Could Ginger Aid in Combating Breast Cancer?

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is an ancient rhizome known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as for having links to alleviating multiple types of pain and digestive distress.

In recent years, a growing body of research has been investigating the potential of ginger to fight multiple types of cancer, with some highly promising results.

In a 2012 study published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, researchers from Saudi Arabia tested the effects of ginger extract on breast cancer cell growth. They found that the ginger had properties of selective cytotoxicity, meaning they inhibited the growth of some of the tumor cells without compromising the healthy cells surrounding the tumors.

On the results of their study, the researchers concluded, “these findings suggested that the ginger may be a promising candidate for the treatment of breast carcinomas.”

Breast cancer is not the only type of cancer that ginger shows promise in battling. As we reported earlier this year, a 2013 study published in Nutrition and Cancer analyzed the effects of whole ginger extract on prostate cancer cells.

Results showed that the extract did indeed inhibit the growth of these cancerous cells. Researchers also noted that adding individual gingerols (compounds found in ginger) into the extract enhanced its anticarcinogenic power.

The study authors wrote, “combining GE [ginger extract] with its constituents (in particular, 6-gingerol) resulted in significant augmentation of GE’s antiproliferative activity. These data generate compelling grounds for further preclinical evaluation of GE alone and in combination with individual ginger biophenols for prostate cancer management.”

Cancer is a complex disease, and the fact that ginger and other completely natural products of the Earth are showing promise in treating it is exciting indeed. The absolutely best thing you can do to help prevent this deadly condition from forming is to lead as healthy a lifestyle as possible. This includes a diet of whole, unprocessed, antioxidant-rich foods, regular exercise, adequate sleep and a stress management plan.

Due to its anticarcinogenic, antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties, adding ginger to your nutritious diet may also be highly beneficial. One way to enjoy raw ginger is to peel and slice it, and add it to your fresh fruit and veggie smoothies. Not only may it help prevent, and even fight, cancer, it is also a wonderful addition to a healthy lifestyle.

-The Alternative Daily

Sources:
http://www.undergroundhealth.com/ginger-selectively-kills-breast-cancer-cells
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22969274
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/study-ginger-shows-promise-fighting-cancer
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23441614