Walking through childhood cancer with Lochlan has opened my eyes to the many ways we can support the body’s healing beyond conventional treatments. Chemotherapy and medical interventions are necessary (here in Canada it's illegal to not give your child with leukaemia chemo) , but I’ve also found that natural therapies—things that nourish the body, reduce side effects, and restore balance—can make a huge difference in how he feels.
Each child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. But in our journey, I’ve discovered several powerful tools that have helped Lochlan feel better, regain energy, and find comfort. Here are some of the natural approaches we incorporate into his care.
1. Essential Oils for Comfort and Healing
Essential oils have become a staple in our home. Whether it’s easing nausea, promoting relaxation, or boosting immunity, these concentrated plant extracts provide gentle but powerful support.
• Peppermint – Help with nausea, especially after chemotherapy. I diffuse them or Lochlan will simply hold an open bottle and sniff directly from the bottle.
• Lavender – Reduce stress and promote deep rest, which is crucial for healing. I often include a few drops in his nightly epsom salt bath/footbath. Another way I use lavender is to apply along with some coconut oil to any skin irritations from the bandaids and dressings.
• Tea Tree, OnGuard, and Stronger – Support the immune system and help purify the air, keeping our home a safe, clean space. I diffuse these often, and I use the "touch" rollers from doTerra down Lochlan's spine every morning and every night.
• Zendocrine, Lemon, Cilantro, Juniper Berry, Geranium– Support the body's filtration systems. Chemo wreaks havoc on the liver and kidneys, so detoxing them with the help of these oils each day has proven to be very helpful in Lochlan's journey. I mix them in a roller bottle and roll down his spine every night. I apply the Zendocrine and Lemon to his castor oil on his castor oil pack each night. I dilute the cilantro, juniper and geranium and roll on his kidneys and adrenal gland areas.
• Frankincense & Myrrh – These are holy oils and support the entire body. From skin, to gut health, to pain relief, to stress reduction, to immune support, to lung support, to DNA support, the list of benefits of these two powerhouse anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal oils is vast. • Balance – This blend is our biggest emotional supporting oil. It is so grounding and has helped us through the traumas of this journey. We apply to the crown of our head and over the heart.
• Serenity – This blend is our "hospital"blend. We bring a diffuser and this blend to use in the room 24/7 during inpatient visits. Here is a bundle of all the oils I use to support Lochlan along his healing journey.
2. Red Light Therapy for Cellular Healing
Red light therapy (also called low-level laser therapy) has been one of my favourite natural therapies. It uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and support mitochondrial function (the powerhouse of cells).
I use it on Lochlan to:
• Ease muscle and joint pain caused by treatment
• Boost circulation and oxygenation of tissues
• Support his immune system and overall energy
Just a few minutes a day under a high-quality red light panel has been an easy yet impactful addition to his healing routine. Here is my favourite red light for Candians (this link saves you 15%), and my favourite for worldwide customers.
3. Grounding: The Power of Direct Earth Contact
When everything feels chaotic, one of the simplest and most effective things we do is step outside and connect with the earth—literally. Grounding (or earthing) means walking barefoot on grass, soil, or sand to absorb the earth’s natural electric charge.
Why does it help?
• Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress
• Balances the nervous system for better sleep and mood
• Supports immune function
Even on tough days, sitting outside with our feet on the ground, feeling the sun on our skin, brings a deep sense of peace.
Now living on the East Coast of Canada means half of the year it's too cold to be barefoot outside. That's why I'm so grateful for grounding mats like this. We put it at the foot of Lochlan's bed so he can ground all night long. We even take it to the hospital with us for inpatient stays.
4. The Rife Machine: Frequency Therapy for Healing
The Rife machine is a frequency-based therapy that uses low-energy electromagnetic waves to target unhealthy cells and support healing. It’s based on the idea that different frequencies can disrupt pathogens while strengthening the body’s healthy cells.
While research is still developing, many families (including ours) have found benefits such as:
• Reduced discomfort and inflammation
• Better sleep and relaxation
• Support for detoxification
I see it as another supportive tool in our holistic approach—something that may not be mainstream but has helped many on this journey. This is where I got mine from and it serves us so well.
5. Rebounding: A Simple Way to Support Detox and Immunity
A small trampoline (also known as a rebounder) is a surprisingly effective therapy. The gentle bouncing motion helps:
• Stimulate the lymphatic system, which is responsible for detoxifying the body
• Improve circulation and oxygen flow
• Increase energy by moving stagnant fluids
Even on days when Lochlan is tired, just a few minutes of light bouncing or even sitting on the rebounder while I gently move it has been a great way to help his body stay strong.
6. Nutrient-Dense Foods & Supplements
No natural therapy is complete without proper nutrition. I follow the Weston A. Price diet, focusing on traditional, whole foods that support healing, including:
• Bone broths for gut health and minerals
• Raw milk and fermented foods for probiotics
• Grass-fed meats and organ meats for essential vitamins
• Healthy fats like butter, coconut oil, and cod liver oil for brain and immune function
I also incorporate key supplements, depending on what Lochlan needs at the time, to fill any nutritional gaps.
Here are some that Lochlan takes daily: Green Drink, Probiotics, and Omegas
Berberine Quercetin
Sulfurophane
Curcumin
Beef Organs
7. Detox Baths
One way to help alleviate some of these side effects of chemotherapy is through detox baths with Epsom salts and baking soda. These simple, soothing baths offer several benefits that can support both physical and emotional well-being during treatment.
Epsom Salts: A Soothing Aid for the Body
Epsom salts, made from magnesium sulfate, are known for their ability to relax muscles and reduce inflammation. For childhood cancer patients, who may experience pain or muscle tension due to chemotherapy or radiation, soaking in an Epsom salt bath can bring welcome relief. Magnesium also plays a key role in supporting nerve function and energy levels, helping to counteract the fatigue and discomfort that often accompany cancer treatment.
Baking Soda: Skin and pH Balance Support
Baking soda is gentle on the skin and can help maintain its natural pH balance. For children undergoing cancer treatments, their skin can become sensitive or irritated, making this ingredient especially beneficial.
Additionally, baking soda can help detoxify the body by supporting the elimination of toxins and excess acids, providing a mild but effective cleanse
A Calming and Relaxing Experience
Beyond the physical benefits, detox baths can offer emotional relief. The warm water helps to soothe the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress or anxiety. For a child who is experiencing the emotional toll of illness and treatment, this sense of calm can be an important way to nurture both the body and mind.
Enhancing the Healing Process The combination of Epsom salts and baking soda can also stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Magnesium, found in Epsom salts, is a vital mineral that helps with energy production and immune system support, making it a helpful addition to a cancer patient’s overall recovery plan.
8. Castor Oil Pack
Castor oil has been used for centuries for its healing properties, and its benefits are often highlighted in natural health practices. The oil contains ricinoleic acid, a compound believed to help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support the body's detoxification process. When applied in the form of a castor oil pack, the oil is typically soaked in a cloth and placed on the skin, often over the liver or other areas of the body that may benefit from enhanced circulation or detoxification.
For children undergoing cancer treatment, castor oil packs may offer relief from some of the discomforts associated with chemotherapy, such as nausea, fatigue, and constipation. The gentle warmth of the pack can also promote relaxation, helping to reduce stress and anxiety that can often accompany the treatment process.
While there is limited scientific evidence on the direct effects of castor oil packs on cancer itself, many caregivers report positive results in improving their child’s quality of life during treatment. I
When using castor oil packs, it's important to make the experience as comfortable and soothing as possible. You can apply the pack for about 30 to 60 minutes, typically once a day . I find that using the packs in the evening, as part of a bedtime routine, helps Lochlan relax and wind down after a long day. In fact he actually sleeps in his.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
Cancer treatment is hard—on the body, the mind, and the spirit. But by weaving in these natural therapies alongside medical care, I’ve seen firsthand how much comfort, strength, and resilience they can provide. Every small step—whether it’s diffusing essential oils, spending time barefoot in the grass, or using red light therapy—adds up to a bigger picture of healing.
I know this road is long, and I know I don’t have all the answers. But I do know that listening to Lochlan’s body, trusting my intuition, and leaning into both science and faith has made a world of difference.
If you’ve used natural therapies to support a child with cancer, I’d love to hear your experience. Let’s continue sharing knowledge and supporting one another on this journey.
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