Practical application of "About Herbs" website: Herbs and dietary supplement use in oncology settings Review


Authors: Hou, Y. N.; Deng, G.; Mao, J. J.
Review Title: Practical application of "About Herbs" website: Herbs and dietary supplement use in oncology settings
Abstract: The Integrative Medicine Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center developed and maintains About Herbs (www.aboutherbs.com), which provides summaries of research data including purported uses, adverse effects, and herb-drug interactions for about 284 dietary supplements. Using Google Analytics, we found the website registered more than 26,317,000 hits since November 2002. The 10 most searched-for herbs/supplements of 2018 are chaga mushroom, turmeric, ashwagandha, reishi mushroom, graviola, Active Hexose-Correlated Compound, boswellia, dandelion, green tea, and Coriolus versicolor. Here we discuss their safety, herb-drug interactions, and appropriate uses in the oncology setting, based on literature searches in PubMed. Over the past 16 years, the evidence for use of these supplements is based mostly on preclinical findings, with few well-designed studies and limited trials conducted in cancer patients. It is important to familiarize health care professionals about popular supplements, so patients can be informed to make decisions that maximize benefits and minimize risks.
Journal Title: The Cancer Journal
Volume: 25
Issue: 5
ISSN: 1528-9117
Publisher: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins  
Date Published: 2019-01-01
Start Page: 357
End Page: 366
Language: English
DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000403
PUBMED: 31567464
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC6777855
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 1 November 2019 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Gary E Deng
    77 Deng
  2. Jun J Mao
    244 Mao
  3. Yen Nien Hou
    8 Hou