Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells. Sometimes cancer cells break away from the initial or primary site of disease and spread to adjacent tissues or migrate to distant organs. This ability of cancer cells to grow out of the site of origin to another part of the body is called metastasis, which is determined by the genetic changes that these cells have undergone during malignant transformation. Often, ayurvedic herbs are used in combination with a conventional treatment for cancer. However, you should always make sure to inform your health care provider about the herbs you are taking.
Garlic
Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, is a popular herbal remedy. The medicinal uses of garlic have a long history, dating back to period when Egyptian pyramids were built. There is convincing evidence suggesting the use of garlic as a supportive dietetic measure for cancer prevention. In general, nutritionists recommend a daily intake of 4 g of garlic. Garlic and its organosulfur compounds, most notably allicin and diallyl sulfide are effective inhibitors of the cancer process, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. These compounds are also responsible for garlic's characteristic odor.
Ginger
The perennial herb Zingiber officinale, more commonly known as ginger, has been used for more than 2,500 years in different parts of the globe. The ginger root and rhizome contain some polyphenol compounds, such as vallinoids, shogaols and zingerone, which have been found to exhibit potent anti-carcinogenic activity in culture. However, more research is needed to determine the effects of ginger on various cancers in humans, Rockefeller University reports. A number of mechanisms may be responsible for ginger's anticancer properties. For example, ginger may inhibit angiogenesis, a process of forming new blood vessels, which supply cancer cells oxygen and nutrients to grow and thrive.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant shrubby Mediterranean mint. In laboratory studies, rosemary has been shown to have antioxidant properties. Several different biologically active compounds, especially caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid, are responsible for most of the therapeutic benefits linked to rosemary, according to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Some researchers are also investigating rosemary's cancer-fighting potential. Antioxidants found in rosemary can scavenge damaging free radicals before they can do cellular damage. The tampering effect of free radicals on cell DNA is considered the most common pathway for cancer.
