Cancer: Clinical Research on TCM

A study by Tian Qiong evaluated the use of dilong capsule, with earthworm as its main active ingredient, in conjunction with chemotherapy, in ten people who had liver cancer. A control group of ten people received chemotherapy alone. Earthworm extract appeared to enhance the beneficial effects, and reduce the side effects, of chemotherapy. Dilong, available in the United States, has been evaluated pharmacologically and reported to have significant effects on immune functioning.

• For another study, by Lin Chuanrong, an herbal decoction containing fifteen herbs was given to 25 people with cancer who were suffering from pain. These people also received chemotherapy. A control group of 25 similar cases received chemotherapy alone. Pain relief was achieved in 68 percent of the people receiving herbs, but in only 40 percent of those on chemotherapy alone. Reduction of pain was partly associated with cancer remission. Eighty percent of the herb group had some degree of cancer remission, with complete remission in five cases, while only 52 percent of the people on chemotherapy alone showed some remission, with three cases of complete remission.

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From THE BEST ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE: WHAT WORKS? WHAT DOES NOT? by Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier.
Copyright © 2000 by Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier, Inc.
Reprinted by permission of Simon & Schuster, Inc., New York, New York.

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Unless otherwise indicated, Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier. All Rights Reserved.
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