Herbal drugs used in treatment of cancer

Abstract

Cancer, a leading cause of death worldwide, is a complex and multifaceted disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and metastasis. This review explores the potential of herbal medicine in cancer treatment, highlighting the therapeutic benefits and mechanisms of action of various herbal compounds. With cancer being a leading cause of death worldwide, the need for effective and targeted therapies is demanding. Herbal medicine offers a promising option for cancer treatment. Compounds such as curcumin, Momordica charantia, berberine, resveratrol, garlic, ginger, Catharanthus roseus, and taxols have demonstrated anti-cancer properties, including anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, and anti-angiogenic effects. These compounds target multiple signaling pathways, modulating cellular processes and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. While challenges and limitations exist, herbal compounds hold great promise as adjunctive therapies, enhancing the efficacy of conventional treatments while minimizing side effects.