QUELQUES PREUVES CLINIQUES ET EXPÉRIMENTALES PLANTES ET CHAMPIGNONS ANTI CANCER

SECTION EN CONSTRUCTION:

QUELQUES EXTRAITS DU LIVRE CANCER-SCIENCE

Seventy percent of the plants identified as having anti-cancer characteristics by the US National Cancer Institute are found only in tropical rainforests. Some examples of rainforest plants responsible for 25 percent of the drugs used by Western medicine are quinine (cinchona tree, to treat malaria), novacaine as an anesthetic, (from coca),  cortisone (wild yam), vincristine and vinblastine (rosy periwinkle, used to fight leukemia and Hodgkin’s disease). Hereinunder some additional anti cancer medicinal plants and flowers.

DIAGNOSIS: Basal cell carcinoma of 10 years’ duration invading the scapula:

WITH AN ADAPTED “CAM” STRATEGY, THE IMMUNE-ENZYME SYSTEMS AND SPECIFIC BOTANICALS CAN ENCOURAGE MALIGNANT CELLS TO EITHER REDIFFERENTIATE (re-educate, re-normalize),  DIE WITHIN, OR DIE IN AN ULCERATED ERUPTION PROCESS as shown above.

BLOODROOT: Native Americans, early settlers and herbal practitioners have prescribed Bloodroot for myriad medical conditions from skin cancers to sore throats. Its most persistent and possibly valid use takes advantage of the flesh destroying properties of the root juice or powered root for treating conditions of the skin such as ringworm, warts, polyps, fungal growths and the like. One of the constitutents of bloodroot is sanguinarine, it is showing results as an anesthetic, antibacterial, anti-cholinesterase, anti-edemic, anti-gingivitic, anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, antioxidant, anti-periodontic, anti-plaque, antiseptic, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, fungicide, gastrocontractant, hypertensive, pesticide, respiratory stimulant and more. Another important constituent is Berberine (also found in Goldenseal, Oregon Grape and Honeysuckle) which is showing promise in fighting brain tumors and many other cancers. Bloodroot is used in alternative medicine in very small doses, mainly for bronchial problems and severe throat infections. The root is used in many pharmaceuticals, mixed with other compounds to treat heart problems, dental applications (to inhibit plaque), and to treat migraines. Bloodroot paste is used externally for skin diseases, warts, and tumors.

RED CLOVER: has also shown anticancer activity, poultices of the herb have been used as local applications to cancerous growths. Internally, the Red Clover plant is used as an alternative medicine for skin complaints such as eczema and psoriasis, cancers of the breast, ovaries and lymphatic system, chronic degenerative diseases, gout, whooping cough and dry coughs.Different anti-cancer formulas such as the Hoxsey formulas use this plant.

MISTLETOE: A KEY EUROPEAN CANCER BOTANICAL. The first "Anthroposophical mistletoe medicines" were made by a Dr. Ita Wegman in 1917. Working with a pharmacist, she developed an injectible form of mistletoe. Scientific papers were presented at an Anthroposophical conference in 1920 and then in 1935. (Dr. Wegman established the Society for Cancer Research in Arlesheim). Laboratory studies have found that mistletoe destroys cancer cells and stimulates the immune system and has been incorporated into the care of cancer patients in Europe for over 80 years. The use of mistletoe to treat cancer has been studied in Europe in more than 30 clinical trials and mistletoe therapy is thought to be the most commonly used complementary cancer treatment in Europe today. Improvements in survival and quality of life have been reported. But the FDA and its federal agents have raised doubts about the effectiveness of this plant and have up to now not recognized its anti-cancer therapeutic effects, and can not be used outside of clinical trials. When they exist. To date and to our knowledge, the only one is sponsored by by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) which is part of the National Institutes of Health. In this framework, a clinical cancer trial of mistletoe, given in combination with the drug gemcitabine has been approved. However, American mistletoe is biologically different from European mistletoe.

Turmeric holds a high place in Ayurvedic medicine as a "cleanser of the body" and today science is finding a growing list of diseased conditions which turmeric's active ingredient heals. According to University of Chicago scientists, curcumin inhibits a cancer-provoking bacteria (H. Pylor) associated with gastric and colon cancer (Magad GB). In Madurai, this yellow powder proved to be healthy in blocking the growth of melanoma tumor cells. In this part of the world, there is a tradition that whereby mothers put this yellow powder on the shaved heads of children doing their puja to prevent skin-cancer. The University of Texas Cancer center is examining the basis of this observation (July 2005).Curcumin is the active ingredient of the Indian curry spice turmeric. It is a polyphenol with a molecular formula C21H20O6. Curcumin acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. For the last few decades, extensive work has been done to establish the biological activities and pharmacological actions of curcumin. Its anticancer effects stem from its ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells without cytotoxic effects on healthy cells.

GARLIC: When crushed or finely chopped it yields allicin, a powerful antibiotic and anti-fungal compound. It also contains alliin, ajoene, enzymes, vitamine B, minerals (including selenium and germaniun), quercetin, rutin, p-coumaric acids, zinc among other components.

"A host of studies provide compelling evidence that garlic and its organic allyl sulfur components are effective inhibitors of the cancer process. These studies reveal that the benefits of garlic are not limited to a specific species, to a particular tissue, or to a specific carcinogen. Of 37 observational studies in humans using garlic and related allyl sulfur components, 28 studies showed some cancer preventive effect. The evidence is particularly strong for a link between garlic and prevention of prostate and stomach cancers". (National Cancer Institute, 11.27.02).

ANTI-CANCER TREES AND SHRUBS

Taxol is a new anticancer drug that is isolated from taxine, a complex of alkaloids, a natural toxin that causes poisoning by being rapidly absorbed from the digestive tract and interferes with heart action (Feldman et al, 1987). It was found in the stembark of the Pacific yew tree, Taxus brevifolia, found in the north-west Pacific coastal region of the USA, a poisonous, non-resinous evergreen that grows to approximately 50 feet tall. Discovered in 1967 when its antitumour activity against a variety of rodent tumours was noted, its unique mechanism of action led to the development of a new class of chemotherapeutic agents called taxanes.In 1991, the director of the National Cancer Institute hailed Taxol, also known as paclitaxel, as the most important new cancer drug in the past 15 years6, and it has recently been called the best new anticancer agent developed from natural agents. How does Taxol work ? The mechanism through which Taxol and other taxanes achieve their antitumour activity is unique. Virtually all cells replicate using mitosis. Taxol inhibits this by binding to a protein called tubulin in cells resulting in the formation of stable, non-functional microtubule bundles (Crown et al, 2000). These are normally essential in mitosis, and so, because of the actions of Taxol, cells would be unable to replicate. The drug is targeted at tumour cells but also affects other cells of the body. Taxanes are also found to induce apoptosis, a process through which cells die in a controlled manner, and may also have anti-angiogenic properties, useful as it prevents a blood supply forming to the site of the cancer.

The Oregon grape is a tall shrub, about six to seven feet high, with evergreen, coriaceous, bright and shining leaves, and having numerous small, yellowish-green flowers in the early Spring, and later clusters of purple berries containing an acid pulp. It is a native in woods from Colorado to the Pacific Ocean, especially abundant in Oregon (the State's official flower) and northern California and to a lesser extent in Washington. . Oregon grape is a close relative of barberry (Berberis vulgaris), and shares many common uses and constituents. The root is used medicinally. KEY THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS: antidiarrheal, antipyretic, antibiotic, antibacterial, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, cancer-inhibiting, digestive aid, hypoglycemic, mildly laxative, stimulates bile secretion and peristalsis. KEY COMPONENTS: isoquinoline alkaloids (including berberine, berbamine, and hydrastine) antioxidants in the berries (especially vitamin C). MEDICINAL PARTS: Root (Oregon Grape), stem bark, root bark, and berries (Barberry); Berberine is a noted antimicrobial proving effective against bacteria, fungi, and other organisms that can cause diarrhea and other infections; Barberry also contains important anticancer compounds called dehydropodophyllotoxin and podophyllotoxin; Berbamine, another alkaloid, appears to bolster immunity; Scientists have also discovered sedative and anticonvulsant properties in some of the components, as well as substances that may help lower blood pressure and reduce muscle spasms. REMEDIES: A tincture is used to stimulate bile secretions. A decoction of the fruits is used to treat lung, spleen, and liver diseases. It is also an effective, and gentle, wash for the eyes, if sufficiently diluted. Jams made from the berries are used to relieve constipation and stimulate the appetite. Juices have been used to stimulate the immune system, treat feverish colds, and diseases of the urinary tract. Syrups can be used for coughs. Washes from a root decoction are used for cuts and bruises. TRADITIONAL USE; Oregon Grape bark was traditionally used to treat a wide variety of diseases, including liver malfunctions, gallbladder disease, jaundice, splenopathy, indigestion, diarrhea, tuberculosis, piles, renal disease, urinary tract disorders, gout, rheumatism, arthritis, lumbago, malaria, and leishmaniasis. The yellow root is used as a hepatic stimulant that increases the flow of bile through the liver and gallbladder. As the bile acts like a detergent and flows freely, it cleanses and filters out toxic wastes. Barberries help such conditions as spleen enlargement, gallbladder pain, gallstones, as well as jaundice and hepatitis. An underestimated herb, it has also been used as a general tonic to improve the absorption of nutrients. Barberry is often combined with such bitter herbs as wild yam, dandelion, and licorice root as a treatment for digestive conditions. Barberries are strongly antiseptic and invaluable in cases of amebic dysentery, cholera, and other similar gastrointestinal infections. When taken in small amounts, the bark extract helps treat diarrhea, while in larger amounts, is an effective laxative. Oregon grape is thought to reduce the severity of psoriasis and also is used to treat other skin conditions, including eczema, boils, acne, and herpes. The Chinese use seventeen different barberry varieties in their medicine. All contain berberine, a noted antibacterial. The plants are used mainly to treat various intestinal infections, as well as to stimulate the uterus and to relax the intestinal smooth muscle. Since berberine is not absorbed well orally, the alkaloids or extracts are often used. The berries can be made into pies or jams and the tender greens used as a salad vegetable. The wood was used in the making of bright yellow clothing dye.

Annual wormwood (Artemisia annua)

Traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine, this species is also grown in warmer parts of Europe and France (known as armoise) for its flavouring properties.

From intestinal worms and malaria and to cancer research: Two bioengineering research professors at the University of Washington have rediscovered wormwood as a promising potential treatment for cancer among the ancient arts of Chinese folk medicine. Research professor Henry Lai and assistant research professor Narendra Singh have exploited the chemical properties of a wormwood derivative to target breast cancer cells with surprisingly effective results. A study in the Journal Life Sciences describes how the derivative killed virtually all human breast cancer cells exposed to it within 16 hours."Not only does it appear to be effective, but it's very selective," Lai said. "It's highly toxic to the cancer cells but has a marginal impact on normal breast cells." Environmental risk factors for cancer are many. Lifetime exposure to the female hormone estrogen and estrogen mimicking chemicals such as some pesticides and herbicideshas been linked to an increase in breast cancer risk. In 1991, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified the pesticide DDT as a possible human carcinogen, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified DDT as a probable human carcinogen. The manufacture of PCBs, the oily liquids or solids used as coolants and insulators, was stopped in the United States in 1977 because of concerns that exposure increases the risk of cancers, but PCBs are still found in the environment. Most Americans are exposed every day to air toxins emitted by motor vehicles, substances that the EPA says have been proven to cause cancer in humans. "Benzene, says the EPA, "is a known human carcinogen, while formaldehyde; acetaldehyde; 1,3-butadiene; and diesel particulate matter are probable human carcinogens." The EPA has now classified 1,3-butadiene, a gas used commercially in the production of resins and plastics, as a known human carcinogen. The use of the bitter herb wormwood is nothing new. Used for centuries to rid the body of worms, it is also an ingredient in the alcoholic beverage absinthe, now banned in most countries. Artemisinin, the compound that Lai and Singh have found to fight cancers, isn't new either. It was extracted from the plant Artemisia annua L., commonly known as wormwood, thousands of years ago by the Chinese, who used it to combat the mosquito-borne disease malaria. The treatment with artemisinin was lost over time but rediscovered during an archaeological dig in the 1970s that unearthed recipes for ancient medical remedies. Now widely used in Asia and Africa to fight malaria, artemisinin reacts with the high iron concentrations found in the malaria parasite. When artemisinin comes into contact with iron, a chemical reaction ensues, spawning charged atoms that chemists call free radicals. The free radicals attack cell membranes, breaking them apart and killing the single-cell parasite. About seven years ago, Lai began to hypothesize that the process might work with cancer, too."Cancer cells need a lot of iron to replicate DNA when they divide," Lai explained. "As a result, cancer cells have much higher iron concentrations than normal cells. When we began to understand how artemisinin worked, I started wondering if we could use that knowledge to target cancer cells." Lai devised a potential method and began to look for funding, obtaining a grant from the Breast Cancer Fund in San Francisco. Meanwhile, the UW patented his idea. The thrust of the idea, according to Lai and Singh, was to pump up the cancer cells with maximum iron concentrations, then introduce artemisinin to selectively kill the cancer. In the current study, after eight hours, just 25 percent of the cancer cells remained. By the time 16 hours had passed, nearly all the cells were dead.
An earlier study involving leukemia cells yielded even more impressive results. The cancer cells were eliminated within eight hours. A possible explanation might be the level of iron in the leukemia cells. "They have one of the highest iron concentrations among cancer cells," Lai explained. "Leukemia cells can have more than 1,000 times the concentration of iron that normal cells have." The next step, according to Lai, is animal testing. Limited tests have been done in that area. In an earlier study, a dog with bone cancer so severe it couldn't walk made a complete recovery in five days after receiving the treatment. But more rigorous testing is needed.
If the process lives up to its early promise, it could revolutionize the way some cancers are approached, Lai said. The goal would be a treatment that could be taken orally on an outpatient basis."That would be very easy, and this could make that possible," Lai said. "The cost is another plus: At $2 a dose, it's very cheap. And with the millions of people who have already taken artemisinin for malaria, we have a track record showing that it's safe."
Whatever happens, Lai said, a portion of the credit will have to go to unknown medical practitioners, long gone now. "The fascinating thing is that this was something the Chinese used thousands of years ago," he said. "We simply found a different application."

Good for the Garden as well: The Annual Wormwood weed suppressive activity has been attributed to the release of allelochemicals into the soil. The presence of a wide array of biologically active constituent like Artemisinin, a sesquiterpene present in the plant, takes part in the allelopathy. Aromatic Volatile oil, artemisic ketrone, 1,8 – cineole camphor, germaceral D, camphene hydrate are also products with characteristic allelopathy for effective weed control. The objective of the study is to investigate the reactions of soil micro-organisms and changes in chemical properties brought about by the application of the crude extract of Artemiesia annua

Olive trees have been cultivated for many years. Recently the benefits of Olive Leaf Extract have become know as one of a handful of botanicals that naturally support the circulatory and immune systems. During the cold and flu season, Olive Leaf Extract makes an excellent companion to herbs such as elderberry, VS-C, echinacea and golden seal. Both olives and olive oil contain substantial amounts of other compounds shown to be anticancer agents (e.g. squalene and terpenoids) as well as the peroxidation-resistant lipid oleic acid. It appears highly probable that olive and olive oil consumption in southern Europe represents an important contribution to the beneficial effects on health of the Mediterranean diet. European Journal of Cancer Prevention. 13(4):319-326, August 2004.

Plantain Plantago lanceolata, Plantago major

Plantain (not to be confused with the relative of the banana known by the same name) is a small weed often found in cultivated fields and at the edge of lawns. Traditionally, the crushed leaves were applied to the skin to treat wounds and bites, a leaf tincture was used for coughs, and the dried leaf was taken internally for the treatment of bronchitis, ulcers, epilepsy, and liver problems. In addition Yellow Dock root, red clover blossoms, dandelion leaves, burdock, plantain leaves build strong blood. Strong blood is rich in iron and other minerals needed for health. Strong blood is nutrient-rich - so vital organs get the nourishment they need for optimum functioning. Strong blood helps muscles work well without cramping and aching. Strong blood is low in cholesterol and moves easily through the circulatory system. Strong blood is packed with plenty of energy and oxygen. Psyllium seeds come from a variety of plantain and can be taken orally to treat several conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. It is probably best known as a laxative. Psyllium seeds are coated with mucilage, a natural gummy substance that does not dissolve in water. Instead, mucilage forms a thick, gooey mass when exposed to fluids. The body does not digest mucilage, so the resulting large soft mass moves through the intestines, usually also triggering intestinal muscle contractions. In addition, the mucilage forms a slick coating on the walls of the intestines. All of these effects help to prevent or relieve constipation. And in the fight against cancer, weak blood, toxemia, constipation and dehydration are obstacles.

Hypericum perforatum. The Christian Templars and crusaders not only carried the plant to protect themselves from evil, but also used the soaked flowers and leaves as an ointment to help heal the wounds of battle.

Belgian scientists have already used the substance, hypericin, to detect cancer cells. But they also believe hypericin could be used to eliminate cancerous tumours. Professor Peter de Witte, from Leuven University in Belgium, has been perfecting a technique known as Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for the last nine years by utilising the light sensitive properties of hypericin to show up the presence of cancer cells and thereafter to neutralize them. For mainstream medicine, this plant is still "experimental". In addition, there is promising research showing that St. John's wort has been shown to be effective in preventing cell damage from radiation, including damage to delicate intestinal lining and bone marrow cells in test animals. Including chemo. Cf. Mathijssen RAHJ. "Use of St. John's wort By Cancer Patients May Reduce Chemotherapy Effect." Research reported April 8, 2002, at the American Association for Cancer Research conference. Abstract #2442 "Modulation of Irinotecan (CPT-11) Metabolism by St. John's wort in Cancer Patients."

The botanical name Hypericum comes from the Greek words yper, meaning upper, and eikon, or image. The Greeks and Romans believed that St. John's wort protected them from evil spirits and witches' spells, and often placed the herb in their homes and above statues of their gods. Perhaps the spirits and spells referred to depression and anxiety, mental disorders with no obvious physical cause. The early Christians incorporated many ancient beliefs into their new religion. Christian mystics named Hypericum after St. John the Baptist. It was traditionally collected on St. John's Day, June 24, and soaked in olive oil for days to produce a blood-red anointing oil, said to symbolize the blood of the saint. By the thirteenth century, belief in the herb's mystical power was well established. People brought the flowers of the plant into their houses on Midsummer Eve, or St. John's Eve (June 23), to protect them from the powers of evil. In another common practice, they put the plants under their pillows on St. John's Eve. According to legend, the saint would appear in a dream, give his blessing, and protect the sleeper from dying during the following year. St. John's wort was also burned in bonfires on St. John's Eve to drive away evil spirits, purify the air, and protect crops

A small leaf from the hypericum perforatum. A close up view of the leaf allows us to see a stellar constellation of "perforated" holes. This Nature design is vital insofar as this plant's sunlight absorption capacity and mission are concerned.

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5. CLINICAL, EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE ON THE ANTI CANCER NATURE OF CERTAIN MUSHROOMS

SUN SHIITAKE (Lentinula edodes)

Lentinan (a derivative of a cell wall sugar) has been licensed by the Japanese National Cancer Institute as an injectable anti-cancer drug. It also has been studied for its cholesterol reducing, and anti-viral properties.

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