Acupuncture can be beneficial in many ways: improve cancer-induced symptoms, maintain the body’s overall functional balance as well as effectively counteract unpleasant side-effects of chemotherapy and radiation. In addition,
it’s joint force with herbal therapy has shown to reduce physical and emotional distress associated with cancer.
How does acupuncture work as a painkiller? It does so by stimulating the nerves so that natural morphine-like substances (e.g., endorphins and serotonin) can be released in the brain and spinal cord. The release of these
neurotransmitters helps alleviate pain and an easier uplifting access to daily life. Moreover, acupuncture can help reduce pain syndromes, anxiety, insomnia, digested problems, and other aspects of life that are usually hindered
by cancer complications. Recently, research has supported acupuncture as a holistic approach to cancer management.
Another common side-effect of receiving chemotherapy and radiation is stomatitis, a condition that is defined by painful sores and inflammation development in the mouth area which includes the back or the throat and lips,
tongue, and gums. Stomatitis occurs easily because the growing cancer cells along the mouth are extremely sensitive to chemotherapy and radiation. Besides chemotherapy and radiation, stomatitis and glossitis can also be caused
by insufficient vitamin and nutrient levels, viral, or fungal infections. Dry mouth is a common symptom too. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can help alleviate these symptoms.
When receiving cancer treatments, the treatments often come with negative side effects on the body and your overall health such as decreasing immunity to fight against pathogens, causing herpes zoster, blisters, and rashes
around the neck and upper body region. Acupuncture, along with herbal medicine can reduce the negative side effects of cancer treatments and help return your body to a stronger and healthier state.
Patients with breast cancer receive hormonal therapy which suppresses female hormones. As a result of the dampening of estrogen receptors, symptoms similar to those experiencing menopause become prominent and can reach a high
degree of severity. These symptoms include facial flushing, hot flashes, excessive sweating, abdominal palpation, anxiety, and depression. Acupuncture and the use of medicinal herbs is often prescribed according to Eastern
Medicine which improves blood circulation and decreases the side effects of cancer treatment without damaging healthy, normal cells.