Complementary therapies

Many women use complementary therapies alongside their conventional treatments to help manage physical and emotional effects of their cancer and treatment. It is important to let your treating team know if you are thinking about using complementary therapies, as they may affect your treatment.

Complementary therapies
Cancer Council (AUS)
This page explains the difference between complementary and alternative therapies, why they might be used, safety and the different types available.
(web)

Understanding complementary therapies
Cancer Council (AUS, 2023)
Booklet discussing the use of complementary therapies in cancer care.
  (84-page booklet – PDF)

Medicinal cannabis
Shu Ng/Counterpart (AUS, 2024)
Dr Shu Ng, an Authorised Prescriber of medicinal cannabis in Melbourne, explains the different types of medicinal cannabis, modes of treatment, the kinds of conditions that might benefit, and how it can be accessed in Victoria.
(webinar)

Medical acupuncture
Dr Becky Chapman; Counterpart (AUS, 2019)
Medical acupuncture may be useful for a broad range of conditions including pain relief and the side effects of chemotherapy. In this presentation, Dr Becky Chapman, Staff Specialist in Medical Oncology at Bendigo Health explains how it can be used, how it works and how it can be accessed. Hosted by Tammy Boatman.
(webinar)

About herbs, botanicals & other products
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (US)
The About Herbs database can provide guidance on the value of using common herbs and other dietary supplements. If you are thinking about using any of these therapies, always speak with your treating team.
 (web)