Last night, I was honoured to be invited to participate in a virtual TCM discussion with Dr. TieJun Tang and Kayvan Beklik, a member of the Chinese Medicine Alliance. We hosted a session on the topic: 'Can Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treat cancer?'
I am currently volunteering as a neuro-acupuncture therapist at the Florence Nightingale Charity Hospice in the UK. Most of the patients I see have already undergone cancer treatment and continue to suffer either from the disease itself or from the long-term side effects of chemotherapy, such as fatigue, weakness, hair loss, emotional disturbances, and peripheral neuropathy. I primarily use scalp acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine to help restore physical strength, relieve discomfort, and improve quality of life.
Highlights from the Talk
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, may be used as a complementary therapy to support individuals living with cancer. It can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, including fatigue, nausea, digestive disturbances, sleep difficulties, and emotional wellbeing.
However, conventional medical treatment remains the primary and essential approach for cancer care. TCM should be used alongside, not as a replacement for, oncology treatment.
In accordance with UK regulations, including guidance from the Advertising Standards Authority and the Cancer Act 1939, it is not appropriate to claim that TCM “treats” or “cures” cancer. More accurate and compliant language would be that TCM may “support,” “help manage symptoms,” or “assist with side effects” during conventional cancer treatment.
Which Is More Effective: Acupuncture or Chinese Herbal Medicine?
Both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be valuable complementary therapies to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life during cancer treatment, when used alongside conventional medical care. The choice depends on the patient’s condition, stage, and overall constitution.
Building Trust in TCM:
Some patients are unsure whether TCM can help them. Building trust requires clear communication and evidence-based discussion. There is a growing body of research exploring how TCM may support cancer patients, particularly in symptom management, quality of life improvement, and recovery support during conventional treatment. Sharing appropriate and balanced research helps patients make informed decisions.
Commonly Used Chinese Herbs in Cancer Support:
Several herbs are traditionally used to support patients undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment.
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Clearing heat and resolving toxicity:Bai Hua She She Cao (Oldenlandia diffusa / Hedyotis diffusa), Ban Zhi Lian (Scutellaria barbata), and Qing Hao (Artemisia annua).
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Transforming phlegm and moving blood:Ban Xia (Pinellia ternata) is used to transform phlegm, while E Zhu (Curcuma zedoaria) helps promote circulation and address blood stasis.
- Strengthening the body and supporting white blood cell production (further details in the recorded video)
Additional Discussion Topics
We also explored several broader clinical questions:
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What are the differences in common cancers between the UK and China?
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How is prognosis assessed in different types of cancer?
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Dr. Tang also shared selected clinical cases from his experience.
Further details are available in the recorded video of the session. (1, 2)
This discussion reinforced an important perspective: TCM is not positioned as an alternative to oncology, but as a complementary system that supports the whole person. Its strength lies in symptom management, constitutional support, and quality of life improvement.
In cancer care, collaboration, clarity, and integrity are essential. When used responsibly and alongside conventional treatment, TCM can offer meaningful support to patients navigating one of the most challenging journeys of their lives.
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