Malignancyaccording to TCM

What is Malignancy?

Malignancy refers to the presence of cancerous growths capable of uncontrolled expansion and invasion into surrounding tissues. These malignant tumors, also known as malignant neoplasms, differ from benign tumors by their aggressive nature and potential to metastasize to distant body parts.

The term encompasses a wide variety of cancers, each with its unique characteristics, prognosis, and treatment modalities. Understanding malignancy is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.

How does TCM view Malignancy?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches malignancy through the lens of holistic balance and disharmony within the body's systems. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on the elimination of cancer cells, TCM seeks to understand and treat the underlying imbalances that contribute to the development of cancer.

It emphasizes the significance of Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang harmony, and the removal of pathogenic factors such as toxins. In TCM, the aim is to strengthen the body's resistance, eliminate the factors causing disease, and restore internal harmony, thereby addressing malignancy at its roots.

Causes of Malignancy According to TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the emergence of malignancy is attributed to a combination of internal imbalances and external environmental factors. Key among these are the stagnation of Qi and Blood, leading to the formation of masses, and the accumulation of Toxins within the body, which may transform into cancerous cells.

Qi Stagnation, for example, is believed to create an environment where malignant cells can thrive, while the presence of Toxins exacerbates the growth and spread of these cells. Addressing these root causes through TCM practices aims to not only combat the malignancy but also to reinforce the body's natural defenses against future occurrences.

TCM Herbs for Malignancy

TCM employs a variety of herbs to combat malignancy, focusing on those that can clear heat, expel toxins, and restore balance to the body's systems. Oldenlandia (Bai Hua She She Cao) stands out for its properties to treat toxic heat, making it a commonly recommended herb for various types of cancer. It works by targeting key organs such as the heart, liver, and lungs, cleansing the body of harmful substances and enhancing the immune system's ability to fight malignancy. Utilizing such herbs, TCM provides a complementary approach to conventional cancer treatments, aiming to improve patient well-being and recovery prospects.