"THE EVOLVING ROLE OF TRADITIONAL HERBAL MEDICINE IN ONCOLOGY: TRANSITIONING FROM ALTERNATIVE TO INTEGRATIVE SUPPORTIVE CARE"

Kundan Mandloi, Akash Yadav* and Dinesh Kumar Jain

ABSTRACT

Cancer remains a significant global health burden, with conventional therapies often associated with severe side effects and limited efficacy. In response, there is growing interest in traditional herbal medicine (THM) as a complementary approach to cancer care. THM has been used for centuries in various cultures, including Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and indigenous healing practices, to prevent and treat cancer. The potential benefits of integrating THM into cancer care, including its ability to alleviate symptoms, enhance quality of life, and improve treatment outcomes. Certain herbal remedies, such as turmeric, ginger, ginseng, and astragalus, have demonstrated promising anti-cancer properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-proliferative effects. The use of THM may also help mitigate the adverse effects of conventional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. While challenges remain, including standardization, safety concerns, and regulatory obstacles, the incorporation of THM into cancer care offers a promising complementary approach to improving patient outcomes and enhancing overall well-being.

Keywords: Cancer; Traditional herbal medicine; Herbal Remedies; Alternative to Integrative.