Posted in: Cancer by Dr. Tarang Krishna Posted Date: 21 May, 2019
Medicinal plants are one of the most popularly used alternative therapies by people for cancer. Research and studies by leading cancer specialists have shown that as many as 60% of cancer patients use herbal remedies alongside conventional cancer treatments. In many developing countries, herbal medicine is the source of new discoveries for the new drug which has lead to a combination of new formulations. Herbal medicines, when collated with other sources of drug discoveries, has contributed many compounds for preventive and curative medicine.
Medicinal Plants for Cancer Prevention
According to cancer care centers, polyphenols, terpenes and alkaloids have been marked to possess anticancer properties in many studies. Here are some medicinal plants which are known to help in avoiding cancer risks:-
- Autumn Crocus: Treat inflammatory disorders and valued for chemotherapeutic properties.
- Camptotheca: Used as drugs for cancer treatment
- Docetaxel: Help with breast and lung cancer
- Lapacho Tree: Promoted as a treatment for cancer
- Mayapple: Used to treat both lung and testicular cancer
- Pacific Yew: Treatment of ovarian cancer
- Periwinkle: Help in solid cancers
- Vinblastine and Vincristine: Potent anticancer drugs
Analysis into Herbal Medicine and Cancer
Many researches have been put forward on cancer drugs and discovery of new molecules towards anticancer activity. The reason is that medicinal plants are reservoirs of antioxidants and possess no toxicity as compared to modern drugs. There is no strong evidence from human studies that conventional drugs can prevent or provide cancer cure for different cancers.
Many therapeutic procedures are available for the treatment of cancer, and in some cases, undesirable side effects can be associated with them. These compounds have antioxidant properties and inhibition of damage to DNA, cell cycle arrest, and its anticancer effects are new and more effective. However, many clinical trials seem to show that some Chinese herbs can help people to live longer, reduce side effects, and help prevent cancer from recurring, especially when combined with conventional treatment.
Verdict
Medicinal plants and treatments can be used as an integrative medical approach to treat cancer. They are not only safe but also help relieve side effects of conventional treatment. As there are some unfounded claims about plants and herbs curing cancer, these natural substances should not replace traditional cancer treatment such as surgery or immunotherapy. Always talk to your medical team about what herbs or plant extracts you would like to try. There may be unintended side effects or interactions with your medications.