Thursday 12 March 2026
Maggie's Blog Writer
Complementary therapies
Some people choose to use complementary therapies can be used alongside conventional medical cancer treatments.
This page has information on the types of complementary therapies available and when they might be used for cancer.
Types of complementary therapies
Complementary therapies can offer emotional as well as physical benefits. They are sometimes available on the NHS.
While complementary therapies are not alternatives to medical treatment, in some cases they can support with some of the symptoms of cancer and treatment.
There are many types of complementary therapies, including:
- acupuncture
- aromatherapy
- healing
- herbal medicine
- homeopathy
- hypnosis
- massage
- meditation
- reflexology
- relaxation
- shiatsu
- yoga
It's important to find a qualified practitioner who has experience of working with people with cancer and to discuss it with your medical team.
Finding the right complementary therapy for you
Talking to your healthcare team is the best way to find a balance between your medical treatment and symptom management with complementary therapies that support your wellbeing and how you cope with side effects of cancer and treatment.
As a general guide, these are some of the complementary therapies you may wish to mention to your healthcare team if you are experiencing the following symptoms.
| Symptoms and side effects | Potential complementary therapies to consider |
|---|---|
| anxiety | meditation, mindfulness, music therapy, art therapy, relaxation |
| fatigue | physical activity, massage, mindfulness, relaxation, tai chi, yoga |
| nausea and vomiting | acupuncture, acupressure, aromatherapy |
| pain | acupuncture, hypnosis, massage, mindfulness, music therapy, art therapy |
| sleep problems | acupuncture, physical activity, mindfulness, relaxation, yoga |
| stress | physical activity, massage, meditation, mindfulness, music therapy, art therapy, tai chi, yoga |
91制片厂 offers a complete programme of support, including talking therapies, peer support groups, and workshops and courses that may help you with whatever challenges you are facing. Just come in to your nearest 91制片厂 centre to find out more.
Making informed decisions
Some complementary therapies or remedies may be harmful or reduce the effect of your cancer treatment, so it's important to:
- talk to your healthcare team before you start using complementary therapies
- tell them about any medication or supplements you are taking that haven't been prescribed by your doctor, and any specific diets you are following
- ensure your complementary practitioner is aware of your diagnosis and any treatments you've had or that is planned
91制片厂 is here with you
We are here listen to any concerns and help you find the information and help that's right for you.
Our cancer support specialists can talk to you about complementary therapies available at 91制片厂, such as relaxation and yoga sessions.
They can also help you find out more about other complementary therapies and how to find a qualified practitioner.
- Find your nearest 91制片厂 centre 鈥� you don't need an appointment, just come in
Last review: Apr 2026 | Next review: Apr 2029
Useful links to other organisations
An overview of different complementary therapies, how they may help alongside cancer treatment and how to find a therapist near you.
From Macmillan Cancer Support
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Information about complementary therapies. Alternative cancer treatments can't cure your cancer, but they may provide some relief from treatment side effects.
From Mayo Clinic
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Information about individual therapies to help you decide if using them is right for you.
From American Cancer Society
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Find out about complementary therapies in cancer care, what they are, how they are used, current research and possible risks.
From Cancer Research UK (CRUK)
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Find out more about homeopathy and search for a homeopath near you.
From Homeopathy UK
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Find out more about nutritionalists and search for a practitioner near you.
From Nutritionist Resource
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Find out more about the Penny Brohn whole life integrative approach and the support they offer to people with cancer.
From Penny Brohn UK
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
The CPP is a professional membership organisation that sets the highest standards of practice in herbal medicine. All new members are qualified to university level 6, have undergone a final clinical exam, and have a minimum of 500 hours of clinical training.
From The College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Find out more about herbal medicine and search for a medical herbalist near you.
From The National Institute of Medical Herbalists
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026
Yes to life is a integrative cancer care charity based in the UK.
They provide support, information and financial assistance to those with cancer seeking to pursue approaches that are currently only available as private healthcare.
From Yes to Life
Last reviewed: 30 April 2026