Lymphoma is a difficult cancer to treat because instead of a specific tumor that can be removed or radiated, the disease is spread throughout the dog's body as the lymph nodes release fluid into the bloodstream. Chemotherapy is the treatment of choice for lymphoma, but many owners choose herbal treatments to supplement chemotherapy or to fill the gaps between rounds. Many herbs are helpful in either boosting the immune system or battling the cancerous cells.
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Red Clover
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A popular anti-cancer herb, red clover contains high levels of carotene, vitamin E and flavonoids that help fend off the growth of cancerous cells while boosting the immune system. Red clover also contains protein, magnesium, calcium and other vitamins that provide nutritional support for sick dogs.
Echinacea
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Echinacea is well-known for its immune-boosting abilities and has a direct impact on bacteria and viruses that take advantage of a system weakened by illness or chemotherapy to cause a secondary infection. The most effective method of treatment requires starting the herb as soon as symptoms are noticed, but echinacea can be combined with goldenseal to treat more advanced cases.
Astragalus
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Astragalus comes from the root of a pea-type plant, and has well-known antiviral properties. Because of its effectiveness at boosting immune system function, the herb is widely available in a pill form sold as "huang qi" in many health food stores. Astragalus also contains a chemical that keeps skin cancer from spreading.
Pau D'Arco
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Pau D'Arco contains a compound called lapachol that has been shown to have a strong anti-cancer activity, and also demonstrates powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Holistic vets consider pau d'arco to be free from side effects.
Mushrooms
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Reiki and shiitake mushrooms contain macromolecules that boost immune response when absorbed intestinally, and Maitake mushrooms work to activate the dog's own cells that attack cancer cells and prevent the destruction of cells responsible for defense.
Milk Thistle
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Milk thistle is used to protect and support liver function. Cancer tends to weaken the immune system, leaving the dog vulnerable to a variety of toxins and infections, and chemotherapy drugs can be quite harsh. All of this puts a strain on an already hardworking liver that must filter wastes and impurities from the blood in order for the pet to get well. Short-term treatment with a milk thistle supplement helps the liver function more efficiently so it can better keep up with the demands of an ill dog.
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