Review on Nanoformulated Phytomedicines for Cancer Therapy

Cancer comprises a group of approximately 100 diseases that have afflicted humanity since ancient times. In 2012 alone, an estimated 8.2 million people worldwide died from cancer, and this number is projected to rise to 13 million by 2030. Despite advancements in conventional therapeutic approaches, the overall outcomes for cancer patients have not improved significantly. As a result, there is a growing demand for alternative therapies and the development of new, effective anticancer drugs. Plants and their extracts have long been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments and alleviate physical suffering. Herbal products have been widely employed across different cultures to manage a range of diseases. Several active compounds derived from herbal medicine such as curcumin have demonstrated promising anticancer properties. However, the clinical potential of these phytochemicals is often hindered by their low water solubility and poor bioavailability. This review explores the use of herbal nanocarriers as a novel strategy in cancer therapy, aiming to enhance the delivery and effectiveness of plant-derived anticancer agents.