The liver is the largest organ in the abdominal cavity. It has a multitude of functions, such as making bile, changing food into energy and cleaning waste products in the body. Liver cancer is an abnormal, uncontrolled growth of cells in the liver. Some herbs are applied to treat liver cancer and they appear to block an enzyme necessary for cancer cell growth. However, no scientific proof exists that backs up any of these claims. Always consult with your doctor before taking any herbal supplements.
American Ginseng
American ginseng, a perennial plant, is used medicinally throughout the United States. A crude fraction of American ginseng may work to inhibit the growth of liver cancer cells, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It claims that American ginseng may shorten the life-span of cancerous cells and reduce the blood supply to tumors.
Cumin
Cumin is a small flowering plant. It is distributed in the regions from the eastern Mediterranean to India. Cumin seeds may have anti-carcinogenic properties because it scavenges for harmful toxins in the body, according to the Rockefeller University. It is also a powerful liver cleanser, which helps the liver to cleanse the body of waste products.
Garlic
Garlic is a plant belonging to onion family. It has long been used medicinally, most recently for claims of anti-carcinogenic actions. Garlic consumption may reduce the risk of various cancers, including hepatic, or liver, cancer, because it contains compounds that may inhibit the cancer process and protect the liver from harmful toxins, explains the Rockefeller University.
References
- The Rockefeller University: Food Choices for Reducing Cancer Risk
- University of Maryland Medical Center: American Ginseng
- OncoLink: Liver Cancer Basics
- "Annals of Internal Medicine": Brief Communication: American Ginseng Reduces Warfarin's Effect in Healthy Patients; A Randomized, Controlled Trial; Chun-Su Yuan, MD et al
