Natural cancer treatments are becoming increasingly popular, but knowing the potential risks and benefits is critical to making informed decisions about your care.

We spoke with experts to learn more about natural remedies for cancer, including herbs, supplements , and other alternatives. Herbs are considered a natural remedy for acute and chronic health issues, including cancer. Much research is still needed to determine the therapeutic effects of herbs, but several promising studies suggest their potential as a natural remedy for cancer.

One of the most studied herbs for cancer is turmeric, which contains the active ingredient curcumin. Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and inhibit the growth of tumors. Another popular herb for treating cancer is ginger, which may effectively reduce nausea, vomiting, and pain associated with cancer treatments.

Cayenne pepper contains several compounds that have been studied for their potential role in treating cancer. These compounds include capsaicin, which may have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis cell death in cancer cells.

Garlic has long been a natural remedy for many health conditions, including cancer. Studies have shown that garlic can reduce tumor growth and may help protect healthy cells from the damage caused by chemotherapy drugs.

Echinacea has been used as an herbal remedy to fight infection for centuries. Recent studies have shown that it may also boost the immune system. Gingko contains compounds called ginkgolides, which have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.

Ginseng is an herb that has long been used as a natural remedy to boost energy. Studies suggest it may reduce inflammation and tumor growth and protect healthy cells from damage. In addition to herbs, many other natural supplements may be effective in treating cancer, including:.

Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in reducing inflammation and may help support cardiovascular health. Antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and protect healthy cells from free radical damage. Selenium is a mineral linked to several health benefits, including reducing the free radicals within the body that can damage cells.

An essential mineral that helps to support the immune system, zinc may also have anticancer properties. Some research suggests that some forms of cancer are linked to those with low levels of vitamin D, while other evidence suggests vitamin D may reduce the occurrence of advanced cancer.

Talk to your doctor before starting any natural remedies or supplements. Your provider can advise which treatments are best suited for you and what side effects they may have. Be sure to discuss the potential benefits and risks of complementary therapies, as well as any interactions with other medications you may be taking.

If you have trouble communicating with your healthcare team, consider seeking a cancer navigator who can provide support and answer any of your questions. However, remember that even natural treatments can have adverse effects and may not be suitable for everyone.

Some will put you at high risk for serious side effects and complications. Kelly Johnson-Arbor, MD , medical toxicologist, co-medical director, and interim executive director at National Capital Poison Center says the FDA has an online and app-based tool to help patients understand whether a medication is approved:.

Johnson-Arbor explained. She also emphasized that natural remedies for cancer should be approached with caution. Johnson-Arbor added. Your healthcare team should also be your go-to source for information on FDA-approved cancer treatments and any potential side effects. A healthy mind is as essential as a healthy body during cancer treatment.

Feeling anxious or overwhelmed is normal, but focusing on what brings you joy and hope can help. Take time for yourself — find activities that bring you peace, such as those in the following list. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice involving thin needles insertion into specific body areas.

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Han W, Xie J, Li L, Liu Z, Hu X: Necrostatin-1 reverts shikonin-induced necroptosis to apoptosis. Min R, Tong J, Wenjun Y, Wenhu D, Xiaojian Z, Jiacai H, Jian Z, Wantao C, Chenping Z: Growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis in human oral squamous cell carcinoma Tca cell lines by Shikonin was partly through the inactivation of NF-kappaB pathway.

Phytother Res. Nie YK, Zhu LS, Yu HM: Shikonin inhibits the proliferation and induces the apoptosis of human HepG2 cells. Can J Physiol Pharm.

Cell Res. Yang H, Zhou P, Huang H, Chen D, Ma N, Cui QC, Shen S, Dong W, Zhang X, Lian W, Wang X, Dou QP, Liu J: Shikonin exerts antitumor activity via proteasome inhibition and cell death induction in vitro and in vivo.

Yang F, Chen Y, Duan W, Zhang C, Zhu H, Ding J: SH-7, a new synthesized shikonin derivative, exerting its potent antitumor activities as a topoisomerase inhibitor. Yao Y, Zhou Q: A novel antiestrogen agent Shikonin inhibits estrogen- dependent gene transcription in human breast cancer cells.

Breast Cancer Res Tr. Yao YA, Brodie AMH, Davidson NE, Kensler TW, Zhou Q: Inhibition of estrogen signaling activates the NRF2 pathway in breast cancer. Min R, Zun Z, Min Y, Wenhu D, Wenjun Y, Chenping Z: Shikonin inhibits tumor invasion via down-regulation of NF-kappaB-mediated MMP-9 expression in human ACC-M cells.

Oral Dis. Wang L, Li D, Bao C, You J, Wang Z, Shi Y, Zhang H: Ultrasonic extraction and separation of anthraquinones from Rheum palmatum L. Ultrason Sonochem. Srinivas G, Babykutty S, Sathiadevan PP, Srinivas P: Molecular mechanism of emodin action: transition from laxative ingredient to an antitumor agent.

Chun-Guang W, Jun-Qing Y, Bei-Zhong L, Dan-Ting J, Chong W, Liang Z, Dan Z, Yan W: Anti-tumor activity of emodin against human chronic myelocytic leukemia K cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Muto A, Hori M, Sasaki Y, Saitoh A, Yasuda I, Maekawa T, Uchida T, Asakura K, Nakazato T, Kaneda T, Kizaki M, Ikeda Y, Yoshida T: Emodin has a cytotoxic activity against human multiple myeloma as a Janus-activated kinase 2 inhibitor.

Su YT, Chang HL, Shyue SK, Hsu SL: Emodin induces apoptosis in human lung adenocarcinoma cells through a reactive oxygen species-dependent mitochondrial signaling pathway. Cha TL, Qiu L, Chen CT, Wen Y, Hung MC: Emodin down-regulates androgen receptor and inhibits prostate cancer cell growth.

Li Y, Luan Y, Qi X, Li M, Gong L, Xue X, Wu X, Wu Y, Chen M, Xing G, Yao J, Ren Jl: Emodin triggers DNA double-strand breaks by stabilizing topoisomerase II-DNA cleavage complexes and by inhibiting ATP hydrolysis of topoisomerase II. Huang Q, Shen HM, Shui G, Wenk MR, Ong CN: Emodin inhibits tumor cell adhesion through disruption of the membrane lipid Raft-associated integrin signaling pathway.

Wang XJ, Yang J, Cang H, Zou YQ, Yi J: Gene expression alteration during redox-dependent enhancement of arsenic cytotoxicity by emodin in HeLa cells. Cai J, Niu X, Chen Y, Hu Q, Shi G, Wu H, Wang J, Yi J: Emodin-induced generation of reactive oxygen species inhibits RhoA activation to sensitize gastric carcinoma cells to anoikis.

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Exp Cell Res. Lung Cancer. Yue PY, Wong DY, Wu PK, Leung PY, Mak NK, Yeung HW, Liu L, Cai Z, Jiang ZH, Fan TP, Wong RN: The angiosuppressive effects of 20 R - ginsenoside Rg3. Liu TG, Huang Y, Cui DD, Huang XB, Mao SH, Ji LL, Song HB, Yi C: Inhibitory effect of ginsenoside Rg3 combined with gemcitabine on angiogenesis and growth of lung cancer in mice.

Kim SM, Lee SY, Yuk DY, Moon DC, Choi SS, Kim Y, Han SB, Oh KW, Hong JT: Inhibition of NF-kappaB by ginsenoside Rg3 enhances the susceptibility of colon cancer cells to docetaxel.

Arch Pharm Res. Kim SM, Lee SY, Cho JS, Son SM, Choi SS, Yun YP, Yoo HS, Yoon do Y, Oh KW, Han SB, Hong JT: Combination of ginsenoside Rg3 with docetaxel enhances the susceptibility of prostate cancer cells via inhibition of NF-kappaB.

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Chin Med J Engl. Zhang Q, Kang X, Zhao W: Antiangiogenic effect of low-dose cyclophosphamide combined with ginsenoside Rg3 on Lewis lung carcinoma. Download references. State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Av.

Padre Toma's Pereira S. Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Av. College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Binwen Rd.

College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar. Correspondence to Xiuping Chen or Yitao Wang. WT, JJL, MQH, YBL, MWC, GSW, JG, ZFZ, ZTX, YYD and XPC wrote the manuscript WT wrote berberine; JJL wrote GA and ARTs; MQH wrote emodin and ginsenoside Rg3; YBL wrote cucurmin; MWC wrote silibinin; GSW wrote shikonin; JG wrote wogonin; ZFZ wrote β-elemene; ZTX wrote triptolide; YYD wrote UA; XPC wrote oridonin.

JJG drew the chemical structures in Figure 1. WT, JJL and XPC revised the manuscript. YTW designed and supervised this work.

All authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript. Open Access This article is published under license to BioMed Central Ltd. Reprints and permissions. Tan, W. et al. Anti-cancer natural products isolated from chinese medicinal herbs.

Chin Med 6 , 27 Download citation. Received : 23 February Accepted : 22 July Published : 22 July Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:. Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative. Skip to main content. Search all BMC articles Search. Download PDF. Abstract In recent years, a number of natural products isolated from Chinese herbs have been found to inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis, suppress angiogenesis, retard metastasis and enhance chemotherapy, exhibiting anti-cancer potential both in vitro and in vivo.

Background Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the main conventional cancer treatment often supplemented by other complementary and alternative therapies in China [ 1 ]. Gambogic acid GA GA Figure 1A is the principal active ingredient of gamboges which is the resin from various Garcinia species including Garcinia hanburyi Hook.

Figure 1. Full size image. Conclusion Natural products such as GA, curcumin, β-elemene et al. References Bell RM: A review of complementary and alternative medicine practices among cancer survivors. PubMed Google Scholar Newman DJ, Cragg GM, Snader KM: Natural products as sources of new drugs over the period CAS PubMed Google Scholar Panthong A, Norkaew P, Kanjanapothi D, Taesotikul T, Anantachoke N, Reutrakul V: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities of the extract of gamboge from Garcinia hanburyi Hook f.

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It carries antibacterial properties and is a natural disinfectant. Tip: Marinating with oregano can help reduce the formation of heterocyclic amines HCAs created when meat is cooked at high temperatures.

Garlic helps boost the immune system to help fight diseases, as well as colds and flu. It also decreases the growth of cancer cells. Cynthia Wigutow is a registered and licensed dietitian with about two decades of experience in acute and long-term care settings.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in dietetics and nutrition from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas, and her Master of Science in dietetics and nutrition from Florida International University in Miami. Cynthia currently serves as president of the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Home News and Media Six cancer-fighting herbs and spices. Cancer Fighting Herbs and Spices. September 22, Cancer protection starts with your spice rack. Herbs and spices. Conventional cancer treatments are often associated with harsh side effects like nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and fatigue.

Moreover, conventional treatments may not always work, and cancer can recur in some cases. Alternative treatments like herbal remedies offer a complementary approach to cancer care that can reduce side effects, boost the immune system, and potentially improve treatment outcomes.

Many herbs and botanicals have been studied for their anti-cancer properties. For instance, turmeric has been found to contain the compound curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can potentially help to prevent cancer cells from forming and spreading.

Herbal remedies can be used in a variety of ways, including in teas, tinctures, and supplements. They can be incorporated into a healthy diet and lifestyle to support overall health and potentially reduce the risk of developing cancer.

However, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if undergoing conventional cancer treatment. Nature has endowed us with a multitude of powerful herbs that possess anti-cancer properties.

Scientific studies have shown that these herbs contain compounds that can help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells, while also boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

Here are some of the most potent anti-cancer herbs:. By incorporating these herbs into your diet and lifestyle, you can potentially reduce your risk of developing cancer and improve your overall health.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using herbs as a treatment option. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to prevent illness and maintain overall health. Studies have shown that certain herbs possess cancer-preventing properties and can potentially reduce the risk of developing cancer.

One such herb is turmeric, which contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. Curcumin has been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and prevent their spread. Green tea is another herb that has been researched extensively for its cancer-fighting properties.

It contains catechins, which have been found to have a protective effect against certain types of cancer.

Other herbs that have shown promise in cancer prevention include garlic, ginger, and echinacea. Garlic contains compounds that can potentially block the formation of cancer-causing substances, while ginger has been found to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties.

The Cancer Center for Healing in Irvine, CA, offers a comprehensive and integrative approach to cancer care that combines conventional medical approaches with complementary therapies.

At the forefront of this approach is Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy, a renowned expert in integrative medicine and cancer treatment. Patients at the Cancer Center for Healing have access to a wide range of holistic treatment modalities, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, nutrition, and more.

By integrating these complementary therapies with conventional treatments, the Cancer Center for Healing aims to provide a well-rounded approach to cancer management that addresses the whole person, not just the disease.

These modalities include:. Herbal therapies are often used as complementary treatments for cancer, working alongside conventional treatments to enhance their effectiveness and promote overall well-being.

At the Cancer Center for Healing, herbal treatment plans are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual patient. These plans are designed to work alongside conventional treatments to enhance their effectiveness, reduce side effects, and support overall well-being.

Herbal remedies may be used to address a range of cancer-related symptoms and side effects, including fatigue, nausea, pain, and anxiety. In addition, certain herbs may be used to boost the immune system and help the body fight cancer more effectively. Many individuals have experienced positive outcomes from incorporating herbal treatments into their cancer care journey.

At the Cancer Center for Healing, patients have reported improvements in symptoms, overall well-being, and quality of life. These natural treatments helped me feel more comfortable and in control during a difficult time. If you are interested in exploring herbal cancer treatment options, schedule a consultation with the Cancer Center for Healing.

The experienced and compassionate team can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that integrates herbal remedies with conventional treatments for a comprehensive approach to cancer care.

The Cancer Center for Healing promotes a holistic approach to cancer care that prioritizes the whole person, not just the disease. The Cancer Center for Healing takes a comprehensive approach to cancer care by incorporating both conventional and complementary therapies.

Acupuncture: This ancient healing technique involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy and promote healing. Acupuncture can be effective in managing pain, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving overall well-being during cancer treatment.

Herbal Medicine: The use of herbs in cancer treatment has been practiced for centuries. Nutritional Counseling: Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining overall health and optimizing cancer treatment outcomes.

Chiropractic: Chiropractic care can be effective in managing pain, reducing inflammation, and improving mobility during cancer treatment. Herbal therapies have long been used in traditional medicine, and their use in cancer treatment is increasingly being explored.

Various herbs have been found to possess cancer-fighting properties, including the ability to induce apoptosis cell death in cancer cells, inhibit angiogenesis the growth of new blood vessels that support tumor growth , and regulate the immune system to better target cancer cells.

Herbs with anticancer properties include turmeric, garlic, ginger, milk thistle, and grape seed extract, among others.

While these herbs have not been proven to cure cancer on their own, they can be valuable complementary treatments to conventional methods like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Specifically, some studies have shown that herbal remedies may enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments, reduce harmful side effects, and improve overall quality of life for cancer patients.

For example, milk thistle has been shown to reduce liver damage caused by chemotherapy, and ginger can help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with cancer treatments.

Some herbs may interact with chemotherapy drugs or other medications, making them less effective or increasing the risk of harmful side effects. At the Cancer Center for Healing, Dr.

By working closely with healthcare providers, cancer patients can safely explore the potential benefits of herbal therapies as complementary treatments. Certain herbs can boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve mental and emotional health. At the Cancer Center for Healing, patients can explore a range of complementary therapies, including acupuncture, nutrition counseling, and psychotherapy, in addition to herbal medicine.

Overall, herbal therapies offer promising potential as complementary treatments for cancer. Alongside conventional cancer treatments, natural herbs and remedies can provide additional support in managing symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Cancer treatment can take a toll on the body, but certain natural herbs can help alleviate side effects and improve quality of life during therapy. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve nausea often experienced during chemotherapy.

It can be consumed as a tea or added to meals for added flavor and health benefits. Turmeric is another powerful herb known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

It can help reduce inflammation, pain, and fatigue associated with cancer therapy. Milk thistle has been shown to have liver-protective properties, which is especially important during cancer treatment as some treatments can be harsh on the liver.

It can be taken as a supplement or brewed into a tea. Peppermint can help alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, cramping, and gas.

Aside from managing symptoms, certain herbs can potentially enhance the effectiveness of conventional cancer treatments. For example, ashwagandha has been shown to help increase white blood cell counts, an important factor in fighting cancer. It can help reduce inflammation and support the immune system during cancer therapy.

It is important to note that herbal remedies should not be used as a substitute for conventional cancer treatments. However, incorporating some of these natural herbs into a comprehensive cancer treatment plan can provide additional support and enhance overall well-being during cancer therapy.

The Cancer Center for Healing, led by Dr. These plans are integrated into the overall cancer treatment approach, supporting patients in their fight against cancer.

During a consultation at the Cancer Center for Healing, patients will receive a thorough evaluation to determine the most effective herbal treatments for their specific type of cancer and other health conditions. Connealy and her team of professionals are committed to providing patients with natural and effective cancer-fighting solutions.

They take a holistic approach to cancer care and use a combination of conventional and complementary therapies to achieve the best possible outcomes for their patients.

Herbal cancer treatment has shown promise as a complementary approach to conventional treatments. Real-life success stories highlight the potential of incorporating herbs into cancer care plans.

They tailored an herbal treatment plan specifically for me, which included turmeric, ginger, and green tea. I felt better physically and mentally and continued to receive positive results with my conventional treatments.

These success stories illustrate the potential of herbal cancer treatment to complement conventional treatments and improve overall quality of life during cancer care. By incorporating herbs into cancer care plans, individuals can potentially enhance the effectiveness of their treatments and support their overall well-being.

For those interested in exploring herbal cancer treatment options, scheduling a consultation with the Cancer Center for Healing is the first step towards a comprehensive and effective approach to cancer care.

Led by Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy, a renowned expert in integrative medicine and cancer treatment, the Cancer Center for Healing offers personalized treatment plans that integrate conventional medical approaches with complementary therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, nutrition, and more.

During the consultation, patients will have the opportunity to discuss their unique health history, current condition, and treatment goals with the medical team. Whether you are seeking additional support for conventional cancer treatments or exploring alternative options, the Cancer Center for Healing offers a holistic and personalized approach to cancer care that emphasizes the power of nature and the importance of an integrated treatment plan.

The potential for using herbs in cancer treatment is a promising field of study that continues to garner attention in the medical community. Research on natural remedies like herbs has advanced significantly over the years, providing insight into their mechanisms of action and potential benefits.

As the body of knowledge on herbal treatments expands, there is a growing recognition of their value in cancer care. Continued research and clinical trials are needed to fully understand the potential of herbs in cancer treatment and to determine the appropriate dosages and combinations of herbs for optimal results.

One area of focus is the use of herbal remedies in combination with conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Studies have shown that some herbs can increase the effectiveness of these treatments while reducing side effects. Another promising area of study is the role that herbs can play in cancer prevention.

Research suggests that incorporating certain herbs into a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing cancer.