[Integrative palliative and end-of-life care in oncology]

Palliative care focuses on the quality of life of people with life-limiting illnesses through bio-psycho-social-spiritual support and multiprofessional collaboration, as early as possible in the disease course and continuing until the end of life. In this context, many patients also seek integrative medical approaches which, with their salutogenetic and multidimensional orientation, align well with the core principles of palliative care. Using anthroposophic medicine and phytotherapy as examples, a spectrum of remedies, external applications, and artistic therapies is presented that can relieve symptoms and strengthen inner resources. A competent indication with careful consideration of benefits and burdens is essential. When applied appropriately, integrative interventions can contribute to providing individualized and comprehensive support for people at the end of life and effectively reinforce the principles of palliative care.