Treatment
Conventional Treatments
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, sometimes called radiotherapy, is the careful use of radiation to safely and effectively treat many different kinds of tumors.
- Doctors called radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to try to kill tumors, to control tumor growth or to relieve symptoms.
- Radiation therapy works within tumor cells by damaging their ability to multiply. When these cells die, the body naturally eliminates them.
- Healthy cells near the tumor may be affected by radiation, but they are able to repair themselves in a way tumor cells cannot.
Along with brain radiation comes the potential for side effects and complications. Side effects to the brain may not occur until a couple weeks after the start of radiation therapy. The most common side effects include hair loss, skin irritation, fatigue and edema (swelling of the brain). Other possible side effects include hearing problems, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, memory or speech problems and headaches.
A severe complication is radiation necrosis. This is death of healthy brain tissue. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish from recurrent tumor growth. The dead cells can be irritating to the brain and cause inflammation and swelling. This can cause symptoms of headaches, seizures and in a small number of cases, even death. Medications are usually prescribed to control the swelling. Although radiation technology has improved in the recent years, necrosis is a prevalent side effect in children receiving brain tumor radiation. Other complications include central nervous system damage and return of tumor growth.
Please refer to the following links for more information about brain tumors and radiation, including side effects and complications.
Gamma Knife
The gamma knife and its associated computerized treatment planning software enable physicians to locate and irradiate relatively small targets in the head (mostly inside the brain) with extremely high precision. Intense doses of radiation can be given to the targeted area(s) while largely sparing the surrounding tissues. The gamma knife works by a process called stereotactic radiosurgery, which uses multiple beams of radiation converging in three dimensions to focus precisely on a small volume, such as a tumor, permitting intense doses of radiation to be delivered to that volume safely.
Please refer to http://www.radiologyinfo.org/ for more information.
Accuray Cyberknife
Visit Accuray’s website to learn about their Cyberknife Robotic Radiosurgery System, a new generation in radiosurgery designed to treat tumors anywhere in the body with sub-millimeter accuracy. The company’s Cyberknife System is the first and only commercially available system to use intelligent robotics to continuously track, detect and correct for tumor and patient movement throughout the treatment. The Cyberknife System provides an additional option to many patients diagnosed with previously inoperable or surgically complex tumors.
Chemotherapy
Treatment of disease by means of chemical substances or drugs; usually used in reference to neoplastic (cancer) disease.The use of these drugs or chemicals to slow down or kill rapidly dividing cells can be used before, during, or after surgery to help destroy tumor cells and to prevent them from returning. Chemotherapy drugs may be taken by pill or by injection and are often used in combination. Drugs called radiosensitizers, which are believed to make radiation therapy more effective, may also be prescribed.
Alternative Supplements
NOTICE:
These should be researched in order to find a combination that will work well synergistically. It is also important to select your brands wisely because the manufacturers do matter when buying supplements. We are in the process of adding recommendations, but there are 2 web sites that, with membership, provide natural medicine ratings, interactions advice, products reviews, safety concerns, and more based on independent, unbiased testing.
- Consumer Reports Medical Guide.org - Natural Medicine Ratings
“Through a special partnership with the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, we are proud to offer you access to the most current information and effectiveness Ratings for natural medicines, herbs, vitamins and nutritional supplements to prevent and treat a variety of conditions.” - Consumer Lab.com - Product test / Laboratory Test Results
Mission: To identify the best quality health and nutrition products through independent testing
Alfalfa soup
helps to detoxify from radiation
Alpha Lipoic Acid
a nutrient that penetrates BBB and a powerful antioxidant that is used by our bodies to prevent free radical damage to our cells. It energizes metabolism and helps with the conditioning of the blood. It also prevents routine bruising as well as breaks down sugars so that energy can be better produced by way of cellular respiration. Recent research has discovered that Alpha Lipoic Acid offers a protective action for the nervous system and brain. It also protects our bodies from metals and radiation pollution.
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compounds)
strengthens immune system and may increase natural killer cell activity
Ambrotose
a glyconutritional blend of 8 monosaccharides to build connections for proper cell-to-cell communication
Barley Power
a powerful cold-pressed “green” product that is a supplement containing many enzymes. It is considered to be potent in combination with a proteolytic enzyme such as Vitalzym or Wobenzyme. (http://www.barleypower.com)
Beta Glucan (Beta 100, Beta 500)
This is a nutrient that is known to get through the blood brain barrier (BBB).
Boswellia (plant)
has anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, anti-tumor, and blood lipid lowering activities.
Bromelain (from pineapple plant)
proteolytic enzyme; helps with digestion and is also an anti-inflammatory agent. May contribute to beneficial changes with WBC to affect the immune system.
Cesium Chloride/DMSO Protocol
Used in treating stage IV cancers, The Cesium Chloride Protocol directly targets cancer cells. Normal cells do not ingest the cesium chloride. DMSO allows cesium chloride to target the cancer cells in an even more dramatic way. Cesium has been proven to get into cancer cells, when other nutrients cannot. The cesium:
- Makes the cancer cells alkaline (Note: the BLOOD is NOT made alkaline, only the inside of the cancer cells)
- Limits the intake of glucose into the cell (thus starving the cell and making the cell "sick" from lack of food)
- Neutralizes the lactic acid (which is actually what causes the cell to multiply uncontrollably)
- Stops the fermentation process, which is a second affect of limiting the glucose.
Liquid ionic cesium chloride works by making cancer cells highly alkaline, typically 8.0 and above, thus killing the cancer cell or making them so "sick" the immunity system kills them. Cesium chloride not only kills cancer cells, directly or indirectly, it immediately stops the metastasis of the cancer, can start shrinking tumor masses within weeks, and almost always stops the pain of cancer within 24 to 48 hours, depending on what is causing the pain.
PLEASE NOTE:
If considering this treatment, you must fully read the following articles and have support when using this product.
- The Cesium Chloride/DMSO Protocol For Treating Stage IV Cancers
- Use Of Cesium Chloride To Cure Malignancies
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that can stimulate the immune system in several ways. It works mainly by increasing white blood cells but can also increase the number and/or activity of the cancer fighting t-cells and macrophages, increase antibody levels, and help the body use oxygen more efficiently.
Curcumin
Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid of the Indian curry spice Turmeric. Curcumin is known for its anti-tumor, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as being an aid in the prevention of radiation damage. In studies, curcumin-sensitized glioma cells to several clinically utilized chemotherapeutic agents (cisplatin, etoposide, camptothecin, and doxorubicin) and radiation. These findings support a role for curcumin as an adjunct to traditional chemotherapy and radiation in the treatment of brain cancer. http://www.blackwell-synergy.com
Digest Gold
increases energy made available to the immune system
Fish Oil
omega 3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation - Recommended Brand: Carlson
Germanium 132 (GE132)
Labeled as a biological-response modifier, which means it is a substance that can enable the body to change its response to tumors, resulting in therapeutic benefits. Germanium does not directly attack cancer cells, but rather stimulates the body’s immune system, making it potentially more effective in the treatment of cancer.
Glyconutrients
Glyconutrients, or plant-based “health sugars”, support your body’s natural ability to reach optimum nutritional levels and play a role in enhancing the quality of life. (The FDA has not evaluated this statement. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)
For more information:
http://www.glycoscience.org
http://www.healthtutor.com
Glyconutrients are a key factor in Mannatech’s products. The MannaRelief HOPE program is a program that helps to subsidize the cost of products. https://www.mannatech.com
Graviola
This milder cousin to Paw Paw comes from the tropical areas of South and North America. It works by slowing down or stopping the ATP production, which lowers the voltage of the cell. When the energy level drops to a critical level, the cell falls apart. Refer to http://cancertutor.com/Cancer/Graviola.html for more info.
Juice Plus+
This is a whole food product that you can use to help with nutrition as well as boost and support the immune system. No preservatives are added and you can supplement with garden (vegetables), orchard (fruits) and/or vineyard (berries).
For product and ordering information, go to http://www.FruitsVeggiesAndMore.net
Juicing
Fresh juice from fruits and vegetables is loaded with cancer fighting phytochemicals and vitamins, in a state easily absorbed by the body. A well-known juicer on the market is The Champion Juicer.
Maitake extract
enhances immune system function
Melatonin
“natural night-cap”, strengthens immune system, reduces free radicals. Melatonin is the main hormone responsible for regulating sleep and has been shown to exert anticancer activity through at least five different mechanisms. These include:
- An anti-proliferate effect on cancer cells
- Stimulation of anticancer immunity
- Changes in the expression of cancer-prone genes called oncogene
- Powerful antioxidant
- anti-angiogenic effects
Miso Soup
helps to detoxify from radiation
MSM
(100% natural) A natural molecule that penetrates the BBB. Helps to reduce and prevent swelling and inflammation. It is also known for help in reducing pain.
MGN -3
builds the immunity system
Neuro-Max II
Can be helpful in controlling necrosis-related side effects of radiation. (From vitacost.com) Contains the most active and well-researched brain and cognitive enhancing nutrients available. Phosphatidylserine and Ginkgo Biloba have many double blind clinical studies demonstrating their efficacy in brain and neural function. Human experiments with Vinpocetine and CDP choline show them to be beneficial for memory and cognition as well as improving oxygen and blood flow delivery to the brain.
- Maximizes memory and concentration
- Increases neurotransmitter potential
- Enhances blood flow and energy to the brain for optimal cognition
Neuro-Plus
Used to improve brain and nervous system function. Contains DMAE, Bacopa Monnieri, Ashwagandha Root, Asian Ginseng Root, Goto Kola and Ginkgo Biloba. Also useful in controlling necrosis-related side effects.
Probiotics
These are live microorganisms that improve balance of intestinal micro flora. It’s suggested to choose a children’s product that is refrigerated and has AT LEAST 2 billion viable organisms guaranteed to the expiration date.
- Use dietary supplements containing potentially beneficial bacteria or yeast, with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as the most common microbes used. LAB have been used in the food industry for many years, because they are able to convert sugars (including lactose) and other carbohydrates into lactic acid.
- Probiotic bacterial cultures are intended to assist the body's naturally occurring gut flora to reestablish themselves. Doctors sometimes recommend them, and, more frequently, by nutritionists, after a course of antibiotics, or as part of the treatment for gut related candidiasis. Claims are made that probiotics strengthen the immune system.
- The rationale for probiotics is that the body contains a miniature ecology of microbes, collectively known as the gut flora. The number of bacterial types can be thrown out of balance by a wide range of circumstances including the use of antibiotics or other drugs, excess alcohol, stress, disease, exposure to toxic substances, or even the use of antibacterial soap. In cases like these, the bacteria that work well with our bodies may decrease in number, an event that allows harmful competitors to thrive, to the detriment of our health.
Paw Paw
This is the more powerful cousin of Graviola. It is known to kill cancer cells by blocking the ATP production and therefore reducing the voltage of the cancer cell causing it to break down. (Normal cells have plenty of ATP so Paw Paw doesn’t affect them) Due to the lysing (clusters of dead cancer cells), it is important to include a treatment that is an anti-inflammatory. Refer to http://cancertutor.com/Cancer/Graviola.html for more info.
Protocel
This is a chemical substance that was developed by a biochemist, Sheridan, who combined components to act synergistically to lower the voltage (energy) of the cancer cell. Malignant cells are anaerobic and their voltage is already low. Protocel works by blocking the production of ATP, which in turn further lowers the voltage of the cell, causing the cell to eventually self-destruct and break apart. The pieces of the dead cancer cell are called lysing. You MUST follow the guidelines in taking Protocel because certain supplements, treatments and food will interfere with the Protocel and cause it to lose its effectiveness.
There is much to know about this product and therefore it is recommended to do further reading after this basic description. You can read a nice summary at the Cancer Tutor site (http://cancertutor.com/Cancer/Protocel.html) and then investigate their related links.
Repair
proteolytic enzymes that stimulate phagocytes to ingest foreign objects and debris
Ruta/Cal Phos
Ruta 6/Ca3 (PO4)2 have been used as an alternative and complementary therapy in treatment of brain tumors. Published research showed that in combination, Ruta/Cal Phos caused cancer death in brain cancer cells. It is also a good idea to read further on this subject, as there is more information and a recommended dose and schedule. Here are 2 links with more info and Banjeri’s schedule:
http://www.fidelibus.com/ruta/begin-message.htm
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/Ruta-6/
Veggie Caps
A vegetable formula in capsule form that can help the immune system and give antioxidant support.
Vitalzym
A natural proteolytic (digests protein) enzyme that strips the protein coating around cancer cells to increase ease of immune system to kill them. It can maintain your normal enzyme levels and balance your body’s repair mechanism and may reduce inflammation. Considered very potent when used with Barley Power or fresh wheatgrass juice. (http://www.cancertutor.com) (http://www.natural-product.info/Product01/Vitalzym.html)
Vitamin D3
Studies have shown that Vitamin D3 can induce cancer cells to differentiate into normal cells and to interfere with cancer cell division.
Wheat Grass
Contains many important enzymes to help other enzymes work better; potent with Vitalzym
Wobenzyme
A proteolytic enzyme used to breakdown harmful and abnormal complexes in the body. It can be used as an anti-inflammatory since the body uses systemic enzymes to rebalance the inflammatory response and help heal it.
Therapies
Detoxification Foot Bath
The body has certain cleansing abilities, but it is unable to keep up. There are now steps to help cleanse harmful toxins from the inside of your body and it's called the "EB Cellular Cleanse Therapy". This energy healing foot bath is used to cleanse the body and release heavy metals. Water is used as the medium, since our bodies are 80% water, and a brass and stainless steel electrode. The foot bath detoxifies the body of chemicals, radiation and toxins that are trapped in the skin. The following is taken from the handbook (more information):
"Designed and developed to restore the body's balance and energy levels, while facilitating and aiding in it's natural detoxification process. Proven in clinical trials to balance and restore the body's pH and electromagnetic energy. State of the art research and development used to provide a form of energy that the body can readily use - "Bioenergetic/LifeEnergy".
What it does:
The “EB” Cellular Cleanse Therapy has shown in clinical trails using electro dermal scanning to improve and balance the body’s energy channels or meridians. These meridians begin or end on the feet or hands and provide a pathway for energy to flow to or from a particular organ (i.e. liver, kidney, etc.). A person’s current state of health is determined by how well energy flows through these meridians or energy channels. The “EB” Cellular Cleanse Therapy has also shown in clinical trails to change and balance the body’s pH. Balancing the body’s pH is critical in assisting the body in every aspect, from its ability to detox to its ability to digest.
How it works:
The “EB” Cellular Cleanse Therapy uses direct current to create an ionic energy field in the foot bath similar to the energy produced by the human body. This energy is sub-threshold, meaning that the patient generally will not feel the treatments. The “EB “ Cellular Cleanse Therapy creates energy by altering the electron and proton load in water to create an electromagnetic (Bioenergetically”) altered water environment. The patient places their feet in the “Bioenergetic” water to receive the flow of appropriate ions. The energy flow from the “EB” Cellular Cleanse therapy increases the body’s energetics, or simply translated “Life-Energy”.
Most practitioners would recommend starting out with bi-weekly sessions and then tapering down to once a month or so, but it is always a good idea to be under the care of a good holistic doctor.
Laser Therapy
The erchonia laser is a low-level, cold laser that is primarily used to enhance tissue recovery and quicken injury-healing time. Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is FDA approved for the treatment and management of Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, but it is said to promote healing in several conditions, including chronic pain, wound healing, joint injury and neurological conditions. It works by a mechanism of action where a cascade of intracellular signals initiate, inhibit or accelerate biological processes such as wound healing, inflammation, or pain management. LLLT has the unique property of being able to penetrate up to 2 inches below the skin surface causing an increase in cellular metabolism with no tissue damage. Although it is being used in treatment of brain stem gliomas, LLLT has not been specifically tested in brain cancer. This is from the laser protocol book:
"During the treatment of the tissue with the 635nm laser, an interaction between cells and photons takes place---a photochemical reaction. Photons from the laser affect the tissue at the cellular level. The cold laser enters the tissue, alters cell membrane permeability, and at the cellular level is absorbed in the mitochondria. The mitochondria are the “Powerhouse” of the cells and make ATP, which is needed for the life enhancement process of every cell. The laser accelerates cellular reproduction and growth, stimulates fibroblast development in damaged tissue, increases output of specific enzymes, supplies greater oxygen to the blood cells, reduces the formation of scar tissue, reduces inflammation, stimulates circulation, and stimulates nerve function."
If you are considering laser therapy, be sure to find a good holistic doctor or chiropractor that has access to this equipment in order to provide you with proper explanation and training.