Cancer Patients and Herbal Remedies: A Guide to Safe Apply
The Andalusian Council of Official Colleges of Pharmacists (CACOF) has recently published a guide addressing the use of medicinal plants by cancer patients. This resource aims to provide both healthcare professionals and patients with evidence-based information regarding the potential benefits and risks associated with incorporating herbal remedies into cancer care. The guide emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making and open communication with healthcare teams.
Potential Benefits and Risks
Many cancer patients turn to medicinal plants to alleviate side effects of treatment or to support their immune system. However, the CACOF guide highlights that these products are not without risk, particularly when used alongside conventional cancer treatments. Certain plants can interfere with the way the body processes drugs, potentially altering their effectiveness.
Drug Interactions and Metabolic Interference
The guide explains that some plants can interact with liver enzymes responsible for drug metabolism. This interference can change the concentration of chemotherapy drugs in the body, leading to either reduced efficacy or increased toxicity. Specific plants discussed in the guide include garlic (Allium sativum), echinacea (Echinacea purpurea), ginseng (Panax ginseng), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum).
Immunomodulatory and Anticoagulant Effects
The CACOF guide also points out that certain herbal products possess immunomodulatory, anticoagulant, or antioxidant properties. While these properties may seem beneficial, they can potentially interfere with cancer therapies or surgical procedures. It is crucial for patients to disclose all herbal supplements and remedies they are using to their healthcare team.
Expert Leadership in Phytotherapy
Fernando Hidalgo Zarco, the regional member of Medicinal Plants and Phytotherapy of CACOF, led the preparation of this guide. Dr. Hidalgo is a pharmacist with extensive experience in community pharmacy, industry, teaching, and research. He currently works as a community pharmacist and also serves as the national coordinator of the Plant Medicinal Vocal within the General Council of Official Colleges of Pharmacy according to LinkedIn. He is also a frequent speaker on the topic of medicinal plants, with presentations available on Medicina Television.
Ensuring Patient Safety
The CACOF’s objective with this guide is to promote the safe and responsible use of phytotherapy among cancer patients. By providing healthcare professionals and patients with accurate and up-to-date information, the council hopes to prevent self-medication and ensure that herbal remedies do not compromise a patient’s clinical outcome. The full guide is available to members through the CACOF institutional website. CACOF published the guide on March 17, 2026.