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Table 4.3
Suppressing Agents Effective Against Exposure to Carcinogens
Suppressing Agent
Herb or Food Where Found
Aromatic isothiocyanates
Broccoli
Epigallocatechin gallate
Green tea
Inhibitors of arachidonic acid cascade
Turmeric
Inositol hexaphosphate
Legumes, grains
Protease inhibitors
Soy products
Terpenes
Orange peel

that include omega-3 fatty acids. Studies showing the ability of arachidonic acid inhibitors to prevent carcinogenesis have been more prevalent than studies of any other group of agents (with the possible exception of retinoids). Another important feature of blocking agents is their ability to prevent the attack of oxygen radicals. For example, the phenolic and polyphenolic compounds found in green tea are potent antioxidants. Their ability to inhibit cancer, however, is multifunctional and includes the capacity to activate certain detoxifying systems.
Suppressing Agents
Suppressing agents prevent the evolution of cancer in cells previously exposed to doses of carcinogenic agents (see table 4.3). They do this by:
Preventing the endogenous formation of attacking molecules and/or inactivating those that might have already formed.
Directly counteracting the consequences of genotoxic events.
Producing differentiation.
Selectively inhibiting cellular proliferation of potential cancer cells.
Herbal Classifications and Strategies
In this section, descriptions of some of the herbs commonly used to treat cancer are classified according to their primary actions. I generally prescribe herbs in the first two classificationsherbs that strengthen the individual's constitution and vitality and tonic herbs, adaptogens, and herbal immune enhancersat the first stage of treatment, Tonic Therapy. Next, I prescribe

 
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