As more research about essential oils for cancer is being conducted on natural therapies, it is becoming more than obvious that people do not need to use conventional practices like chemotherapy and radiation to eradicate cancer. Holistic remedies abound and a cursory glance on “Dr. Google” will rank several on the top of most people’s list. Of all the popular natural solutions out there, essential oils for cancer research has gained significant fanfare and for good reason.
In this article we'll cover:
- Essential Oils for Cancer Research
- Best Essential Oils for Cancer Patients
- Real Life Essential Oils for Cancer Stories
- Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatments
- Using Essential Oils for Cancer Treatment Side Effects
- Essential Oils for Cancer Protocol
Essential Oils for Cancer Research
The truth about essential oils for cancer is four-fold.
First – essential oils for cancer research suggests that oils can help prevent and treat cancer at the cellular level. Additionally, and oftentimes overlooked, essential oils have been shown to be exceptionally effective at managing the side effects related to cancer itself and the side effects people suffer at the hands of medical interventions.
Second – it is critical to recognize that this is not an all-or-nothing approach. Just because you’re taking chemo doesn’t mean that you can’t use essential oils for cancer. The same is true on the flip side of that coin. Far too many patients and healthcare practitioners dichotomize natural from allopathic therapies, and do not give enough emphasis on the practicality of using both together.
Third – we need to put things into proper perspective and remember that the peer-reviewed articles we have that evaluate the ability of essential oils for cancer to prevent, stop and even reverse the growth of various malignant lines are in vitro. In other words, we don’t many live human trials with hundreds or thousands of participants, we have studies that are testing human cells in a petri dish. This is not to say that these studies are useless. The point we need to take from this is that essential oils for cancer is still experimental
Fourth – with this said, there are literally thousands upon thousands of testimonials of people on the Internet claiming that essential oils for cancer cured them. And this cannot be disputed because a vast majority of them are your normal, not-trying-to-make-a-buck kind of people who are not trying to sell a product. These are legitimate medical “miracles,” which are ultimately going to be the basis for further research.
Best Essential Oils for Cancer Patients
Of all of the studies in the medical literature, this is just a sample of those that suggest essential oils for cancer therapy can benefit patients.
Citrus Oils
The most prominent and noteworthy component of citrus oils is d-limonene, confirmed to be a potent cancer-fighting agent. In the words of the U.S. National Library of Medicine's open chemisry database, PubChem,
“D-Limonene is an oral dietary supplement containing a natural cyclic monoterpene and major component of the oil extracted from citrus peels with potential chemopreventive and antitumor activities. Although the mechanism of action has yet to be fully elucidated, limonene and its metabolites perillic acid, dihydroperillic acid, uroterpenol and limonene 1,2-diol may inhibit tumor growth through inhibition of p21-dependent signaling and may induce apoptosis via the induction of the transforming growth factor beta-signaling pathway. In addition, they inhibit post-translational modification of signal transduction proteins, resulting in G1 cell cycle arrest as well as differential expression of cell cycle- and apoptosis-related genes.”
Clary Sage
Sclareol, the primary component of clary sage essential oil, has promising anti-cancer effects in laboratory evaluations. During studies dating back to 1999 to just last year, it has been shown to impact the way that cancer cells proliferate by literally killing through a process known as apoptosis. (1, 2)
Apoptosis is interesting because it literally triggers the cell to commit “suicide,” more formally known as programmed cell death, which suggests that clary sage oil could have profound effects on the prevention and treatment of cancer lines.
Sclareol, has shown some promising things in lab tests. Over the last couple of decades but as recently as this year (2015), studies have emerged that analyze sclareol's effect on cancer cells. With the caveat that these benefits occurred within the confines of lab cultures and dose adjustments, sclareol may have an impact on the way that cancer cells proliferate, and they could help to induce apoptosis (cancer cell death).
While this does not tell us how much potential sclareol has to directly treat cancer – and it's exciting to think about where that could go one day! – it is a common thread that we see in many antioxidant-rich essential oils. This is especially interesting for clary sage, because some claim that it is “estrogenic” due to the sclareol content and should be avoided by estrogen-dominent cancer patients.
This, of course, is a myth and essential oil safety expert Robert Tisserand puts it this way:
“Sclareol does have an interesting anticancer activity, including in vitro action against human breast cancer MCF-7 cells (Dimas et al 2006). An isomer, 13-epi-sclareol, which is also present in clary sage oil, inhibits the growth of breast and uterine cancers in vitro, and was slightly more potent than Tamoxifen, but was not toxic to normal cells (Sashidhara et al 2007). This suggests the possibility that sclareol might actually inhibit estrogen, and might after all have some capacity to interact with estrogen receptor sites. What we do know is that sclareol will not give you breast cancer.” (source)
Frankincense
Of all the cancer-fighting essential oils, frankincense (Boswellia sacra, B. carterii, B. frereana, and B. serrata) is the most controversial. The research out there has been scrutinized because of its industry-bias, and some claim that there are no chemical compounds in frankincense oil that can kill cancer. With that said, just do a search on the Internet and healing stories abound. It is hard to dispute with the thousands of people who state their cancer was cured after using frankincense.
The biggest issue some chemists and Aromatherapists have is regarding boswellic acids (BAs), which have been proven to be “cytotoxic to ovarian cancer cells at pharmacologically achievable concentrations” and “may form the basis of a novel anticancer treatment for ovarian cancer, perhaps alongside conventional chemotherapy.” (3) A known compound in frankincense resin, the issue is that boswellic acids are too large and heavy to be included in the volatile (evaporated) components that make up essential oils.
In other words, BA's are not in the essential oils, but who cares? Studies continue to emerge demonstrating the anti-cancer effects of frankincense essential oil on bladder (13), breast (14) and skin (15) cancers!
Additionally, adding frankincense essential oil for cancer to a healthcare protocol goes well beyond the anti-tumor effects. For people utilizing conventional medical treatments, the pain and other side effects can be worse than the cancer itself! This is especially true for brain cancer patients who oftentimes experience cerebral edema (swelling in the head) after their tumors have been surgically removed or at the hands of radiation therapy. To make matters worse, steroid treatment is commonly administered, complicate the side effects even more.
Frankincense extract, which contains the essential oil, can possibly help this particular problem. A clinical trial published in 2011 evaluated 44 patients with cerebral edema and, after taking 4200 mg/day of a Boswellia serrata (BS) extract was administered, the swelling was reduced by 75% or more in 60% of the participants. The researchers conclude that, “BS could potentially be steroid-sparing for patients receiving brain irradiation. (10)
Essential oils for cancer have also shown to help manage depression, pain and boost the immune system. (11, 12)
Lavender
A popular theme in the natural health discussion is that antioxidants are the super healers that we all need. Free radicals created by chemicals, pollutants, stress and toxins are the culprits for a cascade of cellular damage, immune inhibition, and limitless unforeseen health risks – including cancer and chronic illness.
Suffice it to say that, if free radicals are the super villains, antioxidants are the super heroes.
The body itself creates antioxidants in the form of the enzymes catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) among others. Unfortunately, our bodies are exposed to a constant onslaught of free radicals that drain our naturally occurring antioxidants and we are forced to supplement.
Believe it not, lavender essential oil for cancer joins the ranks as an effective natural antioxidant support.
Of the major antioxidant enzyme mentioned above, Chinese researchers observed that lavender essential oil can upregulate levels of all three in mice within the first day of treatment and protect brain cells again stroke and injury! (13) Romanian researchers noted similar activity by simply inhaling lavender for an hour each day. According to the study, “Taken together, our results suggest that antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities [of healthy brain cells] of the lavender essential oils are the major mechanisms for their potent neuroprotective effects against scopolamine-induced oxidative stress in the rat brain,” that can lead to cancer and other illnesses. (14)
Lemongrass
Several studies have evaluated the potential cancer-fighting properties of lemongrass essential oil. (15)
In 2009, an article was published that evaluated the essential oil of Cymbopogon flexuosus (a variety of lemongrass) for its in vitro cytotoxicity ability against 12 human cancer cell lines; as well as its anticancer effects on mice in vivo. The results were remarkable. Researchers discovered that the essential oil triggers a variety of mechanisms that kill cancer cells. “Our results indicate that the oil has a promising anticancer activity and causes loss in tumor cell viability by activating the apoptotic process as identified by electron microscopy.” (16)
Myrrh
The role that myrrh essential oil plays in natural cancer therapies is a becoming a popular topic in the scientific community. Particularly, with how it interacts with frankincense essential oils. In 2013, one of the most thorough studies on the topic was published in the journal Oncology Letters, and this is what researcher discovered:
“The effects of the two essential oils, independently and as a mixture, on five tumor cell lines, MCF-7, HS-1, HepG2, HeLa and A549, were investigated using the MTT assay. The results indicated that the MCF-7 and HS-1 cell lines showed increased sensitivity to the myrrh and frankincense essential oils compared with the remaining cell lines. In addition, the anticancer effects of myrrh were markedly increased compared with those of frankincense, however, no significant synergistic effects were identified.” (17)
Don’t think that researchers are evaluating frankincense and myrrh together as complementary therapies because of the Christmas story. Oh, no. The resins from frankincense and myrrh trees have been traditionally prescribed simultaneously in Chinese medicine for years. Used primarily to treat inflammatory diseases, blood stagnation, frankincense and myrrh therapy is exceptionally effective to relieve swelling and pain. (18) Even though researchers have not observed a synergistic effect regarding cancer, “A previous study identified that the combination of frankincense and myrrh oils exhibited synergistic effects on harmful bacterial infections Cryptococcus neoformans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.” (19, 20)
Peppermint & Spearmint
In 2014, the journal BioMed Research International published an article uncovering that peppermint and spearmint is highly effective at managing common side effects people that suffer at the hands of medical cancer therapies; especially vomiting and nausea. Taken directly from the study we find that these oils, as well as some others, can help with a variety of conditions cancer patients suffer from:
- “Cancer patients suffer from different side effects which can be preferentially reduced by alternative methods. EOs are used in the aromatherapy for reducing the agony of brain cancer patients [21]. EO is efficient in depression and reduction of anxiety in cancer patients [22]. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, one of the most frequently used treatment method in cancer, are prone to various side effects [23]. These are nausea and vomiting.
- Mentha spicata [spearmint] and M. piperita [peppermint] have been found to be effective in overcoming these emetic conditions (chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, CINV) along with the reduction of expenditure on treatment in the cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy [24].
- EOs of Leptospermum scoparium [Manuka myrtle] and Kunzea ericoides [Karo Greenfingers] were reported to prevent mucositis in the head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy when used in the preparation of mouthwash [25].
- Some cancer patients having metastatic tumorigenic ulcers of skin develop necrosis and malodour [26]. Patients suffering from such malodour were reported to have improvement in their state on treatment of these ulcers with the mixture of EOs having eucalyptus, melaleuca, lemongrass, lemon, clove leaf, and thyme on a 40% ethanol base [27].
- Lavender EO is widely used in aromatherapy and is found to be beneficial in reducing the distress in cancer patients [28]. Hence, EOs serve as the valuable preparations in amelioration of the side effects and sufferings of the cancer patients.”
Thyme
The journal Molecules published a study in 2010 that evaluated how cancer cells were evaluated could stand up against ten powerful essential oils. Included was thyme and it stood out from the crowd as the most beneficial against prostate, lung carcinoma, and breast cancers. (29)
As one of the primary herbs to facilitate estrogen binding, thyme oil can help balance and regulate hormones. (30) Like we noted above with clary sage, thyme is not the only potential estrogenic essential oil noted for its anticancer potential. It should be interesting to note that, because cancer frequently holds receptors for estrogen and can theoretically be “fed” by any compound that is estrogenic, people at risk of developing certain cancer lines are oftentimes advised to avoid estrogen.
With the potent anticancer properties that we have seen in just the few studies noted above, it is more than likely that we will soon discover that the so-called “cancer-causing” plants and foods people are avoiding actually hold the key that our bodies need to unlock the cancer-fighting potential we all contain!
Survey Says
So, to find out what testimonials were out there about essential oils for cancer, I did a quick survey on Facebook. Below is find that image that I used, and this was my survey question:
Share your story!
Have you've experienced a medical miracle or a #FrankincenseCancerCure
after using #frankincense #essentialoil?
I hear the stories all the time, and we'd LOVE to hear from YOU! 🙂
Real Life Essential Oils for Cancer Stories
And these are just a FEW of the responses that I received! Overall, the response about essential oils for cancer was quite overwhelming (in a good way!).
To read more about the abundant life giving benefits of frankincense check out my new article Ancient Healing Benefits of Frankincense. 🙂
Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatments
It’s common knowledge that cancer treatments cause a slew of side effects – problems that people suffer when medical treatment damage healthy tissues or organs.
The National Cancer Institute recommends that you, “Ask your health care team what side effects you are likely to have” and to get information about ways to prevent or manage specific cancer-related side effects is included in the list below.” (source)
Unfortunately, the frustration that patients encounter is that many doctors are not well-versed in symptom-based care that is safe and side effect free. Meaning, that your doctor is more than likely to recommend pharmaceuticals or other medical interventions that will end up causing more complications.
Case in point: our good friend recently developed colitis because the immunotherapy she was taking annihilated her gut flora. According to the National Cancer Institute, other common complications to cancer treatments include: (source)
- Anemia
- Appetite Loss
- Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia)
- Constipation
- Delirium
- Diarrhea
- Edema
- Fatigue
- Fertility Issues in Boys and Men
- Fertility Issues in Girls and Women
- Hair Loss (Alopecia)
- Infection and Neutropenia
- Lymphedema
- Memory or Concentration Problems
- Mouth and Throat Problems
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Nerve Problems (Peripheral Neuropathy)
- Pain
- Sexual Health Issues in Men
- Sexual Health Issues in Women
- Skin and Nail Changes
- Sleep Problems
- Urinary and Bladder Problems
So, what’s a person to do?
The answer for most is to find alternative therapies to help manage the symptoms, and few substances on the planet help like essential oils!
Using Essential Oils for Cancer Treatment Side Effects
Before I dive into a sample Essential Oils for Cancer Protocol, It's important to realize that natural therapies can and, in my opinion, SHOULD be used in conjunction with conventional medicine (unless obvious contraindications are present). It's not an all-or-nothing thing. Meaning this – people oftentimes tell me they feel that they only have two options:
- Either go the “all-natural” route
- Or follow the allopathic model.
But this is NOT the case! Many don't realize that a balanced-approach works well too, and may even be more effective than one or the other. In the words of a 2014 article in the journal BioMed Research International, (31) EOs have also been reported to improve the quality of life of the cancer patients by lowering the level of their agony (32). EOs-mediated therapy cannot be a substitute to the standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy but can be used in combination with cancer therapy to decrease the side effects of the drugs. Hence, EOs can be used for improving the health of the cancer patients and as a source of novel anticancer compounds….Use of the EOs as dietary supplements and coadministration with drugs can enhance the response to the treatment.
This last sentence is REALLY important! Like I always say, everything is better with oils. Even chemo! My personal recommendation is to work with an oncologist who is open-minded to alternative therapies, and find the right protocol for YOU!
An Important Note About Essential Oil Cancer Protocol
The essential oil cancer protocol is transdermal and works at the cellular level, and each species has distinct properties that can help cancer patients. Also, please recognize that specific species that a given company sells will NOT be addressed in this protocol, and we cannot correlate these data to species that your favorite brand(s) may sell. However, the chemical constituents in various species are so similar, that it is quite possible that all of the species will contain similar properties.
Also, let's remember peer-reviewed articles regarding essential oil cancer protocol discuss the success clinical researchers have experienced in using various essentials oils to prevent, stop and even reverse the growth of various cancer lines in animal and human cell studies. It is important to keep in mind that a vast majority of these studies are based off of cells in a petri dish. Subsequently, many experts and critics of using essential oils for cancer therapy insist that we cannot extrapolate the data from these studies to live, in vivo cancer patients. Even though there is merit to what these people say, let's not throw the baby out with the bath water.
In my opinion, the burden of proof is on the critic in this case. Thousands of thousands of testimonials and case studies alone should awaken us to the realization that EOs can be quite effective in helping cancer patients.
Essential Oils for Cancer Protocol
Below is an easy-to-follow essential oil cancer protocol based off of several peer-reviewed clinical studies that I have researched, as well as countless hours of helping cancer patients all over the globe.
After combing through the research, I have found that several oils in addition to frankincense have the ability to trigger tumor apoptosis (“programmed cell death”) and enhance immunity. You will find some ways to use oils below. Be sure to consult with your physician before following these suggestions, particularly if you're taking chemotherapy or any other pharmaceutical medications.
Essential Oils for Cancer Protocol: Topical
- Apply diluted Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend directly on tumor location, and bottoms of feet and along the spine twice daily.
- Remember to mix it up – we want to keep the cancer guessing and we don't want to promote resistance. Consider mixing up the protocol every other week.
- Always be sure to dilute with a carrier oil using these conversions:
- 1% dilution: 6 drops of EO per oz of carrier oil
- 2% dilution: 12 drops of EO per oz of carrier oil
- 3% dilution: 18 drops of EO per oz of carrier oil
- 5% dilution: 30 drops of EO per oz of carrier
If working with tablespoons are more comfortable for you, 1 oz. = 2 tablespoons.
- 1% dilution: 3 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier oil
- 2% dilution: 6 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier oil
- 3% dilution: 9 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier oil
- 3% dilution: 9 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier oil
- 5% dilution: 15 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier
Essential Oils for Cancer Protocol: Internal
- To help boost immunity and as a cancer prevention technique, add 1 drop of frankincense oil or your favorite immunity blend in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil (like coconut), and consume first thing in the morning.
- This is not intended to be a longterm solution and should only be utilized for 2-3 weeks at a time. Discontinue use immediately upon signs of adverse reactions.
- Put 2-3 drops in a soft gel capsule and fill an edible carrier like olive or coconut to prevent esophageal irritation.
- Add 3 drops each of frankincense and myrrh oils to a diffuser.
- Find what works best for you. Listen to your body, and see how you react to varying mixtures.
Aromatherapy
- Diffuse 3-5 drops Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend to promote immune function
- Diffuse 1 drops each Lavender, Chamomile, and Sandalwood at night to promote healthy sleep.
- Diffuse 3-5 drops of your personalized Joyful Blend (see below) throughout the day.
- Be sure to include Melissa, which has been shown clinically to help with brain tumors like glioblastoma. (2, 3)
- Promotes positive mood. As the ancient proverb goes, “A happy heart does good like medicine,” and we cannot discount the psychogenic aspects of health and wellness
Miscellaneous Useful Tips
- Anti-Inflammatory — Mix 15 drops of anti-inflammatory oils with 1 oz of a carrier oil and apply over problem areas.
- “Liquid Morphine”/Anti-Inflammatory — Consume 1 drop frankincense, lemongrass, and marjoram in gel cap up twice per day. Not intended for longterm use.
- Healthy Gut Function — Apply 3% dilution of your favorite Digestion Blend (see below) over abdomen. Adding some black pepper can enhance effectiveness.
- Colds/Flus — Take 2-3 drops of Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend twice daily in a gel capsule. Be sure to fill capsule with an edible carrier oil.
- Immune Support — Apply 3% dilution of Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend to abdomen and bottom of feet diluted. Diffuse 4-5 drops Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend throughout the day.
- Respiratory Support — Diffuse 4-5 drops of your favorite Respiratory Support Blend (see below), and apply directly on chest.
- Pain Relief — Apply 3% dilution of your favorite Muscle Soothing Blend (see below), topically as needed to ease sore muscles, arthritic joints and for headaches.
DIY Blends for Essential Oils for Cancer Protocol
To make an Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You'll need to find something that works for you.
- Basil
- Black Pepper
- Cardamom
- Cinnamon
- Clary Sage
- Clove
- Fennel
- Frankincense
- Helichrysum
- Lemongrass
- Melissa
- Myrrh
- Orange
- Oregano
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Sandalwood
- Tea Tree
- Thyme
To make a Joyful Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You'll need to find something that works for you.
- Citrus Oils (bergamot, clementine, grapefruit, lemon, lime, neroli, sweet orange, tangerine, yuzu etc.)
- Frankincense
- Lemon myrtle
- Melissa
- Sandalwood
- Vanilla
- Ylang ylang
To make a Digestion Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You'll need to find something that works for you.
To make a Respiratory Support Blend, combine equal parts of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You'll need to find something that works for you.
To make a Muscle Soothing Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You'll need to find something that works for you.
- Balsam/White Fir
- Birch
- Chamomile
- Clary Sage
- Copaiba
- Cypress
- Frankincense
- Helichrysum
- Juniper
- Lemongrass
- Marjoram
- Osmanthus
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Yarrow
- Wintergreen
Resources:
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10071073
- http://pubget.com/articles/elasticsearch_show/25672419
- http://www.researchgate.net/publication/270275886
- http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/9/6
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22171782
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23850473
- http://www.oapublishinglondon.com/article/656
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23500016
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22066019
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21287538
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18753801
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=frankincense+essential+oil+cancer
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22895026
- http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/s0944711312005120
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=lemongrass+essential+oil+cancer
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19121295
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3796379/
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3796379/
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3796379/
- http://pubget.com/articles/elasticsearch_show/22288378
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B199
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B200
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B201
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B202
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B203
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B204
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B205
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B206
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/20657472/
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9492350
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/
- http://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/154106/#B12
- http://www.researchgate.net/publication/261762686_Apoptosis-Inducing_Effects_of_Melissa_officinalis_L._Essential_Oil_in_Glioblastoma_Multiforme_Cells
Additional Essential Oils for Cancer References
- Composite Essential Oils and Cancer Studies
- Cinnamon Oil and Cancer Studies
- Clove Oil and Cancer Studies
- Frankincense Oil and Cancer Studies
- Lemongrass Oil and Cancer Studies
- Melissa Oil and Cancer Studies
- Sandalwood Oil and Cancer Studies
- Thyme Oil and Cancer Studies
Essential Oils for Breast Cancer Specific Research
- Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Clove, Oregano and Breast Cancer
- Cardamom and Breast Cancer
- Fennel and Breast Cancer
- Clary Sage and Breast Cancer
- Frankincense and Breast Cancer
- Melaleuca and Breast Cancer
- Helichrysum and Breast Cancer
- Oregano and Breast Cancer (Study 1)
- Oregano and Breast Cancer (Study 2)
- Peppermint and Breast Cancer
- Rosemary and Breast Cancer
- Thyme and Breast Cancer
Where can frankincense oil be applied topically to cross the blood brain barrier?
Back of neck & skull.
Yes sir ..my girlfriend has been fighting stage 4 her2+ductal carcinoma breast cancer for a year now she did chemo and now takes target drugs once a month of herpicn and one outher i cant spell what. Oils would you recommend with her type of breast cancer and target treatment
Hi,
My Grandson was affected by a ATRT Tumor.He is 8 month old and have gone for surgery to removed the tumor.Update by the surgeon my grandson still have 25% of the tumor still intact on the blood vein that the Surgeon unable to remove.As you know that this tumor grow agreesive through the back bone.
As surgeon did mention that my grandson need to go for the chemoterapy which is like be hard on a 8month old and may not survive the chemoterapy.Is there any medical solution to kill this tumor.Kindly help advice.Go to facebook of my daughter uttaeru Jariru for more detail of my grandson condition.
What brand of essential do you recommend for internal, diffusion and external?
Hi PammieJo,
I’m a brand-neutral EO educator. You can find out how I like to choose a brand here –> https://drericz.com/how-to-choose-an-essential-oil-brand/
I have stage 1a Papilary Breast Cancer, rare form of Breast cancer. A month before surgery I began applying several drops of Wild Orange To my breast, also under arm. (Also used Bergamont & Citrus Bliss) The sensation was amazing. There is also a sensation on my tongue. I will find out results later this week. But at least only one lymph node was removed. I have a great Medical Team Supporting me me as well as Loving Team of Family & Friends Supporting me.
I would like to know as EO are getting more popular. Their are a lot more on the market. I saw 3 different brands a Meijers alone. They all said PURE ingredients said frankincense 100 %. How can we tell it this is true or not. I know it costly and at Miejers it was 5 dollars for 1 ounce. How do we tell what real and what’s not
Hello Mary Jo,
That is a good question! 😉 Check out this article for help with that. https://drericz.com/where-to-buy-essential-oils/
Dr.Z, thank you so much for all your research and information! I saw a comment about cell death working too well, such as in parkinsons, strokes, etc. So should something like Frankincense be avoided in parkinsons and strokes?
Hi. I’m wondering, do I need food grade oils for any of the uses of essential oils for cancer treatment?
You definitely want a pure essential oil if you’re going to treat cancer. “Food” grade is somewhat ambiguous because it’s a relative term that many companies define differently.
The key is make sure your EOs are not filled with synthetic materials.
Diagnosed with Tuberous Schlerosis complex – treating each symptom as it pops up; seizures – Vimpat and Lamyctal, Mood, Clonalan and now I can’t remember starts with a v. memory issues, kidney issues (partial neprectomy already preformed before I knew about lulls. Not certain where to starte – Neuolotisst and Psychiciatrists are “discussing” Lamyctal dose has it helps mood and seizures. help!
HI, I have high platelet count, any great eos to lower them?
thanks
Hi Dr. Z.
I wanted to share something interesting with you which I believe is testimony to the power of Frankincense. Early last year I found a lump on my throat when applying my high street brand daily moisturiser. I don’t know how I had not noticed it before because it was actually quite large, I could almost grip my fingers around it, needless to say I was troubled by my finding this and went to see my GP. Upon inspection he thought it may be just a cyst but to confirm this I would need to have it checked by a specialist. I was sent to a local hospital for an ultrasound. The specialist found that I had a large cyst close to my vocal chord and a slightly smaller one tucked behind it, he took a biopsy of the contents which was later found to be nothing more than dried blood and thankfully no cancerous cells. I was grateful for the good news but was still left with this cyst which when pressed upon hurt and was visible which looked a little abnormal, like a badly placed Adam’s apple! By October the cyst was still very prominent. Around this time I was introduced to a new facial cream from an organic range containing Frankincense which they claim to be anti aging and this being the reason I brought it! Now given the size of the cyst & how hard it felt I find this difficult to accept as merely coincidence but after 3 months of applying this cream which in honesty was approx 3 times per week, I was totally surprised to find that the cyst has completely gone. Now I know that the body is clever at dispersing cysts but I can’t help but feel that the frankincense played its part, can you please tell me your thoughts on this? Thanks so much.
Hi, my dad was just diagnosed with stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma of the lungs and it has metastasized to his lymph nodes, left adrenal gland and right side of his pelvis…he can’t handle chemo and is on heart medication…is there anything I can do at this point to help him? We are desperate
Hi Kim,
This would be a good place to start. 🙂
https://drericz.com/join-beat-cancer-gods-way/
I would like to know if anyone has had our there’s any research of essential oils to use when getting radiation..to diminish skin irritation and burns
Cindy,
Lavender is excellent for healing burns. You don’t use them prior to the radiotherapy but afterward. Mix 1-2 drops of lavender with an organic carrier oil (like almond, hemp, coconut) and also apply some organic aloe vera gel. Used this way you shouldn’t have any problems at all with radiodermatitis.
Best regards,
Marnie
Thanks for the information. I’m currently on radiation and will definitely do this
Praise God!
Praying for COMPLETE healing!
When you say after Do you mean after one treatment or after all treatments are completed
Can I make a suggestion? I believe most of us who are interested in essential oils and health would rather pay someone like you, say $100 to $200 for a hour session (time is valuable), to find out what they have learned over the years and/or what they would do if they had a particular health issue then to have to dig thru all the information and material that is out there on the internet, etc. (The Bible says in 1 Timothy 5:18, “a laborer/worker is worthy/deserves of his or her wages/pay” and you definitely are with all the hard work that you have done with the information that you brought together.) I believe if a person has a serious health issue that may end his or her life, especially soon, they’d rather pay somebody else who has researched the subject matter then to spend the rest their precious time on God’s green earth doing God’s will then trying to learn what works from all the tons of journals of studies. All a person would have to do is to tell the other person that they are not asking for any medical advice about anything but only asking them what they would do nutritionally in a particular situation. People should understand that all a person can do is try to give the body what it needs to heal itself. No one or no product can cure anyone because only the body can do that. With that said, the powers to be won’t be able to do anything to a person for just telling another person what protocol or outline they would do or follow. Doing it this way, there is no medical advice being given. Those who want more help could hire a coach which should be a “well educated” doctor or practitioner. God’s Blessings, Stef Parm
Hi Stef, I wish that were the case, but I’d lose my license to practice as a doctor.
I completely agree with your suggestions, but the system is simply not set up to allow that…
Dr. Z, I am interested in using Myrrh oil and wondering whether Myrrh has any effect on increasing estrogen level. Have you encountered on any such information? I see lots of benefits of Myrrh oil and make sure before I start using it.
Many thanks,
Hi Christy,
I think I just answered this in another article, but just in case…
There is no research to prove this, and EO experts agree – EOs are not estrogenic.
With that said, regarding the specifics, I apologize – I am limited by what I can and cannot say, and giving “medical advise” is definitely a no-no.
But we do have way around the regulations!
If you haven’t, please consider joining Dr. Z’s Essential Oils Club – we have lots of people that have joined and they share their tips and testimonials! http://essentialoilsclub.info
I have had 2 MRIs showing brain inflammation. What oils are strong enough to cross the blood brain barrier?
Due to the molecules being very small, many oils can cross the blood brain barrier. We don’t have a list of them specifically.
Blessings!
Hi Dr. Z, I just started using essential oil on my Mom and she has been sick with Multiple Myeloma for 11 years and she is not doing very well right now and her platelets count has been between 8000 and 10000 for the last 2 months and it doest seem to get any better. How do you recommend to use frankincense? Or should i use another oil?
Hi Rakel,
Although I cannot provide medical advise on my website, I have put together a series of DIY tips here –> https://drericz.com/diy-essential-oil-protocol-for-cancer-patients/
My son was Diagnosted with ALL VHR – He is in Remission (((yay))) in Maintenance – I use the DoTerra Oil but I would like to know what you would recommend!
Hi Chantel,
First off all – Yay! to hear that your son’s in remission!!!
Unfortunately, I cannot provide medical advice on my website. However, I put together a DIY protocol that you should find helpful 🙂 https://drericz.com/diy-essential-oil-protocol-for-cancer-patients/
In your newsletter I received today you mention a “…shake with the Super Food powders that I mix up for my family; and add in an avocado, banana and some berries.” I am wondering who the manufacturer is on this shake. I tried to look up online, but not sure I found the correct one. Can you tell us the name and where you get this?
Ah, good question!
I actually make my own. About once a year, I buy a bunch of powdered superfoods from Nuts.com, mix them all up in my cooler, and repackage them for the year. I get 13 pounds or so in total. This is a copy/paste from my last order:
Product name Packaging Quantity Unit price Total
100% Matcha Green Tea Powder 8 Ounce Bags 1 $18.99 $18.99
Organic Chlorella Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $22.99/lb $22.99
Organic Pomegranate Powder 8 Ounce Bags 1 $14.99 $14.99
Pink Powder Bundle Pink Powder Bundles 1 $22.99 $22.99
Organic Hemp Protein Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $13.99/lb $13.99
Organic Wheatgrass Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $11.99/lb $11.99
Organic Spirulina 1 Pound Bags 1 $14.99/lb $14.99
Pumpkin Seed Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $10.99/lb $10.99
Organic Cacao Nibs (Raw) 1 Pound Bags 1 $12.99/lb $12.99
Organic Cacao Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $10.99/lb $10.99
Stevia Powder 4 Ounce Bags 1 $11.99 $11.99
Organic Noni Powder 8 Ounce Bags 1 $12.99 $12.99
Bee Pollen Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $9.99/lb $9.99
Goji Berry Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $13.99/lb $13.99
Organic Red Maca Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $29.99/lb $29.99
Moringa Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $13.99/lb $13.99
Green Tea Powder 1 Pound Bags 1 $6.99/lb $6.99
Shipping charge: $12.49
Order Totals
Subtotal: $255.83
Tax: $0.00
Shipping: $12.49
Grand Total: $268.32
Thank you. I hope you don’t mind, I also asked on Facebook, I thought I was on your site, but it turns out I was on a site that had information you had posted. I was on https://www.facebook.com/WarrensburgChiroHW. They were kind enough to reply so, I posted the ingredients you posted here.
I just came across this list of items that you make up your shake mix with. May I ask…how much do you use for each shake? Do you just mix all of these ingredients from this order together?
Thanks so much for all the work you are doing and for your awesome Christian testimony!
Hi LuAnn,
I’m so sorry, but I’m not sure what shake you’re referring to.
First I would like to know how large (people) is your family? I am a family of one and don’t think I’d use that much in a year.
If I am understanding correctly. You mix all of these products together in a cooler.
What size of cooler?
Do you hand mix or use a mixer?
How much do you put in a single bag?
Do you vacuum seal the bags?
How much do you put in your smoothie?
Thank you for your information
Ramona,
1 bag – 1 pound = Good for 1 person
BIG cooler
I fill up a 16 oz bag
I don’t vacuum seal – but that’s a good idea. These powders last a long time
I put 1-2 tablespoons in my smoothie
🙂
Love your articles! As a 2 time survivor of ER/PR+/HER2+ breast cancer (since 2011), I’m 44, wife n mom of 2…I love reading about options for cancer. EO are God given gifts and we shouldn’t ignore them. I’ve since started my NFP org for breast cancer survivors and we ship out diffuser necklaces etc. I want to get oils into their hands!! While I’d love to do Frankincense, funds we have won’t allow. But I will definitely share to Google frankincense! No compliance issues that way. 🙂
Thank you so much for your caring to share. Xo
P.S. Any recommendations of oil to send? Was planning on Wild Orange because of price and it’s properties.
Thanks again n again, love the love you share.
Thank you for such a great article. My mom was just diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer. She is going to see the oncologist tomorrow, what articles would you recommend that I could print to take with us, so he would be open about using EO’s in her treatment. Thank you
I’m so sorry to hear – praying for complete healing!!
I have not seen any reference as to how to take the oils. Internally, rubbed on the area, inhaled?
Hi Robert – you should find this helpful. –> https://drericz.com/diy-essential-oil-protocol-for-cancer-patients/
Dr. Z,
I have a question about two statements made in this article.
First of all, my understanding of apoptosis is it is the programmed cell death that normally kicks in when our cells are no longer needed or are mutated. Cancer cells don’t live by this rule so to fight cancer we needs products that will induce apoptosis rather than prevent it.
The second paragraph under “Frankincense” begins with “Current research demonstrates anti-mutagenic and apoptotic (prevents cell death) abilities.”
The last paragraph under “Lavendar” includes the following statement: “… and this study also noted protection against the cell death (apoptosis) that can lead to severe illness and cancer. (14)”
If they promote apoptosis, they are good oils to use for cancer. If the prevent apoptosis, then they promote cancer and should not be used!
I would greatly appreciate clarification of this issue as I am trying to find the best treatments for breast cancer.
Thank you.
Hello Sara,
Good catch and good question.
First off: This is a good description of apoptosis: A form of cell death in which a programmed sequence of events leads to the elimination of cells without releasing harmful substances into the surrounding area. Apoptosis plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining the health of the body by eliminating old cells, unnecessary cells, and unhealthy cells. The human body replaces perhaps one million cells per second. Too little or too much apoptosis can play a role in many diseases. When apoptosis does not work correctly, cells that should be eliminated may persist and become immortal, for example, in cancer and leukemia. When apoptosis works overly well, it kills too many cells and inflicts grave tissue damage. This is the case in strokes and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. Also known as programmed cell death and cell
suicide. http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11287
To your point:
1) That was a typo and was corrected. Thank you! For frankincense, should read: “Current research demonstrates anti-mutagenic and apoptotic (programmed cell death) abilities.”
2) In Romania, researchers noted similar activity using inhaled lavender for an hour each day and, according to the study, “Taken together, our results suggest that antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities of the lavender essential oils are the major mechanisms for their potent neuroprotective effects against scopolamine-induced oxidative stress in the rat brain.”
Scopolamine is used to treat certain types of muscle problems (eg, some Parkinson-like conditions, certain muscle spasm problems) and certain stomach or intestinal problems (eg, irritable colon syndrome), and for preventing nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. Lavender has been shown to help protect against nerve cell damage caused by oxidative stress when people use lavender. http://www.drugs.com/mtm/scopolamine.html
Dr. Z. I Love your work and your website’s information! 5 1/5 years ago I left my law practice and became a raw dairy farmer because my 1st child could not tolerate commercial milk when she was a baby. Our farm now supply raw dairy (A2 milk), 100% pasture raise lamb, pork, beef & chickens, eggs, cheese and Holistic care to over 2500 families each month with cancer, autism, leaky gut, autoimmune disease, and more. Your speech at the Oral summit speech was amazing (I flunked out of dental school because I refuse to work with amalgam in children and did not write enough prescription requirement!) At our farm, we help people heal their gut (now oral too) to heal their body. I will give my best friend, who is a conventional MD, a mix of the oils you recommend, especially Frankincense, for her cancer. She survived 1 set of chemo and refuse to continue the poison. Hope it will help her. Thank you again for all you do!!!!
Wow, thanks for sharing & for the kind words! Please keep us posted how your friend responds to the EO protocol! 🙂
P.s. you may find this article helpful as well -> https://drericz.com/diy-essential-oil-protocol-for-cancer-patients/
Hello Dr Z, my mother was just handed her diagnosis this afternoon: Adenocarcinoma (Lung Cancer) and she does not know what stage yet. I would like to start her on essential oils, but was hoping to get a recommendation from you as to which ones might be most effective for the lungs. And should she take them orally and topically? THANK YOU!!
Hi Laura,
I am so sorry to hear about your mother. Y’all are in my prayers…
You should find this article helpful: https://drericz.com/diy-essential-oil-protocol-for-cancer-patients/
So thyme oil is good for someone with breast cancer who is estrogen/progesterone positive? I want to make sure that I am reading the article correctly.
Thank you for the great article!
Hi Marsha,
According to preliminary in vivo clinical trials, thyme oil has cytotoxic effects against estrogen receptor alpha positive (ER+) human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/20657472/.
I was just diagnosed with breast cancer. I have been applYing frankensense topically to the area. How do you suggest using the rest of these oils? I already have mostof them. Thanks!
Hi Marlena,
You may find this article helpful: https://drericz.com/diy-essential-oil-protocol-for-cancer-patients/
Hi Dr. Z,
Just recently found out about a woman from our church who has ovarian cancer.Any recommendations specifically for that? Would love to pass on any thoughts!
Thanks so much, and God bless!
My son is in the military and he loves using the oils. He is getting ready for deployment and I am sending him with about 16 oils. He is also oil pulling so I am sending him coconut oil. I am so thankful for all your information.
Thanks for sharing Tami! This scripture oftentimes to mind when I think of the men and women who lay down their lives for OUR freedom… 🙂
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13
Dr. Z! Thank you so much for this info!! I am a member of a private Facebook group and there are often questions about cancer, or stomach problems or inflammation troubles etc….
Also, I work at a hospice and often see residents and staff who need an oil or blend ….. I have to be cautious though as some are very vocal in stirring up negativity towards the oils due to smell, and close minded thinking .Probably 95% of all our residents are due to cancer. I am grateful for the times I have been able to use the oils and gotten rave reviews!