Integrating Nature Into Oncology: Enhancing Hematological Malignancies Therapies With Natural Medicine

Hematological malignancies are complex clonal disorders that pose a significant threat to human health. Current treatment modalities, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplantation, have demonstrated efficacy but are often limited by side effects, drug resistance, and suboptimal cure rates. Natural medicines, as key elements of complementary and alternative medicine, exhibit considerable potential in combating hematological cancers. Particularly when used in combination with conventional therapies, they can enhance treatment efficacy and reverse drug resistance. This review comprehensively summarizes the mechanisms of action of bioactive natural compounds, extracts, and derivatives against hematological malignancies, with a focus on their roles in apoptosis induction, proliferation suppression, autophagy regulation, cell cycle arrest, and chemosensitization. We also consolidate evidence from preclinical studies and clinical cases supporting their combined use with standard treatments. By elucidating the therapeutic potential and mechanistic insights of natural medicines, this review aims to provide a foundation for developing more effective and safer treatment strategies, facilitating the translation of natural product-based therapies into clinical practice for hematological malignancies.