Natural Herbal Treatments for Dogs With Advanced Lymphoma Cancer

Typical treatments for canine lymphoma includes surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. These treatments may slow cancer growth and prolong the dog's life--perhaps even up to 18 months. According to veterinarian R.M. Clemmons, associate professor of neurology and neurosurgery at University of Florida Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, herbal medications have been shown to lead to spontaneous remissions of cancer in dogs.



If your dog is also undergoing conventional treatment for advanced lymphoma, ask your vet before treating your dog with herbs as some of them may conflict with chemotherapy.

  1. Mushrooms

    • Mushroom extracts stimulate the patient's immune system. Specifically, maitake mushrooms may aid in the destruction of tumor cells. Other mushrooms with immune-boosting properties include Reishi, Cordyceps, Coriolus and Agaricus. These particular mushrooms, part of the beta-glucan family, help stimulate the production of white blood cells. They have strong anti-cancerous properties, according to the Animal Hospital website. These mushrooms may also relieve a host of other medical issues including symptoms of chemotherapy. You may even try a blend of these mushrooms for your dog.

    Echinacea

    • Echinacea is an immunostimulant. People often used it to help treat a common cold. While it won't stop or cure a cold, it may help the sufferer feel better faster. Generally used to help the body fight infections, it may help your dog fight cancer and infections that could result as a consequence of a weakened body.

    Red Clover

    • Red clover contains high levels of vitamin E and carotene which may help fend off growth of cancerous cells. This herb also contains vitamins and other helpful ingredients such as protein, magnesium and calcium.

    Cat's Claw

    • Cat's claw, which contains antioxidant compounds, was used by indigenous people of the Peruvian rain forest to treat cancer and arthritis, according to Dr. Clemmons. Published data is somewhat lacking, but cat's claw is believed to contain immune-enhancing substances and anti-tumor properties. This would be helpful for dogs undergoing chemotherapy.

    Milk Thistle

    • A dog suffering from lymphoma--especially a dog that has undergone chemotherapy--is at risk for liver damage. Milk thistle helps protect the liver from toxins. Silymarin, an active ingredient in milk thistle, may have anti-cancer effects.