Phytochemicals Part Two

Phytochemicals and the treatment of cancer

Studies have been conducted on the use of phytochemicals and cancer treatment. In these studies the amounts used are so concentrated that they qualify as drugs. Pamela Crowel, Ph.D., an assistant biology professor at Indianapolis, has found that perillyl alcohol, found in cherries and lavender, causes pancreatic tumors to regress in laboratory animals. She goes on to say that these compounds appear to cause tumor cells to shift to a less malignant type. Perillyl alcohol belongs to a class of phytochemicals called terpenes. Limonene, contained in the peel of citrus fruits, is one of the best known phytochemicals in its class. In laboratory animals it blocks the development of breast tumors and causes existing tumors to regress. There are some drug analogs being produced that are derived from Taxol, another member of the terene family; however, I am not a fan of such things because whenever you isolate a molecule and reproduce it in the laboratory, you have multiple side-effects.

Choose Whole Foods

Many human studies worldwide have shown that people who eat lots of unadulterated  fruits and vegetables have reduced cancer risks. Most scientists would agree that a diet rich in phytochemicals plays an important role in cancer prevention.

There is more to come on this topic. Until then, have a great day.

Doc Earl

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