Tuesday 06 February 2024
Susan Long – Maggie's
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 and are sometimes available on the NHS.
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.
Keep everyone informed
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
Maggie's 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 relaxation and yoga sessions at Maggie's.
They can also help you find out more about other complementary therapies and how to find a qualified practitioner.
- Find your nearest Maggie's centre – you don't need an appointment, just come in
Last review: Oct 2021 | Next review: Oct 2022
Useful links to other organisations
Complementary and intergrative medicine
Information about individual therapies to help you decide if using them is right for you.
From American Cancer Society
Last reviewed: 28 October 2021
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAMs)
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: 28 October 2021
Homeopathy UK
Find out more about homeopathy and search for a homeopath near you.
From Homeopathy Uk
Last reviewed: 28 October 2021
Complementary therapies
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: 28 October 2021
Find a nutritionalist
Find out more about nutritionalists and search for a practitioner near you.
From Nutritionist Resource
Last reviewed: 28 October 2021
Penny Brohn UK
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: 28 October 2021
The college of practitioners of phytotherapy
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: 28 October 2021
National institute of medical herbalists (NIMH)
Find out more about herbal medicine and search for a medical herbalist near you.
From The National Institute Of Medical Herbalists
Last reviewed: 28 October 2021
Yes to life
More links
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: 28 October 2021