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Study: Homeopathy can alleviate cancer side effects

Published On: October 7, 2009, 3:12 am

By Lakshmi Anil

The side effects of cancer therapies are indeed more painful than the gravity of the disease. A recent study undertaken by researchers from the Cochrane Collaboration has revealed that homeopathy can effectively reduce the intensity of its side effects without meddling with the method of chemotherapy administered on the patient. Headed by a scientist from the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital, the team has drafted their research methodology and conclusions based on eight different studies. 

 
 
However, they added that very little conventional mode of scientific research has gone into the conclusions that are drawn on the effectiveness of homeopathic treatment. The study that deserves special mention is the one on a mouthwash named Traummel S that is made by blending herbs such as arnica, belladonna, echinacea and St. John's wort. The herb mix has been found to be highly effective in bringing down the development of painful sores within the mouth. Termed as stomatisis, this is a commonly found side effect of cancer treatment. 
 
The study also revealed that a cream derived from calendula reduces acute dermatitis, found in breast cancer patients. This cream was found to be more effective in soothing the skin inflammation caused by acute dermatitis than trolamine, the traditionally prescribed pharmaceutical remedy..
 
Calendula, a member of the herbal family "marigolds", is also used for treating various skin disorders such as acne. It also reduces bleeding and is widely known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties.
 
The research findings asserted that the homeopathic remedial medications, when paired with the conventional cancer treatments, do not make any impact on the effectiveness of the treatment. However, more research needs to be done before making an independent claim on these findings.
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