A Narrative Review on Breast Cancer Treatment Supported by Focused and Systemic Phytotherapy

Authors:
Open Access
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Cancer remains a persistent global health challenge, continuously driving the search for novel and effective therapeutic strategies. In the case of breast cancer, treatment decisions are primarily guided by factors such as the disease stage, histological grade, molecular receptor status, and the presence of genetic mutations. Understanding these parameters is crucial for tailoring interventions and improving clinical outcomes. To enhance prognostic and diagnostic accuracy, attention has increasingly turned to identifying molecular targets that play key roles in breast cancer development. Currently, standard treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. However, these approaches are often associated with significant side effects and a diminished quality of life. As a result, many breast cancer patients are turning to complementary therapies—including phytotherapy, nutritional interventions, and dietary supplements—to support conventional treatment, alleviate adverse effects, and improve overall well-being. Within the vast realm of medicinal flora, anticancer plants represent a compelling area of study, serving as a rich reservoir of bioactive compounds. These compounds have demonstrated significant promise in the ongoing battle against cancer. Often highlighted in traditional medicinal practices, these plants harbor a wide array of phytochemicals, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids. These phytochemicals manifest diverse biological activities, notably exhibiting pronounced anticancer properties. The exploration of these natural compounds has opened new avenues for developing innovative and targeted therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment. They achieve definitive chemotherapeutic and chemopreventive roles by integrating with specific molecular signals. Their multiple biological functions include antimutagenic, antiproliferative, antimetastatic, anti-angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, which collectively enable them to control cancer progression and intervene at various stages of cancer cell development. Moreover, these compounds are involved in regulating the cell cycle and microRNA, ultimately leading to cancer cell death by promoting apoptosis and autophagy, often mediated through ROS signaling. Thus, based on a large theoretical revision, we conclude that high-quality evidence is necessary in order to advise these products concerning their efficacy and safety. Also, clinical evidence should be supported by a comprehensive individual diagnosis and adequate research protocols in order to evaluate whether the benefits of these plant-produced interventions can outweigh their harms.

This publication has 320 references indexed in Scilit: