All cells in the body contain the genetic material called deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Every time a mature cell divides into two new cells, its DNA is exactly duplicated. The cells are copies of the original cell, identical in every way. In this way our bodies continually replenish themselves. Old cells die off and the next generation replaces them. A cancer begins with an error, or mutation, in a cell’s DNA. DNA mutations can be caused by the normal aging process or through environmental factors, such as cigarette smoke, breathing in asbestos fibers, and to exposure to radon gas.
Researchers have found that it takes a series of mutations to create a lung cancer cell. Before becoming fully cancerous, cells can be precancerous, in that they have some mutations but still function normally as lung cells. When a cell with a genetic mutation divides, it passes along its abnormal genes to the two new cells, which then divide into four cells with errors in their DNA and so on. With each new mutation, the lung tissue cell becomes more mutated and may not be as effective in carrying out its function as a lung cell. At a later stage of disease, some cells may travel away from the original tumor and start growing in other parts of the body. This process is call metastasis and the new distant sites are referred to as metastases.
Lung cancer symptoms
Early symptoms and signs of lung cancer
There may be no symptoms at the onset of the disease. When present, common symptoms of lung cancer may include:
Coughing: This includes a persistent cough that doesn't go away or changes to a chronic "smoker's cough," such as more coughing or pain.
Coughing up blood: Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum (spit or phlegm) should always be discussed with your doctor.
Breathing difficulties: Shortness of breath, wheezing or noisy breathing (called stridor) may all be signs of lung cancer.
Loss of appetite: Many cancers cause changes in appetite, which may lead to unintended weight loss.
Fatigue: It is common to feel weak or excessively tired.
Recurring infections: Recurring infections, like bronchitis or pneumonia, may be one of the signs of lung cancer.
Signs of advanced stages of lung cancer
Advanced stages of lung cancer are often characterized by the spread of the cancer to distant sites in the body. This may affect the bones, liver or brain. As other parts of the body are affected, new lung cancer symptoms may develop, including:
Bone pain
Swelling of the face, arms or neck
Headaches, dizziness or limbs that become weak or numb
Jaundice
Lumps in the neck or collar bone region
Herbal Remedies For Lung Cancer
#1 Garlic
Allium Sativum is the botanical name given to this herb. Garlic contains potent anti-inflammatory agents such as allicin and ajoene which reduce swelling and relieve pain. This spicy herb is also composed of volatile organosulfur phytochemicals that help to prevent the spread of cancer cells. Researchers have also found that Garlic inhibits the growth of tumors. Garlic cloves can be crushed and eaten raw. You can also add Garlic paste to your dishes and salads and consume these for health benefits. Garlic tablets can also be taken to gain the amazing healing effect of this herb. Juice extracted from the raw cloves of this herb can also benefit lung cancer patients.
#2 Turmeric
Curcuma Longa is the botanical name of this herb. Turmeric contains cancer fighting substance called curcumin in huge proportions. Curcumin also gives this herb the capacity to shrink cancerous tumors by stopping the supply of blood and nutrients to the tumor cells. Turmeric is a good herbal cure for lung cancer as it can stop the spread of cancer to other parts of the body and heal the tumor. You can add grounded Turmeric root powder in dishes and gravies. This herb has been used as a spicy condiment in several Indian dishes and curries. Researchers have found that as a result of high consumption of Turmeric on a daily basis, Indians are less likely to suffer from cancer. There are less percentages of people suffering cancer in this Asian country as compared to other nations. Turmeric root can be made into a powder which can even be drunk mixed in hot water daily for healthy results.
#3 Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle has been used since the past 2000 years as a herbal remedy for many diseases, including cancer. Flavanoids in the seeds of this herb contain a compound called silymarin which gives Milk Thistle the ability to stop the spread of lung cancer, according to researchers. This herb also stops the inflammation that increases the pace at which cancer grows. It interrupts cell signals which activate inflammatory enzymes to cause damage to the tissues and halt the abnormal growth of cancer cells. Milk Thistle also contains cancer prevention properties. For best results, you should have herbal supplements of Milk Thistle in order to combat lung cancer.
Ginseng
There are many varieties of Ginseng including North American Ginseng, Asian Ginseng and Siberian Ginseng. Ginseng is an effective remedy for lung cancer. Research also shows that Ginseng suppresses tumor growth. It also helps to ward off the mental and physical exhaustion associated with this disease. Ginseng improves circulation and helps the lung cancer patient to remain alert and active. This herb contains substances called ginsenosides. Researchers have found that these substances stimulate and boost the immune system and slow down the growth of cancer cells. Ginseng extract can be taken by lung cancer patients for relief from the symptoms of this disease.