Chemotherapy and radiation are common treatments for lymphoma. However, nowadays many people are considering complementary and alternative medicine and treatment. This refers to treatments or therapies which are not the conventional treatments followed by western medical way of treatment.

Complementary and alternative treatments (CAM) will not cure lymphoma and are not a substitute for traditional medical treatments. You can use them to control the symptoms of lymphoma. It helps to relieve painful symptoms. Before starting CAM consult with your doctor, so that it does not interfere with your conventional medical treatment.

Alternative practices have been developed in different countries to help relieve cancer systems. The National Cancer Institute recommends some of the alternative practices to help ease the symptoms of cancer and the side effects of the treatment. Some of the practices are as follows:

1. Chinese medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine developed in China almost thousands of years back. It is a combination of many treatments. The natural treatment for lymphoma is a mix of Herbal Chinese medicines, acupuncture or acupressure, Feng shui, massage therapy, diet and exercises including breathing exercises. Practitioners believe it will prevent and heal illness and enhance your immune system thereby providing general wellbeing. It is believed that the forces of yin and yang keeps the body in balance.

2. Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a system of alternative medicine founded by Samuel Hahnemann. Homeopathy stresses on the fact that the body can heal itself. It uses small doses of a substance which is a large dose would cause symptoms of the illness. Before treating you the homeopath discusses with you not only about cancer but also about your general health, lifestyle, diet and medical history. Homeopathic medicines may be in the form of tablets, powders or liquids and ointments. Repeat reviews with the homeopath are necessary to check the progress.

3. Naturopathic medicine

This system of healing focuses on the fact that stimulating the body to heal itself. This treatment combines different therapies which include medicines, massage, yoga, and cleansing. Consult a qualified naturopath before opting for treatment for Lymphoma. It focuses on holistic wellbeing. It is important to check if your naturopath is qualified as there have been many instances where people call themselves naturopaths but are not trained. There are educational degrees which give the naturopaths eligibility to practice. Some naturopaths have extra knowledge, training, and experience in cancer care.

4. Ayurvedic medicine

Ayurveda is based on the fact that our body is based on the elements of air, water, fire, and earth. A balance of these elements is necessary to maintain good health and to heal illness. Cleansing and detoxifying the body are given a lot of importance to treat cancer.

When you go for natural alternative treatments for lymphoma that claim to be natural, it is important to understand the approach for those who are certified practitioners and those who have a license to practice. Do your research, get feedback from friends and support groups before you make a decision. Many natural treatment options for lymphoma prescribe their line of products. Ensure that they are all approved, as consumer products that are not approved could turn counterproductive.