Botanical medicine in cancer care

About this approach

Botanical medicine uses plants or plant-derived preparations, including herbs, extracts, teas and dietary supplements. Cancer centers and integrative clinicians may discuss these products for symptom support, nutrition planning or general wellbeing. The specific product, dose, formulation and timing matter because botanical products can have pharmacologic effects and can interact with medicines.

Where it fits: Plant-derived products used as part of integrative or supportive care

Where this treatment is used

The National Cancer Institute classifies botanicals, herbs and dietary supplements as biologically based complementary health practices. NCCIH notes that research and safety information vary by product and that clinically relevant herb-drug interactions can occur, including with cancer medicines. Evaluation therefore centers on the exact preparation, intended purpose, medication list and monitoring plan.

Procedure and practical considerations

Botanical products can cause side effects, vary in strength or purity, and alter how prescription medicines are absorbed or metabolized. A complete list of products and doses helps the oncology and pharmacy teams check for interactions before surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy or other treatment.

Clinics reporting this approach

These clinic profiles mention this approach in their published materials. Open a profile to compare locations, services, practical details, and ways to get started.