Homeopathic Remedies for Chemotherapy Support
Also indexed as: Cancer Treatment Support
People undergoing chemotherapy and experiencing side effects may find some relief in
homeopathic remedies. These remedies are not intended as substitutes for treatment, nor should
they be considered part of the therapy. Homeopathic remedies are safe, non-toxic, and do not
interfere with the treatment. (See also the section on chemotherapy support.)
For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also
“Using Homeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homeopathy?
Cadmium sulphuratum: This remedy may be helpful to a person with debilitating nausea
and vomiting after chemotherapy. A person who needs this remedy usually feels extremely chilly
and exhausted.
Gelsemium: This remedy is often helpful when a person feels ill from anxiety or
nervous anticipation of a stressful event or outcome. Weakness and trembling may occur, and
the person may have chills and headache.
Ipecacuanha: Persistent nausea and violent vomiting that does not relieve the
discomfort suggest a need for this remedy. The person may also salivate profusely. Lying down
and resting offer little or no relief.
Kali phosphoricum: This remedy can be helpful for exhaustion and weakness after any
kind of illness or extended stress. The person may be oversensitive to light and noise, and
feel deeply chilly. Mental dullness, depression, and a feeling of inability to cope are often
seen when this remedy is needed.
Nux vomica: A person who experiences nausea but has difficulty vomiting may find
relief in this remedy. Headache and great sensitivity (to odors, noise, and light) are also
likely. Chilliness, irritability, and impatience are often present when Nux vomica is
needed.
Sepia: This remedy may be indicated if nausea is severe and debilitating, with a
headache (especially left-sided) and a dragged-out feeling of weariness. The person may have a
strong desire to be left alone and not be expected to interact with others.
(Note: The homeopathic remedy Cadmium iodatum has been used by some physicians to
counteract unpleasant side-effects of radiation therapy.)
Homeopathy Dosage Directions
Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where
self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X,
6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually
printed on the label.
Many homeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and
wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If
improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The
frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be
required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and
in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.
If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.
For more information, including references, see What is Homeopathy? and Understanding Homeopathic Potencies.