Curcumin interacts with cancer cells at many levels and enhances the effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It inhibits the spread of tumor cells and the formation of new blood vessels in tumors. In a phase I study with curcumin, no signs of toxicity were seen with an oral intake of 800 mg/day. Its blood level peaks 1–2 hours after oral intake and falls considerably within 12 hours. In Türkiye it is known as “zerdeçal” (turmeric).
It is frequently used as an anti-carcinogen in herbal medicine. Laboratory studies have shown that it has anti-cancer properties. Animal studies have found that it reduces lung cancer metastasis, but human studies are insufficient.
ARTEMISIA ANNUA (Chinese Wormwood)
It is a medicine used clinically to treat malaria. Recently it has been found to kill cancer cells. Animal studies have shown that it reduces the growth of ovarian cancer and the formation of blood vessels in the tumor.
SCUTELLARIA BAICALENSIS (CHINESE SKULLCAP)
It is used in Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of prostate cancer.
RESVERATROL (GRAPE SEED EXTRACT)
A phytoalexin found in grapes and wine. It has been shown to reduce the formation of blood vessels in tumors. In animal studies, it reduced tumors of nerve origin.
CHINESE MAGNOLIA OFFICINALIS TREE
The seed of the Chinese magnolia tree contains the active compound honokiol, which inhibits the growth of cancer cells and the formation of their blood vessels.
SILYBUM MARIANUM (MILK THISTLE)
Polyphenols and flavonoids obtained from the fruit and seeds of this plant show strong activity against many types of tumor. It has been shown to have an effect on human ovarian cancer. In Türkiye it is known as “deve dikeni”.
CAMELLIA SINENSIS (GREEN TEA)
Green tea contains polyphenols and catechins. These compounds inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer cells. The dose-limiting side effects of green tea extract are digestive and nervous system complaints due to caffeine.
It has gene-regulating properties and reduces the formation of blood vessels in cancer. It increases the effectiveness of chemotherapy. The most widely used extract is EGb761.
The compounds in ginseng called saponins have cancer-preventive properties.
Note: This information is for general purposes only. Kidney and dialysis patients should not use any herbal product or supplement without consulting their physician.
