Can You Cure Ovarian Cancer Naturally? What Actually Works

If you've been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the diagnosis can feel overwhelming. It's natural to feel worried.

You may be nervous about the harsh side effects of chemotherapy or have seen stories online about people who claim to have healed themselves naturally. A part of you may wonder if a more gentle and "natural" treatment could work for your situation.

When facing such a serious diagnosis, it's important to understand what natural approaches can realistically do. Natural methods alone cannot cure ovarian cancer. However, they can play a supportive role alongside medical treatment, helping you cope with side effects and improving your chances of recovery.

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in your ovaries. These are the organs that produce eggs and hormones like oestrogen and progesterone.

It's often called a "silent disease" because the early symptoms can be easy to miss. You might experience bloating, pelvic discomfort, frequent urination, or fatigue – all of which are often mistaken for other conditions. This is why many people are diagnosed at a more advanced stage. 

Your treatment will depend on the type and stage of your ovarian cancer. It often includes radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy. Because these treatments can be intense, many people who have received this diagnosis wonder if there are natural alternatives that might help.

Can ovarian cancer be cured naturally?

The short answer is no. There's currently no natural method that has been proven to cure ovarian cancer on its own.

While it's understandable for you to seek gentler alternatives, no diet, supplement, herb, or alternative therapy has been proven to eliminate cancer cells or replace medical treatments. Relying solely on natural approaches instead of proven medical care could allow the cancer to progress and reduce your chances of recovery.

However, this doesn't mean that natural approaches have no place in your treatment care. When used alongside conventional treatment, they can offer real benefits, including:

• Improving your quality of life

• Reducing treatment side effects

• Supporting your immune system function

• Boosting your emotional and physical wellbeing

The important thing is using natural methods as a complement to evidence-based medical treatment, not a replacement. Natural methods give your body the best possible support while medical treatment fights cancer.

What natural approaches can support ovarian cancer treatment?

Natural approaches won't cure ovarian cancer, but they can help you manage treatment better. You may feel less nausea and better energy when using these approaches alongside your medical care.

Diet and nutrition

What you eat matters during cancer treatment. Proper nutrition gives your body the energy it needs to cope with treatment and heal.

Your dietary patterns can focus on:

• Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes for fibre and important nutrients

• Foods rich in vitamin C like citrus fruits and bell peppers for immune support

• Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish like salmon and mackerel to help reduce inflammation

• Spices and herbs like turmeric and ginger for their anti-inflammatory properties

• Protein from fish, eggs, and legumes for tissue repair during recovery

You might also want to limit highly processed foods, processed meats, sugary drinks, and refined sugars. These foods can increase inflammation in the body and cause energy fluctuations. They may interfere with your body's ability to heal and respond to treatment.

Immune system support

Treatment can weaken your immune system, making you more prone to infections that could delay your care. These daily habits help keep your immune system functioning:

• Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night

• Doing moderate physical activity as you're able

• Working with your doctor to address nutrient deficiencies like vitamin D or iron if needed

You might see supplements marketed as immune boosters and feel tempted to try them. Be cautious, as some can interfere with chemotherapy or affect your hormones in ways that complicate your treatment.

If you’re thinking about immune-boosting supplements during treatment, request an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists can guide you on what’s safe, what to avoid, and how to support your immune system without affecting your ongoing care.

What complementary therapies can help manage symptoms?

Complementary therapies work alongside your conventional treatments to help you feel better physically and emotionally. They can ease symptoms while making you feel better during treatment.

Mind-body practices

Ovarian cancer treatment often comes with intense emotions. Many women in this situation feel overwhelmed with fear about their future, grief over what they're going through, or anxiety about their treatment's success. 

Mind-body practices can help you process these emotions and find moments of peace. You might find relief through:

• Psychotherapy or counselling to process your feelings

• Support groups where you can connect with others who understand

• Mindfulness meditation and stress reduction techniques

• Guided imagery

• Gentle yoga

These approaches can ease anxiety and emotional distress during your treatment. Although they won't change your diagnosis, they can help to reduce your emotional strain.

Physical therapies

Gentle movement can improve how you feel each day. Physical therapies help manage pain and side effects whilst you maintain your strength.

Here are some therapies that can help you feel better:

• Gentle stretching exercises

• Physical therapy for recovery after surgery

• Acupuncture for pain, nausea, or fatigue

• Massage therapy by oncology-trained practitioners

Sensory therapies

Sensory therapies use your senses to promote relaxation and emotional wellbeing. While they don't treat cancer, they can help you manage stress and discomfort.

Some people find relief through:

• Aromatherapy, such as lavender for relaxation

• Music therapy

• Art therapy

• Guided breathing exercises

These therapies won't shrink your tumours or stop cancer growth. But it'll help you maintain your quality of life and emotions while going through intensive ovarian cancer treatment.

Are there alternative therapies for ovarian cancer?

Alternative therapies are approaches used instead of conventional medical treatment. These can include herbal cures, extreme diets, or energy healing.

However, there's no reliable scientific evidence showing that alternative therapies alone can treat or cure ovarian cancer. Many of these approaches lack safety data and may delay treatment at a time when ovarian cancer can progress quickly.

While it's natural to feel drawn to a softer approach when facing chemotherapy and surgery, what works better is using natural approaches to help you manage side effects while medical treatment tackles the cancer. If you are still worried, you can discuss a treatment plan with your doctor to determine if it is suitable for your specific situation.

If you’re curious about complementary approaches or want guidance on safe supportive therapies, request an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists can help you explore options that support your treatment without compromising your care.

FAQ

Can ovarian cancer be cured without surgery or chemotherapy?

For most people with ovarian cancer, surgery and chemotherapy are needed for survival. In early-stage cases, treatment plans may differ. However, natural methods alone cannot cure ovarian cancer or eliminate cancer cells.

How effective are natural remedies in managing ovarian cancer?

Natural remedies work well for symptom management, emotional support, and improving quality of life. They may also help reduce side effects from medical treatment. However, they're not effective as standalone cancer treatments.

What foods or supplements help slow ovarian cancer growth?

No food or supplement has been proven to slow or stop ovarian cancer growth or destroy cancer cells. Some compounds are being researched, but evidence remains limited. Always consult your healthcare team before using supplements.

What are the risks of avoiding conventional cancer treatment?

Avoiding or delaying conventional medical treatments can cause cancer progression and reduced survival chances. You may also lose potentially curative options. Ovarian cancer can be aggressive, making timely treatment important.

Can lifestyle changes alone stop ovarian cancer from spreading?

No. Lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular movement, and mind-body practices cannot stop cancer from spreading on their own. However, they can support your overall health and help you cope better during treatment.

How can stress management improve cancer recovery?

Practices like mindfulness meditation may improve your sleep, reduce inflammation, and support your emotional wellbeing. Stress management can also help you stick with your treatment plan and manage side effects. While they don't cure cancer, they support your recovery.

What are the risks of delaying conventional treatment in favour of alternative therapies?

Delaying conventional treatments can allow ovarian cancer to advance to later stages. Treatment then becomes less effective, surgical options may be limited, and your outlook can worsen.

The information is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your unique situation, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.

Reference:

Wang, L., Zhang, Q., Wang, X., Dong, Z., Liu, S., Wang, Q., Zhang, Z., & Xing, J. (2025). Therapeutic landscape of ovarian cancer: recent advances and emerging therapies. Biomarker Research, 13(1), 103. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40364-025-00818-7