10 Indian Spices And Their Role In Fighting Cancer And Other Diseases

Star Anise (Chakra Phool, Annachi Poo in Tamil)- For cough, digestion and prostate cancer.

Cardamom (Elaichi)- Plays a significant role in reducing cancer progression. Useful in multiple myeloma and when mixed with black pepper, it works against lymphoma.

Cloves (Lavang): They are antimutagens and also inhibit carcinogen-induced genotoxicity. Works on cervical Cancer, Breast and oesophageal Cancer.

Coriander (Dhania)leaves and seeds: They have antidiabetic, antioxidant, hypocholesterolemic, antihelmintic, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, anticancer and anxiolytic activities.

Fennel (Saunf)- Main action involves the shutting down of tumor necrosis factor (or TNF)-mediated signalling pathway.

Bay leaf (Tej pata)- For treatment of circulation, muscles and joints complications and relieves arthritis, inflamed joints, muscular pains, rheumatism and sprains.

Basil (Tulsi)- Active on muscular cancer (Sarcomas), stomach cancers and toxin induced liver tumors.

Cinnamon (Dalchini): They show various biological functions like anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-tumor activity.

Black cumin (Kalonji seeds)- It is effective against cancer in blood system, lung, kidney, liver, prostate, breast, cervix, skin with no toxicological effect.

Fenugreek (Methi) has a multitude of pathways by which it can stop Tumor growth

Input by: Dr Rajeev Vijayakumar, Consultant Medical Oncology, Hemato-Oncology & BMT Physician , Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru