At the time of assessment, the available evidence did not suggest positive effects for any of the treatments evaluated by CAM Cancer for this symptom.

Cannabis and cannabinoids

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as few trial data are available. In one RCT (n=192), cannabis did not affect mood.

Safety

Cannabis and cannabinoids are generally safe. Effects on the central nervous system are common with medical cannabis and cannabinoids. Effects are dose-dependent and include changes in mood (euphoria and dysphoria), memory disorders, blurred vision, and dizziness as well as dry mouth. The risk of drug interactions with the various medical cannabis and cannabinoid preparations is low.

Read the full version of the  Cannabis and cannabinoids summary.

Essiac

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as few trial data are available. One uncontrolled retrospective cohort study (n=510) concluded that Essiac did not improve mood states.  

Safety

The safety of Essiac has not been assessed. The safety profile of Essiac is largely unknown, but some of its ingredients are associated with possibly considerable adverse effects. An indirect risk is that patients using Essiac are advised to cease conventional cancer treatments, including chemo-or radiotherapy.

Read the full version of the  Essiac summary.

Ginseng (Panax spp)

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as few trial data are available. Patients with non-metastatic colorectal cancer reported better mood after a 30-day course of treatment in a RCT (n=113).

Safety

Generally considered safe, with only minor adverse drug reactions reported. Mainly gastrointestinal intolerances, headaches, and sleep disorders have been reported. These are dose-dependent, infrequent, and transient. The risk of interactions is low.

Read the full version of the Ginseng (Panax spp) summary.

Massage

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as the available data are contradictory on the effect of ginseng on mood. One SR (n=19 RCTs) reported no effect of massage therapy on mood, while another SR (n=16 RCTs) reported positive effects on improving mood.

Safety

Generally considered safe when administered by a qualified professional. Contraindications include strong forceful massage in patients suffering from haemorrhagic disorders, low platelet counts, and blood thinning medication.

Read the full version of the  Massage (Classical/Swedish) summary.

Music therapy

Efficacy

The available evidence for music intervention to improve mood is inconclusive as two SRs (n=5 RCTs, n=6 RCTs) report conflicting results. 

Safety

Generally considered safe with no safety issues on record. Caution is advised for acutely distressed and/or emotionally fragile patients, particularly in patients with serious and life-threatening cancers.

Read the full version of the  Music therapy summary.

Progressive muscle relaxation

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as few trial data are available. Less mood disturbance was reported in a RCT (n=148) among cancer patients receiving progressive muscle relaxation treatment.

Safety

Generally considered safe when administered by a qualified practitioner. Some concern has been raised about the use of relaxation therapy interventions among individuals who have a history of psychiatric disorders.

Read the full version of the  Progressive muscle relaxation summary.

Qigong

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as few trial data are available. Qigong improved mood disturbance in one RCT (n=162).

Safety

Generally considered safe when administered by a qualified practitioner. As it is a moderate form of aerobic exercise, it may be beneficial for people to check with their health practitioner if they have a known heart condition, severe osteoporosis, or musculoskeletal difficulties.

Read the full version of the Qigong summary.

Reiki

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as few trial data are available.  A RCT(n=36) found that a group receiving Reiki reported improved mood outcomes. 

Safety

Generally considered safe when administered by a qualified practitioner, reiki has not been associated with any direct safety issues.

Read the full version of the Reiki summary.

Therapeutic touch

Efficacy

The evidence is inconclusive as only few trial data are available. No significant differences in mood were reported in one small RCT (n=35) .

Safety

Generally considered safe when administered by a qualified practitioner, no serious safety concerns are known.

Read the full version of the Therapeutic touch summary.

Aromatherapy

Efficacy

The evidence suggests aromatherapy is not effective for mood. The results are derived from one SR (n=4 RCTs); moderate certainty evidence.

Safety

Generally safe and only associated with minimal adverse effects when used in appropriate dilutions. Allergic reactions can occur with all oils. Should not be used undiluted.

Read the full version of the Aromatherapy summary.