Herbal Hope for Pancreatic Cancer

Nigella sativa—an herb also known as black cumin or fennel flower—may help thwart the development of pancreatic cancer, according to a new study. In a series of lab tests, researchers found that thymoquinone (the chief constituent of nigella sativa oil) produced powerful anti-inflammatory effects that could be useful in pancreatic cancer therapy. Study results showed that when animal models of pancreatic cancer were treated with thymoquinone, 67 percent of their tumors were significantly shrunken, and the levels of pro-inflammatory compounds in the tumors were greatly reduced.

A leading cause of cancer death, pancreatic cancer often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage and surgical removal is no longer possible. Exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and abstaining from smoking can help lower your pancreatic cancer risk. One study also suggests that eating five or more daily servings of fruits and vegetables (including yams, carrots, dark green leafy vegetables, and broccoli) may help prevent pancreatic cancer.