The Role of Herbal Extracts in Modulating Inflammatory Cytokines and Cancer Biomarkers | ||||
| Egyptian Journal of Medical Microbiology | ||||
| Article 13, Volume 35, Issue 1, January 2026 | ||||
| Document Type: New and original researches in the field of Microbiology. | ||||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejmm.2025.383912.1632 | ||||
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| Authors | ||||
Zahraa Mohammed1; Muslim Mohammed2; Mustafa H. Ghazi3; Osama A. Mohsein  4
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| 1Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Al-Mustanseriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq | ||||
| 2Department of Anesthesia Techniques, Al-Taff University College, Karbala , Iraq | ||||
| 3Department of Basic Science, College of Nursing, Al Muthanna University, Al-Samawah City, Iraq | ||||
| 4Thi-Qar, IraDepartment of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Mazaya University College, Thi-Qar, Iraqq | ||||
| Abstract | ||||
| Background: Herbal extracts are promising in complementary cancer treatment due to their effects on the immune system and inflammation. They help reduce inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and possess antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage. Studies suggest that these extracts may enhance the immune response, making them a valuable addition to conventional cancer therapies. Aims of the Study: This study aims to explore the effects of these herbal extracts on inflammation and the immune response, with the potential to enhance complementary cancer treatment. Methodology: A cross-sectional study with 60 cancer patients (son colon, lung, and breast cancer) and 40 healthy subjects, aged 40-65 years, was performed. She was treated with herbal extracts (Curcuma longa, Nigella sativa, EGCG) for 12 months. Disease progression was monitored by blood samples and such biomarkers as IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP, and the TNM classification system for cancer staging was used before and after treatment. Results: The study demonstrated that the herbal extracts markedly decreased inflammatory bio-inducers (IL-6, TNF-α, CRP, VEGF). Severity and survival rates for all types of cancer were improved following treatment. Few adverse reactions were related to the extracts and higher doses were more effective in inflammation reduction. Conclusions: Some herbal extracts, such as curcumin, thymoquinone and EGCG, exert anti-inflammatory effects, alleviate disease severity/ enhance patient's survival in cancer patients. These results lend support to their hybrid potential as cancer adjuvant therapies. | ||||
| Keywords | ||||
| Herbal Extracts; Inflammatory Cytokines; Cancer Biomarkers; Phytochemicals; Anti-inflammatory Activity | ||||
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