IRJMETS51200002327 Anticancer Review Article

e-ISSN: 2582-5208
International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science

( Peer-Reviewed, Open Access, Fully Refereed International Journal )
Volume:05/Issue:12/December-2023 Impact Factor- 7.868 www.irjmets.com
POTENTIAL ANTI-CANCER PROPERTIES OF SOME SELECTED

MEDICINAL PLANTS
Adiba Rahman, Bipasha Ray*1, Sapna Yadav*2, Dr. Anil Kumar*3, Rishikant Tripathi*4,
Krishanu Samanta*5
*1,2,3,4,5Pharmacy College, Itaura, Chandeshwar, Azamgarh, Itaura, U.P. India.
Corresponding author: Adiba Rahman
DOI : https://www.doi.org/10.56726/IRJMETS46930
ABSTRACT
The increasing numbers of cancer patients, together with the side effect of current chemical treatments have
encouraged the exploration of the potential of some medicinal plants as a rich source of anticancer compounds.
A comprehensive overview of cancer, its types, symptoms, causes, various herbs used as anticancer properties.
Here a review of anticancer properties of some selected medicinal plants grown in India,
Keywords: Anticancer, Pharmacological Properties, Medicinal Plants.
I. INTRODUCTION
There have been incredible innovations in the development of treatments and preventative measures for
cancer, but the disease remains a challenge. Cells multiply uncontrolled in this condition, which is how it is
diagnosed. There are still attempts being made to find cancer treatments and enhancements ( Greenwell, 2015).
According to projections, cancer cases will increase by 25% every decade by 2050, reaching 24 million
annually. In addition, it is estimated that there would be a growth in cancer mortality from 6 million in 2000 to
roughly 16 million by the year 2050. It is also expected that 17 million new cancer cases will occur in a rapider
period of time, although the accurate timeline is not given ( Lanchhana, 2023). Cancers of the central nervous
system, as well as carcinoma, sarcoma, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, are all cell-based cancers. The most
widespread of the 200 different types of cancer include breast, lung, prostate, non-melanoma skin cancers,
stomach and colorectal. Compared to women, men have a higher risk of developing lung cancer, while women
have a higher risk of developing breast cancer (Gnanaselvan, 2022).
Cancer is a comprehensive term encompassing diseases arising from cellular alterations leading to
uncontrolled cell growth and division. Some cancer types exhibit swift cell proliferation, while others involve a
slower growth and division rate. Visible growths known as tumors may emerge in specific cancer forms, while
others, such as leukemia, do not manifest as distinct masses. In the body, most cells fulfill specific functions
with predetermined lifespans. Despite initial perceptions, programmed cell death, known as apoptosis, is a
natural and beneficial process. In apoptosis, a cell receives signals to undergo programmed death, facilitating its
replacement by a newer, more functional cell. Cancerous cells, however, lack the necessary components that
regulate cell division cessation and programmed death. Consequently, these abnormal cells accumulate within
the body, consuming oxygen and nutrients that would typically support the nourishment of healthy cells. The
presence of cancerous cells can give rise to tumor formation, compromise the immune system, and induce other
alterations that disrupt the normal functioning of the body. Furthermore, cancerous cells may originate in one
location and subsequently spread through the lymph nodes, which are clusters of immune cells distributed
throughout the body (Ranchod, 2023). Genetic or epigenetic mutations inside somatic cells produce the
condition known as cancer, resulting in abnormal cell growth with a tendency to spread to other parts of the
body. It is a subset of neoplasms that is characterized by uncontrolled cell division, which results in the
occurrence of a lump or mass that periodically can have a diffuse distribution (Morris, 1903) (Copur, 2019).
The stem cells, which are preserved and not eliminated, in compare to their daughter cells, are the main cells
that play a vital portion in the expansion of cancer. The frequency at which stem cells divide increases the
possibility of mutation which in turn causes cancer. (BrianE. Henderson, 1982). Academics and industry
researchers have increasingly directed their attention toward herbal medicines as potential interventions for
the treatment and prevention of cancer. (Mann, 2002)
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II. CAUSES OF CANCER
1. Cancer has diverse causes, with 22% of deaths attributed to tobacco use and 10% to poor diet, obesity, lack
of physical activity, and excessive alcohol consumption.
2. Approximately 15% of global cancer cases result from infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, human
papillomavirus, Helicobacter pylori, and HIV.
3. Inherited genetic defects from parents contribute to 5-10% of cancer cases.
4. Cancer arises from the interaction of genetic factors and external agents, including physical carcinogens
(e.g., ionizing radiation), chemical carcinogens (e.g., n-nitrosamines, asbestos), and biological carcinogens (e.g.,
infections like HPV, EBV).
5. Aging is a significant factor in cancer incidence, with the risk dramatically increasing with age.
6. Genetic factors play a crucial role in specific cancers like ovarian, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer.
7. Consuming cooked meat in excess can elevate cancer risk due to compounds formed at high temperatures.
(Blackadar, 2016)
III. TYPES OF CANCER
Cancers are divided into various types that are:
1. Carcinomas: Start in skin or tissue covering glands, forming solid tumors (e.g., breast, prostate, colorectal,
lung cancers).
2. Sarcomas: Originate in connective tissues, developing in nerves, joints, blood vessels, or bones.
3. Leukemia’s: Blood cancer with uncontrollable growth of healthy blood cells; includes acute and chronic
types.
4. Lymphomas: Cancer in the lymphatic system, encompassing Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
5. Central Nervous System Cancers: Originate in brain tissues and spinal cord, such as primary CNS
lymphomas and gliomas.
6. Multiple Myeloma: Cancer from plasma cells accumulating in bone marrow, also known as plasma cell
myeloma.
7. Melanoma: Develops in melanocytes, specialized skin cells; primarily found on the skin but can occur in
other pigmented tissues.
8. Other Tumors: Germ Cell Tumors: Originate in cells giving rise to eggs or sperms, potentially malignant or
benign. Neuroendocrine Tumors: Form from hormone-releasing
Symptoms and Signs of Cancer (Saini, 2020)
Persistent Cough or Blood-Tinged Saliva
Change in Bowel Habits
Blood in the Stool
Unexplained Anemia
Breast Lump or Breast Discharge
Lumps in the Testicles
Change in Urination
Persistent Back Pain
Unexplained Weight Loss
Stomach Pain and Nausea
Bone Pain
Cells, causing various symptoms; may be benign or malignant. (Cancer Research UK )
IV. PHYTOMEDICINE
Phytomedicine, as ancient as human evolution, is the practice of using herbs as medication based on ancestral
trial and error, combining traditional wisdom with scientific reasoning (Nigam, 2020). Photomedicine
addresses various disorders, linking the study of Pharmacognosy and medicinal plants to conventional
medicine, incorporating herbal therapies transformed through pharmacological research, while acknowledging
the diverse sources such as minerals, shells, animal parts, fungi, and bee secretions, though some 21st-century
herbal treatments lack robust scientific support for safety and efficacy (Gupta, 2023). Phytomedicine, sourced
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from plants, constitutes a quarter of U.S. pharmaceutical prescriptions, offering effective and safe treatments,
with around 500 plants from ancient texts and 800 from indigenous systems used, showcasing complex yet
potent natural remedies, gaining renewed attention for their success in primary healthcare and age-related
disorders, necessitating their integration into health systems for harmonizing traditional and modern practices
(Pandey M. , 2011). The Health Technology Assessment of Phytomedicine involves collecting and evaluating
data on clinical effectiveness, safety, cost-effectiveness, feasibility, and potential integration into the health
system. Our objective was to determine if the inclusion of herbal products could serve as a viable alternative for
achieving economical chemotherapy (Chaudhary, 2015).
Table 1: List of herbs used in anticancer
Botanical Chemical
S.no Local Name Family Medicinal Uses
Name Constituent
ColonCancer, Lung
1. Allium cepa Piyaz Lilliaceae Quercetine, allins
Cancer
Diallyltrisulfidine Colorectal liver,
2. Allium sativa Lahasun Amaryllidaceae allicine, Pancreatic cancer,
allylmercaptan Breast cancer
Catharanthas Vincristine, Hodgkin’s lymphoma
3. Sadabahar Apocynaceae
roseus Vinblastine (blood cancer)
Camptotheca
4. Happy tree Nyssaceae Camptothecin Leukemia
acuminate
Colchium Suranjan,
5. Colchicaceae Colchicine Breast cancer
autumnale Hirantutiya
Colocasia Arbi, polysaccharides Breastcancer, colon
6. Araceae
esculenta (L.) Ghuia,Ruia from Taro cancer
Curcuminoids,
7. Curcuma longa Haldi Zingiberaceae Colon cancer
Curcumine
Cyperus Sesquiterpenes, Cervical cancer
8. Motha Cyperaceae
rotundus flavonoids Leukemia cell
Hemidesmus Caryophyllene Liver, uterine and
9. Sariva Apocynaceae
indicus nerolidol breast cancer
Acylated cyaniding
10. Ipomoea carnea Behaya Convolvulaceae Breast cancer
glycosides
Thymoquinone Breast, Lung, Colon
11. Nigella sativa Kaljnoi Ranunculaceae
(TQ) cancer, blood cancer
Opuntia ficus Katedaar Flavonoids Colon cancer
12. Cactaceae
indica Naspati polypheonls, Breast cancer
Treat human
13. Piper nigrum Kalimirch Piperaceae Alkaloids, piperine
leukemia cell line
Phyllanthus
14. Amla Phyllanthaceae Tannins Breast canceer
emblica
Polygonum
15. Chimati saag Polgonaceae Resveratrol Lung cancer
cuspidatum
16. Taxus brevifolia Gallu, Thuno Taxaceae Taxanes, taxol, Breast and ovarian

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cepholomannine cancer
Flavonoids,
Terminalia Arjun Liver and colon
17. Combretaceae alkaloids, phenotic,
arjuna (Kahu) cancer
terpenoids
Tinospora
18. Giloy Menispermaceae Dichloromethane Oral cancer
cardifolia
Withandolides, Prostate and breast
Withania
19. Asgandha Solanaceae Withaferine cancer and colon
somnifera
somnirol cancer
Ziziphus Betulin, Betulinic
20. Chhoti ber Rhamnaceae Pancreatic Cancer
nummularia acid
Allium cepa Phytochemicals found in onions play a pivotal role in thwarting a range of cancer-causing
processes. A variety of strategies, including as heat shock protein suppression, p53 protein modulation, cell
cycle arrest, tyrosine kinase inhibition, and Ras protein (a class of cellular protein) expression blockade, are
employed by flavonoids to fight cancer. (Duthie, 2000) In a human phase I clinical trial, quercetin was tested as
a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. (Ferry, 1996) Numerous studies have shown that the organosulfur compounds
present in onions, such as cysteine, S-methyl cysteine, diallyl disulfide, and diallyl trisulfide, provide protection
against malignancies of the breast, stomach, liver, and colon (Moriarty, 2007). Quercetin is one of the onion
components that prevents cancer by inhibiting ROS-induced DNA damage and oncogenic tyrosine kinases. It
also improves drug bioavailability, which lowers metabolism and improves absorption of drugs like tamoxifen.
Organosulfur compounds found in onions have anti-cancer properties such as inducing detoxification enzymes,
improving antioxidant activities, promoting apoptosis, stimulating glutathione production, modulating
multidrug resistance, blocking carcinogen formation, inactivating chemicals that cause cancer, and improving
DNA repair (Kianian, Pharmacological Properties of Allium cepa, Preclinical and Clinical Evidences; A Review,
2021). Some other pharmacological activities are Anti-diabetic effects, Anti-platelet effects, Bone effects,
Cardiovascular effects, Gastrointestinal effects, Nervous system effects, Respiratory effects and Urogenital
effects (Kianian, Pharmacological Properties of Allium cepa, Preclinical and Clinical Evidences; A Review, 2020)
Figure 1: Allum Cepa

Allium sativum [Garlic] is considered to be one of the most ancient cultivated plants. For thousands of years, it
has been utilized as a therapeutic agent. It is a distinct plant with numerous beneficial characteristics, including
antitumor activity, antithrombotic and anticancer activity respectively (Ariga, 2006). Garlic have been found in
preclinical research to have anti-carcinogenic effects in a wide range of malignancies, comprising oral, gastric,
pancreatic, colorectal, ovarian, endometrial, breast, prostate, and bone cancers. Garlic-derived OSCs
(organosulfur compounds) have been shown to cause a reduction in the production and activation of a number

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of proteins that promote cell proliferation, thereby successfully addressing many of the cancer hallmarks
pointed out by Hanahan and Weinberg (Hanahan, 2000). Garlic compounds, such as diallyl disulfide,
significantly inhibit growth of breast cancer cells. These effects are attained through activating carcinogen
detoxifying enzymes, squashing the development of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA adduct formation,
regulating the cell cycle, and generating apoptosis. (Pandey P. , 2023). Some other pharmacological activities
are g anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antidiabetic, renoprotective, anti-atherosclerotic, antibacterial, antifungal,
and antihypertensive activities (Batiha, 2020).
Figure 2: Allium Sativum

Catharanthas roseus [vinca] have numerous alkaloids with anticancer properties have been identified
including vinblastine, vincristine, vindoline, vindolidine, vindolicine, vindolinine, and vindogentianine (Tiong,
Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Properties of Alkaloids from Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don, 2013). The
American Society of Health System Pharmacists stated in 2015 that it is well established that vinblastine and
vincristine impede mitosis, which halt cell division and ultimately results in cell death (Vincristine Sulfate:
AHFS, 2015). Vinblastine is commonly utilized in the treatment of oncological conditions and is prescribed for
Hodgkin's disease and gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. Vincristine, another alkaloid, is employed in the
management of childhood leukemia. The notable efficacy of Vinblastine in Catalan, particularly its substantial
impact on multiple cell types and notably on various drug-resistant tumors, marks significant strides in the
battle against cancer. Volban, marketed as Oncovin, encompasses Vinblastine or Vincristine in its therapeutic
offerings (Ali, 2021). Some other pharmacological activities are anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic,
wound healing, anti-ulcer, hypotensive, antidiarrhoeal, hypolipidemic and memory enhancement (Nisar, 2016).
Figure 3: Catharanthus Roseus

Camptotheca acuminate Camptothecin, initially isolated from the stem wood of Camptotheca acuminata,
exhibits potent antitumor activity by inhibiting the enzyme topoisomerase-I, crucial for relaxing supercoils
during transcription and DNA replication. The 20-hydroxyl group is identified as critical for its activity,
influencing hydrogen bonding and lactone hydrolysis rates (Tredwell, 2012).

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Figure 4: Campotheca Acuminata

Colchicum autumnale Medicinal plants, such as Colchicum autumnale with tropolone alkaloids, hold promise
in preventing and inhibiting breast cancer. Colchicine, a key alkaloid, significantly impacts primary acute
lymphoblastic leukemia and breast cancer cells, terminating human breast cancer cells, halting mitosis in MCF-
7 cells, and triggering microtubule depolymerization by effectively binding to tubulin (Falahianshafiei, 2023).
Some other pharmacological activities are gout, cirrhosis, myeloid leukaemia, Behcet’s disease, psoriasis,
Hodgkin lymphoma, amyloidosis, and skin cancers. (Sharma N. , 2023)
Figure 5: Colchicum autumnale

Colocasia esculenta (L.) C. esculenta, a medicinal plant, is documented for its phytochemicals exhibiting
activity against five distinct types of cancer cell lines. Moderate anticancer activity has been documented in the
extract from both the tuber and leaves of the plant. Ability of C. esculenta leaves ethanolic extract to reduce the
cell viability capacity of cancer cell lines was assessed using the MTT assay (Jyothi, 2020). The water-soluble
root extract of Colocasia esculenta, or taro (TE), potently inhibits lung colonization and spontaneous metastasis
in a murine model of highly metastatic ER, PR, and Her-2/neu negative breast cancer. Additionally, it modestly
inhibits the proliferation of select breast and prostate cancer cell lines, induces morphological changes like cell
rounding, blocks tumor cell migration, and inhibits prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis while down-regulating
cyclooxygenase (COX) 1 and 2 mRNA expression. Notably, taro-derived compounds, including proteins, tarin,
and lectin, exhibit potent and specific inhibition of tumor metastasis (Sudhakar, 2020). Some other
pharmacological activities are nervine tonic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-lipid peroxidative activity,
hepatoprotective, antifungal, antidiabetic and antimicrobial effects (Swapnil, 2023).
Figure 6: Colocasia esculenta L.

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Curcuma longa Curcumin's diverse anticancer effects, including NF-B inhibition, modulation of cell cycle and
growth factor receptors, and synergy with chemotherapy, present a promising addition to cancer treatment,
with potential in EGFR-miRNA-autophagy and cancer stem cell-based therapy for lung cancer (Zoi, 2021).
Curcumin inhibits prostate carcinogenesis by blocking the NF-κB pathway, preventing activation and
downregulating cancer-related genes such as Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, IL-6, and COX-2, thereby impeding cancer cell
survival, angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance (Krup, 2013). Some other pharmacological activites are
antioxidant and anti-cancer properties, antimicrobial properties, cardioprotective and neuroprotective
properties, and antitumor properties. They have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-acidogenic,
and radio protective properties and anti-angiogenic, anti-diabetic, anti-allergy, and anti-protozoal effects in
sexually transmitted infections (Jyotirmayee, 2022).
Figure 7: Curcuma longa

Cyperus rotundus Anticancer C. rotundus ethanolic extract was found to have only weak to moderate
anticancer activity (LC50=2.528-4.939 mg/ml calculated from dose-dependent cell death) in a study which
used neuro-2a cells for screening of plants with tumoricidal effects Another study showed that C.rotundus
essential oil was very effective against L1210 leukaemia cells line. This result correlated with significantly
increased apoptotic DNA fragmentation. Some other pharmacological activities are anti-Candida, anti-
inflammatory, antidiabetic, antidiarrhoeal, cytoprotective, antimutagenic, antimicrobial, antibacterial,
antioxidant, cytotoxic and apoptotic, anti-pyretic and analgesic activities (Sivapalan, 2013).
Figure 8: Cyperus rotundus

Hemidesmus indicus HI roots demonstrate protective activity against hepatocarcinogenesis and other
cancers. Soxhlet HI extract exhibits chemopreventive effects on acute lymphoblastic leukemia (CCRF-CEM) by
inducing cytotoxicity through intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways, impeding the cell cycle in the S phase,
and mitigating DNA damage. Aqueous extracts and fractions of Rubia cordifolia, Mimosa pudica, and HI enhance
angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model, suggesting wound healing potential. Additionally,
HI roots decoction exhibits cytotoxic, cytostatic, and cytodifferentiative activity in the human promyelocytic
leukemia cell line (HL-60) (S, 2019). Some other medicinal properties are wound healing power to immuno-
modulatory activity, anti-diarrheal activity, antioxidant properties; also anti-venom properties, anti-leprotic
properties to diuretic activities (Banerjee, 2014).

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Figure 9: Hemidesmus indicus

Ipomoea carnea it was documented that the hydro alcoholic extract obtained from Ipomoea carnea leaves
exhibited a dose-dependent anticancer activity. Furthermore, research on the cytotoxic effects of different
fractions of I. carnea, including hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate. The LC50 values for these fractions were
reported as 141.4μg/mL, 211.28μg/mL, and 307.28μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, an alkaloid found in I.
carnea, named swainsonine, was found to inhibit cell growth by inducing apoptosis in the A549 human lung
cancer cell line (Kunal, 2021). Some other pharmacological activities are anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-
oxidant, anti-cancer, anti-convulsant, immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory,
anxiolytic, sedative and wound healing activities (Fatima, 2014).
Figure 10: Ipomoea carnea

Nigella sativa In another study, it is found that the aqueous and alcoholic extracts of N. sativa, alone or with
H2O2, effectively inactivated MCF-7 breast cancer cells in vitro. Thymoquinone and β-elemene significantly
inhibited fibrosarcoma in male albino rats, attributed to antioxidant activity, interference with DNA synthesis,
and enhanced detoxification. Topical extracts of N. sativa and C. sativa inhibited skin carcinogenesis, while
thymoquinone demonstrated inhibitory effects against benzo(a)pyrene-induced stomach carcinogenesis in
mice. Methanolic seed extract exerted strong cytotoxicity against Elrich ascites carcinoma, Dalton’s ascites
lymphoma, and sarcoma 180, with minimal impact on normal lymphocytes (Tembhurne, 2011). Some other
pharmacological activities are antidiabetic, anticancer, immunomodulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-
inflammatory, spasmolytic, bronchodilator, hepato-protective, renal protective, gastro-protective, antioxidant
properties (Ahmad A. , 2013).
Figure 11: Nigella Sativa

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Opuntia ficus indica Recent studies suggest that cactus pear fruit extract (i) inhibits the proliferation of
cervical, ovarian, and bladder cancer cell lines in vitro, and (ii) suppresses tumor growth in the nude mice
ovarian cancer model in vivo. Growth inhibition of cultured-cancer cells was associated with an increase in
apoptotic cells and the cell cycle arrest at the G1-phase. Moreover, the induced growth inhibition seems
dependent on the P53 pathway, which is the major tumor suppressor. The mechanisms responsible for
executing the antiproliferative effects include: (i) induction of alterations in the cell differentiation pattern,
which plays a vital role in the invasiveness and metastatic progression of the tumors, (ii) blockade of
preneoplastic cell expansion or induction of apoptosis, and (iii) intervention of metabolic activation of
carcinogens by scavenging ROS (Kaur M. , 2012). Some other pharmacological activities are anti-inflammatory
effects, hypoglycemic effects, antimicrobial activity, anticancer effect, inhibition of stomach ulceration,
antioxidant effects, and neuroprotective effects (Tilahun, 2018).
Figure 12: Opuntia ficus indica

Piper nigrum BPEO and piperine exhibit anticancer activities against various cancer types, including
significant suppression of androgen-dependent and -independent prostate cancer cells. Co-administration of
piperine and docetaxel enhances anticancer activity in human prostate cancer. Piperine induces DNA damage
and apoptosis in tumor cells, suggesting therapeutic potential for osteosarcoma. Additionally, piperine reduces
lung cancer through antioxidative enzyme stimulation and decreased lipid peroxidation. Despite promising
anticancer effects, limited studies in animal models have explored the potential of piperine and BPEO,
emphasizing the need for future clinical trials in humans (Ashokkumar, 2021). Some other pharmacological
activities are Anti-apoptotic, Antibacterial, AntiColon toxin, Antidepressant, Antifungal, Antidiarrhoeal, Anti-
inflammatory, Antimutagenic, Antimetastatic activity, Antioxidative, Antiriyretic, Antispasmodic,
Antispermatogenic, Antitumor, Antithyroid, Ciprofloxacin potentiator, Cold extremities, Gastric ailments,
Hepatoprotective, Insecticidal activity, Intermittent fever and Larvisidal activity (Ahmad N. , 2012).
Figure 13: Piper Nigrum

Phyllanthus emblica Researchers are turning to phytochemical substances and flavonoids as viable
possibilities for cancer therapeutics that target cancer cell survival, angiogenesis, proliferation, and metastasis.
A promising treatment option for HPV-induced cervical cancer is Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract, which
inhibits AP-1 activity and suppresses viral transcription in HPV-driven cervical cancer cells. This results in
dose- and time-dependent growth reduction by apoptotic cell death (Mahata, 2013). Exploring the potential of
the ethanolic extract of Phyllanthus emblica bark, researchers investigated its anti-proliferative activity in the
context of cholangiocarcinoma. Phenolic acid and flavonoids in Phyllanthus emblica bark extract contribute to
its anticancer effects (Samatiwat, 2021). In vitro proliferation assays, employing the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-
yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide procedure, revealed the anticancer potential of six phenolic compounds
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isolated from amla fruit, showcasing effects on splenocyte proliferation and cytotoxicity against human breast
cancer cells and embryonic lung fibroblast cells (Moeenuddin, 2023). Some other pharmacological properties
are: Antioxidant activity, Antiinflammatory activity, Immunomodulatory activity, Antidiabetic activity,
Hepatoprotective activity, Neuroprotective activity, Cardioprotective potential, Anti-diarrheal activity (
Prananda, et al., 2023)
Figure 14: Phyllanthus emblica

Polygonum cuspidatum Polygonum cuspidatum's active constituents, including resveratrol, polydatin, and
anthraquinones, exhibit anticancer effects by modulating cell-cycle genes, inducing apoptosis, and inhibiting
focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation. Resveratrol demonstrates dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity
on lung cancer cells A549 by downregulating STAT-3 expression, with FAK-I and CYTD synergistically
enhancing its anti-invasion and antimetastasis effects (Wu, 2018). Some other pharmacological activities are
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antimicrobial, neuroprotective effects etc. It is seen as a potential
treatment for arthritis, ulcerative colitis, asthma and cardiac hypertrophy (Ke, 2023).
Figure 15: Polygonum cuspidatum

Taxus brevifolia Paclitaxel demonstrates extensive clinical effectiveness which is obtained from the bark of
the Pacific yew tree, (Taxus brevifolia). Its mechanism of action involves binding to the N-terminal amino acids
of the beta-tubulin subunit within microtubules, leading to polymerization. This process impedes microtubule
disassembly, disrupting normal microtubular function during cell division and ultimately causing cell death.
(Newton, 2006). Taxol, initially hindered by limited availability in the bark (requiring approximately 3 kg to
isolate 300 mg), overcame supply challenges through semi synthesis from more accessible precursors like 10-
deacetyl baccatin III, alleviating the need for extensive tree destruction (Orr, 2002).
Figure 16: Taxus brevifolia

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Terminalia arjuna Ancient to modern times, medicinal plants have been crucial for therapeutic treatments. T.
arjuna L. is rich in bioactive compounds, displaying significant medicinal properties, including concentration-
dependent cytotoxicity against liver and colon cancer cell lines, hinting at potential therapeutic use through
apoptosis induction or growth regulator modulation (Singh, 2017). T. arjuna extracts are reported to treat
various types of cancer, with instances of enhanced life span in experimental animals induced with DLA
(Dalton’s Lymphoma Ascites) tumor cells and, in some cases, with carcinogens. Moreover, T. arjuna extract
induces DNA damage in HepG2 cells, leading to ROS production and subsequent apoptosis (Khan, 2013). Some
other pharmacological activities are: Cardiovascular effects, Lipid lowering effect, Anti ischemic effect,
Antihypertensive effect, Antioxidant effect, Antioxidant effect, Antiplatelet effect, Antifungal effect, Anti herpes
simplex virus effect (Jain, 2009).
Figure 17: Terminalia arjuna

Tinospora cardifolia Guduchi, particularly its secondary metabolites palmatine, jatrorrhizine, and yangambin,
exhibits significant anti-cancer activity in a variety of experimental models, including radioprotective
properties, tumor proliferation inhibition, apoptosis induction, and antioxidative effects, making it a promising
and safe alternative to synthetic chemotherapeutic agents with minimal adverse effects on patient health
(Tiwari, 2018). Ali et al. investigated the anticancer activity of T. cordifolia palmatine extract in DMBA-induced
skin cancer models, whereas Rahul et al. demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in tumor size and
prolonged lifespan in C57 BI mice using 750 mg/kg body weight of 50% methanolic extract. Mishra et al. have
highlighted the anti-brain cancer potential of T. cordifolia (TCE) 50% ethanolic extract against C6 glioma cells
(Sharma P. , 2019). Some other pharmacological activities are: Anti- diabetic, antipyretic, antispasmodic, anti-
inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antioxidant, anti-allergic, anti-stress, anti-leprotic, antimalarial, hepato-protective,
immuno-modulatory and anti-neoplastic activities. (Upadhyay, 2010)
Figure 18: Tinospora cardifolia

Withania somnifera [Ashwagandha] The anticarcinogenic action of W. somnifera comprises multiple modes of
inhibition of proliferation (Kaur K. , 2004), apoptosis, radio-sensitization, induction of mitotic arrest,
antiangiogenic properties, and reinforcement of cellular defense mechanisms. (Fatimi, 2005). Numerous

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investigations have shown that two important secondary metabolites of W. somnifera, withaferin A and
withanone, have anticarcinogenic qualities in animals and cell cultures (Prakash, 2009). Withania somnifera's
phytochemicals, including Withanolide and withaferin, exhibit potent anticancer properties by suppressing NF-
kappa B signaling, inducing apoptosis, and demonstrating efficacy surpassing doxorubicin in inhibiting breast
and colon cancer cell growth, showcasing its potential as a cancer-fighting agent by reducing tumor cells. Some
other pharmacological properties are: Cardiotonic Activity, Central Nervous System (CNS), Thyrotropic Effect
(Hypothyroidism), Anti-Stress and Anti-Anxiety/Psychotropic Activity, Anti-Inflammatory Activity, Anti-
Microbial Activity, Insecticidal Activity (Gaurav, 2023).
Figure 19: Withania somnifera

Ziziphus nummularia Cancer remains a major global cause of mortality, despite significant progress in
therapeutic approaches. Conventional treatments often entail adverse effects and multidrug resistance,
prompting increased exploration of bioactive compounds from plant sources. Numerous studies have
investigated Ziziphus nummularia for its anticancer properties. Lapachol, a naphthoquinone compound isolated
from Ziziphus nummularia, demonstrated potent antitumor activity. Another phytoconstituent, Identified
Compound (IC), from Ziziphus nummularia root bark exhibited high cytotoxicity against various human cancer
cell lines in vitro and significantly inhibited cancer growth in mice engrafted with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma.
The methanolic fruit extract showed notable cytotoxic activity against cervical carcinoma cells. The ethanolic
extract from Ziziphus nummularia leaves demonstrated inhibition of pancreatic cancer hallmarks, including
reduced cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis (Mesmar J. , 2022). Some other
pharmacological activities are Anthelmitic activity, Antitumor Activity, Antibacterial activit, Antifertility and
abortifacient activity (Kumar, 2010).
Figure 20: Ziziphus nummularia

V. CONCLUSION
Given the diversity of plants, better tolerance, various species using defferent mechanisms and fewer
complications in the treatment and prevention of cancers. Such Phytomedicine and phytochemicals are
considered more in future research. It will open new area in cancer treatment and improve the quality of
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POTENTIAL ANTI-CANCER PROPERTIES OF SOME SELECTED

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Figure 1: Allum Cepa

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Figure 2: Allium Sativum

Figure 3: Catharanthus Roseus

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Figure 4: Campotheca Acuminata

Figure 5: Colchicum autumnale

Figure 6: Colocasia esculenta L.

Figure 7: Curcuma longa

Figure 8: Cyperus rotundus

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Figure 9: Hemidesmus indicus

Figure 10: Ipomoea carnea

Figure 11: Nigella Sativa

Figure 12: Opuntia ficus indica

Figure 13: Piper Nigrum

Figure 14: Phyllanthus emblica

Figure 15: Polygonum cuspidatum

Figure 16: Taxus brevifolia

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Figure 17: Terminalia arjuna

Figure 18: Tinospora cardifolia

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Figure 19: Withania somnifera

Figure 20: Ziziphus nummularia

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