There are mainly two categories of reasons can cause obesity which are primary obesity and secondary obesity. Primary obesity refers to those patients whose calories get from food are much more than they need, so the body’s fat cells grow in amount and size. At an individual level, a combination of excessive food energy intake and a lack of physical activity is thought to explain most cases of obesity. A person’s environment such as family behavior, availability and expense of food, and culture are also main factors in whether obesity may develop. Other factors include genetics, stress and emotional or psychological issues such as depression, anxiety and alcohol. Secondary obesity is brought about as a result of the existence of various nerve-endocrine system disorders such as pituitary, adrenal, and pancreatic disorders. Another potential cause of weight gain is hormonal imbalance due to the side effects of prescription medications. Conditions such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome may also cause weight gain. Other factors like Social relationships, Gut bacteria, duration of sleep and certain aspects of personality are also associated with being obese.Being overweight not only affect how people look, but also affect their overall health condition. Obesity increases the risk of many physical and mental conditions. General health consequences from obesity falls into two categories: one is from the effects of increased fat mass (such as osteoarthritis, obstructive sleep apnea) and the other due to the increased number of fat cells (such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease ). Increases in body fat change the body’s response to insulin, potentially leading to insulin resistance. Increased fat also creates state that body is prone to get inflammation and thrombosis. The coronavirus pandemic is still going on and obesity increases the risk of developing serious illness from this virus.

From a Western medical perspective, Doctors usually prescribe the weight loss drug when patients BMI is 30 or higher, or if the BMI is at least 27 and patient have a condition that maybe related to the weight, like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. The vast majority of weight-loss medications are of the “appetite-suppressant” category, such as: Belviq, Qsymia , Contrave and Saxendra. Some drugs work in the gut to reduce the amount of fat body absorbs from the food, like Xenical. These medications generally come in the form of tablets or capsules. In most cases, Xenical is moderately effective, leading to an average weight loss of 5 to 22 pounds over a year period. However, the response to these medications varies on case-by-case basis, with some people experiencing more weight loss than others. But experts are concerned in some cases that the side effects of prescription medications to treat overweight and obesity may outweigh the benefits. In the past, some weight-loss medications were linked to serious health problems. For example, the FDA recalled fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine (part of the “fen-phen” combination) in 1997 because of concerns related to heart valve problems. Lorcaserin(Belviq) was withdrawn from the U.S. market in February 2020 at the request of the FDA because a clinical trial showed an increased occurrence of cancers from this drug.

So, with or without medications, When combined with changes to behavior, including eating and physical activity habits are always suggested to help with losing weight.

The mechanism of a TCM weight loss treatment plan is in boosting the Qi energy to improve the metabolism, clearing heat, phlegm and water retention to help de-toxins from the digestive and lymphatic systems, unblocking Qi stagnation and blood stasis to relieve stress and depression, adjusting Yin and Yang to balance hormones and treat endocrine disorders.Traditional Chinese Medicine is helpful for Weight Loss through boosting the Qi energy to improve the metabolism (Acupuncture and Auricular Acupressure can produce stimuli along the meridian to transmit throughout the metabolic system; and promote the decomposition of fatty tissue, making fat to dissolve); Unblocking Qi stagnation and blood stasis (lymphatic drainage massage, and moxibustion therapy on the umbilicus can improve blood and lymph circulation, accelerate the decomposition of liquefied fat content and its excretion through the sweat glands, respiratory tract, urine and other ways); adjusting Yin and Yang to balance hormones and treat endocrine disorders (TCM meridian weight loss therapy helps in regulating endocrine disorders, improving metabolism and suppressing the appetite. Endocrine balance plays an important role in the process of weight loss. As long as the hormones and metabolism are well balanced, in many cases, patients can indeed lose weight); tonifying spleen Qi, dissolving phlegm and water retention to help de-toxins from the digestive and lymphatic systems.

According to these mechanisms, in our TRT Ming Qi clinic, we have special Herbal Formulas for Weight Loss which include Detox-Fit/JF for detoxification and balancing the digestive tract flora for simple obesity; Weight Balance /SS for regulating the liver and kidney, balancing hormone levels, and being used for endocrine disorders obesity, such as menopausal disorders, PCOS hormones and metabolic disorders, postpartum obesity etc; Lipidex/JZ for eliminateing fat and removeing blood stasis, reducing blood sugar and pressure, and being used for obesity caused by abnormal lipid metabolism; and Lymphclear / LS for tonifying Spleen Qi and promoting circulation to address obesity related with sluggish lymphatic circulation and water retention.

From both the TCM and Western Medical perspectives The current thinking is that obesity is a result of an imbalance of nutritional absorption, not over absorption. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we talk about balance and harmony a lot. In TCM theory, excessive weight gain is a combination of conditions which include body organ dysfunction, metabolism disorders, hormone disorders, pituitary and malabsorption of nutrients in the intestines.

Using Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine, TCM weight loss therapy regulates patients’ neurological and endocrine functions. Acupuncture can inhibit gastrointestinal motility and the secretion of gastric acid, suppressing the sensation of hunger and excessive appetite, thereby reducing food intake. Also, it enhances the absorption and conversion of ingested foods, enabling them to enter the cells more quickly as stored energy. On the other hand, it can also promote metabolism, increase energy consumption, and promote the mobilization and decomposition of body fat to eventually achieve weight loss. TCM weight loss focuses on physical conditioning; few side effects have been reported, and efficacy of the consolidation has been shown to be longer lasting with less chance of rebound weight gain.

More advantages of using acupuncture and Chinese Medicine are it does not force the patient to undergo a strict diet, and it does not induce side effects such as diarrhea, dehydration, fatigue, and anxiety. Also it can help maintain regular bowel movements and speed metabolism, increasing energy and improving sleep and help tighten the skin to prevent flabbiness after significant weight loss.

We just talked about the auricular needle method, sometimes in order to have constant effect of those ear points being stimulated, we put the ear seeds on for patients.
Auricular ear seeds are applied directly to various acupuncture points of the ears, for the purpose of controlling the appetite or regulating endocrine function. They have been shown to significantly alleviate hunger, and reduce cravings for sweets and starchy foods. We tell the patient to gently rub the ear seeds with circular motion 1-3 mins for 2 to 3 times each day or when they have symptoms. Sometimes ear seeds may fall off on their own after about 3 to 5 days. It is not recommended to leave them on for more than five days.Decompose fat Acupressure is used to stimulate the appropriate corresponding acupuncture points to adjust blood and Qi circulation in the digestive system and expel stagnant toxins. it is also referred to as colon detoxification therapy. In addition to the excellent therapeutic effects on localized fatty deposits such as on the thighs and abdomen, Acupressure also regulates the menses, treats constipation and balances total body function.Some commonly used points used for acupuncture and acupressure are such as Shui Fen CV9, Zhong Wan CV12, Tian Shu ST25 and Gui Lai ST29, Guan Yuan CV4, Feng Long ST40 etc. Some ear points we use often are Constipation Points, Gastric Point, Hunger Point and Endocrine Point etcMassage is a manual therapy whereby force is applied externally by hand. There are abdominal massage can promote the metabolism, reduce the appetite, regulate the endocrine function, alleviate bloating and edema and prevent abdominal distention. Suppressing the Shui Fen point and Dai Mai point can reduce fat around the waist and abdominal area and so it can effectively reduce abdominal waist fat and narrows the waist and hips, scalp and head massage can promote relaxation, activate the meridians, increase blood circulation and firm facial skin. Scalp massage helps balance the endocrine and sexual hormones as well as relax the body both mentally and physically, lymphatic drainage therapy is therapy where the massage being applied directly to the upper arms, thighs can increase blood circulation and reduce upper arm axillary skin edema and cellulite. Massaging the points of the axillary fold and cubital crease and can help firm the skin and eliminate edema and reflexology can increase the body’s metabolism to burn fat as fuel.
Through the application of heat to acupuncture points, Moxibustion has been shown to regulate the body’s blood and qi circulation, balance the organs’ function, promote intestinal movement and digestion, reduce fat absorption, and benefit the overall health condition as well as firm and shape muscles and promote weight loss.Cupping is becoming more popular, it is used mostly for pain management, it is also can be used for weight loss. It is a method of creating a vacuum on the patient’s skin to dispel stagnation. Through the use of suction pressure and heat from friction, cupping sends a signal to the brain indicating which areas are blocked and require activation and increased circulation. The body responds by accelerating the corresponding skin tissue metabolism, promoting blood and lymphatic circulation and discharging the toxins so as to reduce inflammation and achieve the purpose of weight loss.Embedding Tread weight loss refers to implanting catgut in acupuncture points, which can stimulate acupuncture points over an extended period of time, to increase local blood circulation and speed fat metabolism. It is more effective and more convenient than traditional acupuncture weight loss therapies. Embedding Thread weight loss needs to be performed once every 15 days. Generally, this procedure will not induce any adverse reactions and the rebound rate is quite low.

Good Weight Loss Method for Children is applying herbal pads to abdominal umbilical points, or the application of moxibustion on the acupuncture point Shen Que. It can adjust abnormal hormone levels, increase metabolism, promote colon detoxification to reduce abdominal fat and body water retention. This therapy is painless and convenient to use, and is a commonly used method for childhood and adolescent weight loss therapy.

Applying blunt scraping plates or a spoon to massage the legs can stimulate leg blood and lymph circulation, warm and relax meridians, smooth the elimination of edema and shape slender and healthy legs.

In TCM theory, obesity is due to factors such as organ function disharmony, especially Spleen Qi Deficiency. Treating obesity using TCM involves tonifying the spleen and the Qi, resolving dampness to improve water retention, and enhancing the blood and lymphatic circulation. According to patients’ individual health condition, we diagnosis them and prescribe different herbs. The commonly used herbs in our clinic we mentioned in our lectures before, there are: Weight Balance, Choleduce, Hormolance, Lymphclear.

Combining static and dynamic, in TCM we address both the psychological and physiological aspects of weight loss through exercise. TCM theory recommends a consistent, moderate and balanced daily exercise program for weight loss rather than intense movement. The movements of Tai Chi Chuan are relaxed and slow. They call for stillness in motion to achieve relaxation of the mind and body. It can help adjust the body’s imbalance to heal illness and detoxify waste to melt away excess weight. Also breathing Regulation Exercise is one of the most effective exercises to specifically reduce belly fat through deep abdominal inhalation and exhalation guided by meditation.

Childhood obesity will affect overall health, hormonal balance and mental health. It is very important children begin to undergo treatment before they reach puberty. Acupressure, reflexology, and scalp work are the most useful and widely accepted therapies for children. Weekly treatments are recommended for approximately a three-month period. Obese children must limit their intake of deep-fried food, heavy dairy products, and large amounts of meat. Exercise is also necessary to both reduce their appetite and teach children to place more emphasis on physical activities.

Women after labor have not only five organs weaker (heart, spleen, kidney, lung and liver) but also the Qi and blood, yin and yang weakness as well. Most women after labor, will need to breast feed straight away. This will use further nutrition and blood, as Chinese medicine considers that the formation of breast milk originates from blood. Traditional Chinese medicine diet therapy and Chinese culture provides greater care about the diet of the woman after labor so it can quickly bring the body back to the normal state and avoid or reduce the symptoms of low energy, hair loss, dry skin and postnatal depression.Two weeks after labor, the uterus will need to continue to clear the remains of blood from the pregnancy. During the cleansing and ridding of old stagnant blood the uterus can return to normal (pre-pregnancy state) size and blood circulation. To ensure the removal of the old blood, diet is very important to support the uterus and abdomen areas circulation so that it can help the process of returning the body back to normal.

We suggest patients really need to take care their body after giving birth. Wait at least 6 weeks to begin trying to lose weight. Through diet and regular exercise, it might be reasonable to lose up to 1 pound a week. It might take six months to one year to return to pre-pregnancy weight.

Treatment using Traditional Chinese Medicine will not only help losing weight process faster, but also benefit patient the general post-pregnancy health recovery, as well as promote skin tightening and body fitness. Acupuncture with lymphatic drainage massage should be performed once a week for three months. This treatment also helps women produce good quality milk to support breast-feeding, as well as aid the uterus and ovaries in returning to normal function. Also, we tell patients to select foods that are both nutritious and beneficial to sculpturing the body and adjusting body functions.

Some people choose surgery to treat the condition. In TCM, GLD should be considered a systemic problem rather than simply a cosmetic defect. Acupuncture with a fat burning herbal massage is tremendously effective for localized weight loss. Massage therapy with fat burning herbs is effective in shrinking body fat and smoothing cellulite and the fatty mass.

Weight loss can be achieved through a variety of modalities, but long-term maintenance of lost weight is much more challenging. Several studies show that ongoing interaction with healthcare providers or in group settings significantly improves weight maintenance and long- term outcomes, compared with treatments that end after a short period of time. Once people have achieved a desired weight, a positive attitude is very important in their efforts to continually maintain optimum weight levels. To lose weight permanently, people must make a commitment to gradually adopt a healthier way of life. This preventive care plan includes acupuncture, body work therapy and exercise guidance. Monthly follow-up treatments are necessary until satisfactory body shape and health condition are achieved.

The most popular Weight Loss Diet is WW (Weight Watchers) Diet which is the first in best weight-loss diets. WW uses a simplified calorie-counting system that is personalized based on age, weight, height and sex to help people lose weight in a healthy way. People track everything they eat and drink, as well as their workouts on the app or website. It focuses on inspiring healthy living and improving overall well-being. That includes taking a holistic approach to help people eat healthier and move more. The program builds on WW’s Smart Points system, which assigns every food and beverage a point value, based on its nutrition, and puts details about food preferences and lifestyle to match each one to one of three comprehensive ways to follow the program. While healthy choices are encouraged, they can choose any foods they want, as long as they stay under their daily SmartPoints allotment. This flexibility can be a downfall if dieters choose unhealthy foods. While it allows for flexibility, WW can be costly depending on the subscription plan.Volumetrics Diet is the second in best weight-loss diets. It is an eating plan designed to promote weight loss by having people fill up on low calorie, nutrient-dense foods. It’s meant to reduce feelings of hunger by prioritizing foods with a high water content and low calorie density. In this diet food is divided into four groups. Category one (very low-density) includes non-starchy fruits and vegetables, nonfat milk and broth-based soup. Category two (low-density) includes starchy fruits and veggies, grains, breakfast cereal, low-fat meat, legumes and low-fat mixed dishes like chili and spaghetti. Category three (medium-density) includes meat, cheese, pizza, French fries, salad dressing, bread, ice cream and cake. And category four (high-density) includes crackers, chips, chocolate candies, cookies, nuts, butter and oil. People need to go heavy on categories one and two, watch portion sizes with category three, and keep category four choices to a minimum.

Another popular diet is the ketogenic diet. This diet has been used for centuries to treat specific medical conditions, like diabetes, epilepsy in children. The ketogenic diet has also been tested and used in closely monitored settings for cancer, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and Alzheimer’s disease. The keto diet is a high-fat, moderate protein and low carbohydrate diet. Generally, popular ketogenic resources suggest an average of 70-80% fat from total daily calories, 5-10% carbohydrate, and 10-20% protein. The ketogenic diet has been shown to help losing weight in the short-term. But in some cases, this diet may raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. It can also be difficult to follow and cause digestive upset in some people.

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a pattern of eating that involves regular short-term fasts and consuming meals within a shorter time period during the day. The most common intermittent fasting methods include alternate day fasting which is fast every other day and eat normally on non-fasting days, the 5:2 Diet which is fast on 2 out of every 7 days and on fasting days eat 500–600 calories, and the 16/8 method which is fast for 16 hours and eat only during an 8-hour window. For people who eat dinner earlier, they might be interested in trying 18:6 method. This method involves fasting for 18 hours out of the day, leaving people with a six-hour eating window. Several studies have indicated that short-term intermittent fasting, which is up to 24 weeks in duration, leads to weight loss in overweight individuals, unless people compensate by eating too much food during allowed eating periods. In general, intermittent fasting is safe for most healthy adults. But for those sensitive to drops in their blood sugar levels such as some people with diabetes or pregnant or breastfeeding women, this diet might not be a good option.

TCM Weight Loss Diet Therapy is the safest and most effective way to control weight because it supplies the body with necessary natural nutrition on a daily basis.

In Traditional Chinese health care practices, food has always been used to prevent disease, strengthen the body and prolong life. Chinese dietary therapy suggests that those struggling with unwanted weight should try to avoid foods which tend to be damp and phlegm-producing, like dairy. It is important to eat and drink foods that are mostly warm, cooked, and easy to digest, that are lightly flavored with herbs and spices, which will further aid in promoting digestion. Cold and raw things in the stomach, will lead to a “dampening” of the digestive system and a chilling of the metabolism. This digestive “fire” or energy in Chinese medicine can, over time, be put out when too many cold things are put in it. This also chills your body and slows down your circulation. Scientifically speaking, cold inhibits enzymatic activity and your foods won’t get assimilated and properly used.

Chinese Weight Loss Foods for different diagnosis of patients were divided into 5 categories which are for damp obstruction and Spleen Qi deficiency – main characteristics include drowsiness. Commonly used foods are: lentils, broad beans, peas, bean sprouts, corn, cucumber, cabbage and carp; spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency – characterized by bloated stomach and cold waist. Commonly used foods are: lamb or mutton, walnuts, beans, goji-berry, goat milk; damp/Heat obstructing the Stomach – characterized by bad breath and constipation. Commonly used foods are: cabbage, celery, lettuce, bitter melon and pear; Qi and Blood Stagnation – characterized by flank pain, distention/bloating and purple spots on the sides of the tongue. Commonly used foods are: lemon, oranges, wheat, radishes, jasmine, hawthorn, eggplant and vinegar; deficiency of Kidney Yin – characterized by Yin deficiency heat signs such as thirst, skin dryness, facial flushing, night sweats, and low back pain. Commonly used foods are: white and black fungus, black beans, mulberry, duck, sea cucumber, jellyfish and black sesame seeds.

From our Ming Qi Natural Health Care Center Weight Loss Program, patients benefit more from a slow, steady weight loss. Our clinic weight loss therapy is recommended at least twice weekly for three weeks, then once a week until desired weight loss is achieved. Patients should feel less stressed and more energetic following treatment. A reduction in puffiness and water retention should occur shortly after beginning treatment. Monthly maintenance visits are recommended once desired weight loss goal is obtained.

All different types of cancer are usually named for the organs or tissues where the cancers form. The four main types of cancer are carcinomas (it begins in the skin or the tissue that covers the surface of internal organs and glands), sarcomas (it begins in the tissues that support and connect the body), leukemias (it is a cancer of the blood), lymphomas (it is cancer that begins in the lymphatic system). Not all tumors are cancerous. Benign tumors are noncancerous and do not spread to nearby tissues. Sometimes, they can grow large and cause problems when they press against neighboring organs and tissue. Malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade other parts of the body. As a cancerous tumor grows, cancer cells can migrate through the bloodstream or lymphatic system into distant areas of the body. The most-studied known risk factors for cancer include age, lifestyle, environment, habits, family genetic history and endocrine, immune factors.Discussions of cancer appeared in classical works, such as The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon and The Classic of Medical Problems, more than 2000 years ago. The word “tumor” was discovered on 3500-year-old oracle bone inscriptions.
In Traditional Chinese medicine theory, cancer etiology involved deficiency of Zheng qi, six exogenous factors, emotional maladjustment, and improper diet: “With discomfort, improper diet, cold temperature from time to time, pathogens prevail and accumulation has left” (The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon) and that the tumor is a partial consequence of systemic disease.Emotions: Stress and anxiety could cause Qi stagnation or/and blood stasis then the tumor might form by blood masses like abdominal masses, cancer of the colon, carcinoma of the breast, ovarian cancer.Exogenous factors: It is related to the seasonal climate and living environment, or due to harmful chemicals or radiation particles. and biological carcinogens. These can invade the body from the mouth, nose, or skin in multiple ways, which will cause yin and yang imbalance, and cause stagnation of qi, blood stasis, phlegm, heat toxin, damage normal cells, and form cancer.Diet: An improper high-fat diet, smoking, alcoholic, being obese can cause spleen deficiency. It leads the internal body to be full of dampness, then the phlegm gathering can contribute to cancer.Zheng Qi exhausted: Chronic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, inflammation, would consistently impair the defensive Zheng Qi, increase the risk of developing cancer.Holistic Cancer Care combines the various therapeutic methods available in both Western and Eastern medical practices. Western medical protocol for cancer treatment includes therapies as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Eastern medical complementary therapies include acupuncture, herbal remedies, tui-na acupressure, nutrition, mind-body balance, music, and circadian rhythm therapy. Additionally, this holistic treatment plan includes familial and societal assistance to help patients maintain a positive outlook during the course of treatment. Over the past three decades, there have been numerous studies showing the enhanced benefits of combining Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with conventional therapies (Western medicine) in the treatment of cancer.

The Chinese medicine view on cancer supportive care covering different phases and stages of tumors starts with prevention, early diagnosis, precancerous conditions, surgery, during conventional treatment, including side effects after those treatments are completed, or alongside your chosen to treat cancer.In the early stages, when the surgery is the best treatment, we would offer pre-and post-surgical care to cancer patients. Before the surgery, preventive care is provided to help minimize tissue damage from surgery and speed the recovery process. Acupuncture is employed to help strengthen the immune system by increasing white blood cell antibodies so that the patient has increased resistance to infection. It can also help manage stress, reduce blood loss, enhance the effect of anesthesia, and reduce its side effects. After the surgery, we suggest using acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and acupressure to enhance the recovery through general care, help with detox from the anesthesia, and strengthen the patient’s healthy qi and energy. For the details of holistic surgical care, please check the related special care on our website.

In the clinic, patients seeking TCM treatment are often in the advanced stages. They have experienced relapses, and mainly have already received surgical treatment and undergoing multiple radiotherapy or/and chemotherapy. After these therapies, the tumor may obviously decrease in size but can recur rapidly, along with short survival and impaired quality of life. Therefore, accompanied with TCM treatment, the patient has longer survival and dramatically improved subjective symptoms. Combination therapy of acupuncture and herbs will help cancer patients enhance immune function, improve the body sensitivity to chemo and radiotherapy, and prolong the therapeutic effects. At the same time, reduce the radiotherapy or chemotherapy-induced side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and respiratory infections, and protect liver function. Moreover, the holistic treatment has unique advantages in recovering systemic metabolic disorders, restoring the balance of the internal environment, and preventing tumor metastasis and recurrence.

For late-stage cancer patients who are not eligible for surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy and those are only eligible for symptomatic palliative radio-chemotherapy. The majority of patients who suffer from both physical and psychological discomfort might present as cancer-related pain, anorexia, nausea/vomiting, fatigue, fever, indigestion, and constipation. Fortunately, TCM has shown good efficacy in symptomatic treatment. Our practitioners would identify each patient’s TCM-based pattern and carefully prescribe anti-tumor supportive care to enhance the immunity and maintain the tumor in a stable status. (For example, the spleen-tonifying and qi-regulating prescriptions can relieve abdominal pain; yin-tonifying and qi-replenishing herb formulas can enhance the immunity; heart-nourishing, liver-soothing, and qi-regulating formulas can adjust the mental status, improve sleep, and reduce the occurrence of depression). Overall, the treatment would help alleviate the general symptoms, improve quality of life, and extend the survival period of patients.

• Chemotherapy

a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs in order to stop or slow the growth of cancer cells, which grow and divide quickly. The types of treatment that you need depends on the type of cancer you have, if it has spread and where, and if you have other health problems. Treatment with these powerful drugs is called standard chemotherapy, traditional chemotherapy, or cytotoxic chemotherapy.

• Hormone therapy

a cancer treatment that slows or stops the growth of cancer that uses hormones to grow. Hormone therapy travels throughout the body to find and target hormones; stop the body from making the hormone; block the hormone from attaching to cancer cells; alter the hormone so it doesn’t work as it should.

• Immunotherapy

a type of biological therapy. It uses substances made from living organisms to treat cancer. It helps your immune system fight cancer. It is made up of white blood cells and organs and tissues of the lymph system.

• Targeted therapy

a type of cancer treatment that targets proteins that control how cancer cells grow, divide, and spread. As researchers learn more about the DNA changes and proteins that drive cancer, they are better able to design promising treatments that target these proteins.

• Stem cell transplants (bone marrow transplant)

are procedures that restore blood-forming stem cells in people who have had theirs destroyed by the very high doses of chemotherapy or radiation therapy that are used to treat certain cancers.

Holistic cancer care are terms used to describe many kinds of products, practices, and systems that are not part of mainstream medicine. It used to refer to methods to help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life during cancer treatment. We call these “complementary” because they are used along with your medical treatment, to help to prevent, diagnose, or treat cancer. Patients with cancer might think about using alternative or complementary methods for a number of reasons, like to relieve the side effects of mainstream cancer treatment without having to take more medicine. Holistic cancer care includes traditional Chinese herbs, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Herbal-aroma therapy, Body-Mind Work (Tai-Qi /Qi Gong Exercise), and Daily Herbal Dietary Therapy.

Chinese medicine has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment and prevention of cancer through thousands of years of practice. As a natural medicine, it has the advantages of low adverse reaction and low toxicity. There are over 2000 herbs registered in the Chinese Herbal register, which had been used for the treatment of a range of illnesses; about 400 have varying degrees of therapeutic effects on cancers, such as those of the lung, liver, brain, stomach, prostate, and breast. The mechanisms may relate to the inhibition of cancer growth, reduction of metastasis and invasion, promotion of cancer cell apoptosis, and enhancement of immunity.

Commonly Used Chinese Herbs used in Holistic Cancer Care:

• Ginseng (Rhizoma Ginseng)

Enhance immunity by boosting macrophage phagocytic activity. It’s equipped with multiple pharmacological functions such as cardiovascular protection, antitumor, and antiaging. Ginseng is full of ginseng polysaccharide, ginsenoside and some amino acids. Ginsenoside is the main active ingredient of ginseng. It can promote endometrial cancer cell apoptosis by increasing apoptosis markers, regulate the multiple signaling pathways in inhibiting invasion and migration of gastric cancer cells. Meanwhile, ginsenoside Compound K also effects inhibiting breast cancer invasion and metastasis, ginsenoside Rh2 can regulate the immune function and significantly improve the killing effect of CD8+ T cells and NK cells on cancer cells. Also, Ginseng essential oil has been clinically shown to inhibit cancer cells, such as in the prevention or control of chemical carcinogen-induced liver cancer. It is also very beneficial in preventing fatigue and promoting faster recovery from tissue damage.

• Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

An effective immunomodulatory and anti-tumor herb. It can increase the cellular immune response, and promote antibody formation against chromosomal damage. In recent years, Reishi also is widely used in immunotherapy against cancers because it can activate dendritic cells and promote the proliferation of T cells and inhibit metastasis. The ingredients in Reishi are very effective in the treatment of lung cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and so on. As a traditional Chinese medicine with both food and medicine, Reishi can be consumed by cancer patients in their daily diet.

• Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus)

It works on stimulating several factors of the immune system, associated with good anticancer activity. Huang Qi has an obvious inhibitory effect on cervical cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and leukemia.
Studies have found that Huang Qi can downregulate the expression of immune checkpoint proteins and inhibit the expression levels of migration-related proteins which may be related to the inhibition of invasion and migration of cervical cancer and metastasis of ovarian cancer. Huang Qi can regulate the apoptosis of cancer cells by upregulating the apoptosis-related proteins. Moreover, when Huang Qi combines with other anticancer medications can significantly increase the inhibitory effect on cancer cells.

• Bai Hua She She Cao (Oldenlandia diffusa)

As an anticancer drug, and its bioactive compounds, have a long history of clinical use with a good inhibitory effect on a variety of cancers. It can effectively induce apoptosis of prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, cervical cancer, gastric cancer, and other tumor cells. Laboratory studies suggest Bai Hua She She Cao could significantly inhibit the tumor growth of cervical cancer in mice. Based on recent research, this herb may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and stimulate the immune system to destroy or engulf tumor cells. It is often used in combination with other herbs to enhance its anticancer effects, most commonly in combination with Ban Zhi Lian, which could be one of the best herb matches for antitumor therapy.

• Fucoidan (brown seaweed)

It has recently been shown to induce a direct killing effect on cancer cells, in part due to its inhibitory effect on G1-S transition of the cell cycle leading to apoptosis of cancer cells. Fucoidan has found to increase anti-tumor immune response by impacting multiple pathways that contribute to anticancer therapy. From the research, it suppresses tumor growth and metastasis through abrogating TGFR mediated signaling pathway and has been valued in lung cancer, breast cancer, and bladder cancer. It can effectively activate immune cells and inhibit the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines from macrophages. From the clinical trials, researchers found fucoidan decreased cancer-related side effects and improved anti-cancer therapy after standard treatment on breast cancer, lung cancer and colon cancer. It decreases the cytotoxicity damage of chemotherapy, in order to protect normal tissue to improve quality of life.

Herbal formulas are prescribed individually for cancer patients according to their specific type and clinical phase of cancer. Chinese Herbal dietary therapy provides patients with different recipes to meet the differing nutritional needs of the body during each phase of treatment. By integrating therapies, patients can have an increased influence on the promotion of the overall curative effect.

• Acupuncture:

Acupuncture has been shown to effectively strengthen the immune system, especially by increasing antibodies and T-cells that monitor and kill cancer cells. balance adrenal function, improve microcirculation and capillary permeability, support physical energy, and relieve mental stress. It helps manage the common symptoms like pain, chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, reduce the side effects associated with therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation-induced fatigue, nausea, vomiting. It supports hormone therapy-related hot flashes, dry mouth, insomnia. More importantly, acupuncture is a very safe supportive care. In the United States, acupuncture is used to treat a variety of symptoms and conditions associated with cancer and the side effects of cancer treatments. A number of cancer centers in the U.S., including Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) in Boston, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York, and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is integrating acupuncture into cancer care. This trend parallels a broader trend of the increasing use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) among cancer patients, estimated in some surveys to range between 48% and 83%.

• Acupressure:

It is a wonderful alternative therapy by applying pressure on the acupoints. Reflexology foot massage promotes lymphatic drainage and detoxification. This style of bodywork supports relaxation while gently energizing the nervous system and the flow of blood. In the clinic research, 70 pediatric cancer patients randomized to 20 min massage 24 hours before chemotherapy, and 24 hours after chemotherapy, which shows the patients presented with reduced chemo-induced nausea and vomiting.

• Body-Mind Work (Tai-Qi /Qi Gong Exercise):

A body-mind network analyzes the “process” of body–mind communication. The body-mind information system may be partly regulated by the relative contributions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic components of the autonomic nervous system. This model of regulation corresponds to the TCM concept of balance between yin and yang, which represents a pattern of information, rather than concrete material entities, indicates the relative imbalance.

Although the combination of Western and Eastern therapies is the most commonly used form of Cancer Treatment in China, TCM plays the role of Supportive Therapy for Cancer Treatment in the US. Therefore, we recommend that all cancer patients consult their Oncologist while they are using complementary therapies such as Traditional Chinese Medicine. By supplementing their treatment with Chinese natural therapies, patients receive increased benefits as well as reduced overall side effects.

• Surgery

Surgery is the oldest type of cancer treatment. It is used to diagnose stage and treat cancer, and certain cancer-related symptoms. Cancer surgery removes the tumor and nearby tissue during an operation. For most patients, surgery is the chief course of action in cancer treatment. Whether a patient is a candidate for surgery depends on factors such as the type, size, location, grade and stage of the tumor, as well as general health factors such as age, physical fitness, and whether the patient has other illness or conditions. Surgery may also be an option to repair damage to skin, bones, and other tissue caused by cancer or by cancer treatment. It may also be a palliative treatment to remove obstructions in the lungs or throat or remove tumors that are causing pain. For some patients, surgery will be combined with other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy. These may be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant) to help prevent cancer growth, spread, or recurrence. Possible complications during surgery may be caused by the surgery itself, drugs used, and your overall health. The risk of side effects may include bleeding, pain, infection, blood clots, damage to other organs.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides natural therapeutic options for pre-and post-surgical care.

Before surgery, acupuncture is very helpful during this time, since it helps relax the body and calm the spirit as the patient prepares for surgery. It strengthens the immune system by increasing white blood cell antibodies so that the patient has increased resistance to infection. Also, acupuncture can be employed to prevent the occurrence of heavy bleeding from surgery. Surgical incisions will sometimes result in blood loss, but research has shown that acupuncture can help to activate the platelet and blood coagulation. In most cases, for pre-surgical preventive care, we suggest the patients come for a total of 3 treatments from two weeks prior to the surgical procedure up to and including the week of the procedure. Generally, TCM tonifying methods have to start one or two weeks prior to surgery. Chinese herbal formulas aim at improving general physical strength as well as the specific cancer condition to help surgeons to cut away the cancerous tissues as much as possible. Patients are usually treated with classic prescriptions, which are well known for replenishing blood and qi, and nourishing the liver and kidneys. Classic herbal prescriptions include Shi Quan Da Bu Tang, Liu Wei Di Huang Tang, Gui Pi Tang.

After surgery, patients would present heat, severe pain, and swelling from the wound and incision. This stage can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the severity of the wound. In this stage, we want to help the body clear away the damaged tissue, which we consider a form of toxicity, and dispel the heat of the inflammation. We use cooling, fluid moving, and blood moving herbs, either internally or topically, to help this stage resolve as quickly as possible. After the acute injury chills down, the incisions begin to consolidate into the beginning of scars, and we want to keep Qi and blood moving so that all incisions heal quickly and with minimal pain. There is still Qi and blood stagnation in this stage, as the body continues to mobilize resources into the area, and this congestion can cause stiffness and pain. So, restoring proper flow and getting rid of the stagnant blood is the key. We suggest patients take Zhu Yu Tang or Gui Pi Tang. Due to anesthesia, bleeding, and surgical trauma, patients’ bodies perceive this invasive procedure, our immune system is weakened, the gastrointestinal tract is compromised and this leaves our bodies more vulnerable to infection. For post-surgery care acupuncture and herbal formulas will help to accelerate the healing process, helps the body build more red blood cells, and promotes the healing of tiny blood vessels in the capillary bed that may be damaged during surgery, increases circulation of lymph and other body fluids for detoxification. Also, supportive care is good at regulating the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating nausea and vomiting by applying on acupoints Nei Guan, Zhong Wan among cancer patients following anesthesia and surgery. It benefits post-surgery patients to relieve pain. Also, when acupuncture is used along with pain medications, patients generally achieve better pain control on lower dosages and can be weaned off their medications faster. Usually, two weeks after surgery, scar therapy with acupuncture needles can be done to help reduce the scar size as well as prevent keloid healing. When cancer is in remission, the patient should continue monthly treatments for maintenance care.

Radiation therapy options include:
– External-beam radiation therapy:
Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT); Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT); Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT); Proton beams radiation therapy; Stereotactic radiosurgery.
– Internal radiation therapy:
Brachytherapy (solid source)-Permanent implants/Temporary internal radiation therapy low-dose-rate implants or high-dose-rate implants; Systemic therapy (liquid source)
– Other radiation therapy options:
Radioimmunotherapy; Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT); Radiosensitizers and radioprotectors

Everyone’s experience with radiation therapy is different. Side effects vary from person to person, even when given the same type of treatment, which include fatigue, skin problems (red, irritated, swollen, blistered, sunburned, or tanned), hair loss, low blood counts. The specific site-specific side effects are:
– Brain: headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hearing loss, scalp change, seizures, trouble with memory and speech; Head,
– Neck: dry mouth, trouble swallowing, headache, earaches, tooth decay, gum swelling, neck or jaw stiffness;
– Breast: skin irritation, breast swelling, and soreness, lymphedema, heart complications, lung damage, shoulder, and arm nerve damage;
– Chest: sore throat, trouble swallowing, cough, shortness of breath, pneumonitis;
– Abdomen: nausea, vomiting, belly cramps, diarrhea, constipation;
– Pelvic: bladder problems, sexual dysfunction, infertility; Radiation recall.
There can also be emotional side effects, and seeking out mental health support to help with anxiety or stress is important.

In TCM understanding, radiation is a kind of toxic fire and heat. They exhaust the qi and body fluids, disturb the blood and qi production in the spleen and stomach, also damage the liver and the kidneys normal function. In the fight against cancer, Traditional Chinese medicines remedies including herbs, acupuncture, moxibustion, acupressure have been developed for the management of malignancies, particularly in the supportive and palliative care of cancer patients. There’re many clinical trials registered for the use of herbal remedies in cancer management which have indicated TCMs, which are observed to have a radio-sensitizing effect through mechanisms involving their apoptotic and autophagic properties, have the potential to be effective systemic radiosensitizers that may be used to amplify radiation-induced toxicity in tumor tissues. TCMs are able to exhibit anticancer roles by apoptosis and autophagy, through mTOR and the Bcl-2 family pathway. Sometimes, before radiation treatment, we would suggest patients take some herbs like Reishi, Ginseng, and Fucoidan to improve efficacy. The herbs would work on the site to relieve the contraction of the blood vessels, improve the micro and lateral circulations, inhibit platelet coagulation, and regulate the metabolism of connective tissues. Herbal remedies have also been used as radio preventive therapies to treat precancerous conditions in order to reduce the incidence of cancer in high-risk populations. Emerging evidence has revealed that herbal remedies can regulate the proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion, and migration of cancer cells. In addition to this direct effect upon cancer cells, a number of herbal remedies have been identified to suppress angiogenesis and therefore reduce tumor growth, and recurrence. The inhibition of tumor growth may also be due to modifications of the host immune system by the herbal treatment.

TCM considers this radiotherapy induced fatigue as a morbid condition due to a deficiency, Qi and blood are abnormally circulating in the body. We might use herbal prescriptions such as Shen Mai San and Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang which is composed of herb ingredients, namely Ginseng, Huang Qi. The herbs are good at increasing interferon and TNF secretion and activate lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages against tumors. Also, they can cooperate with cytokines in order to stimulate lymphokine-activated killer cells against tumor cells and restore antitumor T cells. For acupuncture, we would choose the acupoints like LI4, ST36, SP6, KI3, PC6, LV3, and unilateral points Ren4 and Ren 6. Based on researches, acupuncture causes endogenous modulation, which has the potential to address radiation-related fatigue. After the supportive cares, most patient report fatigue level appeared to be relatively stable.

Radiation therapy causes damage to the tissues adjacent to those being targeted, which is similar to the experience of a burn, sometimes would also cause acute or allergic dermatitis symptoms would be like a rash, itchy and weeping. In terms of herbal therapies like those used for countering immune suppression and drug toxicity turn out to be of benefit. The general theory is that the spleen function needs to be improved to assure adequate nutrition to help heal the burn using formulas like Yu Pin Feng San. The herbal ointment can speed up wound healing, prevent infection, and facilitate the implementation of radiotherapy.

Generally, hair and scalp are very sensitive to radiation. In Chinese medicine, it’s a kind of deficiency syndrome, specifically involving blood deficiency. It involves complicated by blood stasis and/or blood heat from the radiation. We would pick the local scalp acupoints to do some hair follicle stimulation, sometimes apply some ginger, lavender, thyme, rosemary essential oil after acupuncture or plum needle treatment. For the Chinese herb, He Shou Wu is beneficial in nourishing the liver and kidneys creating better blood flow to the scalp and providing more nourishment to the head, thus creating healthier hair.

The main consequence of undergoing radiation is the suppression of the bone marrow. This directly affects the patient’s total immunity by impacting the production of marrow stem cells, white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Most patients develop significant anemia and even thrombocytopenic purpura. The damage to immune agents is so significant that patients risk a reoccurrence of their original cancer, and are at increased risk for opportunistic infections. The TCM strategies for minimizing the side effects are replenishing qi and blood, invigorating and harmonize the spleen and stomach, nourishing the liver and kidney, and clearing toxic heat if present. The treatment principles for radiation are clearing toxic heat, nourishing yin to generating fluid, cooling and replenishing qi and blood, invigorating the spleen, and harmonize the stomach, liver, and kidney. Gui Pi Tang has been suggested to have therapeutic effects on hemato-deficient diseases and radiation-related injuries. It has been demonstrated to increase the recovery of cellular immunocompetence, particularly when administered at a concentration \ γ-ray irradiation. Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang has demonstrated effects on the hematopoietic recovery from radiation-related injury, by stimulating hematopoietic stem cells and by improving the hematopoietic inductive microenvironment. The results demonstrated that these TCM herbs significantly promoted the recovery of the colony-forming unit-spleen (CFU-S) and the colony-forming unit-granulocyte/macrophage (CFU-GM). Dang Gui Shao Yao San, administered to increase the number of CFU-S in the mice that survived the irradiation, as well as significantly ameliorating leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and the depression of hematocrits following irradiation.

Acupuncture with moxibustion treatments are widely used for raising white and red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels mean platelet counts, or for enhancing immunity in people with cancer receiving or after receiving radiotherapy. In the clinic, we use moxa stick on the acupoints RN8 (Shen Que) and bilateral ST36 (Zu San Li) for 30 minutes per acupoint, with additional acupoint RN6 (Qi Hai) for those with the syndrome of qi deficiency, SP10 (Xue Hai) for those with the syndrome of blood stagnation, RN12 (Zhong Wan) for those with digestive reactions and SP6 (San Yin Jiao) for those with gynecological tumors.

Radiation therapy to the brain may cause brain swelling, the most serve side effect is acute hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus neuro acupuncture treatment is using acupoints SP 10, LI 11, UB 40, KI 3, ST 36 to stimulate the Qi flow between the brain’s neurons and at the same time improving the drainage circulation of the fluid to reduce the swelling and pressure, regulate the kidneys, replenish the marrow, eliminate blood stasis and water retention in the brain. Also, it helps to regulate the emotional disorder, change in mental status, prevent future brain damage from happening.

The dry mouth caused by radiation therapy on the head, face, or neck can take 6 months or longer for the salivary glands to start producing saliva again after radiation therapy ends. By the most recent clinical trials, under acupuncture support care performed twice weekly for 6 weeks, with experimental acupoints included 4 acupoints (ST 6, LI 4, ST 36, SP 6, and local salivary glands areas), patients showed significantly increased salivary flow rates after the first 12 acupuncture sessions, the majority had a high probability of continual improvement after the completion of acupuncture treatment.

Sometimes, radiation to the brain affects the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland normally signals the ovaries to make hormones, so interfering with these signals can affect ovulation. This might or might not affect fertility depending on the focus and dose of the radiation. For supportive care, there are different treatment goals for women. The first is fertility for women with radiation who desire to become pregnant; in this case, our supportive care generally refers to some means to restore ovulatory function and allow for conception. For women who do not desire additional childbearing, treatment usually refers to therapies that address a second issue which is managing their symptoms of estrogen depletion, such as hot flashes, sweating, reduced libido, and decreased vaginal lubrication. A third issue that applies to all women but which may receive the least amount of attention is the increased risk of conditions like osteopenia/bone fracture and cardiovascular disease. Consequently, it is necessary to offer rational strategies for clinical therapies by using alternative methods. We would apply acupuncture on the skull and hypothalamus area, also with Chinese herbal formulas that can not only maintain homeostasis but also improve the circulation and microcirculation in the body to further regulate neuroendocrine function and improve hormone levels.

Same idea with thyroid gland dysfunction, the radiation damage to the thyroid gland can be due to damage of follicular epithelial cells, parenchymal cells, and small blood vessels, capsular fibrosis, iodine insufficiency from malnutrition, and autoimmune reaction. Chinese herbal medicine is widely used in thyroid dysfunction therapy like Jin Kui Shen Qi wan and may reduce the adverse biological effects of thyroxine, slow down the transformation of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), and modulate the function of the sympathetic nerves. Acupuncture can directly act on the local thyroid gland, repair a small amount of damaged thyroid tissue, improve its secretory function, thereby increasing the release of thyroid hormone; or use the nervous system to realize the regulation of the endocrine system, by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary gland-thyroid axis, thereby increasing the production and release of thyroid hormones; or act on the immune system to treat hypothyroidism by enhancing the patients’ immune function.

For the chest supportive care, a meta-analysis showed that Chinese herbal extractions intervention significantly reduced the incidence of acute radiation pneumonitis and radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis. Total effective rate and remission rate of RILI (Radiation-Induced Lung Injury) patients were significantly higher. Also, the patient’s quality of life and clinical symptoms and signs were improved significantly. Based on the researches, after Chinese medicine supportive care, patients’ inflammatory cytokines decreased, and thymus dependent lymphocyte subgroups were improved. Among the herbs, Ginseng, Chuan Xiong, Huang Qin, Jin Yin Hua, Lian Qiao, Chuan Xin Lian are the most often used ones. They have inhibitory effects on airway inflammation, and this effect may be associated with the inhibition of chemokine receptor 7 and its ligands CCL19/CCL21. Also, they have a potent antifibrotic activity by inhibition of lung inflammation and suppression of myofibroblast differentiation as well as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Lian Qiao, an active exerts anti-inflammatory action via suppressing LPS-induced activation of JAK-STATs and p38 MAPKs signaling and production of ROS in macrophage cells. Chuan Xin Lian, markedly hampered the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and NLRP3 inflammasome o thus decreasing levels of TNF- and IL-1. From the clinical trial, the patients assigned to the intervention group received 15 minutes of acupuncture treatment twice a week. Acupuncture benefits dyspnea and lung function in patients, FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 second), DLCO (diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide), 6-minute walk distance, and modified Borg scale got improved.

Radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV), as one of the most common side effects. When the colon and rectum are affected by radiation therapy, and there is abdominal pain, diarrhea, or blood in the stools, TCM believes that this indicates an accumulation of damp-heat in the region. The therapies will try to clear the damp-heat, cool down the blood, arrest bleeding, and stop diarrhea. Commonly used herbal ingredients are Si Jun Zi Tang, Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang, Xie Xin Tang. Xua FU Hua is one of the most common traditional Chinese medicines in oncology, especially in patients who have undergone radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or interventional treatments which often induce gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Adding Xuan FU Hua in the prescription of such patients can calm down nausea, increase appetite, and improve the quality of life of patients. In the treatment of complication ascites, it may also be used when the patient has liver qi reversal and choking, using Mu Xiang is more symptomatic. We often choose acupoints along the stomach and spleen meridians to activate neurohormonal pathways and immunomodulation. Also, moxibustion is good at increasing blood cells and promoting immunological function, decreasing gastrointestinal symptoms caused by toxicity of radiotherapy (especially with nausea and vomiting), and improving quality of life.

When the bladder wall and urinary tract is irritated by radiation, urinary frequency, pain or bleeding will occur. In our clinic, we will try to clear heat and toxins, cool down the blood, and induce smooth, pain-free urination. Acupuncture points like The Du20, Ren 6, Ren4, ST28, SP6, and SP9 points with auricular (bladder and urethra) points were selected as the main acupoints for urinary retention. With the treatment Efficacy defined as spontaneous urination and a residual urine volume < 50 mL was measured. It also helps to decrease secondary urinary tract infections, bladder rupture, kidney failure, and other serious consequences. Based on the recent research, it is now believed that the neurophysiological effects of acupuncture result from the central nervous system activation as well as neurotransmitter modulation. Acupuncture might modulate the release of nitric oxide (NO) and some neuropeptides involved in the process of sex erection and excitement. Chines herbs like Rou Cong Rong indicated to have some bio-activities can keep a good status of antioxidation, neuroprotection, and antiaging of the fertility organs from radiation therapy. Ba Ji Tian shows a function of increasing the serum testosterone level of male rats suffering from reproductive impairment. Ji Li also has been recognized that it could improve androgen enhancing ability. With Chinese medicine supportive care, patients under radiotherapy on the pelvic area having sexual dysfunction or infertility would get recovered better.

Those patients who must undergo long courses of radiotherapy may have to end treatment as a result of the accompanied toxicity and additional side-effects. In combination with Chinese herbs, acupuncture, lymphatic and reflexology acupressure could be used as an assistant therapeutic approach. It enhances the response rate of radiotherapy, at the same reduces the severity of toxic effects and other side-effects, and improves the quality of life and survival of cancer patients.

Each drug is given on a schedule that makes the most of its anti-cancer actions and minimizes side effects. If more than one drug is used, the treatment plan will say how often and exactly when each drug should be given. The number of cycles given may be decided before treatment starts, based on the type and stage of cancer. In some cases, the number is flexible and will take into account how the treatment affects cancer and the person’s overall health. The normal cells most likely to be damaged by chemotherapy are blood-forming cells in the bone marrow; hair follicles; cells in the mouth, digestive tract, and reproductive system. Some chemotherapy drugs can damage cells in the heart, kidneys, bladder, lungs, and nervous system.In Chinese medicine, chemotherapy is very warming, drying force that affects the balance of a person’s internal environment, also stress on all the organs. It believes that typical chemotherapy side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, depression, poor appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, urinary and bowel disorders are mostly due to blood and qi deficiencies, as well as under-functioning of spleen, liver, and kidneys.

The liver is involved in the smooth circulation of blood, body fluids, and Qi, the vital energy of life. The kidney is involved in the water balance or cooling of the body. The spleen has a role in digestion and the creation of blood and Qi. Their imbalances can lead to poor sleep, hot flashes, irritability, bowel problems, fatigue, worry, and stress. To balance that, Chinese medicine would plan an appropriate strategy is to invigorate the spleen and stomach so as to ensure the production of blood and qi and to nourish the liver and kidneys.

Acupuncture is typically administered either just prior to chemotherapy and/or within 24 hours after, the supportive care can enhance the effect of the chemotherapy agent, alleviate side effects of chemotherapy. Generally, patients receive acupuncture once to twice weekly during chemotherapy for 20 to 30 minutes each visit. For optimal effects, the patient can get acupuncture 1-2 hours before the chemotherapy treatment for helping to prevent tumor resistance. Chinese medicine formulas applications would be also based on cell cycle and chemo drugs’ metabolites. Most chemotherapy drugs remain in the body for only a few hours or days. They’re broken down by the kidneys and liver and excreted in the urine, stool, or sweat. So the Chinese herbal care we offer would start the weeks before the chemotherapy to strengthen the general health condition, then the special formula based on the patients’ cancer stage and chemo drugs using would start on the first day after chemotherapy until the end of the chemotherapy. Chinese herbs supplement like Fucoidan we would also suggest to take along the chemotherapy, in order to enhance the chemotherapy effects and decrease the cytotoxicity of chemo drugs to normal cells.

Nausea and vomiting are the most commonly experienced side effects in patients receiving chemotherapy. Because chemotherapy can trigger serotonin secretion from the cells lining the gastrointestinal tract. Serotonin can also send impulses to the vomiting center upon stimulation which is an effective method to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Electroacupuncture has demonstrated benefit for chemotherapy-induced acute vomiting. When the P6 acupoint (Neiguan) was stimulated by acupuncture within a day which started before chemotherapy and continuing for at least 3 days after chemotherapy. In this study, 68% of the patients feel less nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy. For regulating appetite, we would add on the acupoint like Ren 12 (Zhongwan), carried on for three weeks, patients were reportedly able to alleviate the symptoms of loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting, abdominal distention as well as helping with diarrhea. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Liu Jun Zi Tang can antagonize the 5-HT3 receptor. Furthermore, it can also antagonize the 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2B and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2C to avoid the cisplatin-induced reduction in ghrelin levels, thereby resulting in the recovery of food intake.

Meta-analysis showed that TCM combined with chemotherapy lessened the moderate to severe chronic pulmonary toxicity caused by conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Chinese herbal formulas like Bai He Gu Jin Tang, Shan Shen Mai Dong Tang intervention significantly reduced the incidence of chemo-induced acute pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis. also help to alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath, talk fatigue, coughing, loss of appetite, and dried stool. Acupuncture by stimulating acupoints Ren 17, LU 1, LU 2, UB 11 are a potentially effective intervention for improvement of cough, shortness of breath, reduce pulmonary inflammation.

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms experienced by cancer patients that negatively impacts the quality of life As many as 89% of patients experience fatigue symptoms while undergoing chemo treatment. We would choose the herb prescriptions Shen Mai San and Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang which is good at boosting qi and yin. At the same time, these herbs are good at increasing interferon and TNF secretion and activate lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages against tumors. Also, they can cooperate with cytokines in order to stimulate lymphokine-activated killer cells against tumor cells and restore antitumor T cells.

Chemotherapy may cause hair loss all over your body, not just on your scalp. Sometimes patients’ eyelash, eyebrow, armpit, pubic and other body hair also falls out. Some chemotherapy drugs are more likely than others to cause hair loss, and different doses can cause anything from a mere thinning to complete baldness. The currently reported mechanisms of chemotherapy-induced hair loss mainly involve (DNA) damage, hair-follicle cell-cycle inhibition, hair-follicle-cell apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species and signal transduction, etc. In Chinese medicine, we believe that chemotherapy agents not only directly produce toxic effects on hair-follicle cells, but also deplete qi, blood and body fluids, especially kidney essence and kidney qi, and breaks the balance of yin and yang of the human body, which leads to the obstruction of microcirculation and the decline of immune function, further resulting in nutritional disorders of hair follicles and hair loss. The Chinese herbal formula especially the herb He Shou Wu could delay chemotherapy-induced hair loss by improving kidney deficiency and renal dysfunction, changing of facial color and thumbnail color, grading of thumbnail ridging, assessment of quality of life.

Cancer pain is the most common and one of the most distressing and feared symptoms among cancer patients. It is estimated that up to two-thirds of patients with metastatic cancer suffer from cancer-related pain, more than 75% of hospitalized oncology patients experience cancer-related pain. Cancer pain varies both by type of malignancy and by the site of cancer involvement. The majority of cancer pain can be nociceptive or neuropathic. Cancer pain typically is treated with opioids and with an interventional anesthetic or neurosurgical procedures. Despite maximal use of pain medications and the application of interventional procedures, a significant portion of cancer patients still suffers from pain. In addition, the undesired side effects of long-term use of opioid pain medication, which include changes in mental status as well as constipation, nausea, and fear of dependency, are issues of concern. Consequently, cancer patients often turn to acupuncture and other complementary therapies for pain control. Acupuncture-induced analgesic effects can strongly influence the psychological aspect of pain. Acupuncture modulates nerve centers in the brain involved in pain sensation, resulting in an analgesic effect. Also, acupuncture can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters, such as endogenous opioids, serotonin, (5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptamine), norepinephrine, and dopamine. Several RCTs specifically studied acupuncture pain control during surgical procedures and found that acupuncture reduced the analgesic requirement of drugs such as morphine and alfentanil. In Chinese herb formulas, Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang alleviates painful obstruction due to Qi and blood stagnation. It removes blood stagnation in the channels and collaterals, unblocks painful obstruction, and relieves arthralgia.

Several chemotherapeutic drugs are known to be neurotoxic and can lead to chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). It is one of the main dose-limiting toxicities in oncologic treatments and a potential reason to terminate or suspend chemotherapy, in some cases leading to disease progression CIPN, involves damage to the peripheral nervous system and can produce severe neuropathic pain sensory deficits, or gait impairment and can severely decrease the patient’s quality of life. For patients with persistent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, treatment may be limited to symptom management with narcotics, antidepressants, and antiepileptics. Studies suggest that analgesic regimens typically produce only modest relief of pain and other common side effects such as dizziness, sedation, dry mouth, and constipation. Wen Luo Tong Tang has been used as an external therapy to manage chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. As shown in a clinical study, Wen Luo Tong Tang could dramatically alleviate chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity by regulating linoleic acid and glycerophospholipid metabolism pathways. Gui Zhi Jia Zhu Fu Tang has been shown to reduce neuropathy in metastatic chemotherapy-induced neuropathy patients. The formula is supporting the Qi, which is supporting the general energy level of the body, which is usually reduced in CIPN by activating the vegetative nervous system. Shou Di Huang is basically supporting the Yin, which in western terms reflects the structural damage of tissue, in the case of CIPN the peripheral nerves. Bai Shao and Chi Shao promote the flow of the blood, which in western terminology has its correlate in enhancing the microcirculation which might be reduced in CIPN; promotion of the perfusion might enhance the regeneration.

Blood disorders is one of the most severe complications of chemotherapy, and more than one-fifth of adult patients receiving chemotherapy ever experience different types of the disorder. In TCM, blood relies on the regulations of internal organs to distribute efficiently throughout the body. Blood is transformed by the spleen; stored by the liver; pushed by the heart; disseminated by the lungs; and transformed into life essence by the kidneys. Moreover, Qi plays an essential part in the blood activities; Qi not only moves blood around the body but also helps promote its products and hold it in the vessels as well. The TCM strategies for minimizing the blood disorder are replenished Qi and blood, invigorate and harmonize the spleen and stomach, nourish the liver and kidney, and clear toxic heat, if present. Acupuncture with Moxi treatments for raising white or red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels, also for enhancing immunity. Moreover, it helps strengthen the immune system by increasing white blood cell antibodies so that the patient has increased resistance to infection. Also, Acupuncture can be employed to prevent the occurrence of heavy bleeding. Gui Pi Tang has been demonstrated to increase the recovery of cellular immunocompetence, Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang, Zai Zhang Tang has shown effects on the hematopoietic recovery from chemotherapy by stimulating hematopoietic stem cells and by improving the hematopoietic inductive microenvironment. Jiao Gu Lan has been shown to assist in the recovery of decreased leukocyte counts, GOT, GPT, and IgG serum levels, and the proliferation of splenocytes. Integrating Chinese herbal therapy with conventional chemotherapy has been shown to help the bone marrow recover from damage and significantly promotes the production of blood cells and immune agents.

For sexual hormone disorder and sexual dysfunction, chemotherapy can lower estrogen levels and cause primary ovarian insufficiency. Symptoms may include hot flashes, irregular or no periods, and vaginal dryness, which can make sexual intercourse difficult or painful. Chemotherapy can also affect vaginal tissue, which may cause sores. Chemotherapy does not often cause erectile dysfunction, though it may affect the desire for sexual activity. With the recent research, It’s now believed that the neurophysiological effects of acupuncture result from the central nervous system activation as well as neurotransmitters modulation. Acupuncture might modulate the release of nitric oxide (NO) and some neuropeptides involved in the process of sex erection and excitement. Using acupuncture for hot flashes in breast cancer patients could produce a larger reduction in all of these symptoms. Another Sweden research reported a more than 50% reduction of hot flashes and other associated symptoms in breast cancer patients after receiving a 12-week electroacupuncture intervention. There was a suggestion in this study that the symptom reduction effect was durable, lasting up to 6 months. The herbal formula You Gui Yin mainly functions to warm and strengthen kidney-yang and to replenish essence and blood, which encourages patients to have normal sexual function.

Hepatotoxicity is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs can aggravate underlying liver diseases, especially viral hepatitis. Changes in liver drug metabolism caused by underlying liver diseases make the drug concentration higher and the drug lasts longer, resulting in increased systemic toxicity (especially bone marrow suppression) or liver function deterioration due to chemotherapy-induced liver toxicity Prevalence of hepatotoxicity ranges from 33 to 65.6% among patients with cancer. TCM for liver protection and completion of chemotherapy is among patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy. Research shows that TCM decreased liver damage in the case of acute hepatitis through decreasing degeneration of hepatic cells and delaying or preventing liver fibrosis. In addition, the traditional Chinese medicine Yin Chen Hao Tang regulates immunoglobulin k-chain C, globin, α-1-antitrypsin, zinc finger protein 407, transthyretin, thrombin, etc. through the proliferation of hepatocytes, and usually participates in human energy production, immunity, and metabolism. The Zhi Zi and Da Huang in Yin Chen Hao Tang can inhibit the scar formation and collagen deposition of liver cell tissues, and reduce the content of hydroxyproline to interfere with the peroxidation damage, liver cell apoptosis and collagen that often occur in the process of liver cirrhosis and repair liver damage.

Breast cancer: Aromatase inhibitors (AIs); Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs); Estrogen receptor antagonists; Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists; Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists; Surgery to remove the ovaries
(Side Effects – Hot flashes and/or night sweats; Headache; Mild nausea; Bone pain; Injection site pain; Hot flashes; Vaginal dryness or discharge; Depression)Prostate cancer: Anti-androgens; Abiraterone acetate; Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists and antagonists; Surgery to remove the testicles
(Side Effects – Reduced or absent sexual desire; Impotence; Shrinkage of testicles and penis; Hot flashes; Breast tenderness and growth of breast tissue; Osteoporosis; Decreased mental sharpness; Loss of muscle mass; Weight gain; Fatigue; Increased cholesterol levels)Endometrial cancer: Progestins; Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs); Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists; Aromatase inhibitors (AIs)
(Side effects – Hot flashes; Night sweats; Vaginal dryness; Weight gain; Worsening of depression; Increased blood sugar levels in women with diabetes; Blood clots; Joint Pain)Adrenal cancer: Adrenolytics; Estrogen receptor antagonists; Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs); Spironolactone (Aldactone); Mifepristone (Korlym)
(Side effects – Nausea and vomiting; Fatigue; Hair loss; Decreased appetite; Weight gain; Mood swings)The management of hormone therapy related side effects in survivors of cancer patients is challenging, regular medications only provide partial relief. Nowadays, many people prefer nonpharmacologic therapies to avoid adverse effects or adding to their already complex medication regimens, especially using acupuncture, Chinese herbal formulas which are with fewer side effects than conventional pharmacologic therapies.Hot Flash
Acupuncture, a nonpharmacologic therapy, may be helpful in the management of hot flashes. Electroacupuncture, in particular, has been shown to affect endorphins and other central neuropeptides, offering biological plausibility for addressing hot flashes. Researchers found that real acupuncture produced long-term increases in μ-opioid receptor binding potential in brain structures, including the cingulate (dorsal and perigenual), caudate, and amygdala. It is associated with improved sleep quality, reduced hot flashes in hormone therapy patients.
Zhi Bai Di Huang is a Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formula that has been used historically to help ease the symptoms of fire and heat caused by Yin deficiency.
According to Chinese Medicine, long term hormone treatment causes the manifestation of Yin energy starting to decline. It can lead to heat symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia autoimmune problems, and dryness throughout the body. This herbal formula contains herbs that tonify and nourish Yin as well as herbs that sedate heat or fire symptoms and put an end to hot flashes. It may also help to maintain balanced renal/adrenal health. Moreover, the herb Ren Shen in the formula has been reported in several publications to increase vaginal mucosa.Depression
Although the cancer survival rate has been rising over the past decade, the negative cancer experiences and the side effects associated with cancer treatments can result in a wide range of health problems, which contain not only physical issues but also psychological and emotional distresses including depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The incidence of depression in cancer survivors is three to four times as much as that in the general population. The negative emotional feelings can contribute to significantly undesirable impacts on cancer patients, leading to sleep disturbance, loss of appetite, deterioration of quality of life.
Pharmacological treatment of prevalent symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance can contribute to the high chemical burden already carried by cancer patients, creating additional side effects. As a result, patients and providers alike are interested in evidence-based nonpharmacologic alternatives like acupuncture and Chinese herbs for these symptoms.According to TCM, depression is caused by an imbalance within organ systems that eventually results in dysregulation of the brain function, and it is viewed as a multifactorial illness with a variety of pathological mechanisms in different cancer patients. Depression may be caused by stagnation of qi, dysregulation of blood circulation, heat, dampness, and phlegm in the body. In general, our practitioners identify the principal cause of depression that is unique to each patient and adopts acupuncture or medical treatment, releasing of stagnated vital energy is the basic therapeutic principle for depression.Acupuncture is being adopted by cancer patients for a wide range of cancer-related symptoms including highly prevalent psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety, insomnia, and impairment in quality of life. Apart from the certain psychological measures, some biomarkers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) could be adopted as the potential indicators. In our clinic, we use the method of dispelling stasis, activate blood circulation and drainage phlegm and dampness: needling on ST 40 (Fenglong) is to harmonize the stomach, dissolve phlegm, and clear the mind; needling on SP 9 (Yinlingquan) can take effects of resolving dampness and dispelling stasis. needling on Xuehai (SP 10) is to regulate qi and invigorate blood; For depression, the location of the disease is the heart and the brain, so, needling on Shenmen (HT 7), which can quiet the heart and calm the mind, with the combination of needling SP 6 (Sanyinjiao) to fortify the spleen, soothes the liver and quiet the heart to help sleep. Also, acupoints PC 6 (Neiguan), Sishencong, DU 20 (Baihui), and Yintang can soothe the liver, rectify qi, quiet the heart and calm the mind, improve the symptoms of depression, also help patients have a better mood to receive modern medical treatment.Research has also identified positive synergistic relationships between common Chinese herbs and formulas such as Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan dissolve phlegm, dispel stasis, quiet the heart and calm the mind. Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan is a classical Chinese formula, which is the formula most often prescribed in combination with the targeted therapy Tamoxifen. Although some of the individual botanical ingredients in Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan may upregulate ERBB2 and ESR1 gene expression, it does not upregulate these genes. This is likely due to chemical interactions between the herbal components of Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan. It’s taken in combination with Tamoxifen was associated with reduced risk of subsequent endometrial cancer. Additionally, there is evidence that when combined with chemotherapy drugs, Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan has the potential to reduce chemo-resistance and improve effectiveness. It can also assist the body in combating chronic stress symptoms and regulates glucocorticoid receptors.Wen Dan Tang can effectively alleviate the anxiety associated with insomnia by regulating the performance of the ghrelin receptor in the hypothalamus and the concentration of leptin in the brain. Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang can reduce the symptoms of hypogonadism caused by castration therapy, including sexual dysfunction, hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia. It also reduces the expression of cancer cell proteases, such as tumor-specific matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9, and impedes the proliferation of prostate cancer. Gan Mai Da Zao Tang can alleviate the symptoms of depression and regulate monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain. Suan Zao Ren Tang is one of the prescriptions most commonly prescribed for insomnia and depression, which can improve sleep quality, reduce nightmares, and improve quality of life.Weight gain
Some people lose weight during cancer treatment while others gain weight. Slight increases in weight during cancer treatment are generally not a problem. But significant weight gain can affect a person’s health. Weight gain is an especially important health issue for women with breast cancer. More than half of women with breast cancer experience weight gain during treatment. Reports show that weight gain during treatment is linked to a poorer chance of recovery. Being overweight before treatment begins also increases the risk of serious health conditions. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart problems.Auricular acupuncture, acupuncture, and herbs could reduce stress through cortisol regulation and attenuate stress-related food cravings, preventing excessive calorie consumption and weight gain leading to obesity. Clinical studies demonstrate that electro-acupuncture and acupuncture act on a cellular level to downregulate the release of serum leptin. ST 36 (Zusanli) and ST 44 (Neiting) are 2 points that are capable of producing leptin-lowering effects. When stimulated using electroacupuncture, these points increased the expression of leptin receptors in the hypothalamus, which enhanced fatty acid mobilization and reduced the size of adipocytes. ST 25 (Tianshu) and Ren 12 (Zhongwan) are additional points that can reduce serum leptin levels and lower body weight. SP 6 (Sanyinjiao), Ren 4 (Guanyuan) could reduce serum leptin and insulin levels in addition to fat mass and adipose cell size. Acupuncture combine with acupressure is a good way to manage fluid retention-related weight gain.

Chinese herb formula Liu Jun Zi Tang invigorates the spleen, alleviate water retention, warm and dissipate phlegm. The symptoms of phlegm collection like fullness in the chest, dizziness, shortness of breath, coughing, loose stool, and a white and greasy tongue coating. Liu Jun Zi Tang helps to restore the spleen and stomach system thus improving the processing and utilization of food as well as ridding dampness as water retention, bloating, and a sense of bogginess in the body. Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang helps conditions with phlegm and fluid retention. It shows a great importance in metabolic regulation as they significantly promote energy metabolism and fat metabolism, and particularly they improve lipid mobilization, reduce fat storage, and accelerate fatty acid oxidation.

Blood clots
The side effects of hormone therapy may cause blood clots to form in the deep thighs and groin. Especially estrogen therapy, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or oral contraceptives, will increase the concentration of coagulation factors in the person taking the drug, thereby increasing the risk of arterial and venous thrombosis. When a blood clot occurs in a deep vein, it can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is most common in the legs, arms, or other parts of the body. When clot falls off and migrates to the lungs, which is called pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT and PE are closely related. When it occurs at the same time, it is usually called venous thromboembolism (VTE)

The Chinese Medicine treatment of blood clots generally involves arriving at the appropriate TCM pattern as poor circulation and blood stagnation. Acupuncture, in particular, is great for increasing blood circulation because the use of acupuncture needles stimulate nitric oxide in the body, which is a key regulator of localized circulation. Therefore, the more nitric oxide, the greater the blood flow and circulation to the tissues. Acupuncture treatments have also been shown to stimulate the release of compounds like leukotrienes and antihistamines that both dilate the blood vessels, while also reducing swelling of tissues. This leads to increases in blood flow to the areas of the body deprived of oxygenated blood.

Herb formula Tao Hong Si Wu Tang promoting blood by nourishing the blood, regulating blood circulation, breaking up blood stagnation. Hong Hua has optimal therapeutic effect by its anti-thrombosis, anti-myocardial ischemia, microcirculation improvement, antioxidant. Dang Gui can expand blood vessels and inhibit platelet aggregation, which also has an effect on anti-oxidation and free radical elimination. Chuan Xiong is equipped with anti-tumor, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis, and vasodilation functions. Chi Shao can prevent thrombosis by expanding the peripheral vessels and increasing the activity of plasmin. Some research also indicated Dan Shen can exert its antithrombotic effect through inhibiting platelet aggregation by increasing cAMP levels and inhibiting TXA2 synthesis in platelets and improving the status of hemorheology property of the blood by decreasing blood viscosity and shortening erythrocyte electrophoresis time. Studies done in the lab and in animals show that Yun Nan Bai Yao (notoginseng) has hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial anticoagulant properties. It is promoted as a dietary supplement that can be used both externally and internally to stop bleeding and to treat cancer in humans and in animals. It is also claimed to provide relief from minor aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with backache, arthritis, strains, bruises, sprains, and frostbite. These researches of the herb and formulas suggested that traditional Chinese medicine can eliminate obstruction in the channels for the patients with blood clots by hormone therapy on swelling alleviation, blood stasis removal, and blood circulation promotion.

Joint Pain
Arthralgia (joint pain), is a debilitating side effect of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) among postmenopausal women with hormone receptor positive breast cancer taking these drugs. Nearly half of AI-users in the clinical setting report arthralgia attributable to AIs. Arthralgia ranks as the top symptom associated with AIs discussed in online breast cancer-specific message boards and often results in poor adherence, or discontinuation. Premature discontinuation negatively impacts disease free and overall breast cancer survival.

Traditional Chinese Medicine theory regards joint pain as part of the Bi Syndrome. Based on the clinic trail, acupoints on local points around the joint with the most pain like LI 15, LI 11, LI 4, ST35, UB34, UB 54, BL 60 with additionally distant points were effectively used to relieve the pain. For optimal results, needles adjacent to the painful joints with 2-hertz electro-stimulation can stimulate the brain to release specific endogenous opioid peptides to eliminate the pain.

Patients with long-term hormone therapy can be associated with deficiency of kidney essence and depression of liver qi, qi, and blood stagnation which results in failure to nourish the related body constituents and organs, including bone and joints， manifested as pain. Through Chinese herb formula Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang which, according to the therapeutic principle of TCM, would invigorates the blood and promotes the movement of qi, fortify the bone, soothe the liver, regulate qi and unblock the collateral, alleviates pain.

Your immune system consists of a complex process your body uses to fight illness. This process involves your cells, organs, and proteins. Cancer can commonly get around many of the immune system’s natural defenses, allowing cancer cells to continue to grow.
Different types of immunotherapy work in different ways. Some immunotherapy treatments help the immune system stop or slow the growth of cancer cells. Others help the immune system destroy cancer cells or stop cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Immunotherapy treatments can be used alone or combined with other cancer treatments.There are several main types of immunotherapy used to treat cancer:
Checkpoint inhibitors – It disrupts the cancer cells’ signals, exposing cancer cells to the immune system for attack
Oncolytic virus therapy – It uses viruses that have been modified in a lab to infect and kill certain tumor cells.
T-cell therapy- It takes some T-cells from a patient’s blood, mixes them with a special virus that makes the T-cells learn how to attach to tumor cells, and then gives the cells back to the patient so they can find, attach to, and kill cancer.
Cytokines – It uses cytokines (small proteins that carry messages between cells) to stimulate the immune cells to attack cancer.
Cancer vaccines – vaccines are substances put into the body to start an immune response against certain diseases and prevent conditions that may cause cancer.
Immunomodulators – It boosts the activity of other elements of the immune system to unleash new or enhance existing immune responses against cancer.
Monoclonal antibodies – immune system proteins created in the lab that are designed to bind to specific targets on cancer cells.
Side effects of immunotherapy may result from stimulation of the immune system and may range from minor inflammation and flu-like symptoms, to major, potentially life-threatening conditions similar to autoimmune disorders. Common side effects may include but are not limited to skin reactions, mouth sores, fatigue, nausea, body aches, headaches, and changes in blood pressure.
Shi Quan Da Bu Tang is prepared by extracting a mixture of herbs Ginseng, Dong Gui (Angelica Sinensis), Bai Shao (Peony), Bai Shu (Atractylodes), Fu Ling (Hoelen), Rou Gui (Cinnamon), Huang Qi (Astragulus), Chuan Xiong (Cnidium), Gan Cao(Licorice), and Di Huang (Rehmannia). Huang Qi and Rou Gui that tone the blood and vital energy, and strengthen health and immunity. This potent and popular prescription has traditionally been used against anemia, anorexia, fatigue, kidney and spleen insufficiency, and general weakness, particularly after cancer treatment. Based on recent animal models and clinical studies, Shi Quan Da Bu Tang demonstrates extremely low toxicity, self-regulatory and synergistic actions of its components in immunomodulatory and immune-potentiating effects by stimulating hemopoietic factors and interleukins production in association with NK cells. It inhibits the recurrence of malignancies, prolongs survival, as well as ameliorate and/or prevents adverse toxicities (such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting, hematotoxicity, immunosuppression, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia and nephropathy, etc.) of many anticancer drugs. Shi Quan Da Bu Tang has potential importance in basic and clinical research of the traditional Chinese therapeutic approach of toning the blood and strengthening Qi in cancer immunotherapy.Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang, has verified the efficacy of stimulating the immune responses in immunotherapy. In cultured T-lymphocytes, Dang Gui Bu Xue tang induced markedly cell proliferation, secretion of interleukin-2 and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Besides, the phagocytosis of cultured macrophages was increased after having Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang. The immunomodulatory effects of the formula were revealed to be the strongest in the extract derived from the drug dosage ratio of Huang Qi to Dang Gui is 5:1. Huang Qi is good at nourishing the Qi of the spleen and lung qi to produce blood. In the formula, it combines with Dang Gui, the two herb work together to invigorate qi, promote blood circulation, and treat internal injuries fatigue, weakness of qi, and blood deficiency due to immunotherapy.
Ganoderma sinense extracted from Ling Zhi (wild reishi) exhibits significant stimulatory effects on PBMC (human peripheral blood mononuclear cells) proliferation. The productions of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-10, and transforming growth factor -β were significantly enhanced by this fraction. Also, the proportion of CD14(+) monocyte subpopulation within the PBMC was specifically increased. The IL-10 and IL-12 productions in monocyte-derived dendritic cells were significantly enhanced by GS stipe fraction. It shows the immunostimulatory effects of GS stipe polysaccharide-enriched fraction on PBMC and dendritic cells. In the clinic, Ling Zhi potentially works as adjuvant nutrient supplements for patients, who are receiving immunotherapy.

The goal of Preventive Cancer Care is to activate the body’s inherent defenses to protect itself from the illness. Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Therapy, Acupressure, Music Therapy, Reflexology and Mind/Body/Spirit Therapies have been shown to be an effective means of cancer prevention for those in remission as well as those in high-risk categories.Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is commonly used preventatively to strengthen the immune system for those patients who have a family history of cancer, are over 45 years of age, smoke cigarettes or are exposed to secondhand smoke. Additionally, those who suffer from chronic recurrent conditions such as breast and ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, persistent cough with green or yellow sputum, peptic ulcers, or hypochondriac pain with acid reflux, etc. are equally at risk and can benefit from such preventative care.

In cases with long-term high dosages of estrogen, or patients with high PSA levels with negative biopsy, Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Therapy is used to balance hormones, lower PSA levels and prevent breast or prostate cancer from developing.

Acupuncture can strengthen the immune system, especially by increasing antibodies and T-cells that monitor and kill cancer cells. Chinese Herbs are used when patients have weakened immune systems, toxicity due to large doses of pharmaceutical drugs and exposure to carcinogens, and also to address symptoms according to individual risk factors. Relaxation Therapy can promote a calm and peaceful state of mind.

The frequency of treatments for Preventative Cancer Care will vary according to the individual. The preventative plan includes Daily Herbal Dietary Therapy and Tai-Qi /Qi Gong Exercise, Weekly Acupuncture, and Monthly Reflexology, Scalp and Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapy.