Role of Herbal Medicine in Cancer Therapy

Abstract

This review compiles comprehensive pharmacological data on plant-derived compounds with demonstrated anticancer potential across diverse cancer types, including carcinomas, sarcomas, leukemias, lymphomas, melanomas, central nervous system cancers, and bladder cancer. Notable phytoconstituents such as epigallocatechin gallate from Camellia sinensis, ginsenosides from Panax ginseng, and allicin from Allium sativum exhibit significant cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cells. Similarly, compounds like thymoquinone, parthenolide, baicalein, and flavonoids from various medicinal plants demonstrate potent anticancer effects in leukemia, lymphoma, and prostate cancers. Marine and fungal sources, including jasplakinolide, fucoxanthin, and polysaccharide-K, also exhibit promising results, particularly in melanoma and brain cancers. Extracts from Moringa oleifera, Annona muricata, and Cannabis sativa demonstrate effects on apoptosis, proliferation, and metastasis pathways. Across studies, IC₅₀ values range from low micromolar to microgram levels, highlighting their therapeutic relevance. These findings support the potential of natural products as valuable leads in cancer treatment and warrant further clinical investigation.