Interactions between phytotherapeutics and chemotherapeutics: the current evidence

Area of Science:

• Integrative oncology
• Pharmacology
• Natural product chemistry

Background:

• Phytotherapy, the use of medicinal plants, is gaining attention for its potential in cancer care.
• Bioactive metabolites from plants are key to the efficacy and safety of these alternative medicines.
• Understanding phytotherapy's historical context is vital for its modern therapeutic application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current literature on the interactions between chemotherapy and phytotherapeutics.
• To identify research on medicinal plants and related formulations used alongside conventional cancer treatments.
• To explore the potential of phytotherapy in managing chemotherapy-related adverse effects.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE (PubMed).
• Publications were selected from January 2015 to January 2025.
• The search focused on studies investigating phytotherapy in conjunction with chemotherapy.

Main Results:

• Phytochemicals exhibit anticancer potential through antimutagenic, antioxidant, and antiproliferative activities.
• These compounds can modulate the immune response against cancer cells and reduce inflammation.
• Targeting multiple pathways makes phytochemicals promising candidates for complex cancer treatments.

Conclusions:

• Phytotherapy offers a complementary approach to cancer treatment, with potential benefits for managing side effects.
• The multifaceted action of phytochemicals supports their investigation as adjuncts to chemotherapy.
• Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the role of phytotherapy in oncology.