Digestive symptoms
This is an overview of CAM treatments that have been evaluated by CAM Cancer for digestive symptoms. The CAM treatments have been categorized according to the currently available level of evidence. Click on the different categories to view an assessment of these treatments. Please note that this is not a list of recommended treatments and does not suggest that these treatments are safe or effective.
Astragalus
Efficacy
The available evidence suggests that astragalus has a positive effect on gastrointestinal toxicities. One SR (n=3 RCTs) found astragalus polysaccharides combined with FOLFOX chemotherapy treatment decrease gastrointestinal toxicities.
Safety
Generally, it is well tolerated and considered safe when good-quality products are used. More safety research is needed, particularly for possible herb-drug interactions.
Read the full version of the Astralagus spp summary.
Aromatherapy
Efficacy
Only few trial data available for aromatherapy in the treatment of constipation. One RCT (n=32) found that aromatherapy helped relieve constipation.
Safety
Generally safe and only associated with minimal adverse effects when used in appropriate dilutions.
Allergic reactions can occur with all oils. It should not be used undiluted.
Read the full version of the Aromatherapy summary.
Qigong
Efficacy
Few data are available and the data are contradictory. One CCT (n=211) found qigong improves diarrhoea or irregular defecation while a second CCT (n=127 found no significant difference for effect on diarrhoea or irregular defecation.
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.
Selenium
Efficacy
Few data are available. One RCT (n=81) found that among patients with gynaecological cancers oral selenium has little or no effect on acute diarrhoea. Furthermore, the same study found no evidence of effect for other adverse gastrointestinal effects of radiotherapy.
Safety
Selenium is generally considered safe. However, the safety of the therapy has not been systematically assessed. It has been associated with risks related to over-supplementation. Chronic Selenium poisoning has been reported. Symptoms include hair loss, thickened nails, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, paraesthesia, and paralysis. Long-term supplementation may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Read the full version of the Selenium summary.
At the time of assessment, the available evidence did not suggest no effect for any of the treatments evaluated by CAM Cancer for gastrointestinal outcomes.