Endometrial cancer, more commonly known as uterine cancer, affects the cells that line the uterus. According to the U.K. National Health Service's website, NHS Choices, it is the most common cancer of the the female reproductive system and is most likely to affect women older than 50 years of age. Endometrial cancer is often surgically treated by removing the uterus; chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also be required. Some herbs may help to prevent endometrial cancer or support conventional cancer treatments but should never be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Talk to your doctor before using herbal remedies to prevent or treat cancer.
Examples
The perennial meadow herb red clover may be beneficial for endometrial cancer patients. Rich in vitamins, minerals and compounds known as isoflavones, red clover may halt cancer cell growth and may also help to prevent endometrial cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Perhaps better known as a refreshing herbal drink, green tea is also used a medicinal remedy for a variety of disorders, and according to MedlinePlus, is sometimes used to prevent cancer.
Effectiveness
MedlinePlus states that there is insufficient evidence to rate the effectiveness of red clover as a preventive treatment for endometrial cancer. Conclusive proof that green tea can prevent or treat endometrial cancer is also lacking. However, an analysis of clinical data published in the December 2009 issue of the "American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology" concludes that green tea consumption may reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, although the authors add that further studies are needed to confirm this.
Side Effects
MedlinePlus notes that red clover is possibly safe but adds that it may cause muscle aches, vaginal bleeding, headache and a rash. Green tea is likely safe for most adults, states MedlinePlus, but drinking more than five cups per day may cause nausea, headache, irritability and convulsions because of its caffeine content. It may also hinder your body's ability to absorb iron from the foods you eat.
Other Considerations
Red clover and green tea might not be suitable herbal treatments for everyone because they can interact with other medicines and are contraindicated in certain conditions. For example, red clover should not be used by women with a history of breast cancer. In addition, MedlinePlus cautions that there is a possibility that it could even worsen some forms of cancer, so don't use it if you have cancer or if you are in remission. Green tea may make the cancer drug bortezomib less effective. Don't take green tea if you are being treated with this drug.
