Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
Did you know that almost half of all chemotherapy medications are made from plant-based ingredients?
Nutritionists across the world agree that there are some herbs and spices you can integrate into your diet to potentially reduce your risk of any cancer, including ovarian cancer.
Herbs and spices can do so much more than pep up the flavour of food. Recently, several plant-derived extracts have been evaluated as possible inhibitors of cell growth.
While there is no one “miracle food” when it comes to the prevention of any cancer, there are a number of herbs and spices for keeping cancer at bay, and there is a growing body of scientific studies that backs this ancient knowledge.
Cancer and its treatment can often make healthy eating a challenge – especially when you are feeling sick, are constipated, feel nauseated, have lost your appetite, or are simply too tired to eat.
However, you have more cancer-fighting tools at your fingertips than you realize. The good news is that they’re all found right inside your spice cabinet
In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the top five herbs and spices which are proven to have anti-cancer properties.
Amla
Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is one of the most incredible herbs in Ayurveda’s pharmacopoeia.
Scientific research of three decades has demonstrated that this fruit shows anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-tumour, anti-genotoxic, anti-inflammatory activities.
It is one of the richest sources of vitamin C and is often purported to have potential phytochemicals, such as tannins and flavonoids that play a crucial role in cancer prevention.
Laboratory trials of amla extracts have shown that the whole plant — including the fruit, leaves, and seeds — has the ability to kill and prevent the growth of cancer cells while not harming the healthy cells.
Tip: Make Amla-infused water by boiling amla in water along with turmeric powder, and ginger. Let the concoction simmer for some time.
Ginger
Ginger can be the next weapon in the battle against ovarian cancer. It is considered to be ten thousand times more powerful than chemotherapy drugs.
Researchers from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Centre found that ginger not only significantly inhibits cancer cells, but also prevents them from becoming resilient to chemotherapy.
Its major bio-active components, 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol exhibit potent anti-gingerol, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-carcinogenic properties.
Today, there are a number of studies that indicate that ginger inhibits growth and modulates the secretion of angiogenic factors in ovarian cancer cells.
Tip: Steep a few grated/chopped pieces of ginger in hot water for 10 minutes to create a soothing tea.
Turmeric
Haldi, the king of the spices, has been prized for centuries for its ability to limit the growth and spread of the cancer mass.
This “miracle spice” is endowed with numerous anti-oxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic values.
Research has shown lower rates of certain cancers in countries where people eat more turmeric.
Numerous investigations have shown that the principal component of turmeric, curcumin has anti-proliferative effects and can inhibit the growth of ovarian cancerous cells while not harming the healthy cells.
What’s more impressive is that curcumin has been shown to modify the effects of risk factors during the course of cancer progression and reduce the needed dose of radiation.
Tip: Take turmeric with black pepper and olive oil to activate and help with absorption.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, an ancient tropical herb used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, has a long history of being categorized amongst the world’s most renowned herbs.
Extracts derived from Ashwagandha root or the whole plant, have been shown to possess powerful anticancer activity.
Researchers aren’t sure how, but the available scientific data support the conclusion that Ashwagandha extracts seem to limit the activity of cancer cells.
Various studies have concluded that extracts from leaf extracts of ashwagandha have, at least, seven components that could kill cancer cells.
Also regarded as a wonder shrub of India, it also helps regulate stress that comes with traditional cancer treatments that a cancer patient has to go through, like chemotherapy and radiation.
Tip: To make the best caffeine-free drink, boil the herb’s roots in water so that the water is infused.
Oregano
This aromatic herb used in pizzas as a seasoning has long been touted for its own health benefits, including its antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
What’s more, the active component of the herb, quercetin, inhibits the division and migration of the cancer cells. It also prevents the cancer cells from invading into the surrounding structures and promotes apoptosis (cell death).
Tip: Oregano works well with most foods – from chicken to salads to vegetables. You can brighten up any meal with a few fresh oregano leaves.
Final thoughts
Remember, cancer protection starts with your spice rack. Make herbs and spices your best friends and allies for cancer protection. Let’s add spice to our lives!
Also, as cancer can strike anytime, it’s best to opt for regular ovarian cancer screening. A simple blood test that can highlight your risk of developing ovarian cancer to help you take preventive measures against it.
Disclaimer: Do not under any circumstances attempt to replace conventional cancer therapy with herbal supplements to avoid any unexpected complications.
