Post Radiation Herbal Alternatives

[SP]

Looking for some alternatives to steroids for post radiation use, primarily to fend off swelling and promote overall healing. Has anyone got any tips here?

I recently read this study from Germany used the herbal extract of Boswellia serrata (one of the ancient and most valued herbs in Ayurveda (Indian traditional medicine))... It concluded that Boswellia significantly reduced cerebral edema post radiation therapy, very interesting read as they compared it to dexamethasone... Link below...

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21287538

Boswellia serrata acts on cerebral edema in patients irradiated for brain tumors: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot trial. Cancer. 2011 Aug 15;117(16):3788-95. doi: 10.1002/cncr.25945. Epub 2011 Feb 1.

[PaulW]

Nice find SP
Not all neurosurgeons use steroids for ANs.
I believe edema mentioned in this study should not be confused with transient enlargement of acoustic neuromas. I believe edema of the brain happens with larger tumours and higher doses of radiation. I believe it's a reaction of the brain itself to the radiation.

[SP]

Thanks Paul! Great point, yes the radiation in this study was done on the whole brain so edema of the brain was measured here.
I guess I'm assuming that also "the transient enlargement of acoustic neuromas" - may be likely attributed to some form of inflammation. In my case I'm looking at post CK supplements to reduce inflammation as a preventative measure. I found a complex now that combines Boswellia , Curcumin, Celery & Ginger that may assist - no major side effects to these that i have managed to find...

[ppearl214]

Hi SP and welcome.

I had CK over 9 years ago.  Edema of the tumor can occur after any radiation treatment.  The goal in prescribing any form of anti-inflammatory post radiation to help prevent the tumor from swelling too much.  I was prescribed short term course of steriods after my radiation to prevent the tumor from swelling on my hearing/balance nerve, thus, potentially causing the tumor from pressing too much and blowing out my hearing.

For me, after speaking to my dad who was a pharmacist, I weighed out risks versus benefits. For the short term use that I was prescribed, the benefits outweighed the risks. 

Bottom line, it's personal preference and yet, the treating teams have experience under their belts to know what may or may not work.  OTC anti-inflammatories may be worth checking as well.

I hope this helps... and again, welcome.
Phyl

[SP]

Thanks kindly Phyl ! Yes of course my plan is if they are needed then I'll be taking them. Given the almost absence of side effects from these herbs I figure they are worth a preventative try

[sunny]

Hi SP,

I was looking into the same kind of thing and found some posts on this forum by "Tumbleweed" that mentioned NSI brand "FlavenZym," plus some suggestions of dry powdered herbs. You might do a search and find the details...?

Good luck to you in your recovery,
sunny

[SP]

Hi Sunny,

Thanks for the tip! I have been reading through all things herbal on this forum and yes Tumbleweed has been a wealth of knowledge.  I have already started using an enzyme supplement called Vitalzym, and looking to add Curcumin and Boswellia herbs to the regime too. I have also been told by my Naturopath that Astralagus is another herb recommended post radiation also. Hope you are doing very well feeling well too.