Support in Recovery / Radiation Therapy

Cellular Support During and After Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy can cause fatigue, dryness, skin irritation, and inflammation as your body heals. Some
herbs have been studied or traditionally used to help support tissue repair, protect healthy cells from
oxidative stress, and promote recovery. These herbs are not medical treatments, but they may help your
body restore balance more comfortably. Always talk to your oncologist before starting any new supplement.

American Ginseng
What it may help with: May reduce fatigue and help restore strength after radiation.
How it works in your body: Supports energy metabolism and adrenal balance for long-term recovery.
Be cautious if: Check with your doctor if you have diabetes or sleep issues.

Rhodiola
What it may help with: May improve energy, focus, and mood during recovery.
How it works in your body: Supports oxygen use and mitochondrial function.
Be cautious if: Avoid if you are sensitive to stimulants or have bipolar disorder.

Ashwagandha
What it may help with: May improve sleep, calm anxiety, and help rebuild resilience.
How it works in your body: Supports hormonal and nervous system balance.
Be cautious if: Avoid if you have thyroid issues or are using sedatives.

Jiaogulan
What it may help with: May support stamina and cellular protection.
How it works in your body: Acts as an antioxidant and supports healthy circulation.
Be cautious if: Avoid if you have low blood pressure or use blood thinners.

Schisandra Fruit
What it may help with: May protect the liver and skin from radiation effects.
How it works in your body: Acts as an adaptogen that helps detoxify and improve cellular endurance.
Be cautious if: Avoid during active liver inflammation.

Glycyrrhiza uralensis

What it may help with: Soothes mouth and throat irritation.
How it works in your body: Forms a gentle coating that helps heal mucous membranes.

Astragalus Root
What it may help with: May support immune recovery and energy.
How it works in your body: Encourages natural tissue repair and white blood cell balance.
Be cautious if: Avoid in autoimmune conditions or while on strong immune-suppressing drugs.

Reishi Mushroom
What it may help with: May boost recovery and support calm energy.
How it works in your body: Balances immune function and helps protect tissues from oxidative stress.
Be cautious if: Avoid with blood thinners; may cause mild digestive upset.

Turkey Tail Mushroom (Coriolus versicolor)
What it may help with: May help immune strength and reduce post-radiation fatigue.
How it works in your body: Contains natural polysaccharides that aid immune repair.
Be cautious if: Generally safe; tell your doctor if using immune-modulating drugs.

Modified Citrus Pectin
What it may help with: May support gentle detox and reduce inflammation.
How it works in your body: Binds and helps remove harmful molecules created during radiation recovery.
Be cautious if: Take it 2 hours away from other medications.

Baicalin (from Scutellaria)
What it may help with: May reduce inflammation and help the liver process oxidative stress.
How it works in your body: Acts as a natural antioxidant and cellular protectant.
Be cautious if: Check with your doctor if you take multiple prescriptions.

Noto Ginseng
What it may help with: May help microcirculation and tissue healing.
How it works in your body: Improves small blood vessel function to nourish tissues.
Be cautious if: Avoid if taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication.

Fo-Ti (processed He Shou Wu)
What it may help with: Traditionally used for energy and hair/skin support.
How it works in your body: Supports vitality and may protect from oxidative aging.
Be cautious if: Use only processed forms; raw Fo-Ti may affect liver health.

Peruvian Maca
What it may help with: May help rebuild stamina and mood.
How it works in your body: Supports hormone balance and energy production.
Be cautious if: Choose gelatinized Maca for easier digestion.

Maral Root
What it may help with: May aid strength and muscle recovery.
How it works in your body: Contains natural compounds that promote regeneration and endurance.
Be cautious if: Avoid if you have high blood pressure.

Black Ginger
What it may help with: May help with circulation and physical recovery.
How it works in your body: Improves blood flow and mitochondrial activity.
Be cautious if: Monitor blood pressure if using regularly.

Shilajit (purified resin)
What it may help with: May restore energy and mineral balance.
How it works in your body: Supports mitochondrial health and natural tissue renewal.
Be cautious if: Use only purified sources tested for heavy metals.

Goji Berry
What it may help with: May improve appetite, mood, and antioxidant levels.
How it works in your body: Rich in carotenoids and polysaccharides that help cell recovery.
Be cautious if: Avoid with blood thinners like warfarin.

Açaí Berry
What it may help with: May reduce oxidative stress and aid recovery.
How it works in your body: Provides antioxidants that protect cells from radiation effects.
Be cautious if: Check with your doctor if you take cholesterol or liver medications.

Catuaba
What it may help with: May support mood and energy during convalescence.
How it works in your body: Stimulates mild energy and improves outlook.
Be cautious if: Avoid if you have trouble sleeping or are sensitive to stimulants.

Guaraná
What it may help with: May reduce fatigue and mental fog.
How it works in your body: Provides gentle stimulation and alertness.
Be cautious if: Avoid if you experience anxiety, insomnia, or have high blood pressure.

Purple La Pacho (Pau d’Arco)
What it may help with: May help protect against inflammation and infection.
How it works in your body: Contains compounds that may calm irritated tissues and support resilience.
Be cautious if: Avoid high doses; can cause mild digestive discomfort.
These herbs can help support tissue repair, calm inflammation, and reduce fatigue after radiation therapy.
Use them under the guidance of your oncology or integrative care team, and inform your doctor of all
supplements to ensure compatibility with your treatment plan.