Cervical cancer affects the neck of of the uterus, and according to the U.K. National Health Service's website, NHS Choices, is relatively rare. Caused by the human papilloma virus, it is usually symptom-free until it reaches an advanced stage. Treatment depends on the stage the cancer has reached, but may include surgery to remove the cervix and uterus, radiotherapy or chemoradiation. Some herbs and spices, including cinnamon, are sometimes used alongside conventional cancer treatment. However, since cinnamon's efficacy is largely unproven, do not use it in place of medical treatment. Talk to your doctor or oncologist before incorporating cinnamon into your treatment plan.
Properties
Cinnamon is a flavoring agent that is sometimes used as an alternative remedy for variety of ailments including arthritis and dyspepsia. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes that it is rich in active compounds that may have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. An article by Ho-Keun Kwon and colleagues, published in the July 2004 issue of "BMC Cancer," notes that it may also have anti-tumor effects. The amount you would need to support cancer treatment may vary. Ask your doctor or oncologist to advise you.
Efficacy
Studies examining the role of cinnamon in cervical cancer are limited. However, research by S.J. Koppikar and associates, published in the May 2010 issue of "BMC Cancer," found that cinnamon alters the growth kinetics of cervical cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner, leading the authors to conclude that cinnamon could be used as a potent chemopreventive drug in cervical cancer. Research by C.S Rejiya et al, published in the September 2009 edition of "Toxicology in Vitro," also found that cinnamon induced cervical cancer cell death. Both studies were carried out in the laboratory; human studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Safety
MedlinePlus notes that taking cinnamon in medicinal quantities is likely safe, but adds that using it long-term or taking large doses may be unsafe. This is because cinnamon contains a chemical called coumarin, which may cause liver problems. Do not use cinnamon if you have liver disease or diabetes. Avoid during pregnancy and while breast-feeding, and discontinue use if you are scheduled for surgery. It may also interfere with the action of other drugs you may be taking, such as anti-coagulants.
Other Spices
Turmeric is another spice that may have anti-cancer properties. Research by M. Singh and N. Singh published in the January 2011 issue of "Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry" found that turmeric's active ingredient, curcumin, inhibits a hormone involved in the growth of cervical cancer. Like cinnamon, turmeric may not be suitable for everyone. Consult your doctor before using it.
References
- NHS Choices: Cervical Cancer
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Cinnamon
- BMC Cancer; Cinnamon Extract Induces Tumor Cell Death Through Inhibition of NFκB and AP1; Ho-Keun Kwon et al.; July 2004
- BMC Cancer; "Aqueous Cinnamon Extract. Cassia Causes Apoptosis in Human Cervical Cancer..."; S.J. Koppikar et al.; May 2010
- Toxicology in Vitro; Leaves of Cassia tora as a Novel Cancer Therapeutic -- An in Vitro Study; C.S. Rejiya et al.; September 2009
- MedlinePlus: Cinnamon
