Herbal Supplements to Avoid If You Have Cancer

Some natural supplements can harm a patient who is undergoing cancer treatment. They may actually counteract treatments such as chemotherapy and disrupt your progress. It is advisable to consult with your doctor before using herbal supplements.

Natural supplements are healthy. Adding them to your daily regimen can help boost your energy levels, immune system, and overall health. But with a cancer diagnosis and treatment, some supplements can cause adverse reactions. Always have a health care professional’s guidance when planning to use them.

Here are some natural supplements suggested that you should avoid while undergoing treatment for cancer;

• Graviola (soursop) - Graviola fruit is used to make candy, juice, and ice cream. Healers in Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean use this fruit, and Graviola leaves to treat infections, stomach ailments, fever, and other health conditions. However, soursop, when taken orally, can be harmful to the body. It causes neurotoxicity and Parkinson’s disease when taken as a tea.

• Acai berry – Acai berry offers many health benefits to the body. But for cancer patients, the palm fruit can interfere with radiation and chemotherapy treatments because of its antioxidant properties.

• B17 – This is a supplement derived from laetrile found in the seeds of apples and apricot. In most cases, B17 is known to be a cancer fighter. However, scientists say that it has amygdalin, a chemical ingredient that turns into cyanide when consumed and can poison the body.

• Grapefruit – Eating grapefruit or drinking its juice while on treatment for cancer can inhibit liver enzymes and interfere with beta-blockers.

• Green tea – Green tea has antioxidant effects that lower blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent tooth decay, and aid in weight loss and other uses. But it has also been found that green tea extract interferes with bortezomib (Velcade), which is used in treating multiple myeloma.

Many natural supplements are excellent for body health, but can also interfere with the way the liver metabolizes some cancer drugs. A naturopathic provider can advise you on the best supplement to take while under cancer treatment.