Both TCM and essential oils are regarded as "alternative treatments" that many people turn to, in addition to their main treatment of chemotherapy/radiotherapy.
I started TCM right after I ended radiotherapy at a charity-run clinic. It was very affordable, but after a month's worth of treatment, we realized that perhaps this clinic wasn't meant for me. Firstly, I didn't know what was going into my Chinese medicine (e.g. the ingredients of the herbs being used were not listed). Also, because of the lower cost, the herbs being used may not suited for my complex condition (lymphoma, heart...). I'm not saying that this clinic is dodgy- I'm sure it may be useful for more physical conditions such as backaches and sprains- but just not for me.
Almost two weeks ago I started another TCM treatment at Bao Zhong Tang. It used to be at SGH, but is now located at Novena Medical Suites. My physician is Dr Sun, and she specializes in cancer treatment. I read that her patients come in during chemotherapy itself- such that TCM helps to reduce the negative side effects. I guess I was too focused on getting through chemotherapy... but better late than never! I must say they are very professional, and promise that the herbs they use are of premium quality.
After my consultation, I'll have to wait a few hours for the medicine to be ready. You can either choose for it to be pre-cooked and packed in plastic satchets, or cook the herbs on your own at home. I actually considered this but after they explained the very tedious process of cooking it over two hours with loads of steps in between, I chose the convenient option for an extra $15/week's worth of herbs.
The medicine I'm on now has the primary purpose of detoxing my body. I heard that chemotherapy drugs can linger on for MONTHS. I have to drink it twice a day. This entire treatment will be long term (like all other TCM), and Dr Sun expects this to last for 1-2 years. Over the course of treatment it'll slowly drop to once a day, and the herbs used will be adjusted as well.
Separately, I've been using Young Living essential oils for almost everything. Minor ailments such as sore throat, to help aid digestion, hair growth... It is all natural and free from steroids/chemicals so that's always good. But the best part is that it is of therapeutic grade- it is safe enough to put directly on my skin and even into my water to drink.
Overall, my parents were hoping for a holistic treatment for me. Sometimes we'll have to look into various sources for healing. Everyone is different, so hopefully these alternative ways of treatment will help make up, boost and strengthen what has been lost (from both chemotherapy and radiotherapy). Results are not instantaneous, but we are patient and I'll continue to have faith, hope and strength.
