Tulsi inhibits the progression of breast cancer

Indolink.com: It is in America's medical establishment - especially in the many outstanding cancer research centers - that traditional Indian medicine is confronting western science and proving that it has something worthwhile to offer. No wonder the power of Tulsi and of turmeric, so common to Desis everywhere, is now beginning to amaze Americans.

And in many instances the work is being done by Indian-American scientists or in collaboration with scientists in India.

Take ongoing research on the holy Tulsi plant (Ocimum sanctum) at Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, Michigan, or the common spice Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) at MD Anderson Cancer Research Center in Houston.

In the case of Tulsi or India’s holy basil, Ayurvedic practice recommends Tulsi in several formulations to enhance immunity and metabolic functions as well as in the management of respiratory problems. Recent pharmacological studies have established the anabolic, hypoglycemic, smooth muscle relaxant, cardiac depressant, antifertility, adaptogenic and immunomodulator properties of this plant.

Surprisingly enough, in 2006, research scientists at Karmanos Cancer Institute announced findings of their study titled Inhibition of breast cancer progression by the medicinal herb Ocimum Sanctum at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) conference in Washington, D.C.

They asked the question, can this herb curb breast cancer growth? Ocimum Sanctum or Tulsi or Holy basil is part of the mint family that has been used in Indian homes for hundreds of years. The researchers were interested in studying the effects of the herb, which appear to have anti-oxidant, chemically induced cancer-inhibiting and anti-inflammatory properties, on human breast cancer using a mouse model system.

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