HERBAL MEDICINES AS ADJUVENT THERAPIES FOR REDUCING CHEMOTHERAPY- INDUCED TOXICCITIES: A SYNERGISTIC ONCOLOGY APPROACH

Abstract

Chemotherapy is still a key part of the treatment for cancer; however, chemotherapy remains limited effectiveness in terms of both effectiveness and safety/quality of life due to the many potential severe detrimental effects associated with chemotherapy (e.g., nausea, vomiting, mucositis, fatigue, myelosuppression, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and neurotoxicity). As a result, these negative effects and consequences from these side-effects may decrease or in some cases completely stop syringes, schedules, and treatment outcomes. Yet recent years have brought about a growing interest in using herbal products as complementary therapies to reduce the severity of the side effects from chemotherapy. Studies show there are many plants used for medicinal purposes that have properties that will reduce the level of damage done to normal tissue as a result of chemotherapy due to their antioxidant/anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory/cytoprotective properties. Specific examples of plants used in combination with chemotherapy are ginger (Zingiberofficinale), turmeric (Curcuma longa), ginseng (Panax ginseng), and milk thistle (Silybummarianum), made a positive impact on a variety of high-risk patients as well as reduce the number of gastrointestinal side effects, stimulate the immune system, and protect other vital organs from damage/disorders caused by chemotherapy. The appropriate synergistic combination of conventional cancer treatments and evidence-based herbal medicine may be able to offer a combined approach to enhancing people living with, or at risk of developing cancer with their ability live with this illness. However, it is important to note that caution must be taken with respect to potential adverse interactions between herbs and drugs, the variability of herbs in different preparations, and overall lack sufficient clinical data regarding efficacy and safety. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the authors’ research and findings on the role of herbs as adjunctive therapies in achieving the desired outcome through the reduction of side effects from chemotherapy; the mechanisms of action, the clinical evidence of benefits observed and, safety concerns; and future directions of the role of herbs in the field of integrative oncology to enhance quality of life of patients and to improve effectiveness and tolerability of chemotherapy treatments.

Keywords: Herbal medicines, Adjuvant therapy, Chemotherapy-induced toxicities, Integrative oncology, Antioxidants, Cancer supportive care, Herb–drug interactions, Cytoprotection, Immunomodulation, Quality of life