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Natural products for cancer prevention: a global perspective
1Department of Biotechnology, Durban Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 1334, Durban 4000, South Africa.
Abstract:
The control of cancer, the second leading cause of death worldwide, may benefit from the potential that resides in alternative therapies. The primary carcinogens stem from a variety of agricultural, industrial, and dietary factors. Conventional therapies cause serious side effects and, at best, merely extend the patient's lifespan by a few years. There is thus the need to utilise alternative concepts or approaches to the prevention of cancer. This review focuses on the many natural products that have been implicated in cancer prevention and that promote human health without recognisable side effects. These molecules originate from vegetables, fruits, plant extracts, and herbs.
Insights
Natural products from plants offer a promising avenue for cancer prevention and health promotion. This review explores these alternative therapies, highlighting their potential benefits without significant side effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacognosy
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Cancer is a leading global cause of mortality.
- Conventional cancer treatments present significant side effects and limited efficacy.
- Carcinogens arise from diverse agricultural, industrial, and dietary sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review natural products with potential in cancer prevention.
- To explore alternative therapeutic strategies for cancer control.
- To highlight health-promoting natural molecules with minimal side effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on natural products.
- Analysis of research implicating plant-derived compounds in cancer prevention.
- Compilation of data on the health benefits of natural molecules.
Main Results:
- Numerous natural products show promise in cancer prevention.
- These compounds are derived from various plant sources like fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
- Many natural products promote human health without notable adverse effects.
Conclusions:
- Natural products represent a viable alternative or complementary approach to cancer management.
- Further research into plant-derived compounds can lead to novel cancer prevention strategies.
- Harnessing the power of nature offers a path towards safer and effective cancer control.