General Information, Herbal Remedies, Folk Remedies

    
     There are many types and forms of this affliction.  Modern medicine has made many advances in most areas; however the Cancer Centers that have the highest success rates are the ones that integrate Conventional, Alternative, Nutritional, Spiritual and Social methods.

     There are many sources for information available.  One of my favorite sources for the alternative approach is a book by Donald R. Yance published by Keats Publishing called Healing Medicine, Healing & Cancer.  You will learn a lot about cancer as well as a more complete approach to this condition. He is not a relative and I receive no funding from him.  He does have a clinic on the East Coast and one in Ashland, Oregon called the Center for Natural Healing West.  If I were to contract this condition he would be one of the first resources I would consult.

     The approach to tumors in older medical systems was one of detoxification and the cause was thought to be due to impurities in our bodies.  The older systems seemed to be quite in line with today’s carcinogenic world view of cancer.  Our world has many wonderful things but it comes with a price.  Pollutants in our air, water and food are in the news almost daily.  We see the efforts of China to clear the air for the Olympics and we have to know when you can not see the sun or the stars it can not be healthy.

     Herbs will be grouped by function as much as possible but due to the multifunction of plant medicines there will be some overlap.  Please do not discount the positive value of attitude and belief systems as there are many recorded cases of their positive effect on life quality and survivability.

     Disease Symptoms are so varied depending on the organ or body system involved that it is not possible to list all of them here.  The main thing is to look for changes in your body.  Be it a spot on your skin that changes or won’t heal to just general fatigue, change in skin color as in Jaundice, weight change without a change in habits or life style even a change in the color or texture of our feces.  The earlier you can diagnose and address cancer the higher your chances of a long life.

     This is not a disorder that lends itself to self treatment so please seek a health care professional and explore the newer clinics that incorporate all forms of treatment in a cohesive and integrated approach.  Folk Remedies will be only to show what has been tried in other places and most have no negative effects so probably do not hurt to explore.

     The best strategy is to prevent rather than cure so a nutritional approach is advised.  We are what we eat and many foods such as fried and deep fried have a much higher oxidative stress on our bodies.  By using an antioxidant rich diet with more fruits and vegetables, especially the dark colored berries; we can help our bodies stay healthy.

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Agrimony (Agrimonia euratoria) was a favorite of ancient Greek herbalists to treat liver disorder and poisons, but later it found use in fending off evil spirits.  Now we use Agrimony for its diuretic and intestinal protective qualities that makes it effective for gout and some types of arthritis.  A benefit of this herb is its anticancer action, which is effective against all forms of cancer except leukemia.
Remarks:  not recommended for use during pregnancy or in large doses.  Agrimony helps with bone and pancreatic cancers.
From:  England and Scotland
Plant part used:  leaf and stem
Suggested dosage:  up to 3 grams per day

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) was used by the Arabs to make there horses run faster.  It is the preferred food for livestock because the roots can grow down up to 35 feet picking up minerals and vitamins from the soil.  Besides being a good source (powder or sprouts) for our nutrients it also binds carcinogens in the colon and helps to speed elimination.  Alfalfa has shown some ability to inhibit cancer cell growth. It is important to keep the body well nourished while it is fighting any chronic condition.
Remarks: any thing to improve our general health will help with the treatment and healing with cancer
From: Europe, Southwest Asia and USA
Plant parts used: leaf and stem or sprouts
Suggested dosage: 5-10 grams per day

American White Pond Lily (Nymphaea odorata) traditional used for chronic diarrhea and topically for burns and open wounds it has a history of use by notables as Eli G. Jones in his treatment of cancer in the early 1900s; he was one of the early pioneers in America Eclectic Medicine before the advent of pharmaceutical only treatments.
Remarks: not advised for pregnancy
From: USA and Canada
Plant part used: root/rhizome
Suggested dosage: none found

Amrit (Tinospora Cordifolia) is used in Ayuvedic medicine as a longevity herb and the name means imperishable.  This plant contains tinosporine and cordifolisides that are believed to be part of the mechanism of action.  Used now as a treatment for cancer due to the improvements in the immune system.  It has been found to increase the interferon and the tumor necrosis factor that help in killing cancer cells as well as its antibiotic activity.
Remarks: found to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy as well as its own anticancer properties.
From: India
Plant parts used: aerial parts
Suggested dosage: none found

Anamu (Petivera alliacea) is a versatile herb with many uses. Not yet common in North America, this herb is used for treatment of Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, and cancer. Like most plants it contains many phytochemicals one of which is coumarin much like the spice Turmeric which has a very anticancer action.  Even the aroma of the plant is said to help with migraine headaches.
Remarks: may lower blood sugar levels so monitor if you are hypoglycemic or diabetic
From: Cuba, Guatemala and other South American countries
Plant parts used: leaf
Suggested dosage: none found try as a tea

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) has many uses and is used for its ability to fight infections both bacterial and viral.  Andrographis contains andrographolides believed to have immune enhancing and anticancer activities.  Tests have shown it has beneficial effects on stomach, breast, prostate cancer as well as leukemia and melanoma.
Remarks: used as a wonder drug in Shidda and Ayurvedic systems of medicine
From: India and Sri Lanka
Plant parts used: leaf and root
Suggested dosage: none found

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is an herb most know for the licorice flavor that gives it a place in our modern food.  Hippocrates used this herb to clear mucus from our lungs and its recurring history of use has been for smell, flavor, hiccups, bad breath, promoting milk flow in new mothers and a relief for upset stomach or colic. The effects we are interested in are the estrogenic actions of this herb. May help with BHP and prostrate cancer.
Remarks: check the next licorice candy for anise
From: Egypt and Syria
Plant parts used: seeds, fruit and leaves and for salads
Suggested dosage: ½-1 gram dried fruit

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) this tree is from India and is a part of Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of high cholesterol, it lowers the overall cholesterol while raising the HDL (good) levels improving our serum cholesterol image.  There have been some cases of improvement in angina and improved heart function.
Remarks: there have been some anticancer actions with this plant that are being studied now.
From: India
Plant parts used: bark
Suggested dosage: 500 mg three times a day

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) called Huang chi root in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used and revered for centuries.  Usually used to boost a persons overall constitution, more energy and vitality.  Besides being a good longevity herb it shows much usefulness in support during chemo and radiation therapy.  Astragalus has liver protective and anticancer properties as well.
Remarks: helps to increase interferon levels and T-cell aggressiveness
From: Western US and Asia
Plant part used: root
Suggested dosage: 9 to 30 grams daily

Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) has a high steroid content that has shown in animal studies to be more effective than hydrocortisone without the deterioration of joint tissue associated with the drug.  Ashwaganda is considered an Adaptogen or balancing plant that has anti-inflammatory and immune system modulating activity that should be useful to treat the rheumatoid form of arthritis.  Ashwaganda is considered an anti aging herb that while it exhibits a sedating quality is very anti-oxidant in action and helps the body to fight aging.  Cancer takes a toll on all systems of the body and this plant can be a great help in supporting the bodies defense systems to give it a better chance of survival.
Remarks:  not recommended for pregnancy and may lower blood pressure
From: India
Plant part used:  root and fruit
Suggested dosage: 1 gram to 2 grams per day or as tea

Bhringaraj (Eclipta Alba) sometimes called False Daisy in the Southern United States this plant grows wild but is not harvested or utilized in medicine here.  In Ayurvedic medicine from India it is highly placed for its liver protective properties.  It is believed to help prevent aging, rejuvenate hair, bones and is used for all ailments of the liver.
Remarks: believed to be a tonic of the mind
From: India and Southern Unites States
Plant parts used: Ariel parts
Suggested dosage: 250mg to 1 gram may be used as a tea

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) best know as an herb for treating conditions like water retention, expectorant to clear mucus from the lungs and promotes menstruation.  We are interested for its estrogen like phyto chemicals that have been shown to slow down the growth of prostate tumors.
Remarks: women should not use if they have breast or ovarian cancer
From: North America
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: confer with your health care professional

Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is usually used for its tonic properties.  Historically it was used for circulation and liver disorders.  Having a balancing effect on hormones this plant also helps with mother’s milk and menopausal complaints.  Blessed Thistle has and antibacterial and antitumor activity.
Remarks: do not confuse with Milk Thistle
From: Mediterranean, Portugal and Iran
Plant part used: whole plant
Suggested dosage: as tea three times daily

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) used most often in Dentistry to reduce plaque.  Used by Native Americans as an insect repellent as well as body paint it found use in more modern times as an herb for skin cancer.  In the 1800’s it was used topically for breast tumor treatment.  Please seek the advice on use for breast tumors and read remarks below.
Remarks: not for internal use may cause nausea and narcosis also learn how to use as topical; this herb should only be placed on cancerous skin because it can burn
From: Canada and U.S.A.
Plant parts used: rhizome
Suggested dosage: use topically 

Blue Flag (Iris versicolor) a pretty plant that is better know by the name Iris.  Fresh root and leaves are quite toxic on this plant that usage should be monitored by a Naturopathic Physician for your safety.  The seeds are the active part for cancer and have been shown to inhibit the DNA synthesis of cancer cells.
Remarks: extremely toxic fresh plant parts
From: Southern Europe
Plant parts used: seed
Suggested dosage: only under professional supervision

Boswellan (Boswellia serrata) used mostly for its anti-inflammatory actions with arthritis and osteoarthritis it has been found to have antitumor capabilities as well.  Boswellan is usually used with other herbs in combinations, usually turmeric and licorice, which seems to have a synergistic effect.   This is an old herb that has some modern world applications.
Remarks: highly regarded plant in Ayurvedic medicine
From: India
Plant part used: gum resin
Suggested dosage: 350mg three times daily

Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) is usually used for its laxative or diuretic properties when conditions of the kidney or constipation are a factor.  It has been found that this herb has two components that have antitumor actions. Used in the Hoxsey cancer formula.
Remarks: considered safe for use as a laxative
From: Northern hemisphere, Africa and South America
Plant parts used: root and berry
Suggested dosage: berry 2-4 grams as tea, root ½-2 grams as tea

Burdock (Arctium lappa) has been used been used for its detoxification properties.  It has been know as a blood purifies that remove toxins that help improve the look of the skin.  It has some antitumor and antimutagenic properties for cancer as well. In the 1940’s inventor George de Mestral while walking his dog noticed that Burdock seeds stuck to its coat.  This was the inspiration for Velcro.
Remarks: should not be used by pregnant women due to uterine stimulation. If you are wild crafting be carful as Burdock resembles the Deadly Nightshade plant.
From: Europe and America
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: 2 to 6 grams up to three times daily or as a tea

Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) leaves are used as rain hats while the rhizome is a cardiac tonic and expectorant.  Helps with coughs and acts as an analgesic for tumors.
Remarks: has some antitumor properties contains alkaloids that may be toxic so consult your health care professional before use.
From: Europe and North & West Asia
Plant parts used: leaf and root
Suggested dosage: refer to your health care professional due to heptotoxic alkaloid content

Cat’s Claw (uncaria tomentosa) helps to stop intestinal permeability that is thought to be a possible cause of rheumatoid arthritis.  Normally used to treat Crohns disease this plant is very antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in action.  Sterols combined with the phytochemical quinovic acid and glycosides are considered the most potent anti-inflammatory agents in the plant world.  The immune stimulating properties of this herb are what are being explored for treatment in cancer research.
Remarks:  may reduce blood pressure, strength can vary with the time of harvest
From: Peru
Plant part used: leaf
Suggested dosage: 500 mg to 1 gram per day

Celandine (Chelidonium majus) should be considered when either a viral cause of cancer is suspected or there is an enlargement of the liver. Traditional Chinese Medicine used it for irregular menses and the root was considered a remedy for toothache.
Remarks: should be used under professional supervision only
From: Europe and Western Asia
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: take under professional supervision

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) grows as a fungus on Birch trees and is used for the betulinic acid that is produced as it grows.  This acid is converted from the betulin found in the bark of the tree.  Studies have shown it to be as effective with less toxicity than the conventional treatments for melanoma used today.
Remarks: thought to slow or prevent the proliferation of the cancer cells
From: USA
Plant parts used: fungi
Suggested dosage: 1 ounce of fungi to 12 ounces of water simmered 30 minutes and steep for 2-4 hours

Chaparral (Larrea tridentate) used for treatment and symptoms of arthritis, venereal disease, respiratory conditions and as a blood purifier.  It is being used and studied for cancer due to the ingredient nor-dihihydroguairetic (NDGA) which inhibits the ability of cancer cells to produce energy and respiration but due to the potential toxicity (liver and kidney)  only use under professional care.
Remarks: may interact with MAO Inhibitors so consult your health care practitioner
From: California, Mexico and in some areas of the Mediterranean and Australia
Plant parts used: not found
Suggested dosage: not given use with professional supervision only

Cleavers (Galium aparine) is usually used with enlarged lymph nodes or when a diuretic is needed. Flavoring liquors and wines are its most familiar usage but has been used as a cancer herb by the renowned herbalist in Europe Maria Treben as well as other noted practitioners.  Cleavers has a very high Vitamin C content which new research has shown high doses of this vitamin have reduced tumor growth and size by as much as 50%.
Remarks: for diabetics use juice from this plant with caution as it might affect blood sugar levels.
From: Europe and North Africa
Plant parts used: leaf and root
Suggested dosage: 2-4 grams as a tea two to three times daily

Coleus (Coleus forskohlii) used most often for its positive actions on our cardiovascular system by improving the functions of the heart muscle itself as well as relaxing the arterial walls for better blood pressure control.  Coleus also helps to keep the platelets in our blood from clumping.  A powdered form is being tested for help with Asthma sufferers to decrease a dependency on steroid inhalers.  It also seems to have cancer suppressing actions that are under study now.
Remarks: used in Ayuvedic medicine from India
From: India, Nepal and Thailand
Plant parts used: not found
Suggested dosage: 3 to 15 mg divided dose

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) called the Caterpillar Mushroom in China because the fungal spore lands on a caterpillar and then consumes it retaining the shape, no caterpillar is left.  Highly revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine and now getting notice in the west.  It is considered the finest of the immune supporting mushrooms.  Recent research has found it might also be cytotoxic to cancer cells as well.  This humble fungi has beneficial effects on immune, endocrine, respiratory, renal, cardiovascular, hepatic and nervous systems as well as our immunological response to disease. It is was very expensive until just a few years ago due to the harvest ground was on the side of Tibetan mountains and involved a lot of risk.  Now technology has allowed the mushroom to be grown in vats with the same phyto chemical makeup as the wild, this now brings it to an affordable range.
Remarks: Chemo and Radiation therapies add a tremendous load on an already strained immune system.  Common sense would tend to suggest it prudent to build the bodies defenses.
From: Wild Tibet, manufactured in many places including Hawaii
Plant parts used: whole plant
Suggested dosage: up to 3 grams per day

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is the blight of American lawns.  We spend millions of dollars per year trying to eradicate it when it was always a useful medicinal plant.  Used for Gallstones, low urine output, edema, constipation, and even in some smoking cessation products.  The main effect is as a detoxifier and is very supportive of kidney function.  It is also used in the treatment of Diabetes and Cancer.  During Prohibition this plant was a favorite for the production of wine.
Remarks: can lower blood sugar levels so monitor if you are Diabetic
From: Northern Hemisphere
Plant part used: all parts
Suggested dosage: 4-10 grams of dried leaf as a tea, 2-8 grams of dried root

Echinacea (Angustifolia Purpurea) was a mainstay herb for the North American Native Americans.  It was used for everything from open wounds to spider bites and scarlet fever.  We appreciate these traits but are more interested here in its ability to stimulate the antitumor cells and its cytotoxic effects on cancer cells.
Remarks: can be taken as a tonic for its immune enhancing and antibacterial actions.
From: Central North America
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: for tonic use up to 1 gram three times daily for cancer treatment higher doses but check with your health care professional

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is best known in the flavoring of wine or liquor.  We are more interested in its actions with cancer along with the beneficial actions on the lymphatic system and kidneys.
Remarks: be very careful with this herb as stems and leaves fresh can contain enough cyanide to kill so use professional advice before use
From: Northern Hemisphere
Plant parts used: flowers, berries, root and bark
Suggested dosage: use only with professional guidance

Espinheira Santa (Maytenus ilicifolia) is used mostly for its analgesic, antispasmodic and antiseptic uses as well as diuretic or detoxifier.  This plant also has shown some antileukemic and antitumorous properties.  More scientific research need to be done but is used for its cancer fighting properties in Argentina, Brazil and other South American cultures.
Remarks: used to settle the stomach and seems to have minor side effects.
From: Central and South America
Plant parts used: leaf
Suggested dosage: 500mg to 1 gram daily

Garlic (Allium sativum) is one of the most used cooking ingredients around the world with good reason.  This amazing addition to our food is considered Natures Penicillin and has been used medicinally as long as we have foraged and consumed plants.  Used medicinally for high blood pressure, cholesterol control, dysentery, tuberculosis.   A favorite of Maurice Messegue who treated hopeless Asthma cases as well as other illnesses by using garlic, and other herbs, in a foot bath or full body bath due to Garlic’s ability to be absorbed through the skin and enter the blood stream directly.
Remarks: seems to slow tumor growth
From: Central Asia and now all over the world
Plant parts used: root bulbs
Suggested dosage: one clove two times daily or as a foot bath

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) noted mostly for use as a spice it is also one of the best herbal remedies for motion sickness shown in tests to be as effective as Dramamine.  Animal studies have shown Ginger capable of shrinking liver tumors.
Remarks: Ginger tea is also a good expectorant to clear the sinuses
From: Southeast: Asia, India, China, West Africa and the Caribbean
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: 250mg-1000mg up to three times daily or as a tea

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a very revered longevity herbal root in China.  It has a long and glorious history of promoting health, helping restore strength to the invalid.  It is an Adaptogen that affects many systems in our body.  Unlike Siberian Ginseng it should not be used continuously but for only two to four weeks with an equal amount of off time of nonuse.  Tests in China have shown a four year life extension for people with terminal cancers. This is probably the most written about and studied plant in the medicinal herbal world. The older the plant the more valuable having sold for as much as $10,000 per ounce.
Remarks: this plant has been called More Valuable than Gold
From: China, Siberia and North America
Plant part used: root
Suggested dosage: 200-600 mg per day

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is an herb that has a long history of use by Native Americans and the early settlers in America.  The popularity as a cure all, which it is not, was so high it has endangered the wild plant.  Purchase from an organically grown source.  The herb has immune stimulating as well as being antibiotic in actions.  The part effective for cancer is the berberine content which has shown shrinking actions on tumors.
Remarks: if you have blood pressure, diabetes have had a stroke or glaucoma you should check with you professional health care practitioner
From: Canada and Northeastern USA
Plant parts used: root
Suggested Dosage: 1/2 -1 grams up to three times daily

Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) is better known for the improvement of memory or as a topical wound healer.  It is now being studied in India for use in treating cancer as well as varicose veins, memory enhancement, longevity, wound healing. This is an amazing plant with an exceptionally long history of use in both India and China.  It was said that the renowned Chinese herbalist Li Ching-Yun who lived to be a recorded 256 years is thought to use this as one of the herbs in his daily formula. The mechanics of how it helps is still not known but since this herb is valued in Ayuvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine as longevity herb it should be considered as a useful addition to treatment.
Remarks: widely used in China and India now emerging in the U.S.A.
From: India, Central and Southeast Asia
Plant parts used: leaf
Suggested dosage: 650 mg up to three times daily or as a tea

Graviola (Annona muricata) also know as Soursop this plant is used in preserves and soups as well as to treat fever and diarrhea.  All parts of this plant have uses depending on what part of the world you live in.  National Cancer Institute found the leaves and stems have cytotoxic actions against cancer cells and in one study it was show to be more potent that Adriamycin against colon cancer.
Remarks: like most plant medicines more research needs to be done.
From: tropical Americas
Plant part used: all
Suggested dosage: depends on which condition you are treating

Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus) is another plant that is best used under supervision of a health care professional as some of its parts can be toxic.  It is used for liver stimulant and to help with digestion and bile stimulation as well as an anti-inflammatory for rheumatism.  For most conditions there are safer herbs as diuretics or bile stimulants.  Celandine has been show to have anticancer and antitumor properties.
Remarks: contaminated product was found by some manufacturers so know the quality of your supplier.
From: Europe and Western Asia
Plant parts used: all parts the sap is only used for wart removal
Suggested dosage: check with your health care professional

Guggul (Commiphora mukul) has a stimulating effect on the thyroid to produce more thyroid hormone. This is best used in conjunction with Maca which has the same effect on the pituitary gland.  The action we are interested in for this section is the lowering of LDL cholesterol while raising the HDL levels.
Remarks: comes from the Myrrh tree mentioned in the Bible, you can use a Basal Body Temperature test (first thing in the morning, before you get up, check your temperature under your armpit) should run around 97.2 to 97.5 degrees for most people
From: India, North Africa and Central Asia
Plant parts used: resin
Suggested dosage: 100-500 mg of Guggulipid per day

Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) is a member of the rose family that has very beneficial berries.  Used for centuries it fell out of use during the time of the Plague in Europe.  Used mostly for urinary issues in old it is used for its much more powerful cardiac properties.  The contractions of the heart muscle are strengthened with less oxygen needed while the arteries leading to the heart muscle are opened for better flow.
Remarks: used in Europe as a Commission E approved heart treatment
From: North Africa, Europe and India
Plant parts used: berries
Suggested dosage: 500 mg twice daily

Lapacho (Tabebuia avellanedae) is a South American herb that seems to give a beneficial action against solid tumors such as Walker carcinomas.  Suppresses and reduces these tumors and appears to be effective against leukemia.
Remarks: usually used in combination with Yerba Mate but should only be used with professional supervision due to some toxic ingredients
From: Northern Mexico to Argentina
Plant parts used: inner bark
Suggested dosage: none found other than used as a tea

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) the stuff that makes such great candy flavors has a long history of use with bronchial conditions and other respiratory complaints.  It is a bronchial dilator that helps to open the airways while helping to heal stomach ulcers.  Licorice also has anti-inflammatory properties and help to stimulate our immune system. Licorice is a very powerful antioxidant and helps with both heart disease and cancer.
Remarks: extended use can cause elevated blood pressure and slight potassium depletion.
From: America, Asia and Europe
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: 500 mg but usually taken with Ginger Root as a tea

Manaca (Brunfelsia hopeana) contains two interesting alkaloids, aesculetin and scopoletin that have an anti-inflammatory action as well as being analgesic in action.  Manaca has been found to be anti-tumor for cancer and to stimulate the lymphatic system to help our body get rid of waste and fight disease.
Remarks:  may cause anxiety and increase heart rate and is not recommended for consumption in large doses
From:  Amazon rain forest
Plant part used:  root
Suggested dosage:  4 grams to 5 grams per day

Mandrake (Podophylluim peltatum) is the famous herb from the Harry Potter Greenhouse with a long history of use.  Now studied as a cure for cancer it is a very potent herb and should only be used with professional supervision.  Historically it is used to treat: digestion, skin problems, chronic liver disease as well as fevers and uterine disorders. Mandrake seems to have properties that are effective against small cell lung cancer and some benefit is shown with testicular cancers.
Remarks: this is a very powerful and dangerous herb use only under qualified supervision
From: Northern Italy, Yugoslavia and Southern Europe
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: none very lethal herb use only under professional supervision

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) mostly known for its actions to protect the liver from damage and to help with regrowth.  While this herb has a long history of use for cirrhosis and hepatitis of the liver recent studies have shown it has a positive action on breast cancer enzymes.
Remarks: helps with chemo and radiation therapy one of the only herbal remedies for the death-cap mushroom, seeds can be toxic
From: America and S.W. Europe
Plant parts used: root and plant
Suggested dosage: 200-500mg per day

Mullaca (Physalis angulata) is used locally to treat diabetes as well as rheumatism and malaria but there is not much scientific information on these uses.  The place it has here is for its expectorant and sedative action that should be of help with many respiratory disorders.  Mullaca stimulates the immune system.
Remarks:  shown by tests to be effective against the polio and HIV virus as well as having antibacterial properties.
From:  Peru, Brazil and the Amazon Basin
Plant part used:  whole plant and root
Suggested dosage:  as a tea, one cup twice daily

Mutamba (Guazuma ulmifolia) used in many South American countries for breathing disorders but has use for Alopecia, Dysentery, liver problems and many other conditions. Brazilian research has shown dried leaf extract had a 97% cytotoxic action on cancer cells. 
Remarks: although used in many Central and South American countries I could not find much on plant safety.
From: Central and South American
Plant parts used: bark and leaves
Suggested dosage: none found used as a tea

Orange Peel (Citrus aurantium) us associated with food or beverage flavoring it bears some consideration for cancer.  This normally thrown away part of the orange contains a terpene compound, D-limonene, helps to increase the effects of some cytotoxic drugs as well as a direct effect on some forms of cancer cells.
Remarks: like the silk of corn we usually throw this useful part away it does contain Synephrine which is much like Ephedrine which acts as a stimulant
From: China, South Vietnam and similar varieties in Mediterranean and Florida
Plant parts used: peel
Suggested dosage: usually added to teas to flavor not as main treatment ingredient

Pau D’ Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa) sources can be unreliable so purchase from a reputable source to give this herb a chance.  With antiparasitic, antifungal and antibacterial actions this is used to fight a variety of infections.  Pau D’ Arco has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory action as well as being an anticancer herb.
Remarks:  not recommended for long term or continuous use, has some blood thinning activity
From:  South America
Plant part used:  bark and heartwood
Suggested dosage:  1 gram to 4 grams per day in divided dose

Peru Balsam (Myroxylon pereirae) for open wounds this herb has been used for topical applications to stop bleeding and heal open wounds. It is mildly antiseptic and antibacterial and is thought to help promote cellular growth.
Remarks: This herb should not be taken orally as it may cause kidney damage in large amounts and should not be used on breasts of nursing mothers.
From: tropical regions of the Americas
Plant parts used: resin
Suggested dosage: Suggested for topical use only for no more than one week duration.

Pipsissewa (Chimaphila) is also known as Bitter Wintergreen this plant was used by Eli Jones for breast cancer but has been also been used for lymphatic cancers.  Contains arbutin it is an effective urinary tract antiseptic.  Not a common herb but worth considering if conditions or cancer type merits it.
Remarks: not for prolonged use due to hydroquinone content
From: Northern Hemisphere
Plant parts used: Ariel parts
Suggested dosage: none found

Pokeweed (Phytolacca Americana) has been used for breast, throat and uterine cancers traditionally and still finds use to day.  When indications such as swelling of the lymph glands are present it is often used in combination with other herb.  Poke does have antiviral properties that have made it a tool in nature’s treasures for a long time.
Remarks: Caution should be used and only under the care of a qualified health care professional as all parts of Pokeweed can be toxic.
From: Central and North America
Plant parts used: Arial parts and root
Suggested dosage: use only under supervision by a professional

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) is also called Trifolium and has been used to treat conditions such as whooping cough, bronchitis, sexually transmitted disease and reduction of menopausal symptoms.  For such a common plant it has been used medicinally for a long time almost anywhere it is found.  Topically and as a tea it is used for skin conditions and cancerous growths.  Internally the same plant mechanisms have also shown some antitumor activities.
Remarks: has some anticoagulant properties do not use if on blood thinners
From: Europe
Plant parts used: Ariel parts
Suggested dosage: up to 4 grams of tops up to three times daily as tea

Rose Hips (Rosa species) were often eaten years ago and were the best vitamin C source in many areas. Vitamin C has a beneficial effect on Cancers and is thought to reduce tumor growth.  As with any invasive disorder any thing we can do to nurture our overall health will help our chance of survival.
Remarks: contains: vitamin A, B-complex, C, E, D and P as well as iron, sodium, potassium, sulphur, silica and niacin also it contains 1700–2000 mg per 100 g in the dried product
From: where ever roses are grown
Plant parts used: hip is the promaceous fruit
Suggested dosage: as a tea or eaten fresh off plant or dried

Samambaia (Polypodium decumanum) is used locally to treat chronic coughs, healing the pancreas and as a treatment for cancer.  This fern seems to have an immune modulating action and offers some help in gout and rheumatism.  Being an expectorant gives it some use in treating chest colds, bronchitis and other conditions of bronchial obstruction.
Remarks:  Shown to have fatty acids and other phyto-chemicals that might be helpful to psoriasis.
From:  Peru, Brazil, Guyana and Mexico
Plant part used:  rhizome and aerial parts
Suggested dosage:  3 grams to 5 grams per day

Sarsaparilla Root (Smilax medica) has found use traditionally to treat leprosy and syphilis as well as the Old West drink.  Now it is used for its ability to reduce heat and inflammation.  It is also used to treat psoriasis and is thought to help protect the liver. Sarsaparilla is included here for its help with side effect relief with chemo and radiation therapies.
Remarks:  may increase the absorption of digitalis, not recommended for use with kidney disease.
From:  Mexico, India, China and Central America
Plant part used:  root
Suggested dosage:  as a tea one cup up to three times daily

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa gerrulata) is normally used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP) but should be considered with prostate cancer.  Hormone reactive cancers like prostate cancer can be helped by the blocking action of Saw Palmetto as it helps to stop conversion to DHT as well as promote the breakdown and elimination of excess testosterone.
Remarks: some plants found in Florida believed to be 500-700 years old
From: Southern United States
Plant parts used: berries
Suggested dosage: ½ to 1 gram per day

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) most know for its antidepressant actions currently.  This herb was most noted historically for its wound healing ability.  Leaves are used in salads and to flavor liquors.  It is also being studied in the treatment of HIV infections.  We are interested in it for its antitumor properties that are being tested now.
Remarks: when used for depression watch dosage, can cause photosensitivity
From: Europe to Central China
Plant parts used: above ground parts
Suggested dosage: 2-4 grams per day historically taken as tea

Suma (Pfaffia paniculata) is used in Brazil as a tonic for energy and overall health.  Being an Adaptogen it tends to balance systems more than to stimulate them.  It is thought to be an oxygenator at the cellular level while also working as a mild anti-inflammatory and analgesic.  Please note that this herb, although called Brazilian ginseng is not related to the ginseng family of plants.
Remarks:  also used topically to heal wounds
From:  Amazon region, called “para todo” meaning “for all things”
Plant part used:  root
Suggested dosage:  4 grams to 5 grams per day in divided doses

Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) is much like the Venus’s Flytrap in actions and properties as well as being a carnivorous plant but sometimes more available. Traditionally is used for  bronchitis, asthma and other repertory disorders. 
Remarks: provides gene repair as well as being anticancer in actions
From: every where except Antarctica
Plant parts used: roots and flowers
Suggested dosage: 1-2 grams per day or as a tea

Sweet Violet (Viola odorata) is also known as Heartsease.  A beautiful plant that is used in salads, as eyewash, a tea for varicose veins, mild laxative, as well as the root for bronchitis.  The leaves are used for breast and lung cancer traditionally and have had a long history of this usage.
Remarks: all parts of this herb are used
From: South, Central and Western Europe
Plant part used: leaf for cancer but all parts have medicinal properties
Suggested dosage: not more than 1 gram for root leaf as tea 2 to 3 times daily

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is not only a favorite herb of the famous James Beard the food expert and a well used addition to French cooking but it also has some antitumor properties.  Tarragon contains some rutin which has been shown to strengthen capillary walls.
Remarks: a marvelous addition to the culinary field and healthy to
From: Europe to Asia and North America to Mexico as well as India
Plant parts used: leaf
Suggested dosage: to taste and enjoy Parsley is also a good addition

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) a fascinating spice used extensively in Indian cooking. It is not only a very effective anti-inflammatory herb but seems to have a neuro protective action that gives India one fourth the Alzheimer’s rate of the United States.  Research has shown it to also have very beneficial actions that prevent or inhibit cancer cells.
Remarks: the easiest way is to incorporate it in you food
From: tropical monsoon areas and India
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: ½-1 gram several times daily

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) although this herb has smell like old sweat socks it has been used for its calming effects.  It is listed here because there is some evidence of antitumor actions.
Remarks: if you need an herbal sedative you might consider this herb however start with a low dose and increase slowly
From: Europe and Western Asia
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: usually as a tea but start with low dose

Venus’s Flytrap (Dioneae muscipula) is a carnivorous plant that is a hazard to arachnids and insects it is the basis for the extract carnivore.  Used by Dr Helmut Keller from Germany as a treatment for cancer.  With at least three cancer active ingredients this plant is well worth your time and research.  Venus’s Flytrap has been shown to be a nontoxic treatment.
Remarks: Sundew can be a substitute for Venus’s Flytrap
From: North and South Carolina in the USA and now transplanted to many countries
Plant parts used: not found
Suggested dosage: not found

Violet (Viola odorata) is a beautiful flower that also is useful to help with swollen glands,   Most of the its historical use was in the area of bronchial disorders including upper and lower repertory tract infection.  It also has found some use treating insomnia and sleep disorders.
Remarks: has properties that seem to reduce swollen organs including tumors
From: Southern, Central and Western Europe
Plant parts used: leaf and flowers
Suggested dosage: as a tea 2-3 time per day

White Willow (Salix alba) is more commonly know as the source for Aspirin.  Used for the same conditions as Aspirin White Willow will be slower to give relief, but longer acting and will not cause stomach ulcers.  Mostly used for its pain relieving ability it has some other useful traits such as restoring bone marrow function after chemotherapy as well as a positive effect on leukemia.
Remarks: has been traditionally used for; nervous insomnia, arthritis and the branches were used for weaving
Form: Europe, Western Asia and USA
Plant part used: bark
Suggested dosage: 1-3 grams three times daily or as a tea

Winter Cherry (Withania somnifera) is known as Aswagandha in the Ayurvedic medicine from India.  It is used for its restorative benefits on many systems in our bodies and is highly revered as one of the best tonics for long term good health. One of the unique properties of this plant is its ability to protect cells from chemical damage.  It also seems to enhance the effect of radiation therapy by making cancer cell more sensitive to radiation. 
Remarks: one of the classes of herbs called longevity or Adaptogen herbs do not use large doses if pregnant.
From: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and   Bangladesh
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: 600-1000 mg twice daily

Woad (Isatis tinctoria) is used in China for mumps to scarlet fever but of more interest is its antiviral and anticancer properties. Noted for use in fighting viral infections this herb also is an anti-inflammatory that helps with the liver as well as cancer.
Remarks: topically the leaves are used to heal wounds and stop bleeding
From: Eastern Europe and Western Asia
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: none found

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is an herb used fresh in salads as a digestive and as a cleansing herb.  Most of its historical use has been as a wound healer that stops blood flow on open wounds or shaving cuts. The roots were used to build muscle mass and to treat cancer by the Native Americans.  There is some rational for its use as it does seem to help with the side effects of radiation therapy.
Remarks: use only in small doses if pregnant
From: America, Europe and Western Asia
Plant parts used: leaf, flower and root
Suggested dosage: none listed, usually used as a poultice for wounds

Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus) when young it is used in salads but gets bitter when old.   Yellow Dock has a more important use by being able to bind with and help with the removal of heavy metals from our bodies.  This herb helps with digestion by stimulating bile production.
Remarks: Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine form India also believe in cleansing the blood when treating cancer
From: temperate and Arctic regions
Plant parts used: root and rhizome
Suggested dosage: none found

Zedoria (Curcuma zedoaria) used traditionally for digestion and increasing bile production. Often mixed with other digestive herbs and in the past has been used for nervous conditions.  Belonging with Ginger and Turmeric these roots have anticancer properties and seem to be especially effective for cervical and hepatic cancers.
Remarks: help with immunity as well as protective of leukocytes damaged in radiation therapy
From: Asia and India
Plant parts used: root
Suggested dosage: as a tea three times daily

Countries with tea drinkers have a higher incident of stomach cancer though to be due to the high tannin content of teas except for Britain where they add milk which neutralizes the tannins so add milk.

Vitamin C and other antioxidants are being used with some success for slowing the growth of certain cancers and as always the best source is from the food we choose to eat.  Modern research has validated this treatment and since there is no toxicity concerns, why not?

An Illinois real estate agent at fifty-eight developed lung cancer and with the help of Dr. Keith Block of the Chicago area she began a regiment of nutritional and herbal therapy. Combined with chemo and radiation and in spite of the cancer spreading she held on to the belief she would beat it.  Daily visualization of the Doctor telling her the cancer was gone eventually became her reality.  Belief is a powerful medicine and inexpensive to try.

30 day Grape Diet is the reported cure for a Salt Lake City, Utah Nurse that had breast cancer.  She went to a Sanitarium that assisted her with a diet of nothing but grapes for 30 days and reportedly had no sign of the cancer when she left.

Beet Root juice was reported to have been used with good success by a Hungarian Physician, Dr. Alexander Ferenczi for stomach and other cancers.  His work did not get translated until the mid 1980’s but he would give as much beet juice as could be tolerated with some success on various cancers.

The Russian use a fungal growth on the Birch and Beech trees is used to treat cancer.  Usually taken as a tea 2-3 times per day, it seems to soften hard tumors and shrinks them while reducing pain.

Doctors at the LDS hospital, in Salt Lake City, Utah, in had an 85 year old visitor that suffered from tumors on right cheek and neck. Given the option of treatment with chemo and radiation therapies he decided to not undergo it at his age.  Going back to his home where he started to treat it with a tea made from Chaparral three or four times per day.  A year later no chemo or radiation was needed because no tumors remained.  He moved to Mesa, Arizona where at 96 the tumors returned to take his life. Relatives thought his faith in Chaparral was misplaced and did not provide him with any so he could make tea to resume his self treatment.

Comfrey and Calendula is credited with a 90% success rate by Russian Doctors in a test of 170 patients with severe gastrointestinal ulcers.  This was give as a tea two to three times per day. Please note: Comfrey is not recommended for prolonged, continued internal use due to some ingredients being thought to cause potential damage to the liver.  Use the advice of your health care professional.

Comfrey was the savior of an Air Force Colonel who was afflicted by a tumor in his jawbone.  With the assistance of his wife he began treatment with Comfrey tea.  After the tumor was cured he became an advocate of the herb.  Please read note above.

In 1863 a West Hartford, Connecticut man Mr. Truman Woodford had a growth on the side of his eye.  He went to 6 different Physicians with not change except the growth continues to cause pain and disfigurement.  Eventually it entered the eye and the side of his face in the temple area.  In 1865 he heard of a tea of Red Clover being taken to cure cancer.  Trying this eventually removed the tumor, cured the growth in his eye and got rid of the pain.  Late a distant relative developed breast cancer and had the tumor removed.  She later had the other breast effected with a tumor and remembered the treatment of her cousin.  Taking the same tea she to watched a reduction and finally the end of the frightening tumor.

Black Salve is sold today but its basis is in the rural roots of eastern America.  The berries are mashed and then root (Bloodroot) is added to vegetable shortening to make a salve. After it has steeped for awhile you let it cool.  It is hailed as a cure for skin cancer. This one comes from the fine book “Nuts, Berries’ and Seeds” by John Heinerman an author of other excellent books.