Nutraceuticals and Herbals as Adjuvants in the Chemotherapy of Cancer? A Review

Abstract

Cancer is the third leading cause of death worldwide. The current cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy resulting in the development of unintended adverse effects that reduce the quality of life and economic burden in oncology patients. Nutraceuticals along with food value have natural bioactive components that have reassuring therapeutic properties in several diseases. Herbs of significant interest have been proven to prevent and treat various types of cancer and also reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The efficacy of nutraceuticals and herbs such as chemopreventive and chemotherapy is highlighted. We conclude that further studies are required to countersign the targeted approaches and efficacy of herbs and nutraceuticals in cancer patients as adjuvant therapy.