Utilizing Indigenous Flora in East Africa for Breast Cancer Treatment: An Overview.

Daniel Ejim Uti, Patrick Maduabuchi Aja, Tabussam Tufail, Esther Ugo Alum, Christian Emeka Offor, Benedict Nnachi Alum, Udu Ama Ibiam, Chris U A Ukaidi

Journal: Anti-cancer agents in medicinal chemistry 2025;25(2):99-113

PMID: 39297456

Full Text on Bentham Science Publishers Ltd. View on PubMed

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is a significant global health challenge, contributing substantially to cancer- related deaths. Conventional treatment methods, including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, surgical interventions, and radiation, have long been utilized. However, these traditional treatments are often associated with serious side effects and drug resistance, limiting their efficacy.

AIM

This review aims to explore the potential of medicinal plants used in breast cancer management in East Africa, focusing on their bioactive compounds and anticancer properties.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted to examine the effectiveness of medicinal plants in treating breast cancer across Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Relevant studies published between 2003 and 2023 were identified using keywords related to breast cancer and medicinal plants. The search was performed across multiple databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Science Direct.

RESULTS

Numerous natural compounds found in East African medicinal plants including Tabebuia avellanedae, (African Cherry), (Ashwagandha, (Turmeric), (Mangosteen, (Grapevine), (Java Plum), (Drumstick Tree), (Tea), (Soybean), , Madagascar Periwinkle), (Wild Currant) exhibit significant anticancer properties. These compounds have demonstrated the ability to reduce breast cancer aggressiveness, inhibit cancer cell proliferation, and modulate cancer-related pathways. Current research focuses on these natural and dietary compounds to develop more effective strategies for treating breast cancer.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggested that East African medicinal plants hold promise as complementary treatments for breast cancer, offering potential benefits such as affordability, cultural appropriateness, and sustainability. Further research into these plants and their bioactive compounds could revolutionize breast cancer treatment, improving survival rates and addressing the rising incidence of breast cancer-related fatalities. Other: The review underscores the importance of continued research, conservation, and the integration of ancient healing methods to fully harness the potential of East African flora in breast cancer management.

Address: Department of Research and Publications, Kampala International University, Kampala, P. O. Box 20000, Uganda.; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ebonyi State University, P.M.B. 053 Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.; School of Food and Biological, Engineering Jiangsu, University Zhenjiang Kampala, China.; University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan.; Department of Research and Publications, Kampala International University, Kampala, P. O. Box 20000, Uganda.; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State, Nigeria.; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ebonyi State University, P.M.B. 053 Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.; Department of Biochemistry, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Kampala, Uganda.; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ebonyi State University, P.M.B. 053 Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ebonyi State University, P.M.B. 053 Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.; Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, Evangel University Akaeze, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.; College of Economics and Management, Kampala International University, Kampala, Uganda.; Department of Research and Publications, Kampala International University, Kampala, P. O. Box 20000, Uganda.

DOI: 10.2174/0118715206338557240909081833

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https://www.eurekaselect.com/234158/article

MeSH Terms: Humans, Breast Neoplasms, Africa, Eastern, Plants, Medicinal, Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic, Female, Cell Proliferation, Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor