Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine into Oncology Care

by Maria Sole Dal Re LicAc MRCHM

My professional journey has been rich and multidisciplinary, evolving from a decade in the pharmaceutical oncology sector to roles as a physiotherapist, acupuncturist, and Chinese herbalist. My experience in oncology provided a deep understanding of conventional cancer treatments, but it also sparked a profound curiosity about holistic healing approaches. Discovering Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was a transformative turning point, inspiring me to fully immerse myself in this ancient medical system. To deepen my expertise, I relocated from Italy to London, where I studied Chinese Herbal Medicine at the White Crane Academy under the mentorship of Andrew Flower. This invaluable experience has greatly influenced my practice, allowing me to bridge the gap between TCM and conventional oncology, offering a more integrative approach to patient care. That said, I still have much to learn, and my journey is far from over.

The Power of Integrative Medicine

Integrative medicine, which blends conventional cancer treatments with complementary therapies like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a holistic and patient-centred approach to oncology care. My work focuses on using Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture to support cancer patients, helping them manage side effects, restore energy levels, and improve their overall well-being.

Certain herbs play a crucial role in this integrative approach. For example, Huang Qi (Astragalus) and Tai Zi Shen (Pseudostellaria) are commonly used to enhance energy and resilience, supporting patients as they navigate the physical challenges of cancer treatment. Dan Shen (Salvia) and Ji Xue Teng (Spatholobus) help promote blood health, which is particularly beneficial for those undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Additionally, herbs such as Bai Hua She She Cao (Oldenlandia) and Ban Zhi Lian (Scutellaria) are gaining increasing recognition for their potential anti-cancer properties, opening new possibilities for integrative care.

Personalisation: The Core of TCM

A fundamental principle of TCM is personalisation—every patient is unique, and their treatment should reflect their individual needs.

One of my most profound experiences involved my first oncology patient, a 52-year-old woman with advanced metastatic breast cancer. She came to me feeling overwhelmed, suffering from severe pain and fatigue, with a CA15-3 tumour marker level significantly elevated at 248. Together, we developed a personalised treatment plan, incorporating herbal formulas and acupuncture to manage her symptoms and counteract the side effects of conventional treatment. Over time, her condition transformed—not only did her physical health improve, but her spirit was uplifted. Her CA15-3 levels dropped dramatically to 22, and her overall quality of life improved in deeply meaningful ways.

This experience was pivotal in shaping my professional journey. Witnessing her resilience and progress solidified my commitment to specialising in oncology. It reinforced the power of integrating TCM into cancer care—not just as a practitioner but as a compassionate partner in my patients’ journeys.

Real Stories: The Impact of TCM on Patients’ Lives

Cancer is not just a physical disease—it affects every aspect of a person’s life. TCM offers a comprehensive approach, addressing physical symptoms while also nurturing emotional and spiritual well-being.

One of my patients, Andrew H., was diagnosed with Stage II inoperable Glioblastoma and faced persistent fatigue and cognitive struggles long after conventional treatment. By incorporating TCM into his care plan, we were able to help him regain energy and mental clarity. Reflecting on his experience, he shared:

“Working with Maria Sole and incorporating Chinese herbal medicine into my treatment has been life changing. The herbs and acupuncture didn’t just help me cope with the side effects of my conventional treatments—they gave me the energy and mental clarity I needed to keep going.”

You can hear more about Andrew’s inspiring journey in his own words here: Watch his testimonial.

Another patient, C.M., diagnosed with Grade 2 Invasive Ductal Cancer, found significant relief through acupuncture and herbal medicine. She noted:

“The herbs were a godsend during chemo and radiotherapy. I never felt sick and always had enough energy for daily activities. Maria Sole adjusted the herbs to support my forced menopause, minimising side effects from medications.”

A Message of Hope and Resilience

These stories reaffirm my belief in the power of a holistic, integrative approach to cancer care. They demonstrate the profound impact that can be achieved when we treat not just the disease but the person as a whole. Witnessing my patients’ resilience and the improvements in their quality of life fuels my passion for exploring how TCM can complement and enhance conventional oncology treatments. Their journeys continue to inspire me, driving me to provide care that nurtures body, mind, and spirit.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my work, I remain committed to advancing integrative oncology through clinical practice, education, and research. I am passionate about building a more substantial evidence base for incorporating TCM into cancer care and collaborating with oncologists who share a vision for patient-centred, holistic treatment.

If you would like to learn more about my work or explore how TCM and acupuncture can support cancer patients, I would love to connect. You can reach me at info.shenmingacupuncture@gmail.com.

Let’s continue bridging the gap between conventional and complementary medicine—creating a future where cancer care is about survival and living well.

https://shenmingacupuncture.com/