Anticancer Herbs
Introduction
The subject of anticancer herbs is certainly a controversial one. Opinions are polarized - with some strongly opposed to orthodox cancer treatments, and some strongly opposed to herbal medicine.A very significant amount of scientific research has been done in the investigation of anticancer properties of various plants - however much work still needs to be done.
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List Of 60+ Anti-Cancer Herbs image to repin / share
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The purpose of this page is neither to attempt to persuade, nor to debunk - but simply to present as much good information as possible on the subject, in order that the person interested in the possibility of anticancer herbs may be assisted in "doing their homework". See this page as a "starting point" for research or investigation. I've done my best to cite references that I have found. It is written in the small print at the foot of this page in greater detail, but it is expedient to repeat it: This page is not medical advice, nor is it intended to substitute for professional medical consultation.Note - this page uses the term "anticancer" with a broad brush; and it is the most widely-used term - however please note that the National Cancer Institute considers that the term "anticancer herb" is not accurate enough. Their definition gives three terms:cytotoxic - action against tumors in vitro(i.e. in laboratory cell cultures); anti-tumor - toxic to tumors in animals; anti-cancer - action against tumors in human trials. Ref. article on this with many more points -http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.aspx?Id=1583
Mechanisms by which herbs may fight against or have a preventative effect on cancer are varied and the science complex. Some herbs may act as "immunomodulators" - stimulating the immune system to fight against cancer cells. Others may have a direct cytotoxic action - however this does not necessarily mean they should immediately be used; as an agent that has been shown to be toxic to cancer cells may also be toxic to healthy cells. Some herbs (such as Milk thistle) have been found by studies to act selectively against cancer cells and this is considered a highly desired quality.One of the challenges of the work against cancer is that there are so many factors which may influence it, that it becomes difficult to pin down both actual causes and beneficial agents in real life. I for one would welcome large scale "big data" type research which might more easily detect correlations between lifestyle, dietary and supplement factors with incidence of cancer. A future project for the world to consider? We now have the technology.With the above said, on to our list of over 60 herbs and plants for which anticancer properties have been reported / claimed. This page has officially turned into a mammoth tome and we have done our best to cite all references. I hope this information is of benefit to you. Let's work together to fight against this tragic disease. Suggestions are welcomed; please see the foot of the page for contact information.
(Note - "Anticancer Foods" have now been separated from this list and appear on their own page.)
Special thanks to Dan Ablir, Kelsey Wambold and Julie Anne Ne for their assistance with this page.
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Aloe vera
Aloe vera is celebrated for its varied pharmacological properties and therapeutic uses, one of which being a promising treatment for certain types of cancers. A systematic review of Aloe vera had accumulated a good amount of data from extensive literature search on dermatology studies and clinical trials and supports the use of Aloe vera as a candidate for photodynamic therapy of some kinds of cancer. [1]Aloe vera also contains a substance known as 1,8-dihydroxy-3-[hydroxymethyl]-anthraquinone (or simply AE), which has been proven to induce cell death among T24 cells (human bladder cancer cell line). AE has notable anticancer effects and inhibits cell viability while stimulating the arrest of G2/M of the cell cycle. [2]
References[1] Feily A. & Namazi M. R. (2009). Aloe vera in dermatology: a brief review. Giornale Italiano di Dermatologia e Venereologia, 144(1): 85-91. Retrieved 7 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19218914 [2] Lin J. G. et al. (2006). Aloe-emodin induces apoptosis in T24 human bladder cancer cells through the p53 dependent apoptotic pathway. Journal of Urology, 175(1): 343-347. Retrieved 7 June 2013 fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16406939
Ammania Vesieatoria
Ammania Vesieatoria is an obscure East Indian aquatic plant. The leaves are very acrid, and are sometimes used as blisters. Source - http://books.google.com/books?id=Czs...A759&lpg=PA759 Ammania Vesieatoria is an ingredient in Carctol, an Ayurvedic herbal preparation that has been used as an anticancer treatment. Carctol is under strict legal restrictions in the UK although the web site claims it has passed 'strict toxology tests'. Source - http://www.carctolhome.com/introduction.php
Asafoetida (Ferula asafoetida)
Ferula is a perennial herb commonly found in Afghanistan mountains but is also cultivated in nearby India. It contains ferulic acid, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory activities and synergistic protective action against oxidative stress in skin and, by extension, photoaging and skin cancer. It also has alpha-pinene and luteolin, two compounds that have anticancer properties. [1]
References[1] Asafoetida. Wikipedia. Retrieved 7 June 2013 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asafoetida
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Artemisia annua
Artemisia annua, also known as sweet wormwood, sweet annie, sweet fern, sweet sagewort, or annual wormwood, [1] sprang to fame as a possible anticancer herb in 2001 when two researchers at the University of Washington noted that wormwood showed highly selective activity against breast cancer cells. [2]In more recent research, artemisinin, a compound extracted from A. annua, has been demonstrated to have activity against malaria and cancer cells [3][4] and to inhibit a number of viruses, including herpes simplex 1 and hepatitis B and C. [5]Artemisinin and its derivatives have been shown to induce apoptosis of prostate cancer cells and to possess activity against breast cancer, leukemia, colon cancer, and other cancer cells. [6] A significant body of scientific research investigating the anticancer properties of Artemisia annua has been performed since 2008, which indicated the potential for development of both therapeutic and preventative treatments.(See herbs-info.com's full Artemisia article)
References[1] Artemisia annua. Wikipedia. Retrieved 4 June 2013 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_annua
[2] Environmental News Network. (2001). Wormwood is the basis for a cancer-fighting pill. Retrieved 4 June 2013 from http://www.cancersalves.com/botanica.../wormwood.html
[3] Wormwood. Ideal Health Services. Retrieved 4 June 2013 from http://www.genhealth.com/Products/vi...s/wormwood.htm
[4] Schaller J. (2006).The use of the herb artemisinin for babesia, malaria, and cancer: All the practical information you need to make smart decisions on artemisinin. CreateSpace. Retrieved 4 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books/abo...d=IA6pBAAACAAJ
[5] Blazquez A. G. et al. (2013). Novel artemisinin derivatives with potential usefulness against liver/colon cancer and viral hepatitis. Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, pii: S0968-0896(13)00385-4. doi: 10.1016/j.bmc.2013.04.059. Retrieved 4 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23685181
[6] Mizushina Y. et al. (2010). Inhibitory effects of docosyl p-coumarate on DNA topoisomerase activity and human cancer cell growth. International Journal of Oncology, 37(4): 993-1000. Retrieved 4 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20811721
Baptisia
Baptisia, also known as wild indigo, is a perennial indigenous to New England. As it thrives in dry soil, it does not grow around streams or in areas of high precipitation. Baptisia has a high polysaccharide content, which makes it an immunomodulator (it stimulates the immune system). Applied topically, Baptisia soothes inflammation and reduces redness. Historically, Baptisia was used as a natural antibiotic in the treatment of both internal and external infections. Herbalists and homeopaths continue to use Baptisia to treat a wide range of imbalances in the body. Baptisia promotes a sense of mental clarity, motivation, and emotional well-being, all of which are seen as necessary components in a holistic healing program. As a decongestant for the lymph and other drainage systems, Baptisia is best prepared as an infusion or in a tea with complementary herbs. Whole dried Baptisia herb can be prepared as an infusion, or the whole herb can be coarsely ground and brewed as loose-leaf tea or finely ground and administered in capsules made of vegetable cellulose. Although traditionally a mortar and pestle was used to grind the Baptisia herb, a coffee grinder will suffice.
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris)
Barberry has been used in Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) for over 2,500 years. It is primarily used to treat fever, diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, and fatigue, but most recently it has been recognized as an anticancer herb. [1]Barberry is found to have powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic properties. It is used interchangeably with goldenseal (more commonly used in the West) because the two share a similar chemical composition. Modern studies indicate that barberry improves immune function and reduces hypertension, and according to Ayurvedic tradition, it is an effective treatment for liver tumors. [2] The results of a study in Taiwan indicate that when administered at high doses to cancer patients over time, berberine - a potent alkaloid in barberry - killed cancer cells in humans. [3]Barberry was one of the ingredients in the Hoxsey herbal formula, which was first marketed as a cancer cure in 1919. [4]
References[1] Ehrlich S. (2010). Barberry. University of Maryland Medical Center. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/barberry-000224.htm
[2] Liver cancer herbal treatment. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://www.mahaaushadhi.com/info/ayurveda/digestivesystem/liver-cancer-herbal-treatment.html
[3] Ho Y. T. et al. (2009). Berberine induced apoptosis via promoting the expression of caspase-8, -9 and -3, apoptosis-inducing factor and endonuclease G in SCC-4 human tongue squamous carcinoma cancer cells. Anticancer Research, 29(10): 4063-4070. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19846952
[4] Chamberlain J. (200 . Cancer: The complete recovery guide: Everything that everyone should know about cancer and how to recover from it. USA: Long Island Press. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books/abo...d=lWhctJb302QC
Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)
Evidences about the anticancer properties of bitter melon are vast. In a 2010 American study, bitter melon extract was effective against human breast cancer cells and primary human mammary epithelial cells. It was able to reduce the proliferation of cancer cells and induce cell death among breast cancer cells. [1]Aside from breast cancer, the administration of bitter melon has also been proven beneficial for cervical and prostate cancer patients. Bitter melon can remarkably increase the number of natural killer (NK) cells, which is usually low or reduced in cervical cancer patients who have a defective immune system.[2] Its administration also results in the arrest of the cell cycle among prostate cancer cells and halts the progress of prostate tumor. [3]
References [1] Ray R.B., Raychoudhuri A., Steele R., & Nerurkar P. (2010). Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation by modulating cell cycle regulatory genes and promotes apoptosis. Cancer Research, 70(5): 1925-1931. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-09-3438. Retrieved 7 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20179194
[2] Pongnikorn S., Fongmoon D., Kasinrerk W., & Limtrakul P. N. (2003). Effect of bitter melon (Momordica charantia Linn) on level and function of natural killer cells in cervical cancer patients with radiotherapy. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand, 86(1): 61-68. Retrieved 7 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12678140
[3] Ru P., Steele R., Nerurkar P. V., Phillips N., & Ray R. B. (2011). Bitter melon extract impairs prostate cancer cell-cycle progression and delays prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia in TRAMP model. Cancer Prevention Research (Phila),
4(12): 2122-2130. doi: 10.1158/1940-6207. Retrieved 7 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21911444
Blackberry Bush
Blackberry bush owes much of its anticancer property to its ellagic acid content. Ellagic acid is a phenol antioxidant that can induce cancer cell death through apoptosis associated with decreased ATP production. More importantly however, this apoptotic activity comes without any toxic effect on the viability of normal human lung fibroblast cells. Ellagic acid expresses selective cytotoxicity and anti-proliferative activity as well. [1]
References[1] Losso J. N., Bansode R. R., Trappey A., Bawadi H. A., & Truax R. (2004). In vitro anti-proliferative activities of ellagic acid. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 15(11): 672-678. Retrieved 7 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15590271
Black Walnut Hulls (Juglans nigra)
Used by the ancient Greeks and Romans and in Russian folk medicine, [1] black walnut hull is used today by herbalists to treat various conditions. [2]According to certain theories within alternative medicine, all disease is caused by parasitic infection. These theories suggest that black walnut hull is effective in eliminating the parasites, including those responsible for chronic diseases. Taken internally, the extract or tincture of black walnut hull is listed in the "Prescription for Natural Cures" [3] as an effective way to rid the system of parasites, especially when combined with clove and wormwood extracts.
References [1]http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/Trea...s/black-walnut
[2] Medicinal uses of black walnut. Demand Media, Inc. Retrieved 5 June 2013 fromhttp://www.livestrong.com/article/26...-black-walnut/
[3] Taylor G. (2011). Healing properties of black walnut hulls. Demand Media, Inc. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://www.livestrong.com/article/46...-walnut-hulls/
Blackberry (Rubus, Rubus vulgaris, Rubus fruticosus)
Recent pharmaceutical research indicates that a daily dose of blackberries might prevent cancer. Blackberries contain anthocyanins - which have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. According to findings presented by the University of Kentucky, [1] the anthocyanins found in blackberries may have the potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and to kill existing cancer cells.Naturally occurring in fruits such as blackberries, anthocyanins are not produced by the human body. While the addition of fresh blackberries, or blackberry jam, into your daily diet can increase your body's defense against free radicals, the most efficient way to unleash the fruit's disease-fighting power is to take blackberry extract in capsule form so that the anthocyanins are not immediately digested (and thus will be delivered to the gastrointestinal tract). [1]
References[1] Roenker R. (2006). Elisting blackberries in the fight against cancer. University of Kentucky Odyssey. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://www.research.uky.edu/odyssey/...ckberries.html
Blepharis edulis
Blepharis edulis is a species of plant belonging to the family Acanthaceae and is indigenous to the Middle East. Found today in Pakistan, India, and Egypt, it is used as an herbal remedy in Ayurvedic (traditional Indian) medicine to treat cases of mental confusion and nervousness. The seed of Blepharis edulis is a component of Carcatol, a remedy used in Ayurveda to increase vitality in cancer patients.
Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)
Native to Nova Scotia, Canada, and the eastern North America, bloodroot was used by indigenous peoples as a respiratory aid. The external application of bloodroot has been used as a home remedy for skin cancer. [1]Opposing claims have been made regarding bloodroot as an anticancer agent: certain publications on the subject of anticancer herbs indicate that bloodroot is a powerful anticancer agent. However, medical research indicates that bloodroot cannot be relied upon as a means of removing tumors and should not be used as a home remedy. [2]
References[1] Chamberlain J. (200 . Cancer: The complete recovery guide: Everything that everyone should know about cancer and how to recover from it. USA: Long Island Press. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books/abo...d=lWhctJb302QC
[2] Ross K. (200 . Crackdown on unproven cancer treatments focuses on Internet marketers. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 100(17): 1200-1202. doi: 10.1093/jnci/djn317. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://jnci.oxfordjournals.org/content/100/17/1200.full
Boswellia serrata (Frankincense)
Boswellia serrata has been studied for its anticancer properties, especially acetyl-11-keto-fl-boswellic acid (AKBA), the substance obtained from the gum resin of the said herb. A study from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has demonstrated that AKBA inhibits the growth and proliferation of human pancreatic cancer lines, induces apoptosis, and suppresses the metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells to the spleen, liver, and lungs in an orthotopic nude mouse model. [1] In another study, the oral administration of AKBA to mice resulted in the inhibition of colorectal cancer growth. AKBA was also found to be highly effective against ascites (accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity) and suppressed the metastasis of the cancer cells to the liver, lungs, and spleen in nude mice. [2] It appears that Boswellia serrata's effectiveness against cancer lies on its ability to regulate cellular epigenetic machinery [3] and to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis by downregulating cancer-related biomarkers. [2] Frankincense contains a number of compounds that hinder cancer cells from spreading or migrating. Immunologist Mahmoud Suhail in a BBC News write-up states, "Cancer starts when the DNA code within the cell's nucleus becomes corrupted. It seems frankincense has a re-set function. It can tell the cell what the right DNA code should be." [4] A 2009 study from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center had reported that frankincense oil is effective in suppressing the viability of human bladder cancer cells, inducing death among cancer cells. More to this, frankincense oil appears to exert its anticancer effects without harming the normal bladder cells. [5] These findings are more or less similar to those of a 2012 study from Long Hua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China. This Chinese study had demonstrated too that frankincense essential oil suppresses viability and stimulates cell death among cancer cells (in this case, human pancreatic cancer cells). Human pancreatic cancer cells seem to be sensitive to frankincense essential oil distillate fractions with higher-molecular-weight compounds. [6]
References[1] Park B., Prasad S., Yadav V., Sung B., & Aggarwal B. B. (2011). Boswellic acid suppresses growth and metastasis of human pancreatic tumors in an orthotopic nude mouse model through modulation of multiple targets. PLoS One, 6(10): e26943. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0026943. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22066019
[2] Yadav V. R. et al. (2012). Boswellic acid inhibits growth and metastasis of human colorectal cancer in orthotopic mouse model by downregulating inflammatory, proliferative, invasive and angiogenic biomarkers. International Journal of Cancer, 130(9): 2176-2184. doi: 10.1002/ijc.26251. Retrieved 24th July 2013 from
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21702037
[3] Takahashi M. et al. (2012). Boswellic acid exerts antitumor effects in colorectal cancer cells by modulating expression of the let-7 and miR-200 microRNA family. Carcinogenesis, 33(12):
[4] Howell J. (2010). Frankincense: Could it be a cure for cancer? BBC World News. Retrieved 15 June 2013 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/8505251.stm
[5] Frank M. B. et al. (2009). Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia carteri induces tumor cell specific cytotoxicity. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 9:6. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-9-6. Retrieved 15 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1...?dopt=Citation
[6] Ni X. et al. (2012). Frankincense essential oil prepared from hydrodistillation of Boswellia sacra gum resins induces human pancreatic cancer cell death in cultures and in a xenograft murine model. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 12: 253. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-253. Retrieved 15 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23237355
Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica)
The buckthorn plant is used to treat inflammation, especially in the abdominal area. [1] The results of in vitro tests indicate that the toxin T-514 (a dimeric anthracenone isolated from the buckthorn plant) might have an antitumor effect, [2] but further testing must be carried out before any claims can be made as to whether buckthorn is an anticancer agent. [3]
References[1] Kraft K. & Hobbs C. (2004). Pocket guide to herbal medicine. Germany: Georg Thieme Verlag. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books?id=2gFOXZfWoCMC
[2] Piñeyro-López A., Martínez de Villarreal L., & Gonzalez-Alanís R. (1994). In vitro selective toxicity of toxin T-514 from Karwinskia humboldtiana (buckthorn) plant on various human tumor cell lines. Toxicology, 92(1-3): 217-227. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7940562
[3] Diamon A. Buckthorn. Diamon Naturals. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.diamon-naturals.us/buckthorn.htm
Burdock root (Arctium lappa)
Native to Europe and northern Asia, burdock root is described in historical texts as a "blood purifier." [1]Physicians in ancient China used burdock root to treat skin conditions, venereal diseases, respiratory infections, and kidney problems. In Medieval Europe, it was used to remedy various ailments including arthritis, gout, pneumonia, and scurvy. Although scientific data is lacking overall, recent diabetes research determined that burdock root is an effective eliminator of cancer-causing toxins that accumulate in the intestinal flora from improper digestion of certain foods. [2]Burdock root has a long history of use in traditional/herbal anticancer formulas including "Flor Essence" and "Essiac."Burdock was one of the ingredients in the Hoxsey herbal formula, which was first marketed as a cancer cure in 1919. [3]
References[1] Ehrlich S. (2011). Burdock. University of Maryland Medical Center. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/burdock-000227.htm
[2] Zak V. (2009). 20,000 Secrets of tea: The most effective ways to benefit from nature's healing herbs. USA: Random House Publishing Group. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books/abo...d=v1r67SM-ja8C
[3] Chamberlain J. (200 . Cancer: The complete recovery guide: Everything that everyone should know about cancer and how to recover from it. USA: Long Island Press. Retrieved 5 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books/abo...d=lWhctJb302QC
Cacao (Theobroma cacao)
Cacao is a natural rich source of pentameric procyanidin, which exerts a cytotoxic effect against human breast cancer cells. [1]
References[1] Ramljak D. et al. (2005). Pentameric procyanidin from Theobroma cacao selectively inhibits growth of human breast cancer cells. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 4(4): 537-546. Retrieved 7 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15827326
Cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana)
The medicinal bark of this plant, which is native to Mexico and the Pacific coastline, was highly revered by indigenous peoples as a cleanser of the body and mind. Spanish explorers, fascinated by its healing properties, referred to this healing botanical as Cascara sagrada - which means sacred bark. In modern times, its power to purge the body of impurities sparked the interest of the pharmaceutical industry - Cascara sagrada became the most common active ingredient in over-the-counter laxatives until it was banned by the FDA in May 2002. Cascara sagrada is used today by traditional healers, naturopaths, and health-minded individuals to cleanse the colon of toxic matter, and research indicates that Cascara sagrada not only increases vitality but also protects against colon cancer.
Chamomile (Matricaria)
Chamomile contains chemical constituents with anticancer properties. One of these is apigenin, a plant flavone with antioxidant and anticancer activities. It is principally linked to a decreased cancer risk, especially to cancers of the breast, digestive tract, skin, prostate, and blood. [1]
References[1] Shukla S. & Gupta S. (2010). Apigenin: A promising molecule for cancer prevention. Pharmaceutical Research, 27(6): 962-978. Retrieved 7 April 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2874462/
Chaparral (Larrea tridentata)
Indigenous to the American Southwest and Northern Mexico, chaparral has traditionally been used to heal skin abrasions, burns, cold sores, and contact dermatitis. [1] Although its healing potential has long been recognized by traditional healers, the benefits of chaparral have recently been validated by scientific studies in which chaparral was found to contain nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), which inhibits tumor growth. [2]
References[1] Chaparral herb profile. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/chaparral.php
[2] Tierra M.. (2003). Treating cancer with herbs: An integrative approach. USA: Lotus Press. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books?id=c57O-lp24H8C
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum, syn. Eugenia aromaticum or Eugenia caryophyllata)
Clove pertains to the dried flower buds of a tree native to Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Zanzibar, and clove oil has been studied for its potential to improve immune function, [1] which correlates with cancer prevention. According to the American Pharmaceutical Association's Practical Guide to Natural Medicines, clove oil appears to have antioxidative properties and might have potential as an anticancer agent. However, more research must be carried out before any definitive claims can be made.[2] On the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) scale, pharmaceutical-grade clove oil measures at 1,078,700 ute/100g; it has the highest concentration of antioxidant activity of any single ingredient tested by the ORAC. According to the American Cancer Society, there is no sufficient evidence to suggest that clove oil can assist in the prevention or treatment of cancer. However, its high antioxidant rating indicates that it is a powerful supplier of anthocyanins, which can inhibit the growth of tumors and existing cancer cells.
References[1] Shifko R. (2010). Clove oil health benefits. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.livestrong.com/article/11...alth-benefits/
[2] Peirce A. (1999). The American Pharmaceutical Association practical guide to natural medicines. NY: HarperCollins. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books/abo...d=AUaleKfk3kQC
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
There is encouraging evidence that dandelion (Taraxacum) inhibits the growth and development of a wide range of cancer types and influences their metastasizing behavior.Dandelion leaves are used by practitioners of both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat cysts and abscesses, water retention and tumors. [1] A 2008 study provided scientific data on Taraxacum officinale that highly suggest that dandelion extracts or their constituents exert anticancer activities. In this study, three aqueous extracts prepared from the mature dandelion leaves, flowers, and roots were investigated for their activities on tumor progression and invasion. The results of this study had demonstrated that dandelion leaf extract suppresses the growth of MCF-7/AZ breast cancer cells in an ERK-dependent manner and blocks the invasion of LNCaP prostate cancer cells into collagen type I. On the other hand, dandelion root extract blocks the invasion of MCF-7/AZ breast cancer cells. [2]The flower extract of dandelion also holds striking antioxidant activity in both biological and chemical models, as shown in a 2005 Canadian study in which extended lag phase and reduced propagation rate were observed in the oxidation of linoleic acid emulsion plus dandelion flower extract. In this study, the extract from dandelion had suppressed superoxide and hydroxyl radicals. [3] These results translate to dandelion being a potential novel anticancer agent.
Reference
[1] Fugh-Berman, Adriane. 2003. The 5-Minute Herb and Dietary Supplement Guide. Lippincot Williams & Wilkins: Philadelphia, PA.[2] Sigstedt S. C. et al. (200 . Evaluation of aqueous extracts of Taraxacum officinale on growth and invasion of breast and prostate cancer cells. International Journal of Oncology, 32(5): 1085-1090. Retrieved 1 March 2013 from from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18425335[3] Hu C. & Kitts D. D. (2005). Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) flower extract suppresses both reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide and prevents lipid oxidation in vitro. Phytomedicine, 12( : 588-597. Retrieved 1 March 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16121519
Dioscorea (Dioscorea bulbifera, D. membranacea, D. collettii var. hypoglauca)
Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca has been a Chinese herbal remedy for renal/cervical/urinary cancer for centuries.
References http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?t...0%20anticancer
Echinacea
Of the nine different species of Echinacea, only three, namely, E. purpurea, E. angustifolia, and E. pallida, are used in marketed products. Native to North America, E. angustifolia was used by the Plains Indians to aid in preventing exhaustion. Other tribes used E. angustifolia to treat headaches and sore throats.Echinacea can be purchased in capsules, tinctures, and teas. It can also be purchased as a liquid extract. All three commonly sold varieties of Echinacea are thought to have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Used to protect against sun damage, Echinacea is thought to be effective in preventing skin cancer. E. purpurea was commonly used by physicians to treat infections until it fell out of popularity in favor of antibiotics. Today, Echinacea is sometimes administered by physicians to cancer patients as a supplement to the normal course of treatment.
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
A number of studies have investigated the anticancer activity of foxglove. Two varieties of foxglove, namely, Digitalis lanata Ehrh. and Digitalis purpurea L. (Plantaginaceae), have been explored for their in vitro cytotoxicity following extraction and fractionation (polypeptide isolation) and have been noted for their commendable antitumor potential. [1]In 2003, a Spanish study screened the cytotoxic activity of the extract derived from the leaves of D. purpurea ssp. heywoodii against human cancer cell lines. This study found high cytotoxic action from the foxglove extracts used (IC50 0.78-15 μg/mL), particularly the methanolic extract, which contained steroid glycosides (gitoxigenin derivatives). [2]Acteoside, a glycoside that can be isolated from foxglove leaves, exerts a hepatoprotective effect against aflatoxin B1, a toxin. It also inhibits the cytotoxicity caused by this toxin, making the said glycoside a potential chemopreventive agent. [3]
References [1] Lindholm et al. (2002). Selective cytotoxicity evaluation in anticancer drug screening of fractionated plant extracts. Journal of Biomolecular Screening, 7(4): 333-340. Retrieved 5 March 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12230887/
[2] López-Lázaro M. et al. (2003). Anti-tumour activity of Digitalis purpurea L. subsp. heywoodii. Planta Medica, 69( : 701-704. Retrieved 5 March 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14531018[3] Lee J. Y., Woo E., & Kang K. W. (2006). Screening of new chemopreventive compounds from Digitalis purpurea. Die Pharmazie, 61(4): 356-358. Retrieved 5 March 2013 fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16649555
Gentian (Gentiana triflora)
Gentian has been identified as an anticancer agent by PrevPharma, which, according to their website, "was established to create a high quality of processed biologic materials with evidence-based evaluation in the field of preventative medicine for cancer, cancer-related issues and metabolic syndrome." [1] Results from in vitro testing (of human tumor cells) indicate that gentian root extract has antiproliferative activity.Prev-Pharma has implemented a strategy for the development of an antitumor drug using the antitumor component in gentian extract or its derivatives. This drug would be prescribed in cases of melanoma, lymphoma, and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma . [2]Gentian is an ingredient in Phytolacca Syrup, [3] an herbal formula marketed as a cancer treatment in the late 1900s.
References [1] PrevPharma: Objectives of company. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.prevpharma.com/company.html
[2] PrevPharma: Core technologies. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.prevpharma.com/Technology.htm[3] Phytolacca syrup. Cancer Salves. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.cancersalves.com/botanica...cca_syrup.html
Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)
Results from pharmacological experiments indicate that ginger might inhibit the growth of tumors in humans. [1]Gingerol, the active component in ginger, has been the focus of clinical trials determining its potential to prevent certain cancers. Researchers determined that in cases of ovarian cancer, administration of gingerol contributed to cancer-cell death. [2] In cases of ovarian cancer, gingerol was found to reduce inflammation and boost immune function. It has been stated by researchers that gingerol might protect against colon cancer. [3]
References[1] Wichtl M. (2004). Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals: A handbook for practice on a scientific basis. Stuttgart, Germany: Medpharm Scientific Publishers. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://books.google.com.ph/books/abo...d=7PRyMWo5e28C
[2] Rhode J. et al. (2007). Ginger inhibits cell growth and modulates angiogenic factors in ovarian cancer cells. BMC Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, 7: 44. Retrieved 6 June 2013 fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18096028
[3] Jeong C. H. et al. (2009). [6]-Gingerol suppresses colon cancer growth by targeting leukotriene A4 hydrolase. Cancer Research, 69(13): 5584-5591. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-09-0491. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19531649
Goldenseal
Native to North America, goldenseal has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples to treat infections of the gums, mouth, and throat. Today, it is often used as a key ingredient in natural toothpastes and mouthwash in order to inhibit bacterial growth and to prevent tooth decay. Studies show that berberine, a potent compound in goldenseal, has antibiotic properties. [1] Goldenseal is currently undergoing scientific analysis for its potential to lower cholesterol. Low cholesterol is associated with a decreased risk for developing certain types of cancer. [2]
References [1] Sun Y., Xun K., Wang Y., & Chen X.. (2009). A systematic review of the anticancer properties of berberine, a natural product from Chinese herbs. 2009. Anticancer Drugs, 20(9): 757-769. Retrieved 6 June 2013 fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19704371
[2] Efferth T. et al. (2005). Molecular determinants of response of tumor cells to berberine. Cancer Genomics & Proteomics, 2(2): 115-124. Retrieved 6 June 2013 from http://cgp.iiarjournals.org/content/2/2/115.full.pdf
Graviola / "Sour Sop" (Annona muricata)
The herb graviola has recently received an immense amount of attention from the scientific community due to its promising characteristics as a natural anticancer agent. Graviola is a flowering evergreen tree whose leaves, fruit, seeds, and stem are used as a remedy for bacterial and parasite infections, herpes, cough, and arthritis. [1]It often goes by the name "soursop," presumably because of the fruit's sour citrus flavor.A 2012 study from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Omaha, Nebraska, has shown that graviola is effective against pancreatic cells, tumor cells that are known to be very resistant to conventional therapy. Graviola owes its ability to eliminate cancer cells to its compounds that inhibit several signaling pathways used by pancreatic cancer cells to regulate their metabolism, cell cycle, survival, and metastatic properties. Because of such inhibition, the pancreatic tumors' rate to spread to other organs and to form new cancer cell growth become remarkably slower. [2]In another study from the Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, the extract from the graviola fruit had been found to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. The expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was also downregulated. [3] It should be noted that mutations that result in the overexpression of EGFR have been strongly linked to a number of cancers
References [1] Find a vitamin or supplement. Graviola. WebMD. Retrieved 13 June 2013 from http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supple...tName=GRAVIOLA
[2] Torres M. P. et al. (2012). Graviola: a novel promising natural-derived drug that inhibits tumorigenicity and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro and in vivo through altering cell metabolism. Cancer Letters, 323(1): 29-40. doi: 10.1016/j.canlet.2012.03.031. Retrieved 13 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22475682
[3] Dai Y. et al. (2011). Selective growth inhibition of human breast cancer cells by graviola fruit extract in vitro and in vivo involving downregulation of EGFR expression. Nutrition and Cancer, 63(5): 795- 801. doi: 10.1080/01635581.2011.563027. Retrieved 13 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21767082
Grape Seed
A research team from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, had furnished evidence on the efficacy of grape seed extract against colorectal cancer. In this study, the extract from grape seed induced the death of colorectal cancer cells. What's more interesting is the fact that the more advanced the colorectal cancer cells were, the better the grape seed extract suppresses and limits the growth and survival of these cancer cells. The administration of grape seed extract was not only effective against colorectal cancer but also safe to healthy cells of the bidy. [1]Numerous studies have demonstrated that certain nutritive and nonnutritive phytochemicals with potential cancer-preventive or antitumor activity can be isolated from grape seeds. Of these compounds, proanthocyanidins are worthy of mention. Grape seed proanthocyanidins have been found to suppress the potential of pancreatic cancer cells to migrate or spread. [2]Proanthocyanidins have also been reported to inhibit the process of angiogenesis (creation of new blood vessels) induced by colon cancer and to suppress colon tumor growth itself. [3] The proanthocyanidins in grape seed extract act against colon cancer cells, significantly inhibiting cell viability while inducing cell death among cancer cells. [4] Proanthocyanidins can accumulate in high amounts in the colon because they are usually poorly absorbed along the gastrointestinal tract. [3] This is beneficial for the body as this means that grape seed proanthocyanidins can suppress colon cancer more efficiently in the colon.
References [1] Derry M., Raina K., Agarwal R., & Agarwal C. (2012). Differential effects of grape seed extract against human colorectal cancer cell lines: The intricate role of death receptors and mitochondria. Cancer Letters, pii: S0304-3835(12)00732-X. Retrieved 15 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23268334
[2] Prasad R. & Katiyar S. K. (2012). Grape seed proanthocyanidins inhibit migration potential of pancreatic cancer cells by promoting mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and targeting NF-?B. Cancer Letters, pii: S0304-3835(12)00474-0. doi: 10.1016/j.canlet.2012.08.003. Retrieved 15 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22902508
[3] Huang S. et al. (2012). Grape seed proanthocyanidins inhibit colon cancer-induced angiogenesis through suppressing the expression of VEGF and Ang1. International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 30(6): 1410-1416. Retrieved 15 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23026853
[4] Engelbrecht A. M. et al. (2007). Proanthocyanidin from grape seeds inactivates the PI3-kinase/PKB pathway and induces apoptosis in a colon cancer cell line. Cancer Letters, 258(1): 144-153. Retrieved 15 June 2013 from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17923279/