Cells in the human body continually divide and multiply. According to the American Cancer Society, cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow out of control in one area of the body. These abnormal growths are also referred to as tumors. The standard medical approach includes radiation and chemotherapy treatments designed to kill these abnormal cells. Alternative treatments such as herbs may strengthen the body's natural defenses to accomplish the same end. Because many of these lack FDA approval, always consult a health-care professional before trying herbs or other natural therapies.
Turmeric
Turmeric, a spice used to flavor curries, is one natural cancer treatment option. Herbalists employ it to treat arthritis, IBS and other inflammatory diseases. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes a number of laboratory studies that indicate turmeric extract "may help prevent, control, or kill several types of cancers, including prostate, breast, skin, and colon." Because it is a natural anti-inflammatory and blood thinner, do not take turmeric with prescription blood thinners.
Acai Berry
The acai berry from South America has certain anti-cancer properties. A 2006 study by the University of Florida reported that acai berry extracts destroyed "86 percent of leukemia cells" in one laboratory study. However, because acai berries are extremely perishable, finding fresh berries or juice in the United States can be difficult. While scientists point out that further studies will determine if acai is a valid cancer treatment option, the high-antioxidant and vitamin content of these berries does make them a nutritious addition to any diet.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a Chinese plant used by herbalists to strengthen the immune system and increase energy and stamina. It also treats colds and the flu, and helps patients recover following chemotherapy. In a study published in the journal "Carcinogenesis: Integrative Cancer Research" in 2006, researchers found that extracts of astragalus also had anti-tumor effects. Astragalus saponins, or AST, inhibited the growth of cancer cells in laboratory studies. The researchers concluded that the herb may provide a viable adjunct treatment option for cancer patients.
Ginseng
Ginseng is another common plant used in Chinese medicine. Herbalists use it to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, the flu, fevers and headaches, and to counter the effects of stress. One variety, American ginseng or Panax ginseng, may have cancer-fighting abilities. In a report published in the journal "Carcinogenesis: Integrative Cancer Research" in 2010, researchers found that ginseng, originally studied to treat colitis, was able to suppress colon cancer in laboratory animals. Note that these are only preliminary studies.
References
- American Cancer Society: What Is Cancer?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Turmeric
- University of Florida: Brazilian Berry Destroys Cancer Cells in Lab
- Oxford Journals: Carcinogenesis: Astragalus saponins induce growth inhibition and apoptosis in human colon cancer cells
- Oxford Journals: Carcinogenesis: Mechanistic insight into the ability of American ginseng to suppress colon cancer associated with colitis
