Integrative oncology is an approach that combines conventional cancer therapies (such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy) with complementary-integrative therapies, aiming to optimise the patient’s overall well-being and support the effectiveness of hospital treatments.
Hospital/conventional oncology focuses on eradicating cancer and controlling its spread, integrative oncology works in harmony with these treatments to support the body’s natural healing processes. Rather than replacing standard cancer therapies, integrative oncology complements them, addressing areas where traditional treatments may fall short, such as managing side effects, supporting immune function, and promoting overall wellbeing and recovery.
By combining the best of conventional and complementary therapies, integrative oncology aims to improve treatment outcomes, reduce side effects, and enhance the patient’s quality of life.
One of the fundamental principles of integrative oncology is the personalised approach to each patient. Therapies are tailored to the individual based on their cancer type, stage, and response to therapy, as well as their personal preferences, health status, and lifestyle. This personalised care model ensures that patients receive treatments that align with their unique needs, increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes.
Enhanced cytotoxicity against Cancer Cells, studies suggest that high-dose vitamin C may increase the cytotoxic (cell-killing) effects. The pro-oxidant effect of vitamin C may enhance the DNA-damaging activity, making cancer cells more susceptible to the hospital drug effects.
Increased drug delivery, research suggests High-dose vitamin C has shown to increase the concentration of platinum-based drugs in cancer cells. This may facilitate improved application towards the tumour cells.
Reduction of side effects, Vitamin C may help alleviate some of the common chemotherapy side effects by supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and providing antioxidant protection to normal cells. This could lead to an improved quality of life for patients undergoing hospital treatment pathways.
Some conventional pathways are known as an alkylating agent that works by interfering with DNA replication. Research has shown combinations with wormwood may improve its effectiveness by increasing oxidative stress within cancer cells, making them more susceptible to the cytotoxic effects.
Chemotherapy drug that intercalates into DNA, inhibiting DNA replication and repair, studies have shown that wormwood may enhance oxidative damage towards cancer cells.
Other known treatment pathways work by disrupting the mitotic spindle, preventing cancer cells from dividing. Research suggests wormwood may help increase the vulnerability of NHL cells to this effect by inducing additional cellular stress and promoting apoptosis.
Potential synergistic effects, both radiotherapy and mistletoe extracts can have direct antitumor effects, through different mechanisms. Radiotherapy works by damaging DNA in cancer cells, while mistletoe may utilise direct cytotoxic effects on cancer cells and inhibit tumour growth through immune modulation and anti-angiogenesis.
Promotion of tissue healing and recovery, radiation may cause damage not only to cancer cells but also to healthy tissue within the treatment area. Mistletoe therapy is known to promote wound healing and tissue regeneration, supporting recovery after radiation therapy.
Cancer-related fatigue, research has demonstrated that mistletoe therapy can significantly reduce fatigue in cancer patients, especially those undergoing radio or chemotherapy. It may help patients feel more energetic and enhanced tolerability.
Immune System Support, some studies have indicated that mistletoe therapy can enhance the immune response during and after radiotherapy. For example, mistletoe has been shown to increase the levels of white blood cells and improve overall immune function, which is crucial for fighting cancer and preventing infections.
Integrative oncology is a growing field that acknowledges the importance of treating the whole person and not just the disease. By combining the best of conventional and complementary therapies, integrative oncology provides patients with an opportunity to navigate their cancer journey in a more balanced and empowered way. With careful integration and medical professional oversight, these therapies may play a vital role in improving the effectiveness of hospital treatment pathways and general wellbeing.
At Wellbeing Medical Group, we have specifically designed our therapies with the health of our patients in mind. We work alongside our patients to tailor your dosage to meet your unique medical needs and provide you with consistent support from start to finish.
Your comfort is our top priority, and we pride ourselves on having a calming environment during your therapy. We will support your cancer journey using a range of complementary therapies administered by our expert medical team.
Contact our team today to find out more about how our integrative oncology in synergy with conventional oncology treatments can help you and to book a consultation with our integrative oncology care team.
Are you based outside of London seeking medical support with a complementary cancer care consultant?
Wellbeing Medical Group thrives to keep your health the no.1 priority. Our staff are dedicated to work closely on your case and offer you the maximum support required to reaching optimized health goals. Each person is an individual for us and so is our approach.
Integrative Palliative Oncology Support
DCA (Dichloroacetate) IV Infusions (TGM NEW)
Curcumin IV Infusion (TGM New)
Helleborus IV Infusion Therapy (TGM New)
Body Strengthening IV Infusion Therapy (TGM New)
