Cancer begins when abnormal cells grow out of control. As cells in the body begin to die out, they divide and new cells grow to replace the dying ones. But cancerous cells do not replace themselves with new, healthy ones. Instead, they multiple and invade healthy tissue. Researchers have discovered that there are natural substances that grow on the planet that inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Turmeric
Turmeric is most well known as an ingredient in Indian cuisine, giving curry dishes their golden-yellowish color. It has a warming effect and has been used by herbalists as a natural anti-inflammatory. It has also been widely researched for its anti-cancer effects. Several studies published in 'Oncogene', a medical journal, reported that curcumin extract (the chemical constituent of turmeric) was able to prevent the proliferation of cancer and even reduce the number of cancer cells. Many doctors are now looking to turmeric as an alternative cancer treatment.
Açaí
Açaí berries come from a palm tree which grows in Central and South America. It is high nutritious and contains several antioxidants. Recent research conducted by Stephen Alcott of the University of Florida showed that açaí berry extract successfully killed leukemia cells in laboratory studies. Although these were only preliminary studies, researchers are hopeful that açaí berries and other fruit rich in similar antioxidants may provide another alternative cancer treatment.
Nigella Sativa
Nigella sativa is a seed used in Middle Eastern herbal medicine. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is used as a natural cancer treatment. The seeds and oil are used throughout the Middle East and Asia to treat a variety of conditions. Research by Dr. Hwyda Arafat of Thomas Jefferson University found that thymoquinone, a chemical component of Nigella sativa, was able to inhibit cancer cell growth and shrink tumors in laboratory animals. Dr. Arafat noted that this was only one of several studies which showed Nigella sativa's cancer fighting abilities.
Chinese Herbs
Oriental medical doctors have been treating cancer naturally with herbal medicine for centuries. In a study published in 'Cancer Biotherapy', researchers found that the phytochemicals in two Chinese herbs, astragalus and Ligustrum lucidum, were able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in vitro. Additionally they found that the herbal extracts stimulated lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells, part of the body's natural defense system.
Precautions
Alternative medicine therapies, such as herbs, should be used in conjunction with, and not in place of, conventional medical treatment. Never discontinue prescribed cancer treatment without first consulting your medical doctor.
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