Herbs and spices are still widely used in traditional medicine to treat all sorts of ailments, from toothache to metabolic disorders, and for good reason. Large numbers of active plant compounds with medicinal properties, such as carotenoids, flavonoids and lignans, are typically found in several varieties of herbs and spices.

Besides the usual antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, herbs and spices are also known to exhibit anti-cancer potential. Given invasive cancer treatments like chemotherapy, which also harms healthy immune cells, it is becoming increasingly important to promote natural medicines and remedies that can help cure and prevent cancer as safely as possible.

Add these eight herbs and spices to your diet to strengthen the immune system and keep cancer at bay.

Rosemary

Rosemary contains two active ingredients that act as powerful antioxidants and anti-cancer agents: caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid. These two compounds can prevent cellular and DNA damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to cancer cell growth. Rosemary is also rich in carnosol, a compound that can minimize and eventually eliminate tumors.

Parsley

Myristicin, the volatile oil in parsley, can help prevent the formation of tumors in the lungs. This oil can also neutralize carcinogens like tobacco smoke and minimize any damage caused to the body. Parsley also contains apigenin, a plant compound that can prevent the growth of tumors.

Turmeric

Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, is known to have anti-cancer activities due to the presence of phenolic compounds. In particular, curcumin targets factors linked to cancer development including DNA damage and chronic inflammation. Because of the incredible anti-cancer potential of turmeric, research shows that high turmeric intake is linked to a reduced risk of lung, breast and stomach cancers.

Garlic

Garlic contains cancer-fighting compounds like allicin, flavonoids and selenium that can delay cancer cell growth. Garlic also helps reduce the number of cancer cells, repair damaged DNA and enhance overall immunity.

Oregano

This fragrant Mediterranean herb is widely used for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. But it can also slow cancer cell growth and induce programmed cell death thanks to the phytochemical known as quercetin. Oregano is especially potent against colon cancer and prostate cancer.

Cayenne pepper

Chili peppers are popular remedies for digestive problems. But a particular variety known as Cayenne pepper also has anti-cancer potential thanks to high levels of capsaicin. A powerful antioxidant, this plant compound slows the growth of cancer cells in the prostate gland. Capsaicin can also minimize the size of prostate cancer tumors.

Ginger

A popular cancer-fighting spice, ginger can help prevent the growth of cancer cells in the colon and ovaries. Gingerol, the active compound in ginger, can also shrink prostate cancer tumors.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is typically used to add flavor to herbal teas and dishes, but this spice also has anti-cancer potential. Research shows that cinnamon extract can inhibit tumor growth and prevent the spread of cancer cells thanks to the spice’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In particular, cinnamon can protect against cervical cancer and colon cancer.

No single herb or spice can prevent cancer completely. However, you can expect to have a decreased risk of cancer over time if you regularly include cancer-fighting plants in your diet. The effects won’t be visible overnight, but you’ll be less susceptible to cancer and chronic diseases later in life. For best results, use only organic herbs and spices that have not been treated with pesticides or artificial fertilizers.

Sources:

Active.com

VeryWellHealth.com