herbal supplements weaken effects of chemotherapy

Some herbal supplements such as acai berry, Cumin, Herbal Tea, Turmeric, Garlic is believed give benefit for health. But if you're doing chemotherapy, you better put off taking the herbal. Because herbal supplements can weaken the effects of chemotherapy.

"Many people do not understands that supplements is not vitamins and can reduce the effectiveness of medical therapy if not consumed appropriately," said M. June McKoy, MD, a geriatrician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital was quoted as saying esciencenews, Friday (19/08/2011).

Researchers say there is evidence that these popular supplements may weaken the effects of chemotherapy and can cause reactions in some cases, even deadly.

McKoy said that more research is needed to understand the interaction of supplements with chemotherapy drugs and how these interactions.

"Patients should tell doctors about drugs that they consume, including vitamins and supplements to avoid potential interactions," said McKoy (director of geriatric oncology) to Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

Herbal supplements are defined as plants used for herbal therapeutic and natural remedies and may interact with chemotherapy drugs through different mechanisms.

Unfortunately, some herbs actually can interfere metabolism of drug, making it less effective, while other herbs can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Consumption during the long periods of time when going through chemotherapy may have negative effects on the body .

Recent research shows that 50 percent of patients who is doing chemotherapy do not tell doctors that they are doing alternative therapies. "Some patients think it was not important, while others feel uncomfortable if admitted to the doctor that they do alternative therapies," said McKoy.

McKoy asked to patients to stop taking herbal supplements while receiving chemotherapy until known interactions with medications. He suggested to the patients who are interested in alternative approaches, to talk to your doctor about other approaches that might be useful.

"Integrative medicine therapies such as massage, acupuncture and meditation can meet a needs of patients by reducing stress and pain," said Melinda Ring, MD, medical director of Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group's Center for Integrative Medicine and Wellness.

so, you should consult to your doctor if you want to use herbal supplements while you are doing chemotherapy.

Actually, herbal supplements may be an good option for your health to prevention. But if you want to cure cancer, you better choose to do modern medications therapy or herbal therapy. Dont do that simultaneously without consultation to your doctor.

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