANTS), such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Beta Carotene (the basic substance in Vitamin A), and which also display potential for reinforcement of the immune system,
Nutrition has a significant influence upon the strength of the immune system, and there is no doubt that correct nutrition can protect the body and prevent the creation of tumors,
It is recommended to eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those containing:
? Vitamin A Beta carotene – such as carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, apricots, peaches and broccoli. (Not good in Lung Cancer).
? Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) – citrus fruits, strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli.
? Vitamin E – found in seeds, grains, Leguminosae, almonds, walnuts and sprouts.
? Fiber – peaches, strawberries and potatoes, all greens etc..
Whole wheat bread, whole rice and corn are preferred.
A low fat diet is recommended.
Avoid, as much as possible, food containing preservatives, smoke and salted foods, alcoholic beverages and large quantities of calories.
Within the framework of cancer treatment, the effectiveness of various diets is known, such as: BRICHER BRENNER, GERSON, BREUS, etc.
Likewise, the positive influence of salts such as magnesium selenium, zinc, chromium and manganese are known.
It is recommended to drink carrot juice because it contains B Caroten.
MEDICINAL PLANTS
The use of medicinal plants is most important within the framework of treating cancer patients, The most common treatments known are those with Viscum Album, plants from the Aloe family mentioned above, and plants such as Podophyllum and Vinca rosea, which influence effective draining of poisons through the kidneys and liver.
The Echinacea plants, Echinacea Anguistifolia, Echinacea Purpurea, Pallida, have significant influence, thanks to their anti-infection and anti-tumor effect, and for their contribution to the reinforcement of the body's defense mechanisms. The Echinacea gave rise to much research, as it is highly active in stimulating the immune system.
1. Activates T-KILLER cells and other white blood cells
(netrophiles, monocytes).
2. Stimulates the production and secretion of materials like interferon and interlockine,
3. Stimualtes the production of profardin (the complementary immune system).
4. Increases phangocytosis by means of granulocytes and microphages.
5. Enhances the activity of the hormonal and cellular immune system.
6. Accelerates the haematogenous process (multiplication) of the
T cells – lympocytes.
7. Specific anti-viral activity, proved to be effective against certain types of flu – VESCICULAR HERPES STOMATITIS.
In a follow-up of cancer patients with a decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood – LEUKOPENIA – mainly as a result of radiation and which have been treated by means of injecting echinops substances in Echinacin product, in addition to Viscum album preparations, an increase in the number of leukocytes has lately been proved, which generally constitutes a condition to the continuation of radiation or chemotherapy treatments.
There are various medicinal plants which assist in cases of constipation, weakness, nausea and pain.
USE OF THE VISCUM ALBUM - MISTLETOE
This method is based upon materials prepared from the VISCUM ALBUM semi-parasitic plant, which grows on assorted trees, such as apple, lemon, fir an pine.
This treatment was first introduced by STEINER in 1920, and late by the "ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER RESEARCH - ARLESHEIM" – Swiss.
The VISCUM'S activity is based on:
1. activation of the mesenchymal tissue.
2. Increase in body temperature,
The treatment stimulates the production of lymphocytic, monocytic, and histocytic cells, which participate in the body's resistance to the illness; it stimulates reproduction of the various lymphocytes in the different lymphatic limbs: the thymus glands and the spleen.
Likewise, body temperature rises by approximately one degree. This is due to a process resulting from an infection that stimulates the activity of white blood cells and lymphocytes. The temperature increase mainly occurs in the liver.
These treatments are common. But are only practiced by doctors skilles in giving this type of treatment.
USE OF PLANTS FROM THE ALOE FAMILY
A number of plants in this family are attributed with the ability to arrest the development of the cancerous tumor, even though there is still no evidence regarding any specific substance which has been isolated, and which has been proven as a solution.
At present, we are familiar with three types of plants used in cancer treatment: Aloe vera, Aloe ki, Aloe arbrosens.
All are based on the gelatinous material extracted from the aloe plant.
In this method of treatment great improvement in the general feeling and condition of the patients has been reported.
In my opinion, the plant is mainly effective in the treatment of benign tumors and/or malignant tumors that have been surgically removed.
THYMUS GLAND EXTRACTS
The thymus gland has a central function in the immune system. Normal secretion of the gland protects against "an attack" by germs and viruses and probably suppresses mutations. The thymus gland extract stimulate the immune system's activity, and evidence exists that the use of the thymus, as well as of the Viscum album, improves cancer patients' ability to deal with the illness and their quality of life.
Research has proved that thymus gland extract has an inhibiting influence over the tumor, and it is also liable to decrease its size. Thymus extracts given to patients during chemotherapy showed a significant improvement in their lifestyle as compared to patients in a control group who underwent chemotherapy alone.
CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture can be helpful in conditions of weakness and exhaustion. It is widely used for suppressing pain and decreasing the side effects of treatments.
HOMEOPATHY
According to the principles of homeopathic medicine, the cancer patient suffers from a disease expressed by a tumor. It is therefore important to fight the disease by reinforcing the body's defense system, and it is recommended to remove the tumor by surgery in order to reach complete recovery. There are homeopathic medicines which can ease side effects, such as: nausea, weakness, constipation, etc.
HYPOPHYSICAL TREATMENT USING UKTRA-SHORT
ELECTRO MAGNETIC WAVES
This method was developed by Prof. Schliphacke. The treatment is performed two to three times a week, by means of a device which was specifically developed for this purpose.
Treatment objectives:
1) To restore the balance between the inhibiting growth hormones and the stimulating growth hormones.
2) To influence the autonomic nervous system.
3) To reinforce the immune system, by means of increasing the number of lymphocytes.
In a significant percentage of tumors which could not be surgically removed, the treatment resulted in a decrease in the size of the tumor.
The treatment brings about a significant improvement in the quality of the patients lives - they suffer less and experience more enjoyment.
LIFESTIYLE
A healthy lifestyle constitutes the basics of each of the serious treatment methods. In order to achieve a healthy lifestyle, it is generally recommended to participate in physical activity (intensive or moderate), such as swimming, running or yoga and daily activities with calming characteristics (relaxation, guided meditation, etc.).
Changes in habits which have caused the illness point to an additional aspect in the patient's ability to display responsible involvement such as: changes in smoking habits and consumption of alcohol and caffeine.
SUMMARY
We could review and detail additional methods, but I would like to again emphasize the importance of combined treatment, the objective being to reach the best possible results.
Each method is feasible, on condition that it is implemented in a professional manner, The tumor must be surgically removed in order to avoid damaging the human body's essential activities and to avoid metastases, Therefore, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are highly recommended, parallel to treatment which reinforces the immune system, according to selection of the various methods outlined in this article, hoping to reach total recovery in as many patients as we can.
It is unnecessary to mention that this article is not intended as a medical indication, and one should consult with the doctor using any of these specific methods.