In scientific journals, there are several reviews of studies on complementary approaches that help fight cancer.^31-39 . Most often, these strategies help to improve quality of life. Several of them rely on the interactions between pansies, the emotions and bodies physical to bring well-being. It is possible that they have an effect on the evolution of the tumor. In practice, we see that they can have one or other of the following effects:

• improve the feeling of bodily and psychological well-being;
• bring pleasure and calm;
• reduce anxiety and stress;
• reduce fatigue;
• reduce nausea following chemotherapy treatments;
• improve appetite;
• improve the quality of sleep.

Here is an overview of the evidence supporting the effectiveness of a few of these approaches.

 Acupuncture. Based on clinical trials^40,41 carried out so far, several expert committees and organizations (the National Institutes of Health⁴², the National Cancer Institute⁴³ and the World Health Organization⁴⁴) concluded that acupuncture was effective in reducing nausea and vomiting caused by treatment of chemotherapy.

 visualization. Following the conclusions of 3 study summaries, it is now recognized that relaxation techniques, including visualization, markedly reduce side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and vomiting^46-48 as well as psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, anger or a feeling of helplessness^46,48,49.

 Massage Therapy. All the data from trials with cancer patients indicate that massage, with or without aromatherapy, provides short-term benefits on psychological well-being.^50-53 . In particular, an improvement in the degree of relaxation and the quality of sleep; decreased fatigue, anxiety and nausea; pain relief; and finally an improvement in the response of the immune system. Massages are sometimes offered in hospitals.

Note that manual lymphatic drainage, a type of massage, can decrease lymphedema following treatment for breast cancer^54,55 (See our Breast Cancer file for more information).

 Autogenic training. Some observational studies⁵⁷ indicate that autogenic training significantly reducesanxiety, increases the “Combativeness” and improves the quality of sleep⁵⁸. Autogenic training is a deep relaxation technique developed by a German psychiatrist. He uses auto-suggestion formulas to create a relaxing reaction.

 Yoga. The practice of yoga has several positive effects on the quality of sleep, themood and the stress management, according to a review of studies evaluating the effectiveness of yoga in cancer patients or cancer survivors⁶⁰.

 aromatherapy. According to a study of 285 people with cancer, a complementary treatment combining aromatherapy (essential oils), massage and psychological support (usual care) helps reduce theanxiety and the trough faster than when only the usual care is offered⁷⁶.

 Art therapy. Art therapy, a form of psychotherapy that uses creativity as an opening to interiority, could be useful for people with cancer, according to some clinical trials. Indeed, art therapy seems promising to improve the well-being, promote communication and decrease the psychological distress that sometimes generates the disease^61-65 .

 Dance therapy. It could have a positive effect on the quality of life, especially by reducing stress and fatigue caused by cancer^79-81 . Dance therapy aims to raise awareness of oneself and the release of tensions and blockages inscribed in the body’s memory. It takes place individually or in groups.

 Homeopathy. Researchers analyzed the results of 8 clinical studies investigating the usefulness of homeopathy in relieving either Side effects treatments of chemotherapy, or those of the radiotherapy, either the symptoms menopause in women treated for breast cancer⁷². In 4 of the trials, positive effects were observed following homeopathic treatments, for example a reduction in inflammation of the mouth induced by chemotherapy. The other 4 trials, however, reported negative results.

 Meditation. Nine small studies evaluated the effect of practicing mindfulness meditation (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) with people with cancer⁷¹. They all reported reductions in several symptoms, such as reduced blood pressure. stress, less anxiety and depression, greater well-being and a stronger immune system.

 reflexology. A few small studies have shown promising results. Some show a decrease in emotional and physical symptoms, a feeling of relaxation and an improvement in general health and well-being.^73-75 . Consult our Reflexology sheet to see the description of other studies.

 Qi Gong. Two clinical studies conducted on a small number of subjects suggest that the regular practice of Qigong may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and strengthen immunity^77,78. Qigong is one of the branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It would bring a powerful force capable of activating the autonomous mechanisms of healing in the individual who undertakes the practice and who perseveres. Most of the research published by Pubmed relates to strengthening the respiratory system.

 Consult the Reishi file to know the state of research on this product.

 Naturopathy. In addition to medical treatments, the naturopathic approach aims to improve the health and quality of life of those affected, and to help the body to better defend itself against cancer.³⁰. Using some foodstuffs, medicinal plants and suppléments, naturopathy can, for example, support the liver and help the body to free itself from its toxins. Naturopathic treatments generally include significant changes in diet. In addition, particular care will be taken to observe everything in the person’s environment (chemicals, food, etc.) that may contribute to cancer. Antioxidant supplements (such as vitamins C and E), if used, should only be used under professional supervision, as some may interfere with treatments.

 Beta-carotene in supplements. Cohort studies have linked taking beta-carotene supplements to a slightly increased risk of lung cancer. In food form, beta-carotene would however help prevent lung cancer. The National Cancer Institute recommends that smoking not to consume beta-carotene in the form of supplements⁶⁶.