Paper Key : IRJ************053
Author: Pawar Kalyani Yogesh
Date Published: 14 Nov 2024
Abstract
Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body that can form malignant tumors. Current treatments for cancer typically include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. There is growing evidence suggesting that cancer patients often use herbal medicines alongside chemotherapy. Medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds have gained increasing recognition as valuable complementary therapies in cancer treatment. Additionally, recent research has explored the biochemical and cellular mechanisms through which herbal medicines may interact within the tumor microenvironment. These studies also highlight the potential role of specific phytochemicals in cell-based cancer vaccines. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of herbal therapies in cancer care. Natural products, including plant extracts, herbal formulations, and isolated bioactive compounds, hold significant promise for both the prevention and treatment of cancer. Based on this evidence, we conclude that herbal medicines can serve as effective adjuvants to help manage chemotherapy-induced side effects and potentially enhance the efficacy of conventional treatments. 11However, there is an urgent need for more in-depth pharmacodynamics (PD) evaluations and safety assessments of herbal drug combinations, particularly in the context of chemotherapy. Additionally, multicenter clinical trials are necessary to validate the therapeutic benefits of combining chemotherapy with herbal drugs in cancer treatment. This review aims to explore the various herbal plants and their medicinal properties that are being investigated for use in cancer therapy.