According to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. There are several forms of skin cancer, but basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are most common. Both are usually caused by over-exposure to the sun and mainly affect skin on the head, neck, arms and hands. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) website notes that skin cancer is usually treated surgically, although a doctor may also employ chemotherapy and radiation. Some herbs may be used alongside conventional treatment but should never be relied on alone to treat skin cancer.
Green Tea
The UMMC website notes that green tea may prevent the formation of skin tumors and stop existing tumors from developing. Green tea contains a chemical known as epigallocatechin gallate, which may help to prevent free-radical damage, a factor thought to be involved in the development of cancer. Green tea is usually consumed as a tea, but can also be taken in capsules. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) notes that green tea is safe for most people when used in moderation. However, its caffeine content may cause irritability, anxiety and insomnia. Do not take green tea with anticoagulant drugs, as it may lower their efficacy.
Milk Thistle
The UMMC website notes that milk thistle may have skin-protecting and oxidant properties. However, the website also notes that while milk thistle is traditionally used as a skin protectant, there haven't been any studies to confirm its role as a skin cancer treatment. MedlinePlus states that milk thistle is safe for most people, but it may cause bloating, nausea and gas. Do not use milk thistle if you have a hormone-sensitive condition such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, as it may make your condition worse. It may also interact with some medicines. Talk to your doctor before using milk thistle to treat skin cancer.
Ginkgo Biloba
According to an article published in February 2006 in "Medical Hypotheses," ginkgo biloba may have chemopreventive effects and may lower the risk of skin cancer. According to NCCAM, ginkgo has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions. Ginkgo biloba may cause side effects including nausea, skin reactions and and headache. Do not use this herb if you are taking anticoagulants or have a bleeding disorder, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
References
- MedlinePlus: Skin Cancer
- UMMC: Skin Cancer
- NCCAM: Green Tea
- MedlinePlus: Milk Thistle
- PubMed: An Adjunctive Preventive Treatment for Cancer: Ultraviolet Light and Ginkgo Biloba, Together with Other Antioxidants, are a Safe and Powerful, but Largely Ignored, Treatment Option for the Prevention of Cancer
- NCCAM: Ginkgo
