As a desperate measure, a person with skin cancer may turn to alternative treatments which, in some cases, will be dangerous and cause side effects. Black balm is one of them. It is an alternative medicine that causes serious problems in the dermis.
In hopes of destroying moles or malignant tumors to fight skin cancer cells, the corrosive black balm is used. however, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against its use.
Until now there is no scientific evidence to support that this ointment can be effective in treating cancer. Find out what black balm is, why it’s not an oncological cure and its possible effects.
What is Black Balm?
This balm has a consistency similar to a paste or poultice made with herbs. Its main ingredient is a plant called Sanguinaria canadensis, originally from North America. It is also known as red root OR bloodroot.
Also, it is common for them to prepare it with zinc chloride; both components are corrosive substances. The black ointment has the potential to destroy the skin, which in addition to causing pain leaves behind a thick scar.
Why isn’t it the cure for cancer?
Based on the results obtained by people who have used this product and the non-existent scientific evidence that the properties of black balm are effective for cancer treatment, this is so far more than enough to avoid its use completely.
to exist research who argue that black balm is not a recommended treatment for any type of cancer. It contains tissue toxicity to which malignant cells are to some extent resistant.
Despite the warnings, this product can be purchased online. Under a deceptive offer it is being sold as a solution to cure cancer, reduce excess fluid, strengthen enzyme structure and improve oxygen flow to the brain. However, none of these purported benefits are substantiated.
Possible damage caused by using black balm
Today there are several countries that prohibit its sale on the market as a cure alternative to fight cancer. In the case of the FDA, they label it a bogus cure to avoid.
Black ointment cannot be applied expecting to eradicate only cancer cells without intending to target healthy ones. It is impossible to distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue, resulting in the death of the area, which is known as necrosis.
Added to this, you may experience other side effects such as scarring, disfigurement, and infection. Black balm has no effect against metastatic cancer. It is completely ineffective and even allows its advancement to other parts of the body.
Fear of surgery may be the main reason people turn to this alternative drug, according to one University of Utah research. However, those who have applied the black balm now need cosmetic surgery to fix the deformity caused by the ointment.
Prevention and recommendations against black balm
Black balm isn’t the only thing to avoid when suffering from skin cancer. Other natural products could be counterproductive.
If a patient is receiving chemotherapy, taking St. John’s wort or vitamins A and C can cause serious side effects, according to the same survey conducted by the University of Utah. On the other hand, it also suggests that you should be careful when consuming mistletoe. Although this plant is known for its properties to strengthen the immune system, the truth is that it reacts differently when suffering from melanoma.
As logical as it may seem, it’s a bad idea to resort to natural supplements or vitamins other than those prescribed by your doctor with the idea of ​​strengthening the body during the battle against cancer. People suffering from skin oncological pathology consume special drugs and there may be unfavorable interactions.
Recommendations when considering a natural treatment as an adjunct
It is understandable that the patient or family members want to do everything possible to treat skin cancer. If you are considering alternative treatment to treat the disease, the following are recommended:
- Before consuming any substance, The first thing to do is visit the dermatologist..
- It is imperative to ask the specialist about all the concerns you have. They include treatment, biopsy, or if there may be other options.
- There is no doubt that family and friends have the best wishes, however, suggested drugs may not be proven. You should investigate any recommendations provided by a specialist or scientific studies.
- Although the dermatologist will probably ask, do not forget to inform him if you are taking mineral supplements, phytotherapy, vitamins or any other substance. This can cause serious side effects.
- Avoid falling for advertising or false treatments. Most of them have one thing in common and that is that they often claim to perform a cure in a wonderful and almost magical way.
What to remember about black balm for skin cancer?
There is no doubt that skin cancer is a disease that requires treatment. And one can resort to alternative medicines as a desperate measure. However, this is usually counterproductive and causes the disease to progress faster.
Relying on accredited and certified specialists is the best. They are the only ones with the ability to diagnose and recommend the appropriate and proven approach to fight skin cancer.
Using black balm is a big mistake. Doctors won’t prescribe it because it’s unscientific and ineffective. Applying the ointment to the skin can cause pain and severe disfigurement.
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