Alternative Cancer Treatments: The Science vs. The Hype

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with Dr. Jun Mao, Chief of MSK’s Integrative Medicine Service, and Jason Hou, herbalist and acupuncturist at MSK, to break down the facts about alternative medicine—an approach that combines conventional cancer treatments like surgery, radiation, chemo, immunotherapy and targeted treatments, with holistic therapies like acupuncture, mindfulness, natural herbs and supplements. They tackle common misconceptions about alternative medicine, explaining what the science says, what’s safe, and what to avoid. Offering guidance on how these natural therapies can complement other cancer treatments – and how to recognize misleading claims – this episode empowers patients and caregivers with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their cancer care and the use of alternative therapies. 

Resources:
MSK's "About Herbs" Database
MSK's Meditation Library
MSK's Integrative Medicine at Home Program

Episode Chapters:
2:05 - Integrative vs. Alternative medicine
3:14 - Which integrative therapies are right for me?
6:29 - Do these therapies actually treat/kill cancer?
7:59 - The very real benefits of human connection
9:36 - Ivermectin
10:18 - Cannabis oil and Castor oil
11:55 - Vitamin C
13:53 - Turmeric
14:30 - Medicinal mushrooms
14:59 - Ashwagandha
15:42 - Traditional Chinese medicine
18:25 - The dangers of "Why not try?"
21:49 - Resources: herbs, meditation, yoga, music, etc.

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