Herbs or natural products that increase cancer growth or recurrence. Part two of a four-part series.
OBJECTIVE
To review 32 herbs and natural products that show potential to increase cancer growth or recurrence or to interfere with cancer treatments.


METHODS
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database and Lawrence Review of Natural Products Monograph System.


RESULTS
Early evidence shows that patients who have or have had cancer should avoid 32 herbs and natural products. Some herbs and natural products have estrogenic effects that enable these products to compete with hormone cancer therapies, whereas others interfere with chemotherapy treatment or may induce recurrence of cancer.


CONCLUSIONS
Healthcare professionals can be resources for patients who have cancer, helping them to avoid or identify products that may induce cancer growth or interfere with cancer treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
The information in this article is designed to provide quick access for healthcare professionals working in clinical oncology.
Montbriand
Muriel J
MJ
College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada. montbriand@skyway.usask.ca
D000818:Animals; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D001688:Biological Products / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D000075202:Contraindications; D018450:Disease Progression; D004347:Drug Interactions; D004967:Estrogens; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000139:chemically induced; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism*; D009376:Neoplasms, Hormone-Dependent / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism; D010084:Oxidation-Reduction; D048789:Phytoestrogens / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D010946:Plants, Medicinal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012651:Self Medication
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D001688:Biological Products; D004967:Estrogens; D048789:Phytoestrogens