Prostate cancer is the third most common cause of cancer deaths in men, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, more than 90 percent of cases that are caught early are successfully treated. If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, you may require surgery to remove the tumor. Hormone therapy and chemotherapy are also used to shrink prostate tumors. Some herbs and vitamins may help to support your cancer treatment but should not be used in place of conventional medicine. Get advice from your doctor before adding herbs or vitamins to your treatment program.
Parsley
The herb parsley contains ingredients that help halt the production of enzymes involved in the growth and spread of cancer, according to the A.P. John Cancer Institute for Cancer Research. However, studies examining the effectiveness of parsley as a prostate cancer treatment are lacking. RxList says that parsley is likely safe for most adults, but some people may experience an allergic skin reaction. Consuming large quantities of parsley may cause anemia and liver or kidney problems. This herb may interact with drugs, including diuretics and anti-coagulants such as aspirin or warfarin.
Vitamin D
The A.P. John Cancer Institute for Cancer Research says that vitamin D activates enzymes that in turn hinder the activity of other enzymes, known as kinases, which play a role in the growth of cancer cells. Vitamin D is found in a variety of foods, including dairy products and fatty fish, and is also made by the body when sunlight hits the skin. It is also available as a supplement. Talk to your doctor before taking supplemental vitamin D, because high doses may damage the blood vessels, heart and kidneys.
Green Tea
Research by K.L. Luo and colleagues published in the March 2010 issue of "Cancer Science" found that a compound found in green tea, known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate, induces prostate cancer cell death. Medline Plus says that green tea is likely safe for most people, but its caffeine content means that drinking more than 5 cups daily may cause side effects, including vomiting, irregular heartbeat, heartburn and dizziness. This herb is contraindicated in a number of conditions, including anxiety, heart conditions and bleeding disorders. It also interacts with several drugs, such as some cancer medicines. Get medical clearance before including it in your cancer treatment plan.
Vitamin C
Research by A. Fromberg and colleagues published in the August 2008 issue of "Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology," found that vitamin C arrests cancer cell growth and may also enhance the effectiveness of some cancer drugs. Vitamin C is found in a variety of foods, including citrus fruits, peppers, tomatoes and melons. It is also available as a supplement. Taking more than 1g daily may cause side effects such as diarrhea and stomach cramps. Do not take supplemental vitamin C if you have kidney problems.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Prostate Cancer
- A.P. John Institute for Cancer Research: Prostate Cancer
- RxList: Parsley
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin D
- PubMed: Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Induces Du145 Prostate Cancer Cell Death Via Downregulation of Inhibitor of DNA Binding 2, a Dominant Negative Helix-Loop-Helix Protein
- Medline Plus: Green Tea
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