10 Best Herbs to Treat Cancer

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a deadly disease. It ranks as the second major cause of death in the world after cardiovascular diseases. Cancer produces no symptoms in its early stages and it betrays you without letting you know until it is too late. Cancer is formed when the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells begin in the body. The cells in our body divide and replace one another in a controlled manner. However, if the cells start to alter and multiply abnormally, then cancer is developed. When it begins, cancer may spread throughout the body via the blood and affect nearby areas. It may form a mass of tissue called tumor. Not all tumors that developed in the body are cancerous.  This type of tumor is called benign or non-cancerous tumors. What must be prevented is the spread of malignant or cancerous tumors which poses danger in the body. There are several treatments to fight cancer such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Chemotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells in the body by using a drug treatment that contains powerful chemicals.  Radiation therapy uses x-rays or similar forms to kill the cancer cells in the body. Some types of cancer require surgical treatment which removes tumors and nearby tissues that might have been affected by cancer cells.  Such treatments cost a fortune and not everyone is fortunate enough to avail such treatment to fight cancer. Fortunately, there are other beneficial alternatives that can aid us in fighting cancer such as medicinal plants.

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What Are The Common Types Of Cancer?

There are over a hundred types of cancers which affect the body differently. It ranks second for claiming the lives of millions of people worldwide. Some types of cancer can be treated when discovered in its early stages.  The most common types of cancer are as follows: Breast Cancer – a type of cancer that forms in the breast area. It begins when breast cells start to grow abnormally. It may affect both men and women but most cases occur to women. Lung Cancer – a type of cancer that affects the respiratory system which is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. It may also affect other nearby areas within the body. Prostate Cancer – a type of cancer that affects the prostate gland in men. It is the second major cause of cancer death for men. Skin Cancer – one of the most common types of cancer in the world. It has major three types –a) Basal Cell Carcinoma which is the most most common type of skin cancer, b) Squamous Cell Carcinoma which is second most common that forms out of abnormal skin cells, and c) Melanoma which is a rare but most dangerous type of skin cancer that originates from melanocytes. Colorectal Cancer – a type of cancer that forms in the colon or rectum. Stomach Cancer – a type of cancer that affects the mucus-producing cells in the stomach lining.

Are There Any Signs to Detect Cancer?

Cancer in its early stages is hard to detect. Regular physical exams can be taken as preventive measures. For women, monthly breast self-exam is beneficial for detecting any abnormalities or lumps in the breast area. It is usually done three to five days after the menstrual period. There are also possible symptoms to watch out for when dealing with cancer. It may include the following:

• Abnormal bleeding or discharge
• Prolonged cough
• Unusual fatigue
• Prolonged fever
• Changes in the skin
• Change in bowel or bladder movements
• Presence of lumps in the breast or other areas
• Abnormal weight loss

Although these symptoms may be associated with cancer, it may also point out other conditions. Consultation with a health expert is necessary when unsure.

Are There Any Herbal Plants That Can Fight Cancer?

Sometimes, the cure is just within our grasp. It is usually found in our kitchen or garden. Herbal plants are usually in the form of spices that add flavor with our dishes or the plants found in our backyard. Herbal plants have been used for thousands of years in the form of traditional medicine. The plants or its extracts can aid in treating various and encourages a healthy outlook. Currently, studies for herbal plants have been continuously conducted which resulted in determining chemical compounds that may aid in fighting the growth of cancer cells within the body. Some herbs have anticancer properties which can help in lowering the risk of cancer development in the body. These herbs even promote the overall health condition of a person. Now, let us discuss what herbs are beneficialfor fighting cancer.

Here Are The 10 Best Herbes For Treating Cancer

1. Garlic

Garlic has a wide range of health benefits. Throughout history and aside from its culinary use, garlic is a valuablemedicinal plant that may treat common ailments and open wounds such as coughs, snake bites, insect bites andarthritis. Garlic is also known for lowering bad cholesterol levels in the body and curing high blood pressure. Though small in size, garlic is packed with powerful nutrients such as manganese, selenium, fiber, vitamin B6 and vitamin C with favourable amounts of calcium, copper, potassium, iron, vitamin B1 and phosphorus. It also contains antioxidants, anti-inflammation, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Garlic supports the body by eliminating free radicals that harm its overall condition and functions. It also reduces the inflammation caused by the infection to the body. Coincidentally, garlic has been considered as one of the most powerful anti-cancer herbal plants that can boost the immune system and decrease the cancer cell growth. It contains an organosulfur compound which has both immune-strengthening and anti-carcinogenic qualities. Organosulfur may reduce or inhibit any tumor developments. Garlic protects us from cancer through its strong antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that garlic can support in reducing the risk of developing all types of cancer such as colon and prostate cancer. In addition to that, garlic has the ability to stop the development of cancer causing substances and slow down reproduction of cancer cells. Not only does garlic enhance the DNA repair in the body but also assist in inducing apoptosis, a type of cell death that can dispose abnormal cells within the body. This can prevent the cells from any uncontrollable growth which may lead to cancer. 

2. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a moderately hot chili pepper used for adding flavors to various dishes. Aside from its culinarypurpose, cayenne pepper contains impressive benefits that can aid our health condition. Cayenne Pepper is known for boosting the metabolism due to its capsaicin compound. Considered as the king of medicinal herbs, cayenne pepper contains an impressive nutritional profile. It has a variety of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with vitamins and minerals such as carbohydrates, fiber, protein, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, manganese, potassium and riboflavin. Cayenne pepper contains high pain-relieving properties which can reduce the amount of “substance P”, a neuropeptide, that signals pain to the brain. It can reduce the pain accompanied by severe headaches and arthritis. Cayenne pepper may also help improve blood circulation, boost the immunity and healing property of the body against illnesses.  It is also considered by people aiming to lose weight as it reduces hunger and speeds up metabolism. Capsaicin, a compound found in cayenne pepper and considered as an anti-cancer agent, has a promising contribution in preventing the development of cancer. Its effect slows down the growth of cancer cells found in the body and may induce cell death for some types of cancer such as prostate and skin cancer. Beta-carotene, an antioxidant also found in cayenne pepper, aids in eliminating free radicals that may cause chronic illnesses. It fights off cancer cells and prevents further growth of cancer cells. Beta-carotene also lowers the risk of developing any types of cancer or heart diseases. 

3. Oregano

Oregano is known both for its culinary and medical uses. Oregano contains a variety of antimicrobial, antioxidantand anti-inflammatory properties along with its vitamins and minerals such as fiber, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K. It helps the body eliminate free radicals that causes cell damage. Oregano is a known natural remedy for treating ailments such as asthma, skin sores, indigestion, coughs, colds and diarrhea by reducing inflammation and eliminating harmful bacteria that causes infection. Oregano is considered as a natural disinfectant due to its antimicrobial components which is relatively high. Its importance can be noted in dealing with illnesses which had stopped responding to antibiotics. The antioxidants found in oregano plays a big role in slowing down the growth of cancer in the body. Additionally,oregano promotes apoptosis or cell death just like garlic. With this trait, the possibility of any old cells turning intoabnormal cells will drastically decrease.A compound found in oregano called carvacrol may have the ability to offset the spread of cancer cells acting as a natural disinfectant. Oregano can also boost the immune system of an individual. It contains a phytochemical agent called quercetin. Quercetin is considered to be an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor agent. It has the ability to stop theproliferation of most cancers and restrict its growth in the body. Some examples include breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer.

4. Rosemary

Rosemary is one of the popular herbs used for adding flavor to any types of dishes. Aside from its culinary use, rosemary is also notable for its medicinal purposes. Rosemary is known for curing indigestion and other digestive problems such as heartburn, loss of appetite and intestinal gas. It can also surprise you for improving the quality and performance of your brain. Rosemary is a rich source of nutritional benefits. It contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with vitamins and minerals such as fiber, manganese, magnesium, calcium, potassium, copper, folate, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C and iron. It strengthens the immune system and improves blood circulation in the body. Carnosol is abundant in rosemary. It prohibits the formation of tumors in the body which may aid in fighting cancer. It can also be noted that rosemary can detoxify harmful substances that may lead to breast cancer.Aside from carnosol, rosemary also contains rosmarinic acid. Researchers stated that the two acids may containanti-tumor properties which makes it a powerful herb. When combined, it may help reduce the risk of cancer growth in the body. It may even decrease the growth of prostate, leukemia and breast cancer cells. Rosemary’s powerful ally for treating cancer would be terpenes. It has been shown to reduce oxidative stress that damages the cell of the body and acts as a shield for the healthy cells against the side effects of chemotherapy.

5. Parsley

Parsley have accompanied us during our meals, providing us nutrients needed by our body. Through the years, it has proven its worth for medicinal purposes. Parsley has been used to cure ailments such as allergies, high blood pressure and other inflammatory diseases. Parsley contains vitamins and minerals such as protein, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate and potassium with its antioxidant properties. It prevents any cellular damage caused by free radicals. Theantioxidant properties of parsley are powerful enough to reduce the risks of certain diseases such as lung cancer. The amount of antioxidants it contains doubles when dried. Myricetin, an antioxidant abundant in parsley, has been shown to prevent any illnesses, particularly skin cancer. Studies show that parsley has the highest concentrations of myricetin. Myricetin fortifies the protection of healthycells that may be damaged by the chemotherapy treatment. Because of this, parsley has been considered as a chemoprotective food. Carnosol, another compound also present in parsley, has been considered as an anti-cancer property. It prevents the activation of harmful chemical compounds called carcinogens. Carnosol also aids in detoxifying enzymes and prevents inflammation that may lead to tumor. Just like the herbs garlic and oregano, it also induces apoptosis which stops the uncontrollable growth of cells in the body. Parsley can block cancer-causing chemical compounds which are commonly found in grilled foods. Having green vegetables such as parsley can lower the risk of having cancer. One notable trait of parsley is its apigenin compound. Apigenin has shown to reduce the size of a tumor that formed in breast cancer. This finding may benefit the future development of treatment against cancer.

6. Ginger

Ginger has been a part of our daily life, adding flavors to the dishes we make at home. For centuries, ginger has been widely known for its contribution as a natural remedy that cures a variety of illnesses. Ginger can effectively cure certain conditions such as sore throat, nausea and vomiting. It can also relieve discomfort caused by migraine headaches as well as menstrual cramps. Ginger has sufficient nutrients needed by the body. This includes vitamins and minerals such as carbohydrates, calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, copper, vitamin B6, vitamin C, folate and iron with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. With its anti-inflammatory property, ginger encourages the healing chemicals of the body that serve as an inflammatory response and improve an individual’s metabolism. This property of ginger is essentially vital for defeating the deadly disease called cancer. Ginger has been considered as one of the world’s cancer-fighting herbs. It has an anti-cancer property which may decrease the inflammation caused by cancer. It is particularly linked with the prevention of colon cancer as well as reducing its risk in the body. Gingerol, an active component found in ginger, can potentially inhibit the development of cancer cells in the colon. Additionally, just like garlic, it enhances apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells.

7. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba has been known as the living fossil by many. It is the only remaining member of the species Ginkgophyta as other ancient plants have gone extinct. Ginkgo Biloba has also been noted for its medicinal use. Ginkgo Biloba has essential benefits that are necessary for the body. It contains vitamins and minerals such as carbohydrates, protein, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin B6 and vitamin C with its antioxidant properties. Its antioxidant component can prevent the toxins from damaging the body. Some cancer patients use ginkgo biloba for their treatment and aids them in reducing the chemotherapy-associated toxicity. It may also play an important role for lowering the risk of ovarian cancer for women. Studies show that ginkgo biloba has chemopreventive properties but it is necessary to conduct more research about its potential to fight against cancer.

8. Lavender

Lavender is an attractive type of flower and its fragrance can have a calming effect. Aside from its purpose to decorate our homes, it has several medicinal uses that can benefit us. Commercially, lavender has been used to manufacture essential oils. Lavender has been used to treat anxiety, fungal infections, hair loss and wounds. POH, a compound found within lavender, may be helpful in fighting against cancer. Some cancer patients used lavender for relieving some cancer-related pain they face. Sleep disorder is one of the problems cancer patients experience. Aromatherapy using lavender may help improve their sleep and lessen anxiety brought about by chemotherapy. Extensive research is still conducted to produce a drug using the compounds found within lavender. It is also necessary to conduct more investigation regarding its potential anti-cancer properties.

9. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is popularly used in baking sweets and pastries such as cinnamon bread rolls. It has also been used as a substitute for sugar. As for its medicinal use, cinnamon has a long history with traditional medicine. Cinnamon contains vitamins and minerals such as carbohydrates, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin K with various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These properties may protect your body against free radicals. The anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon may lower the risk against chronic diseases such as cancer. It canalso be useful in decreasing the growth of tumors, inhibiting the growth of cancer and spreading of cancer cells within the body. Cinnamon may also contain other anti-cancer properties that promotes apoptosis which can help in treating cancer. It may also cease the proliferation of various cancer cells that may spread within the body.

10. Saffron

Saffron may be the most expensive spice in the world but it contains various benefits for your health. It contains various nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, zinc, thiamin, vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin and vitamin B6 with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Crocin, a compound found within saffron, may help cease the progression of cancer and tumor growth. Another compound found in saffron called kaempferol has also been considered as one of the anti-cancer agents of this spice which suppresses the growth of cancer cells while protecting healthy cells. Significantly, saffron has been shown to induce apoptosis to several cancer cell lines. This is an essential factor for any cancer-prevention methods.

The Importance Of Herbal Medicines For Cancer Treatment 

In this day and age, the use of medicinal plants have proven its worth to fight alongside modern medicine in fighting certain illnesses such as cancer. Herbal plants contain certain chemical compounds that can prevent the growth of cancer cells from the body. These compounds do not necessarily affect the growth of the plant itself. Researchers refer to these chemical compounds as secondary metabolites which usually contain anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Significantly, the anticancer properties of the medicinal plants by suppressing cancer cells from spreading and assisting in stimulating the body to produce antitumor enzymes in cells. Anticancer properties also aid in boosting the immunity of the body. Herbal plants are beneficial to somehow restore the healthy state of the body by improving its immunity against harmful agents in the body and speed up its healing capabilities. Cancer is a deadly disease. There are certain instances that you may not imagine of even having one. Some treatments such as chemotherapy may destroy the healthy cells within the body along with cancer cells. It can be likened to a double-edged sword. With this reason in mind, finding alternatives to prevent or reduce the risk of cancer are of high importance. Indeed, herbal plants are beneficial for treating cancer.

Final Words

There is no harm in knowing everything we need to know about cancer and the alternatives to take that can possibly support us in fighting the deadly illness called cancer. Every information available is vital and may benefit the public health as a whole. It is necessary to know other alternatives accessible for preventing cancer aside from the treatments that cost a fortune. Consulting with your doctor is also necessary to know whether or not the natural remedies are suitable for you. Herbal plants can support our health condition. It can make a difference in our life.