During and after chemotherapy treatments, patients experience many side effects. Although chemotherapy is a very effective treatment, it does deplete the immune system of the person who undergoes the chemotherapy procedure. Of course, the doctors do explain the side effects of chemotherapy treatments on the body, one must be aware of it, so that he / she can notice the changes that may be experienced during and after the treatment. As it affects the immunity of the body and also damages the metabolism, one must understand the different ways in which these side effects do not get prolonged. Before we talk about the herbal chemotherapy medicines that could help the body in recuperating from the harsh side effects, take a look at the different side effects of chemotherapy treatments.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy side effects could stay for short term or they could exist for long term leading to death. Hence, it is very important for those who have been diagnosed with cancer to be aware of the various side effects that may appear while undergoing the treatment, for example, patients undergoing 2 CdA chemotherapy, or chemotherapy with any other regimen will experience these symptoms. Being aware of the side effects that may appear during chemotherapy would help the patients in understanding the bodily changes and discomfort they experience and the reasons behind it. If not aware, the patient and his / her loved ones may be panic struck with the kind of changes they notice and chemotherapy causes depression if patients do not have any idea about these side effects.

• Hair loss
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Bone marrow suppression
• Constipation
• Throat and mouth sores
• Loss of weight
• Lack of concentration
• Taste changes
• Appetite loss
• Changes in palate

Herbal Medicines for Chemotherapy Side Effects

How does chemotherapy treatment while killing the cancer cells affect the other functions of the body causing different side effects? This happens as chemotherapy drugs are either taken orally or intravenously. Now the drug travels throughout the body and then targets the cell to be killed. While traveling through the body it also comes in contact with the healthy cells. Such a contact weakens the healthy cells and results in the above mentioned side effects. Instead of taking drugs containing chemicals, one could opt for alternate treatment to counter the side effects of chemotherapy. Following are some of the herbal chemotherapy medicines that help to terminate the side effects and support the chemotherapy treatment.

• Alfalfa - This is one of the FDA approved herbs that replenishes the body providing vitality and strength lost during the treatment.
• Ginger - Ginger is not just used in restoring the body from the side effects of chemotherapy but it is also considered to be safe for many other ailments. Ginger has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nausea and recurrent pains after the treatment can be cured with the use of ginger. Chemotherapy induces many changes in the body that can be stopped with the use of ginger.
• Rosehips - Rosehips is a great source of Vitamin C and iron. Like ginger, this also is an antioxidant and prevents the immune system to be damaged from any external source.
• Parsley - The use of parsley in daily diets could have a dramatically positive effect on the body. A weak body can be revitalized with a regular use of parsley in the diet. It could be eaten as it is or can be mixed in other dishes to gain its nutrition.
• Turmeric - Turmeric again is an anti-inflammatory herb that is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, high cholesterol, irritable bowel syndrome etc. Turmeric contains a natural active ingredient called curcumin, the extract of which is available to be bought in capsule or liquid form.These were just some of the herbal chemotherapy medicines that combat the side effects of chemotherapy. Besides taking these, one must also keep a close watch on his/ her diet. The nutritional intake is just as important as taking the medicines one time. A healthy diet for a patient undergoing chemotherapy must contain high-protein and high-calories food, frequent servings of fresh fruits and vegetables and adequate water.

Note: Do consult your doctor before taking any drugs or herbs mentioned in this article to counter the side effects of chemotherapy.