Is Traditional Chinese Medicine Effective in Treating Tumors?
Nov 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in treating tumors depends on its therapeutic role. TCM is usually beneficial when used as an adjunct to mainstream Western medical treatments; however, if it is used to replace conventional treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, it is unlikely to achieve satisfactory outcomes. In daily care, cancer patients should, under the guidance of qualified physicians, appropriately integrate TCM and Western medical treatment plans.
In general, whether traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is effective in treating tumors depends on its intended role in treatment. It is usually beneficial when used as an adjunct to mainstream Western medical therapies; however, if used to replace conventional treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, it is unlikely to achieve desired outcomes. A detailed analysis is as follows:
When TCM is used as a complementary therapy alongside standard treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, it often plays a positive role. Through regulating qi and blood, strengthening the spleen, and harmonizing the stomach, TCM can help alleviate side effects caused by chemotherapy or radiation—such as nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite—improve the patient's overall physical condition, enhance tolerance to treatment, and promote recovery of bodily functions after surgery.
If TCM is used instead of established tumor treatments like surgery or chemotherapy, especially for mid-to-late stage cancers, it often fails to effectively control disease progression. In terms of directly killing tumor cells or shrinking tumor lesions, TCM is significantly weaker and slower-acting compared to conventional Western treatments. Relying solely on TCM may delay proper treatment and lead to cancer progression.
In daily care, cancer patients should follow professional medical guidance to appropriately integrate TCM and Western medicine, avoiding overreliance on a single approach. Additionally, maintaining regular作息 (daily routines), balanced nutrition, emotional well-being, and enhancing the body's natural resistance are essential to better support overall treatment efficacy.
