What Herbs Are Used For Cancer?

More than 3,000 species of herbs have been used in cancer treatments since 2838 B.C., notes the Oncology Nursing Forum. Many people are turning to alternative or traditional medicine to supplement their conventional medical cancer treatments, and some are using herbal therapies instead. A variety of herbs may help strengthen the immune system and fight cancer.

Pau D'Arco

Pau d'arco, found on the inner bark of a South American broad-leaf evergreen tree, has been used to treat arthritis, fever, dysentery, boils, ulcers and cancer, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pau d'arco contains lapachol and beta-lapachone, which have antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial effects. In addition, pau d'arco has large amounts of the antioxidant quercetin. The University of Maryland Medical center notes that research results are mixed and that more research is needed to elucidate the effectiveness of pau d'arco in cancer treatment.

Pau d'arco can be found in tablets, teas and tinctures. Since the active components of pau d'arco do not dissolve well in water, the tea is not recommended by the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Burdock Root

Burdock root, found in Europe and Asia, tastes sweet and has a gummy consistency. Although traditionally used for measles, arthritis and viruses, burdock root is now used in oncology, notes Natural Herbs Guide, although its use in cancer treatment needs more validation. Burdock root enhances the performance of the kidneys, liver and colon, which may account for some of its function as a blood purifier and detoxifier. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Burdock root can be found in the form of teas, ointments or supplement pills. It is safe for internal or external use, notes Natural Herbs Guide. But due to reports of toxicity with burdock root tea, traced back to impurities contaminating the root, it is important to carefully select a burdock root source, notes Natural Herbs Guide.

Sheep Sorrel

Sheep sorrel is considered to be effective in breaking down and reducing tumors, notes Share Guide, the Holistic Health Magazine and Resource Directory. Sheep sorrel is an antioxidant that is high in oxalic acid, which may account for its anti-cancer and anti-tumor properties. There are reports of this herb being used in combination with Essiac's formula to help stop cancer cells from metastasizing. Sheep sorrel has a high vitamin and mineral content, including substantial amounts of vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K, calcium, sulphur, iron, magnesium, silicon and sodium. Sheep sorrel also contains a substantial amount of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll raises the amount of oxygen in the body, which may be beneficial, since cancer is said to thrive in a low-oxygen environment, notes the International Medical Veritas Association.