The potential harm that can arise from combining Chinese herbs with cancer treatment may include:

• Liver toxicities e.g. elevation of liver enzymes
• Electrolyte disturbances e.g. low potassium in blood

If a patient insists on taking TCM, then he or she can try food therapy, e.g. eight-treasure porridge, black bean soup, white fungus dessert.

Acupuncture, also a part of TCM, is generally safe but it may be best to avoid it if there is blockage of the lymph vessels (lymphoedema) as it may cause infection.

Even without TCM, there are simple lifestyle changes that a cancer patient can adopt to better cope with cancer or chemotherapy side effects. These are:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet
• Quit smoking (if he or she is a smoker)
• Get proper sleep and sufficient exercise
• Go for light acupressure

“Last but not least, stay happy and worry less,” Mr Ang says. “After all, having a positive outlook is what will carry you through.”

Ref: S13