UAE researchers discover potential plant with cancer-fighting properties
Along with homeopathy importance, the herb has rich potentials to cure or hinder the colon cancer, while the confirmation of the herb’s expected potential is in progress
SHARJAH, UAE (MNTV) – Scientists from the University of Sharjah have identified a naturally growing aromatic plant that could offer a promising treatment for colorectal cancer.
The plant, known scientifically as Artemisia herba-alba, has demonstrated cancer-fighting properties, according to a study published in the Food Science and Nutrition journal.
Native to North Africa and the Middle East, the herb, commonly referred to as white wormwood, has been traditionally used to treat ailments such as bronchitis, hypertension, diabetes, and diarrhea.
Dr. Bou Malhab, the study’s lead author and a research associate at the university’s Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, stated that their findings suggest the herb holds significant potential in combating colorectal cancer.
Analysis of the plant extract revealed several bioactive compounds that inhibited the growth of cancerous cells and triggered programmed cell death, regardless of the cells’ genetic characteristics.
Doctors in the UAE acknowledge that aromatic plants may contain anti-cancer compounds.
Dr. Annu Susan George, a consultant in medical oncology at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital, noted that compounds within the herb hinder cancer cell growth by interfering with cell division proteins such as Cyclin B1 and CDK1.
Additionally, the plant extract was found to inhibit a key driver of tumor development.
Dr. George further emphasized that other naturally derived compounds have demonstrated anti-cancer properties.
She pointed to curcumin, found in turmeric, which is known to inhibit tumor angiogenesis and reduce cancer spread.
Curcumin has also been shown to suppress COX2 formation in human colon cancer cells.
Chinese herbal medicine has long utilized plant-based compounds for their anti-cancer effects, Dr. George added.
Ingredients such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea and ginsenosides from ginseng have exhibited tumor-suppressing properties, including preventing cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis.
Homeopathy expert Dr. Yasir Shafi cited additional research highlighting the anti-cancer potential of other plant-based compounds.
He referenced a study on Inula viscosa, which demonstrated tumor growth suppression in both laboratory and animal models.
Furthermore, cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon and eugenol from clove have shown selective toxicity against colorectal cancer cells while sparing healthy colon cells.
Despite these promising discoveries, medical experts stress the importance of further clinical research, which will substantiate the findings and further the treatment process.
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