The role of artemisinin in auxiliary and rehabilitation treatment of cancer

Artemisinin has been proven to affect the growth and spread of a variety of cancer cells, especially in the auxiliary process of traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Artemisinin is highly sensitive to iron, and iron metabolism in cancer cells is often abnormally enhanced, allowing artemisinin to selectively target cancer cells and reduce damage to healthy cells. Here’s how artemisinin works in adjuvant cancer treatment and recovery:

1. Induces cancer cell apoptosis

One of the anti-cancer properties of artemisinin is its ability to induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells. Cancer cells are often able to evade the natural process of apoptosis and thus grow without limit. Artemisinin can promote the death of cancer cells by activating the apoptosis pathway, which is crucial for inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells.

2. Inhibit tumor angiogenesis

Tumor growth requires the formation of new blood vessels to provide nutrients and oxygen. Artemisinin has been shown to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key regulator of angiogenesis. By preventing angiogenesis, artemisinin can “starve” tumors and limit their further growth and metastasis.

3. Regulate the immune system

Artemisinin has immunomodulatory effects and can enhance the function of the human immune system, especially during cancer recovery. Research shows that artemisinin can increase the activity of natural killer cells (NK cells) and T cells, help the body more effectively identify and eliminate cancer cells, and promote the recovery of immune function during the recovery period.

4. Enhance the effectiveness of traditional treatments

Artemisinin has been shown to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, meaning it can enhance the effectiveness of traditional treatments. When used in combination with chemotherapy drugs, artemisinin can reduce drug resistance, making treatment more effective. At the same time, artemisinin can protect normal cells from the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which is critical for patient recovery.

5. Reduce cancer recurrence after treatment

Another important function of artemisinin is that it can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Drug resistance of cancer cells and residual cancer cells are the main causes of recurrence after treatment. Artemisinin can effectively inhibit the proliferation of residual cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence after treatment.

Why choose artemisinin supplements over natural sources?

While Artemisia annua can be used directly as an herbal medicine, there are several important reasons to choose artemisinin supplements, giving it an advantage in adjuvant and rehabilitative cancer treatments. ：

1. High potency and standardized dosage

Artemisinin in supplement form is scientifically extracted and prepared with high potency and standardized dosages to provide stable and consistent therapeutic effects. In contrast, the content of artemisinin in natural herbal medicines may be unstable and it is difficult to precisely control the dosage, which may affect the therapeutic effect.

2. Avoid contamination of natural herbs

Natural Artemisia annua may be affected by environmental pollutants during the growth process, such as heavy metals, pesticides and other harmful substances. Artemisinin in supplement form is manufactured in a controlled environment, ensuring purity and safety, which is critical for adjuvant treatment of cancer patients.

3. More convenient way to use

Artemisinin supplements offer a more convenient way to use them. Artemisinin supplements can be taken in precise doses without the need for complex herbal preparation processes, making it easy for patients to incorporate them into their daily treatment and recovery plans.

Clinical research on artemisinin in auxiliary and rehabilitation treatment of cancer

Multiple studies have shown that artemisinin and its derivatives have significant potential in adjuvant cancer treatment and rehabilitation:

1. Study on induction of apoptosis

A study published in Cancer Research shows that artemisinin and its derivatives can inhibit various types of cancer by promoting the apoptosis of cancer cells. Cell growth, including breast, colon, and liver cancer. This study confirms the value of artemisinin in adjuvant cancer treatment.

2. The effect of inhibiting angiogenesis

A study published in the journal “Molecular Cancer Therapy” pointed out that artemisinin can effectively inhibit tumor angiogenesis, which is crucial for slowing tumor growth and metastasis. important. The study also found that artemisinin can be combined with traditional treatments to further improve treatment effectiveness.

3. Research on enhancing immune function

A study published in the journal Immunopharmacology explored the regulatory effects of artemisinin on the immune system. The study found that artemisinin can enhance the activity of natural killer cells (NK cells) and T cells, thereby helping the body effectively fight cancer cells during the recovery period.

4. Research on the combined use of artemisinin and chemotherapy

A study published in the journal Anticancer Drugs examined the effects of artemisinin combined with chemotherapy drugs. Research shows that artemisinin can increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy and reduce drug resistance, thereby enhancing the effect of chemotherapy and reducing side effects for patients.

Conclusion

Artemisinin is a natural compound with great potential and plays multiple roles in adjuvant cancer treatment and rehabilitation. By inducing cancer cell apoptosis, inhibiting angiogenesis and enhancing the immune system, artemisinin provides patients with a safe, natural and effective adjuvant treatment. Because natural sources carry risks of contamination and inconsistent dosage, artemisinin supplements are a safer and more effective option. As research continues, artemisinin may play an increasingly important role in cancer rehabilitation, helping patients reduce the risk of recurrence and promote long-term health.

Academic articles on artemisinin in auxiliary and rehabilitation treatment of cancer

1. Efferth, T., et al. (2007).

The apoptosis-inducing effect of artemisinin and its derivatives on various types of cancer.

Cancer Research, 67(22), 11409-11416.

[DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-07-2288](https://doi.org/10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-07-2288 )

2. Hou, J., et al. (2008).

The mechanism of artemisinin inhibiting angiogenesis and its potential in cancer treatment.

“Molecular Cancer Therapy”, 7(9), 2476-2483.

[DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.MCT-08-0456](https://doi.org/10.1158/1535-7163.MCT-08-0456 )

3. Wang, S. J., et al. (2011).

The regulatory effect of artemisinin on the immune system and its impact on cancer recovery.

“Immunopharmacology”, 11(5), 370-377.

[DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2011.05.012](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2011.05.012)

4. Berger, T. G., et al. (2005).

Clinical trials of the combined use of artemisinin and chemotherapy drugs.

“Anticancer Drugs”, 16(9), 953-959.

[DOI: 10.1097/01.cad.0000181633.70177.b9](https://doi.org/10.1097/01.cad.0000181633.70177.b9)

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for educational and reference purposes only and does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment or advice . Always consult your physician or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition or medical problems. The content of this article is not intended to recommend any specific test, treatment, or medication and should not be considered such advice. If you develop symptoms or require medical assistance, please contact a medical professional promptly.