Cancer is a condition in which cell division grows out of control, resulting in the formation of an abnormal mass of tissue, or tumor. The exact cause is unknown, but theories suggest that it is due to free-radical damage or other cell damage from viruses or bacteria. Conventional medical treatments and natural treatments alike have a similar goal to stop the growth of the cancerous cells and eliminate the tumor. Herbs may be used in conjunction with medical care to treat early stages of cancer. Consult a physician before using an herbal therapy, however.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a culinary spice used in Eastern dishes. It is the herb which gives curry its golden color. Curcumin, the main chemical constituent of turmeric, has been studied for its anti-carcinogen and chemopreventitive (preventing disease or infection) effects. In a study published in the August 2009 issue of the International Journal of Cancer Research and Treatment, researchers found that curcumin inhibited the growth and proliferation of colorectal cancer cells. Similar studies show that curcumin inhibits cancer cell growth in prostate cancer as well as breast cancer. Turmeric can be found in capsules, herbal teas or tinctures.
Acai Berry
Acai berry comes from the Acai palm tree found in Central and South America. It has long been used by natives for its nutritive and healing properties. Since it has become more and more popular in natural health food stores throughout North America, researchers have begun to explore its many health benefits. University of Florida News reported that Stephen Talcott, professor at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, found that extracts of acai berry not only prevented cancer cell growth, but successfully destroyed 86 percent of leukemia cells in laboratory studies. Although studies are ongoing, these preliminary results show that acai may provide another viable alternative in the treatment of cancer. Acai berries can be purchased frozen at local natural health food stores. Bottled acai juice can be found in just about any market.
Green Tea
Green tea is common throughout China, Japan and Thailand. The difference between green tea and black tea is in the processing. Green tea does not undergo the fermentation process, and fresh or dried leaves are steeped for consumption. It is rich in powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. These chemicals stop free radical damage and help prevent disease. Much research has been conducted on the anti-cancer effects of green tea. One study, published by the American Association for Cancer Research in December 2004, found that the polyphenols in green tea inhibited the development of prostate cancer cells in laboratory mice. Other studies cited by the University of Maryland Medical Center show that green tea also inhibits cancer growth in a number of other types of cancer, including bladder, breast, ovarian, colorectal, esophageal, lung, pancreatic, skin and stomach cancers. They recommend two to three cups of green tea, or 100 to 750 mg of green tea extract daily.
References
- Anticancer Research: Curcumin Inhibits Proliferation of Colorectal Carcinoma: August 1, 2009
- University of Florida News: Brazilian berry destroys cancer cells in lab: January 12, 2006
- American Association for Cancer Research: Oral Consumption of Green Tea Polyphenols Inhibits Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I: December 1, 2004
- University of Maryland Medicine: Green Tea
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