New Delhi: Honey is a safer sweetener, and this has been known for a long time. But just how safe and healthy is it? It turns out, more than previously known. According to a new study, scientists discovered that manuka honey contains compounds that curtail the growth of tumour cells in breast cancer patients. Researchers at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, said that developing this less toxic and natural alternative to conventional chemotherapy could benefit cancer patients.
How does manuka honey stop breast cancer?
Experts said that while more research is required for a better understanding of natural compounds in cancer treatment, the study needs a stronger foundation for more research. Furthermore, there is a need for alternative treatments to prevent cancer relapse and to boost long-term survival rates in patients. At present, endocrine therapy and chemotherapy are said to be effective yet toxic treatment options that have several side effects. They may even lead to endocrine resistance when cells become immune to treatment.
Manuka honey is famous for its healing, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is also rich in compounds like complex carbs, flavonoids, phytochemicals, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. The compounds have anti-cancer potential at a molecular level and it inhibits cancer pathways that allow a tumour to grow and become metastatic. Researchers are currently working to investigate whether this form of honey can block estrogen receptors against hormone-sensitive cancer.
Scientists have also performed a series of experiments in human cancer cell lines that represent the most common forms of the disease. It can also curb the pace at which cancer cells copy DNA and divide which does not hamper normal cell growth. Researchers also tried to examine the effectiveness of existing treatments like tamoxifen. But its effectiveness in stopping tumour progression showed the potential that honey holds in cancer prevention and treatment. The study was published in the Nutrients journal.
Experts said that while more research is required for a better understanding of natural compounds in cancer treatment, the study needs a stronger foundation for more research. Furthermore, there is a need for alternative treatments to prevent cancer relapse and to boost long-term survival rates in patients. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
