Breast cancer originates in the cells of the breast tissue. This type of cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in women, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of breast cancer may include a lump in the breast, bloody nipple discharge or an inversion in the nipple. The term "stage four breast cancer" means the cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body. Alternative treatments and complimentary treatments may help women with this condition, according to the American Cancer Society.
Licorice Root Treatments
According to the American Cancer Society, licorice contains glabridin and licochalcone-A, which are substances that may prevent DNA mutations. These substances may also prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells in breast cancer patients. Licorice is available at most health foods stores in extract and capsule form.
Flaxseed Extract
Flaxseed extract has been used for several decades in cancer patients. According to the American Cancer Society, a diet rich in flaxseed or flaxseed extract may reduce the stickiness of cancer cells. The reduced stickiness may prevent cancer cells from spreading to other parts of the body.
Flaxseed can be found in grains, such as cereals and breads. It's also available in liquid extract at health stores.
Ginseng Extract
Ginseng extract contains substances called "ginsenosides." These substances are similar to steroid hormones, according to the American Cancer Society. They may also have an anti-inflammatory effect on cancer patients. Increasing the strength of immune cells may prevent and slow the growth of cancer cells in breast cancer patients.
Mushrooms
Asian medicine has used mushrooms in tonics for thousands of years. However, certain types of mushrooms, such as the Maitake mushroom, may have anti-cancer qualities. The Maitake mushroom contains the ingredient polysaccharide. This substance is believed to activate the immune system and t-cells, which naturally kills cancer cells. Shiitake mushrooms may also be helpful in preventing the spread of cancer cells, according to the American Cancer Society.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may prevent the spread of tumor growth in hormone related cancers, such as breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Omega-3 fatty acids also have other health benefits, such as protecting against heart disease.
Tags: cancer cells, American Cancer, American Cancer Society, Cancer Society, breast cancer