Alternative Melanoma Treatments

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and occurs equally in men and women. This cancer develops in the cells that manufacture melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. It can lay dormant for as many as 50 years after the sunburn that triggered it. Herbal treatments for this condition should be used in conjunction with standard cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy. Always be sure to let your doctor know if you are taking any sort of supplements.

Herbal Treatments

Astragalus increases effectiveness of IL-2, a common immunotherapy treatment that mimics our body's own IL-2 cells, that is used in melanoma cases. It also increases production of natural killer cells, which destroy cells with damaged DNA. Take 1,000 milligrams three times a day. Cat's claw tincture also stimulates production of natural killer cells. Take as directed on the label in cup of water with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Kudzu contains daidzen, which halts the growth of certain types of melanoma. Take 10 milligrams three times daily. Soy isoflavone concentrate also contains this substance and gives the same benefit. Take 3,000 milligrams daily. You may choose one or the other and do not need to take both. Lentinan can slow the invasion of melanoma to cells in other parts of the body. This is taken in powder form and should be used in a dosage given by a healthcare provider. Polysaccharide kureha (PSK) slows the spread of melanoma to the lungs. Take 6,000 milligrams daily. Reishi increases the body's production of IL-2. Take 3,000 milligrams daily. Siberian ginseng is helpful for forms of cancer that are responding to immunotherapy, a common treatment in melanoma. Take pure eleuthero extract as directed on the label with 1/4 cup of water.

Do not use astragalus if you have an infection or fever. Avoid cat's claw if you are taking insulin for diabetes. Soy isoflavone concentrate can cause upset stomach. If this occurs, stop using and take kudzu instead.

Other Suggestions

Avoid getting sunburn but still get regular sun exposure. It is necessary to produce vitamin D, which helps melanoma cells return to a regular growth and reproduction cycle. Aim for at least 20 minutes a day in the early morning or late afternoon. Eat a lot of orange and yellow fruits and vegetables as well as green leafy vegetables. They contain vitamin A, which complements vitamin D. A study published in the December 1996 Journal of the American Medical Association found that selenium reduced the spread of melanoma cells. Take 150 milligrams daily.