Anti-Cansa 60’s

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. These abnormal cells, often referred to as cancer cells, can invade and destroy normal tissues and may form masses of tissue called tumours. Cancer can occur in virtually any tissue or organ in the body and may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

The development of cancer is typically a multi-step process involving genetic mutations that accumulate over time. Normal cells have mechanisms to control their growth, division, and death. When these control mechanisms malfunction due to genetic changes, cells can begin to grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumours.

Cancerous cells can invade nearby tissues and, in some cases, break away from the original tumour, travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and form new tumours in other parts of the body. This process is known as metastasis.

There are various types of cancer, and each is characterized by specific features based on its location, behavior, and the types of cells involved. Common treatment approaches for cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Early detection and advances in cancer research and treatment have significantly improved outcomes for many cancer

Types of Cancer:

• There are many different types of cancer, as cancer can affect virtually any tissue or organ in the body. Here is a list of some common types of cancer

Breast Cancer: Affects the cells in the breast tissue.

Lung Cancer: Occurs in the lungs and is often linked to smoking.

Colorectal Cancer: Affects the colon or rectum.

Prostate Cancer: Develops in the prostate gland in men.

Ovarian Cancer: Occurs in the ovaries, part of the female reproductive system.

Pancreatic Cancer: Affects the pancreas, an organ involved in digestion and blood sugar regulation.

Leukemia: A type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood.

Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels.

Skin Cancer: Develops in the skin cells and includes melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Bladder Cancer: Occurs in the bladder, the organ that stores urine.

Kidney Cancer: Affects the kidneys, the organs responsible for filtering blood and producing urine.

Liver Cancer: Develops in the liver cells.

Thyroid Cancer: Affects the thyroid gland in the neck.

Cervical Cancer: Occurs in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus.

Esophageal Cancer: Affects the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.

Gastric Cancer: Develops in the stomach lining.

Brain Cancer: A broad category that includes various types of tumors affecting the brain.

Bone Cancer: A rare type of cancer that starts in the bone.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A group of cancers that develop in soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and fat.

Head and Neck Cancer: Affects the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, and salivary glands.

It’s important to note that there are many subtypes and variations within each of these categories, and cancer can also occur in other less common locations. Additionally, ongoing research may lead to the identification of new types of cancer or further classification of existing ones.

Types of Skin Cancer

• There are three main types of skin cancer, each named after the type of skin cell from which they originate. These are:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically develops in areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, such as the face and neck. BCC usually grows slowly and is rarely life-threatening, but it can cause disfigurement if not treated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears on areas of the skin exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, and hands. SCC can grow and spread more aggressively than basal cell carcinoma, but it is still usually treatable if detected early.

Melanoma: Melanoma is a less common but more aggressive type of skin cancer. It originates in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) of the skin and can develop from existing moles or appear as a new, unusual growth. Melanoma has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body, making early detection crucial for successful treatment.

It’s important to perform regular skin checks and seek medical attention if you notice any changes in the colour, size, shape, or texture of moles or skin lesions. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the outcomes for individuals with skin cancer. Additionally, other, less common types of skin cancer and precancerous conditions exist, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

The development and progression of Cancer:

The development and progression of cancer involve a complex interplay of genetic, molecular, and cellular events. Here’s a detailed explanation of the key factors and processes involved in the development and progression of cancer, including the roles of hormones, enzymes, and other chemicals, as well as the involvement of various organs and cellular components.

Initiation

• Genetic Mutations: Cancer typically begins with genetic mutations in the DNA of a normal cell. These mutations can be caused by various factors such as exposure to carcinogens (e.g., tobacco smoke, UV radiation), genetic predisposition, or errors during DNA replication.
• Proto-oncogenes and Tumour Suppressors: Proto-oncogenes, which regulate normal cell growth, can transform into oncogenes when mutated, promoting uncontrolled cell growth. Conversely, mutations in tumour suppressor genes can result in a loss of their regulatory functions, allowing abnormal cell proliferation.
• Hormonal Influence: Some cancers are influenced by hormones. For example, estrogen can play a role in the development of breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Promotion:

• Promoting Factors: After initiation, promoting factors encourage the growth and survival of mutated cells. These factors may include chronic inflammation, exposure to certain chemicals, hormones, and other environmental factors.
• Enzymes and Signaling Pathways: Enzymes like matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) facilitate tissue remodeling, allowing cancer cells to invade surrounding tissues. Signaling pathways, such as the Ras pathway, are often dysregulated, leading to increased cell proliferation.
• Angiogenesis: Tumour cells release angiogenic factors, promoting the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) to supply nutrients and oxygen, facilitating tumour growth.

Progression:

• Genetic Instability: The mutated cell undergoes further genetic alterations, leading to genetic instability and heterogeneity within the tumour. This diversity allows some cells to acquire aggressive traits.
• Telomere Shortening: Telomeres, which protect the ends of chromosomes, shorten with each cell division. Cancer cells often overcome this limitation through mechanisms like telomerase activation, allowing for unlimited cell division.
• Epigenetic Changes: Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, can silence tumor suppressor genes or activate oncogenes, contributing to cancer progression.
• Immune Evasion: Cancer cells may evade the immune system through various mechanisms, including downregulating antigens and inhibiting immune responses.

Role of Mitochondria in Cancer:

• Energy Metabolism Shift (Warburg Effect): Cancer cells often exhibit a shift in energy metabolism, favouring glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria, even in the presence of oxygen (Warburg effect).
• Mitochondrial DNA Mutations: Mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) can impact mitochondrial function, contributing to altered energy metabolism in cancer cells.
• Apoptosis Resistance: Mitochondria play a crucial role in apoptosis, and cancer cells often develop mechanisms to resist programmed cell death, promoting survival and proliferation.

Role of Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) in Cancer:

• ER Stress and UPR: Disruptions in cellular homeostasis, such as an accumulation of misfolded proteins, can lead to ER stress. The unfolded protein response (UPR) may be activated in cancer cells to cope with ER stress, contributing to cancer development.
• Lipid Metabolism and Membrane Biogenesis: The endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid metabolism and membrane synthesis, processes crucial for supporting the rapid proliferation of cancer cells.
• Calcium Signaling: Dysregulation of calcium signaling in the ER can impact various cellular processes, including cell cycle progression and apoptosis, influencing cancer cell behavior.
• Interaction with Mitochondria: Crosstalk between the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria at the ER-mitochondria interface is involved in regulating calcium levels, lipid transfer, and cell death pathways.

Conclusion:

Understanding the intricacies of cancer development involves exploring a multitude of factors, including genetic mutations, signaling pathways, the tumour microenvironment, and interactions between cellular organelles. Ongoing research aims to unravel these complexities to develop targeted therapies that disrupt specific pathways involved in cancer progression. The comprehensive understanding of these processes is crucial for advancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.

The process of Cancer in simpler terms:

Initiation: The start of the problem in cancer happens when the DNA inside a cell gets messed up. This can happen due to things like smoking, sun exposure, or just bad luck during cell division. Certain genes in our body can either promote normal cell growth (proto-oncogenes) or suppress it (tumour suppressor genes). Mutations in these genes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, which is a key step in cancer development. In some cancers, hormones like estrogen can play a role in making cells grow uncontrollably.

Promotion: After the DNA is messed up, there are factors that encourage the messed-up cells to grow and survive. This could be due to things like chronic inflammation or exposure to certain chemicals. Enzymes help cells remodel their surroundings, and certain pathways inside cells can go haywire, making cells grow too much. Cancer cells can also make new blood vessels grow around them to get more nutrients, helping the tumour grow.

Progression: The messed-up cells keep changing their DNA, becoming even more unstable. This can make some cells in the tumour more aggressive. Normal cells have limits to how much they can divide, but cancer cells find ways around these limits, allowing them to keep dividing. Cancer cells can trick the immune system into not attacking them, giving them a chance to grow.

Role of Mitochondria in Cancer: In cancer, cells change the way they get energy. Instead of using a more efficient method, they choose a less efficient one, even when oxygen is available. The DNA inside the energy-producing part of the cell (mitochondria) can also get messed up, affecting how the cell uses energy. Cancer cells find ways to avoid dying when they should, which is usually a process controlled by mitochondria.

Role of Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) in Cancer: When things get stressful inside the cell, like a pile-up of misfolded proteins, it can contribute to cancer. The endoplasmic reticulum helps cells make things like fats and membranes. Cancer cells can use this to grow faster. Calcium signals in the cell can get mixed up, affecting how the cell behaves, including its growth and death. The endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria work together, and when this teamwork goes wrong, it can affect how cancer cells behave.

Conclusion: Understanding cancer is like solving a puzzle with many pieces. Scientists are studying all these pieces to figure out how they fit together. By understanding how cancer cells grow and survive, we can develop better ways to stop them. It’s like finding the right tools to fix a broken machine, but in this case, the machine is our own body.

Which diseases in the body can change into cancer and why?

Certain diseases or conditions can increase the risk of developing cancer. It’s important to note that not all individuals with these conditions will develop cancer, but having these conditions may elevate the risk. Some examples include

Chronic Inflammation: Conditions like chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis) and chronic viral infections (e.g., hepatitis B or C, human papillomavirus) can lead to long-term inflammation. Prolonged inflammation may increase the risk of genetic mutations that can contribute to cancer development.

Chronic Gastritis and Ulcers: Long-term inflammation of the stomach lining (chronic gastritis) or persistent stomach ulcers can elevate the risk of stomach cancer. Infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with these conditions, is a significant risk factor.

Chronic Liver Disease: Conditions such as cirrhosis, often caused by chronic alcohol consumption or viral hepatitis infections (hepatitis B or C), increase the risk of liver cancer.

Chronic Lung Diseases: Individuals with chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary fibrosis, may have an increased risk of lung cancer, particularly if they are smokers.

Chronic Kidney Disease: Chronic kidney disease, especially in individuals undergoing long-term dialysis, is associated with an elevated risk of kidney cancer.

Barrett’s Esophagus: Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lead to a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, where the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced by tissue similar to that found in the intestines. Barrett’s esophagus increases the risk of esophageal cancer.

Certain Genetic Conditions: Inherited genetic mutations can predispose individuals to certain types of cancer. For example, individuals with mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes have a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

Immunodeficiency Disorders: Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or organ transplantation with immunosuppressive therapy, increase the risk of developing certain cancers, including lymphomas and Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as prolonged exposure to estrogen without progesterone in postmenopausal women, can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

It’s essential to understand that while these conditions may elevate the risk of cancer, they don’t guarantee that cancer will develop. Additionally, many cancers occur sporadically without a clear underlying medical condition. Regular medical check-ups, screenings, and lifestyle modifications can play crucial roles in cancer prevention and early detection. If you have concerns about your health or risk factors, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and preventive measures.

Ingredients which are traditionally used for this disorder
Technical info:

African Potato: A powerhouse against cancer, African Potato, scientifically known as Hypoxis hemerocallidea, boasts active compounds like phytosterols and rooperol. Its efficacy extends to prostate cancer, showcasing potential through survival prolongation in lung cancer. Rich in beta-sitosterol, African Potato stands out in the realm of cancer support.

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): ALA, a disulfide compound, functions as a potent antioxidant in advanced cancer patients. It reduces reactive oxygen species levels and enhances glutathione peroxidase activity, contributing to cellular protection against oxidative stress. Its role in modulating cellular redox status highlights its potential as a protective agent in cancer cells.

Artichoke: Laden with cancer-fighting elements, Artichoke, or Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus, introduces potent polyphenolic acids such as cynaropicrin and silymarin. These compounds induce apoptosis, reducing the risk of breast cancer. Artichoke’s antioxidant arsenal, including quercetin and rutin, positions it as a robust guardian against cancer.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Withanolides, active compounds in Ashwagandha, exhibit anti-tumour effects. Moreover, Ashwagandha acts as an adaptogen, significantly increasing hemoglobin, red blood cell, and platelet count. Its protective role extends to preserving mitochondrial function, providing a multifaceted approach to cancer management.

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus): Rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids, bilberry’s anthocyanosides demonstrate anti-carcinogenic activity. They inhibit protein and lipid oxidation as well as Cox 2, contributing to its potential in cancer prevention. Bilberry’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects make it a valuable component in cancer support.

Boswelia: Known scientifically as Boswellia serrata, Boswelia unleashes its anti-inflammatory prowess by inhibiting leukotriene formation. Active boswellic acids, including AKBA, contribute to its fight against advanced breast cancer, leukemia, brain tumours, and pancreatic cancer cells. Boswelia’s multi-pronged approach is underlined by its ability to suppress aggressive breast cancer.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Calendula, containing triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids, inhibits tumour growth and promotes wound healing. Its multifaceted properties, including anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects, position it as a promising candidate in supportive cancer care.

Cancer Bush (Sutherlandia): Renowned for its intricate mechanisms, Cancer Bush (Sutherlandia) actively inhibits tumour necrosis factor, a pivotal factor in cancer progression. Its potent anti-inflammatory properties help mitigate cancer-related inflammation, fostering a supportive environment. Furthermore, Cancer Bush exhibits antiviral and antibacterial activities, bolstering the body’s defense against potential infections during the cancer journey. Rich in active compounds, Cancer Bush emerges as a promising ally in comprehensive cancer care, addressing various aspects of the disease process.

Cancer Bush (Sutherlandia): Scientifically recognized as Sutherlandia frutescens, Cancer Bush tackles cancer intricately. Active ingredients like canavanine contribute to tumour necrosis factor inhibition, while the presence of L-canavanine exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial properties. Cancer Bush, with its diverse actions, stands as a botanical arsenal in the fight against cancer.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Echinacea’s immune-boosting properties, attributed to its rich polysaccharides, alkamides, and flavonoids, make it beneficial for brain tumours. Elevated white blood cell levels enhance the first line of defense against developing neoplasms. Echinacea’s modulation of the immune system adds to its potential in cancer prevention.

Flax Seed (Linum usitatissimum): Beyond being a rich source of lignans and a-linolenic acid, flax seeds, containing lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber, demonstrate a 45% reduction in metastasis. Their potential in reducing tumour volume and metastasis positions them as a valuable component in cancer prevention and intervention.

Garcinia Cambogia: Hailing from Garcinia gummi-gutta, Garcinia Cambogia wields hydroxycitric acid (HCA) as a potent weapon against pancreatic cancer cells, showcasing an impressive 89% effectiveness. This natural extract takes the spotlight in cancer therapeutics, demonstrating targeted action against this formidable adversary.

Garlic (Allium sativum): Allicin and sulfur compounds in garlic contribute to its anti-cancer properties. It induces apoptosis, inhibits metastasis, Cox 2, angiogenesis, and reduces iron uptake. Garlic’s diverse mechanisms make it a versatile and comprehensive agent in cancer management.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Gingerol and shogaol in ginger play a crucial role in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, Cox 2, cell metastasis, and angiogenesis. The multi-targeted effects position ginger as a promising adjunct in cancer therapy, with potential applications across various cancer types.

Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo biloba): Ginkgo biloba, rich in flavonoids, terpenoids, and ginkgolides, exhibits anti-cancer potential. It inhibits angiogenesis, regulates genes, and induces apoptosis in oral cavity cancer cells. Ginkgo biloba’s diverse phytochemical profile highlights its potential in targeted cancer interventions.

Ginseng Panax (Panax ginseng): Ginsenosides, the primary active compounds in Panax ginseng, stimulate vital cell processes and inhibit metastasis. The adaptogenic properties further enhance its potential in cancer support, with a focus on vital cellular functions.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis): Beyond its anti-cancer properties, goldenseal, containing berberine and hydrastine, contributes to equalizing circulation. Its potential application in stomach cancer warrants further investigation, showcasing its potential as a circulatory modulator with specific cancer-related implications.

Grape Seed Extract (Vitis vinifera): Proanthocyanidins in grape seed extract act as antioxidants and chemoprotective agents. They suppress estrogen biosynthesis, inhibit vascular endothelial growth, and modulate Cox2. Grape seed extract’s multifaceted mechanisms position it as a comprehensive cancer-preventive agent with specific actions against estrogen-related pathways.

Graviola: Scientifically known as Annona muricata, Graviola’s cancer-fighting capabilities are attributed to active compounds such as acetogenins. These compounds exhibit remarkable efficacy against various cancers, highlighting Graviola’s versatility in addressing breast, pancreatic, and other cancer types. Its unique ability to target cancer-resistant to other treatments further cements its role in cancer care.

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis): The catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), in green tea exhibit anti-cancer effects. Beyond inhibiting metastasis, Cox 2, and angiogenesis, green tea prevents cancer and suppresses vessel growth in endothelial and vascular cancers. Green tea’s comprehensive actions make it a valuable component in cancer prevention and intervention.

Guggul Lipid (Commiphora wightii): Guggulsterones in guggul lipid act chemically on cyclin in tumour cells. The precise molecular interactions underline its potential in influencing cell cycle regulation in cancer, making it a targeted intervention in cancer cell proliferation.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa): Anthocyanins and polyphenols in hibiscus contribute to its anti-angiogenic properties. Additionally, its potential in pain relief and cellular metabolism underscores its versatile nature, positioning hibiscus as a multifunctional agent in cancer care.

Holy Basil (Tulsi) (Ocimum sanctum): Tulsi, containing eugenol, ursolic acid, and ocimumosides, inhibits angiogenesis and acts as an adaptogen. Its diverse phytochemical composition adds to its anti-cancer potential, with a focus on inhibiting blood vessel formation and supporting adaptive responses.

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense): Silica, flavonoids, and alkaloids in horsetail contribute to its ability to arrest the growth of tumours and facilitate their dissolution. Its potential in modulating cancer growth highlights its unique properties, with silica playing a role in structural support and flavonoids contributing to anti-proliferative effects.
L-Glycine (Amino Acid): As an essential amino acid, glycine plays a role in inhibiting the growth of liver tumours and melanoma tumours. Its inclusion underscores the intricate interplay of amino acids in cancer physiology, emphasizing the importance of amino acids beyond their structural roles.

Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and coumarins in liquorice root contribute to its positive effects on the endocrine system and adrenals. Its role in inhibiting angiogenesis and Cox 2 further positions it in cancer care, with potential applications in hormonal and inflammatory pathways.

Milkthistle: Botanically referred to as Silybum marianum, Milkthistle unfolds its anti-tumour effects primarily in the early stages of tumour promotion. Silymarin and Silibinin compounds, with their antioxidant might, play crucial roles in cancer chemoprevention. Inhibiting Cox2 and vascular endothelial growth, Milkthistle stands as a sentinel, protecting the liver during chemotherapy while actively engaging in anti-cancer activities.

Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha): Myrrh, containing myrrh resin, terpenoids, and sesquiterpenes, is associated with cancer and mitochondrial effects. The complex interplay of its constituents warrants further exploration in cancer therapeutics, with myrrh resin potentially influencing cellular signaling and mitochondrial dynamics.

Omega 3 (Fatty Acid): Essential fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, in omega-3 play a role in inhibiting angiogenesis and Cox 2. Their contribution to modulating inflammatory responses underscores their importance in cancer prevention. Omega-3 fatty acids’ impact on inflammation and immune regulation adds to their relevance in cancer management.

Pomegranate: Scientifically named Punica granatum, Pomegranate’s anti-cancer prowess is driven by active ingredients such as punicalagins and anthocyanins. Its actions, from inducing apoptosis to suppressing vessel growth associated with tumours, are supported by a complex interplay of genes and proteins. Pomegranate emerges as a formidable force in cancer growth suppression and progression prevention.

Pumpkin Seed (Cucurbita pepo): Rich in phytosterols, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, pumpkin seeds contribute to reducing the risk of cancer. Their potential in inhibiting proliferation and inducing autophagy adds to their cancer-preventive properties, positioning pumpkin seeds as a dietary component with specific anti-cancer actions.

Pygeum (Prunus africana): Phytosterols, triterpenes, and ferulic acid in pygeum contribute to its use in addressing prostate enlargement. The multi-faceted approach of its constituents makes it a potential candidate in prostate health, with specific actions on hormonal and structural aspects.

Reishi Mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum): Polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and ganoderic acids in reishi mushrooms contribute to their ability to inhibit metastasis and angiogenesis. Their potential in modulating immune responses adds to their therapeutic profile, positioning reishi mushrooms as immune-modulating agents with targeted anti-cancer effects.

Resveratrol: Resveratrol, derived from the plant source Polygonum cuspidatum, operates as a dynamic autophagy modulator. Activating SIRT1 and inducing protective autophagy in non-small-cell lung cancer, Resveratrol’s molecular actions involve inhibiting Akt/mTOR and activating p38-MAPK. Its multifaceted approach includes inhibiting Cox-2, making it a potent player in cancer therapy.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Rhodiola, containing rosavins, salidrosides, and flavonoids, is described as an anti-dote to cancer and an adaptogen. Its tumour-removing properties underscore its potential in cancer management, with adaptogenic effects potentially influencing stress responses in cancer patients.

Selenium: Selenium is an essential trace element with antioxidant properties, crucial for maintaining optimal health. It plays a role in DNA synthesis, reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, and protection against oxidative damage. Selenium is incorporated into selenoproteins, a family of proteins with diverse functions, including antioxidant defense and immune system modulation. Selenoproteins, particularly glutathione peroxidases, are active components utilizing selenium to protect cells from oxidative stress, with potential anti-cancer effects linked to its role in reducing oxidative damage.

Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinula edodes): Lentinan, a polysaccharide in shiitake mushrooms, demonstrates efficacy against gastric cancer. Rich in polysaccharides, particularly Lentinan, shiitake mushrooms present a unique profile in cancer therapeutics, with immune-modulating actions and potential applications in gastrointestinal cancers.

Skullcap: Scientifically known as Scutellaria lateriflora, Skullcap harnesses its cancer-fighting potential through active compounds like baicalin and wogonin. Its inhibition of cancer cell growth, induction of apoptosis, and suppression of angiogenesis underscore its role in combating myeloma, lymphoma, and colon cancer. Skullcap’s cytotoxicity against various tumor cell lines showcases its versatility in impeding tumour growth without harming normal cells.

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia): Quassinoids and alkaloids in Tongkat Ali contribute to its ability to induce apoptosis and autophagy. The promising anti-proliferative and anti-cancer activities in lung carcinoma and breast cancer highlight its potential in cancer therapeutics, with targeted actions on cell death pathways.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin in turmeric exhibit anti-cancer effects. Their role as autophagy inducers, apoptosis inducers, and inhibitors of angiogenesis and metastasis position turmeric as a multi-targeted agent in cancer therapy, with specific actions on cellular survival and signaling pathways.

Vitamin A: Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and cell differentiation, playing a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of epithelial tissues and supporting overall health. It includes retinoids (preformed vitamin A) and carotenoids (provitamin A), with retinol being the active form. Retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid are active forms of vitamin A, with retinoids studied for their potential in preventing certain cancers by influencing cell differentiation and growth regulation.

Vitamin B3: Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is essential for energy production, DNA repair, and the synthesis of various molecules in the body. Niacin exists in two forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide, both of which can be converted to coenzymes essential for cellular metabolism. Niacinamide is the active form involved in DNA repair processes, supporting overall cellular health and metabolism.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is an essential water-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties, supporting immune function, collagen synthesis, and wound healing. Ascorbic acid is a cofactor for several enzymes and is involved in various biochemical pathways. Ascorbic acid acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals, with potential roles in preventing certain cancers by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. It includes various tocopherols and tocotrienols, with alpha-tocopherol being the most biologically active form. Alpha-tocopherol acts as a potent antioxidant, preventing lipid peroxidation in cell membranes. While vitamin E’s role in cancer prevention is debated, it remains an essential nutrient for overall health.

Wild Dagga (Leonotis leonurus): Leonurine, alkaloids, and flavonoids in wild dagga contribute to its detoxifying and modulating properties. Its unique composition makes it an intriguing candidate for further exploration in cancer care, with potential applications in detoxification and cellular homeostasis.

Wormwood: Wormwood, particularly Artemisia afra, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its diverse properties, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Artemisinin, a compound found in wormwood, has gained attention for its anti-malarial properties and is being investigated for potential anti-cancer effects. Artemisinin and other sesquiterpene lactones are active components associated with wormwood’s anti-cancer properties, exhibiting cytotoxic effects on cancer cells and potentially inhibiting angiogenesis.

Zinc: Zinc is an essential mineral involved in various cellular processes, immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. It is a cofactor for numerous enzymes and transcription factors, playing a vital role in maintaining cellular integrity and function. While not directly linked to anti-cancer properties, zinc’s involvement in DNA repair and immune function supports overall cellular health. Zinc deficiency may impact immune responses and contribute to oxidative stress.