There are around 20 microscopically different cancers that originate in the ovary. Even though difficult to diagnose, it is easy to treat in the initial stages. Surgery can be successful and is the preferred method of treatment. Some live many years with it. But the likelihood of it’s spreading to other body parts cannot be ruled out, making it terminal. Some herbs and supplements can be beneficial for treatment of ovarian cancer.

Some people have overcome ovarian cancer by taking Agaricus Blazei Murrill Mushroom (ABM Mushroom) also known as ‘The Mushroom of God’. It can stimulate the immune system by activating lymphocyte T-Cell and Helper T-Cell production. ABM contains polysaccharide that can stimulate production of interferon and interleukin. Both these can prevent cancer cells from proliferating.

ABM, a potent antiviral, is also recommended for other cancers like breast, lung and liver cancer. It is available in injectable form. Other varieties of mushrooms like Shiitake mushrooms are also beneficial with ovarian cancer and are patented as anti-cancer drugs in Japan. They are rich in anti-oxidants, selenium and other vitamins.

Bindweed is a common weed that farmers hate. It can inhibit angiogenesis (formation of blood vessels) that can occur in cancerous tumors and is advocated for ovarian cancer. It deprives the tumor growth of blood supply and can cause the tumor to shrink. It is available as a tincture or in capsule form.

Selenium is known to be low in women affected by ovarian cancer. It is considered powerful in fighting cancer and has proved beneficial because of its ability to bind to platinum drugs, thereby reducing damage to normal cells. Selenium can reduce resistance to carboplatin, one of the main drugs in ovarian cancer treatment. Whole grains, mushrooms, shrimp, cod, oats, barley, lamb and turkey are all good sources of selenium.

Curcumin or turmeric, a common Indian spice, is known to be effective in treating a variety of cancers including ovarian cancer. It is known to activate the p53 gene, a tumor-suppressor gene. A daily intake of 2500 to 3000 mg in three doses is recommended. To help aid in absorption, it can be taken with some coconut oil, ground black pepper or with 10 mg of bioperine.

Naturally occurring Vitamin K in dark green leafy vegetables and deep yellow vegetables can shrink cancerous tumors in the ovary, colon, breast and stomach. Vitamin K taken in natural form can turn cancerous cells into a self-destructive mode especially when taken with a high dose of Vitamin C. Recommended dosage of Vitamin K is 35 mg with 3000 mg of Vitamin C. If you are taking a blood thinner, take Vitamin K under a doctor’s advice.

Green peppers are a very rich source of Quercetin. It can inhibit chemical signals that encourage growth in ovarian cancer cells over that of normal cells. 125-250 mg can be taken as a supplement thrice daily. Should not be taken with nifedipine or cyclosporine, which is present in drugs like Neoral, Sandimunne or Procardial. Oleander extract also contains Quercetin

Astragalus can be taken as a supplement and is known to increase production of interleukin-2 that can fight the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) and also activate the pS3 gene. Dosage is about 500-1000 mg thrice a day.

Espinheira Santa, an evergreen shrub found in Brazil and in parts of South America, can kill cancer cells and inhibit tumors. It can also detoxify blood and has mild laxative properties. It has shown success in slowing growth of ovarian tumors. Can be taken as a tea, about 1 to 2 cups thrice daily and is also available in capsule extract form.

Extract of Milk thistle is known to prevent angiogenesis in ovarian cancer cells, and helps protect the liver. Recommended dosage is 400 to 1000 mg a day.

Extract of Green tea Catechin can be taken daily. It helps to deactivate plasmin that spreads tumors.

Caretenoids are best when taken as supplements available in natural form. They comprise a group of 800 fat soluble pigments present in carrots, and in other orange, red and yellow vegetables and fruits. They are powerful chemo preventive agents that inhibit or delay carcenogenesis.

Mulberry mistletoe is beneficial when ovarian cancer is in an advanced stage and can considerably increase survival time of a patient.

Soy Isoflavone is also known to inhibit proliferation of ovarian cancer cells. Up to 3000 mg can be taken daily.

Resveratrol is a polyphenol available in tablet form. It can affect some stages of ovarian cancer development. Occurs naturally in red wine, peanuts, raspberries and grapes.

Artemisinin is known to be effective in a number of cancers like colon, breast, and prostate, renal and ovarian cancer.

Oleander extract can inhibit angiogenesis and can induce normal death (apoptosis) in cancer cells. It can inhibit protection of cancer cells when they are under attack and can help stimulation of immune activity. Can be taken as a supplement for a number of cancers including ovarian cancer.

What to avoid

Those suffering from ovarian cancer should avoid licorice, dan shen cardyceps and peony. Milk and dairy products also should be avoided.

Natural supplements are beneficial for ovarian cancer. As a thumb rule avoid self-medication and consult your physician before taking any.