Herbs for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a very serious disease on which your chances of survival will greatly improve with the proper treatment. Though herbal supplements can assist you in preventing and recovery from lung cancer, they are not a substitute for traditional treatment. Discuss herbal supplements with your doctor before taking them.

Ginseng

Ginseng is comes from a tan root that is found in both America and Asia. The Chinese have long used the herb as a cure-all with the thought it brings strength and wisdom to those who take it. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies on ginseng have yielded positive results for people with cancer. These studies suggest that people who take ginseng are less likely to develop lung cancer. However, more studies are necessary to determine the exact function of ginseng and how it is helpful.

Green Tea

Green tea contains powerful antioxidants that help the body reduce toxins. While some studies suggest that these antioxidants can help halt the growth of cancerous cells in lung cancer, the University of Maryland Medical Center says these studies have presented conflicting results. One study proved that a fermented variation of green tea decreased risk of lung cancer, while a second study revealed that green tea actually increased the risk of lung cancer. The UM Medical Center suggests more testing is necessary about the efficacy of green tea on lung cancer.

Quercetin

Quercetin is derived from flavonoids, the pigments that give plants color. When used as a supplement, quercetin works as an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine. Since people who eat a lot of fruit and vegetables are usually at a lower risk of developing cancer, the same link is made with those who take quercetin. In clinical trials, quercetin has been proved to slow down cancer growth in the lungs. Once again, these results are based on lab results and more evidence is required for human results.