Nutritional intervention can help to reduce the symptoms of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended for increasing the antioxidant level of the body. This helps to improve the natural ability of the body to suppress the scavenging activities of the free radicals that accelerate growth of the cancer cells. Cancer originating in the lymphocytes severely impairs the immunity of the patient. Probiotic supplements can restore the immune health of the gastrointestinal tract. Vulnerability to infections can be prevented with vitamins C and E supplements. They can moderate the symptoms of the disease and reduce the severity of the side effects of conventional cancer treatment. Individuals diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia are prone to folic acid deficiency, which can be treated with supplements. Anemia, a common problem with leukemia patients, might be countered with iron and vitamin B complex supplements. Nutritional supplements are safe when taken in recommended doses.

Herbs with anti-carcinogenic properties are frequently used as alternatives to conventional therapies. Dandelion contains sesquiterpene lactone, which may prevent growth of the leukemia cells. Yarrow can also be used as a therapeutic agent for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The active components in the herb support development of the red blood cells, which are abnormally low in leukemia patients. Sweet woodruff, calendula, St. John’s wort, meadowsweet, wormweed, elder, nettle, celadine, and brooklime are other common herbs recommended for treating the disease. The risk of contracting infections can be diminished by taking garlic daily. However, sufficient scientific evidence is not available regarding the effectiveness of botanical medicines in healing acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Specific homeopathy medicines can reduce some of the side effects of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Homeopaths take into account the emotional and physical stress of the leukemia patient while deciding the appropriate treatment. Radium bromatum, a homeopathic medicine, is especially effective in treating the side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in leukemia patients. Ruta graveolens is a popular remedy for leukemia. Unlike conventional chemotherapies that kill the cancer cells along with the normal cells, Ruta graveolens specifically targets the malignant cells without harming the healthy body cells.

Acupuncture is a widely used therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It can be used for controlling pain, reducing localized swelling and shortening the cancer treatment course. Energetic acupuncture, a modified version of the traditional therapy, which combines the traditional treatment with needles with electricity and localized heating with herbs can improve prognosis for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Controlled scientific studies have supported the usefulness of acupuncture in reducing nausea and vomiting following chemotherapy.

A growing body of evidence suggests that acupressure can provide relief from persistent fatigue, a common symptom of cancer. Conventional medicines hardly offer any option for treating cancer-related fatigue. Acupressure is an inexpensive, non-toxic treatment that can improve the quality of life. It can also reduce depression and improve the quality of sleep. With minimal instruction, acupressure can be self-administered. Although, the exact biological pathways through which complementary medicines such as acupuncture and acupressure help reduce the symptoms of leukemia is unclear, health experts speculate that they promote the natural repair mechanism of the body by stimulating production of endorphins and other chemicals.

The essential oils derived from herbs are primarily used as supportive care for the physical and emotional well being of acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients. Inhaling the essential oil stimulates the emotional center of the brain, which calms the mind, improves sleep and reduces depression and anxiety in the leukemia patients. Topical application reduces inflammation, infections, and body pain.

Hydrotherapy is believed to improve the symptoms of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Studies have shown that the therapeutic use of water increases blood circulation, enhances immune function, improves cellular function and aids detoxification, which may slow down the progression of the disease. In addition, therapy with water may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. To realize the benefits of hydrotherapy, people suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia should spray cold water all over the body for about two minutes after taking a hot shower. Hydrotherapy may induce lymphatic flow. Hence, to ensure that it does not interact with the conventional treatment, consult your doctor before starting the therapy.