These natural agents may help reduce side effects and protect healthy tissue during cancer treatment. Always consult your medical team before using supplements during therapy.
Top Natural Substances and Their Effects
| Substance | Mechanism of Action | Evidence/Effectiveness | Best Use Timing | Notes/Cautions |
| Curcumin | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, modulates signaling | Protects normal cells, may sensitize tumors | Avoid on chemo/XRT days | Use bioavailable forms with piperine |
| Melatonin | Free radical scavenger, supports antioxidant enzymes | Reduces treatment side effects in studies | Bedtime daily | Generally safe, also aids sleep |
| NAC/Glutathione | Boosts glutathione, reduces oxidative damage | Bone marrow and liver protection | Avoid on chemo/XRT days | May protect tumor cells, use cautiously |
| Resveratrol | Antioxidant, supports DNA repair | Radioprotective in preclinical studies | Avoid on chemo/XRT days | High doses may interfere with therapy |
| Silymarin | Liver protection, antioxidant | Protects from chemo-induced hepatotoxicity | Ongoing | Widely used in liver support |
| Quercetin | Flavonoid, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory | May protect GI tract, bone marrow | Ongoing or pulsed | Drug interactions possible |
| Omega-3s | Anti-inflammatory, stabilizes membranes | Reduces mucositis and inflammation | Daily | Use high-quality fish oil |
| EGCG (Green Tea) | Antioxidant, may sensitize tumors | Protects healthy cells, sensitizes tumors | Not during proteasome inhibitors | Avoid high doses with some chemotherapies |
| Astragalus | Adaptogen, immune support | Reduces chemo side effects (traditional use) | Avoid on chemo/XRT days | Immune modulator, generally safe |
| Lycopene | DNA protection, antioxidant | Reduces radiation-induced damage | Daily via diet or supplement | Found in cooked tomato products |
Best Practices:
- Avoid high-dose antioxidants during chemo/XRT unless guided by an integrative oncologist.
- Space supplements at least 48 hours away from treatment when needed.
- Monitor for interactions with specific chemotherapy agents.
- Focus on whole-food sources when possible.
Disclaimer: This guide is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your oncology team before initiating any supplement during active cancer treatment.
