Phytotherapy in Oncology: The Use of Herbal Medicine for Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Herbal medicine, or phytotherapy, is gaining significant attention as a complementary strategy in oncology, primarily due to its ability to offer therapeutic benefits with fewer side effects than conventional treatments. Cancer, marked by uncontrolled and abnormal cell growth, continues to pose a major global health challenge. While chemotherapy and radiotherapy remain central to cancer care, their toxicity often damages healthy tissues and compromises patients’ quality of life. In light of these limitations, there is growing interest in herbal medicines rooted in traditional systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. This review explores the therapeutic potential of herbs like turmeric, green tea, garlic, ginger, ashwagandha, ginseng, and cannabis. These plants exert anti-cancer effects through various mechanisms, including immune modulation, induction of apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis, and reduction of inflammation. Bioactive compounds such as curcumin, EGCG, allicin, and withaferin A have shown promising results in preclinical studies. Additionally, AI-assisted methods are enhancing the understanding of these herbs, helping to identify active components, optimize dosing, and predict herb–drug interactions. However, challenges like poor bioavailability, lack of standardization, and safety concerns persist. Integrating phytotherapy into modern oncology requires rigorous clinical validation, regulatory oversight, and professional guidance. Ultimately, evidence-based phytotherapy may offer safer, more personalized cancer treatment options and improve overall patient outcomes.