According to reports, cancer affected around 439 per 100,000 individuals in our country in 2019. But on the bright side, many survived the condition. This suggests that while cancer is a significant health concern, timely diagnosis and advanced treatment can help patients recover. Besides doctor-recommended therapies, a healthy lifestyle and nutrition plan is essential when dealing with the condition. Here are some herbs and spices that may help prevent and manage cancer:

Turmeric
Turmeric does more than just flavoring one’s food to perfection. Curcumin, the component that facilitates its bright-yellow color, is a potent antioxidant that may slow the spread of cancer cells in the body. It does this by helping destroy the blood vessels that feed cancer cells. Thanks to this property, turmeric complements cancer treatments like chemotherapy. It may be added to gravies, soups, smoothies, and stir-fries. Turmeric milk or tea is also emerging as a popular beverage.

Garlic
This allium vegetable helps prevent cancer cells from growing new blood vessels and facilitates their death. S-allyl cysteine, an organosulfur compound present in garlic, is shown to suppress the growth of prostate cancer cells. Reports from the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) also indicate that garlic is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Garlic butter is an appealing way of incorporating this spice into one’s meals. Alternatively, finely chopped or crushed garlic may be added to stir-fries, gravies, and soups.

Basil
As per research findings, this flavorful herb is loaded with flavonoids that may protect against cancer. It also contains several antioxidants and bioactive compounds, instrumental in fighting cancer cells. Basil is an excellent seasoning ingredient in bread preparations and soups. The aromatic leaves of this plant may also be consumed raw.

Ginger
Due to the presence of gingerols, ginger may have a cytotoxic effect against breast cancer cell lines in the human body. Studies have also shown that the combination of ginger and lemon can inhibit cancer cell growth. Chopped or julienned ginger may be incorporated into gravies, stir-fries, curries, and other dishes. Crushed ginger added to warm tea is also popular for taste and nutrition.

Oregano
Carvacrol, a molecule in oregano, acts as a natural disinfectant. It can prevent the spread of cancer cells and control the formation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs) that may increase one’s susceptibility to the disease. Oregano is a popular seasoning in preparations like pizza, pasta, and noodles.

Caraway
Some studies have shown that caraway, or meridian fennel, is a potent antioxidant that may help curb the spread of cancer. It protects the body from attacks by free radicals and can reduce the growth of cancer cells in the body. Caraway seeds are extremely flavorful. They can be used to enliven homemade dishes or consumed raw after meals to aid digestion.

Cinnamon
Besides having therapeutic effects on the body, cinnamon is shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and facilitate their death. It is often used as a flavoring ingredient in tea. Some also powder the spice and add it to smoothies, shakes, porridge, and juices.

Cloves
Cloves are rich in betulinic acid and other triterpenes, which can act as chemopreventive agents against breast cancer. The spice has also been shown to inhibit molecules that promote the onset of other cancers. It is commonly used in its powdered or crushed form in gravies, soups, smoothies, and tea.

Cayenne pepper
This powerful spice contains capsaicin, a powerful antioxidant that kills cancer cells. It is particularly proven useful in reversing prostate cancer. A dash of cayenne pepper in soups can uplift its flavor considerably. It can also be sprinkled over scrambled or boiled eggs or added to lemonade for a refreshing beverage.

Cardamom
Studies have shown that cardamom powder can increase the activity of enzymes that aid in cancer prevention. It may also act as a natural chemotherapeutic agent, enhancing the effects of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. Cardamom-flavored tea is a popular way of consuming this condiment.

Besides eating healthy foods and incorporating these spices and herbs into one’s meals, staying physically active and avoiding processed foods can help with cancer prevention and remediation. The key is to follow the treatment course recommended by oncologists, besides adopting a healthy lifestyle during and post treatment.