Receiving the news that your dog has cancer is devastating. Choosing the treatment options can be overwhelming as many are very invasive and expensive. Looking at holistic treatments, such as dietary changes and herbal remedies, can allow dog parents to feel more empowered in treating their dogs. Cancers traditionally resistant to therapy are another reason to look at alternative therapies.

Herbs can interact with the immune system in dogs in various ways, influencing immune responses, supporting immune function, and potentially affecting the body's ability to fight off cancer. These interactions can be complex and vary depending on the specific herb, its constituents, the dog's health status, and the dosage used. General ways herbs can interact with the immune system in dogs include immune system modulation, anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidant effects, adaptogenic effects, anti-microbial activity, and detoxification.

Some herbs have immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate or balance the immune system's responses. This can be particularly important in autoimmune conditions where the immune system is overactive. Other herbs stimulate immune responses, helping the body fight infections more effectively.

Many herbs contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and support the immune system's ability to respond to infections and injuries. Herbs are also rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. 

Adaptogenic herbs help the body adapt to stressors and promote balance. These herbs are thought to have the ability to help regulate the body's stress response and maintain balance, or homeostasis, during times of stress or challenges, allowing them to support the immune system's function indirectly. 

Some herbs have natural antimicrobial properties that help fight infections and pathogens, and those that support liver and kidney function can indirectly contribute to a healthier immune system by removing toxins from the body.

Not all herbs interact with the immune system similarly, and some herbs might have unintended or adverse effects if misused. When considering using herbs to support your dog's immune system, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian or veterinary herbalist knowledgeable about herbal medicine and dog health. They can recommend appropriate herbs and dosages based on your dog's needs and health status.

You must also choose high-quality herbs from reputable sources to ensure their purity and potency. You should request a certificate of analysis for your first order from a new company.

When introducing anything new to your dog, you should start with small doses and carefully monitor the dog's response. If any adverse effects occur, discontinue use.

Treatment to remove cancerous cells will not leave your dog's general health undisturbed. In cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, a dog's immune system often becomes so depleted that your dog's body has a more difficult time fighting cancer. Herbs enhance the immune system and assist with your dog’s overall well-being during cancer treatments. 

While there's ongoing research into the potential benefits of various herbs for dogs with cancer, it's crucial to approach herbal supplementation with caution and under the guidance of a veterinarian trained in herbal medicine, especially when dealing with severe conditions like cancer. Some herbs might interact with medications, have side effects, or not be appropriate for every dog's situation. Herbs that have potential benefits in treating your dog’s cancer include:

Ginger:  Ginger is great for alleviating nausea, indigestion, and motion sickness. With its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, ginger may help your dog with pain relief. 

Astragalus: It has both immune-stimulating and immune-boosting properties. It also contains compounds that prevent melanoma.

Mushrooms: Mushrooms are part of Chinese medicine for the treatment of cancer. Mushrooms, including Reishi, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, and Maitake mushrooms, stimulate white blood cells and are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Polysaccharides found in the mushrooms are also known to support the immune system.

Alkylglycerols: Mother's milk, bone marrow, and the liver and spleen contain these lipids. It is suspected to help safeguard dogs by protecting them with the formation of white blood cells and antibodies.

Mangosteen: Mangosteen, a tropical tree, contains the potent antioxidants termed xanthones. Mangosteen also possesses COX inhibitor properties, which help to reduce inflammation and fight cancer.

Garlic: Garlic's sulfurous components are widely known for their immune system-enhancing properties. Garlic is also well-known for developing beneficial cells to slow down or inhibit cancer growth.

Cat’s Claw: This vine in Peru is long and windy. This bark treats several illnesses, including cancer, in dogs. It's also well-known for its immune-enhancing, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties.

Turmeric: Curcumin, in turmeric, has been found to suppress the growth and spread of cancer cells, stop brain tumors from forming, and reduce the activation of mast cells via lowering inflammation.

Milk Thistle: Milk thistle is known for its potential liver-supporting properties. It may be helpful when cancer treatments are affecting the liver.

Burdock Root: Burdock root is thought to have detoxifying properties and could support the liver and immune system.

Holy Basil (Tulsi): Holy basil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Providing fresh, whole foods that are species-appropriate and foods that have specific anticancer properties, including herbs, medicinal mushrooms , ginger , and foods that contain luteolin , will minimize your dog’s cancer risk. 

The most important consideration for your dog’s diet is to eliminate carbohydrates. Cancer cells require sugar as an energy source—carbohydrates break down into sugar during digestion. With your dog having no carb requirement, they can be safely eliminated from the diet. Kibble  contains  40-60% carbohydrates! When feeding a fresh, whole-food diet, your dog will get her energy from the animal proteins and fats in her meals, and the cancer cells will be starved of their primary energy source.

Holistic treatments for dog cancer are approaches that consider the whole well-being of the dog, including physical, emotional, and environmental factors. You may use holistic treatments in conjunction with or as an alternative to conventional cancer treatments. Holistic treatments that can be considered for dogs with cancer include dietary changes, herbs or other supplements, acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, mind-body practices, environmental enrichment, stress reduction, and monitoring of your dog’s overall condition.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Acupuncture is known to help manage pain, boost the immune system, and improve overall well-being.

As another modality to manage pain and discomfort, you can use gentle massage and physical therapy techniques to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and improve mobility. Practices like Reiki, energy healing, and meditation encourage relaxation and emotional balance. 

A comfortable and stress-free environment can positively impact a dog's well-being. This includes creating a quiet space, ensuring proper bedding, and offering mental stimulation. Other stress-reducing practices include aromatherapy, calming music, and spending quality time with the dog.

Throughout your dog’s cancer, you must regularly monitor your dog's health, behavior, and response to treatment to help identify any changes or challenges that need attention. You will not employ all modalities simultaneously but use them as needed for your dog’s overall comfort and well-being.

Conventional cancer treatments can be expensive and very debilitating to your dog. Exploring holistic options empowers dog parents to actively participate in their dog’s treatment plan. 

Herbal therapies can support your dog’s immune system during cancer treatments.

Combining other holistic therapies with conventional treatments and herbal supplements will provide the best overall treatment for your dog.

Echinacea: a Miracle Herb against Aging and Cancer? Evidence In vivo in Mice - PMC 

A study on the immune receptors for polysaccharides from the roots of Astragalus membranaceus, a Chinese medicinal herb 

Astragalus-based Chinese herbs and platinum-based chemotherapy for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: meta-analysis of randomized trials 

The Use of Lentinan for Treating Gastric Cancer - PMC 

Induction of cell death in renal cell carcinoma with combination of D-fraction and vitamin C 

Single Agent Polysaccharopeptide Delays Metastases and Improves Survival in Naturally Occurring Hemangiosarcoma 

An Update on the Therapeutic Role of Alkylglycerols - PMC 

Uncaria tomentosa—Adjuvant Treatment for Breast Cancer: Clinical Trial - PMC 

Antiproliferative effect of α-mangostin on canine osteosarcoma cells 

Antiangiogenic agents: studies on fumagillin and curcumin analogs 

What Herbs Can I Give My Dog With Cancer

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