ABSTRACT
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy administered for cancer treatment produce severe adverse effects. Among others, nausea and vomiting are considered significant effects experienced by 30-90% of patients undergoing chemotherapy and about 40% of patients undergoing radiotherapy1. These symptoms reduce the quality of life and could lead to severe complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and esophageal tears from retching (Mallory Weiss syndrome)2. Patients who have experienced these symptoms are more likely to refuse further chemotherapy or to experience anticipatory emesis during subsequent chemotherapy. Therefore, to achieve adequate control of nausea and vomiting would be an important step towards improving tolerability and effectiveness of cancer treatment. Herbal medicines may play an important role in the management of these adverse effects.
