Herbs are one of the best gifts of nature. They are used as a powerful medicine to cure many diseases, right from ancient times. They are also useful as a curative in the treatment of cancer. In many types of cancers, herbs are used as a curative or a supplementary medicine along with the normal therapeutic treatments. They are: Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Turmeric is a yellow colored herbal element which is popularly known as a cooking spice. It is also universally recognized for its anti-cancer properties. Some recent results show that a daily intake of turmeric of about half a teaspoon, reduces the possible growth of the false DNA patterns and the carcinogens that cause the development of cancer-causing cells. It is not scientifically approved yet; however, some studies also show that the rate of breast cancer is lower in Asia, where turmeric is used in cooking on a regular basis. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) Basil is recognized as an essential part of Italian cuisine. It has anti-cancer properties. The leaves, fresh or preserved in pesto or sauce act as a natural protector against the formation of cancer-causing cells. Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Made up of camellia sinensis leaves, green tea is an essential herbal concoction for the prevention of cancer. It is well observed that the leaves are oxidized to the least possible level. Originating in China, green tea helps prevent almost all sorts of cancers including breast, intestinal, lung, skin, liver, stomach, and colon cancers. This is possible because of the antioxidant named, polyphenol, a type of a bioflavonoid. The most active polyphenol, named 'epigallocatechin gallate' is present in it. It also contains carotenoids, theanine, chlorophyll, and proanthocyanidins. Red Clover Flower (Trifolium pratense) The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has just approved this popularly used anti-cancer herb. The red clover flower contains anti-tumor compounds like genistein and daidzein. It also contains vitamin E and tocopherol, which have antioxidant properties. Despite its usefulness, pregnant women, heart patients, and those having estrogen-dependent cancers are advised not to consume the red clover flowers. Endorses Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) Endorses echinacea is a very useful and one of the most recommended herbs. It is an essential herb to help cure cancer. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) Parsley is also known as a 'garnishing herb' in America and Europe. It contains apigenin, which is a form of a natural oil. This apigenin prevents the body from forming new blood vessels which supply blood to the cancerous tumors (angiogenesis). This helps in cancer treatment. However, it is highly recommended to avoid its intake during pregnancy as it may lead to premature delivery and uterine stimulation. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) One of the most common culinary herb, rosemary got its woody smell because of its terpenes fatty acids, which stop the formation of new cancerous cells. Its intake is highly recommended, especially while patients undergo chemotherapy. Dill (Anethum graveolens) Dill has an adequate amount of the monoterpenes that stimulate the secretion of the antioxidant named 'glutathione S-transferase'. This enzyme neutralizes the carcinogenic free radicals. The oil substances present in dill help the intestinal peristaltic motions which result from the active secretion of the bile pigments and digestive fluids. Mint (Mentha) Certain phytochemicals from the mint family stop blood supply to the cancerous tumors. They cut off the blood supply and eventually kill the carcinogens. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) From over 300 herbs, thymus vulgaris is the most commonly used culinary herb. Thymol is the main product of thyme, which along with terpenes, contains a bunch of anti-cancer properties. It acts as a curative medicine for mouth cancer. There are many more herbs having similar anti-cancer properties such as aloe vera, onion, garlic, celery seed extract (very effective in the treatment of liver cancer), astragalus, goji berries, etc. However, despite the curative properties, some herbs may show harmful side effects if taken without proper consultation with the doctor. Selecting proper herbs will definitely prove beneficial in the treatment of cancer. Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.