Progress in Research on Alleviating the Symptoms Associated With Advanced Cancer Using Traditional Chinese Medicine

Advanced cancer continues to pose a substantial global challenge, with complex symptom burdens and limited therapeutic options. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), grounded in holistic theory and the principles of syndrome differentiation, employs interventions such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and acupoint-based therapies to address both the malignancy and the patient's overall functional status. Emerging evidence indicates that TCM may alleviate symptom clusters associated with advanced cancer, enhance quality of life, and potentially contribute to improved survival outcomes. This review synthesizes findings from the past decade on the role of TCM in advanced cancer care, with a focus on herbal decoctions, Chinese herbal injections, acupuncture-either alone or in combination with herbal therapy-moxibustion with adjuvant medication, and other external TCM modalities. Evidence is examined regarding their effects on cancer-related pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal dysfunction, chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced toxicities, and immune modulation. By consolidating current clinical and mechanistic insights, this review aims to inform future research and support the integration of evidence-based TCM approaches into contemporary oncology practice.