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Alternative therapy
Acupuncture
Integrative · Acupuncture
Tier BUse with cautionRating: 70/100
Important
Do not replace or delay standard cancer treatment with unproven therapies. Always consult your oncology team before starting anything new.
Summary
Acupuncture is used to help manage cancer-related symptoms such as nausea, pain, fatigue, and hot flashes. It is not a cancer treatment.
Claims: Symptom relief, Side‑effect
Evidence
Clinical trials show the strongest evidence for reducing chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting and for symptom management.
Negative/neutral evidence: No evidence shows acupuncture treats or cures cancer.
Evidence strongest for symptom relief (especially nausea/vomiting).
Safety & interactions
Use a trained practitioner and clean-needle technique.
Warnings
- • Use only trained practitioners; sterile needles are essential.
Risks
- • Minor bleeding or bruising can occur.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2/19/2026 · Rating methodology