NEWS & RESEARCH

Does Indirubin help against cancer? Indirubin is derived from the Indigo Plant (Isatis Root). In Asia, it is part of combination formulas used in traditional herbal prescriptions to treat some forms of cancer. Indirubin may also decrease inflammation by inhibiting part of the immune response. There is a lack of evidence to support this use. Case reports and initial analyses suggest possible benefits in leukemia, but clinical trials are needed to confirm this information. A small study in patients with head and neck cancer suggest that indirubin, taken as indigowood root powder, may reduce mucosal damage from radiation therapy. Additional

Does Indole-3-Carbinol help against cancer? Indole-3-Carbinol also called I3C, is a phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables including Brussels sprouts, kale, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. It is known to stimulate detoxifying enzymes in the gut and liver. Because diets high in these vegetables slow cancer growth in animals, I3C is thought to be a good candidate for cancer prevention. Lab studies suggest that I3C may have activity across various tumor types or enhance activity of some chemotherapy drugs. However, other animal studies suggest that I3C might also promote tumor growth. Additional studies and human clinical trials are needed to determine the

Does Inositol Hexaphosphate help against cancer? Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is a carbohydrate that is present in most plants. It is used to prevent and treat cancer and heart disease. Inositol hexaphosphate may be useful in reducing side effects from chemotherapy. In the cell, where it performs important messenger roles and affects numerous cellular processes, It was shown to have anticancer and anti-angiogenic effects. A drug or substance that keeps new blood vessels from forming. In cancer treatment, antiangiogenesis agents may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. Small studies of breast cancer patients showed that

What is Insulin Potentiation Therapy? Insulin potentiation therapy is an alternative cancer therapy that uses insulin to potentiate the effects of chemotherapy and other medications. Insulin potentiation therapy has not been shown to treat or prevent cancer. Insulin potentiation therapy involves administering insulin at the same time as chemotherapy drugs, with the idea that lower chemotherapy doses are then needed because insulin lets more of the drug enter cells. However, this theory has not been proven. In general, insulin should not be taken by non-diabetics because it can decrease blood sugar to dangerously low levels, causing symptoms such as headache

Does Isatis Root help against cancer? Isatis is a type of flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. Isatis root has not been adequately studied in clinical trials, so it is not known if it works in humans. Laboratory studies suggest that indirubin, an active compound in isatis, stops cell division and therefore may be useful in cancer treatment. A small study in head and neck cancer patients suggest that a specific isatis root extract solution could reduce severity of mucositis, anorexia, and difficulty swallowing in treated patients compared with group that did not receive this supplement. Mucositis is when

Does Juice Plus help against cancer? Juice Plus is a dietary supplement that contains dried concentrates of fruits and vegetables. Juice Plus is a Juice that has not been shown to treat or prevent cancer. It has been studied for its antioxidant effects, but more studies are needed. In a study of head and neck cancer patients, it appeared to increase serum micronutrient levels, but had no clinical benefit. Cancer patients should discuss the use of supplements with their physicians. Due to its antioxidant effects, Juice Plus may interfere with the actions of some chemo. Cancer patients should discuss the