The Challenge of Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy is a powerful, life-saving therapy—but its toll on the body can be immense. Many patients experience a constellation of symptoms, including:
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Fatigue and weakness
Digestive discomfort
Neuropathy
Sleep disturbances
Immune suppression
These side effects can make daily life difficult, decrease the body’s resilience, and sometimes interrupt treatment schedules. Supportive care becomes essential for helping patients maintain strength, comfort, and emotional well-being throughout their journey.
TCM’s Supportive Role
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) does not treat cancer itself, but it plays a meaningful role in easing the effects of chemotherapy and supporting the body between treatments.
TCM focuses on:
Strengthening the Spleen and Stomach
These organs govern digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall energy. Chemotherapy often weakens this system, leading to nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or weight loss.Nourishing Qi and Blood
Treatment can deplete the body’s vital substances, resulting in fatigue, dizziness, paleness, or a lowered immune response. Rebuilding Qi and Blood helps restore vitality and support recovery.Calming the Spirit (Shen)
Emotional strain, fear, and exhaustion are common during cancer care. TCM works to soothe the mind and help restore inner steadiness.Regulating the flow of Qi
Stress and medication can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, leading to stagnation, discomfort, or digestive instability.
By focusing on the whole person—not just symptoms—TCM helps patients feel more grounded and better supported throughout treatment.
How Acupuncture Helps During Chemotherapy
Acupuncture is one of the most effective TCM modalities for managing chemotherapy-related side effects and is widely used alongside conventional oncology care. Its benefits include:
Reducing Nausea and Vomiting
Acupuncture at specific points—such as Pericardium 6 on the wrist—is clinically known to ease nausea and help settle the stomach.Improving Appetite and Digestion
Needling the Spleen and Stomach meridians supports digestive function, helping patients maintain strength and nourishment.Boosting Energy and Reducing Fatigue
Acupuncture helps regulate the body’s Qi, improving overall vitality while supporting a more restful sleep.Supporting Immune Function
By enhancing circulation and regulating the nervous system, acupuncture contributes to improved resiliency.Easing Anxiety and Emotional Strain
Many patients report a deep sense of calm during treatments, making acupuncture a powerful resource for emotional support.Helping with Neuropathy and Pain
In some cases, acupuncture can reduce tingling, numbness, and discomfort associated with chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
Together, these benefits help patients feel more comfortable, empowered, and capable of staying engaged in their treatment plan.
Integrating TCM Therapies
Acupuncture is often complemented with other supportive practices:
Gentle herbal formulas (when appropriate and approved by the oncology team) to strengthen digestion and replenish energy
Moxibustion to warm and support weakened systems
Acupressure and self-massage techniques patients can use at home
Breathwork and qi gong to improve relaxation, circulation, and emotional resilience
Dietary guidance to support appetite, reduce nausea, and help rebuild strength
Together, these therapies create a nurturing environment that supports healing across the physical, emotional, and energetic levels.
