Known since antiquity for its unique properties, this common plant could offer therapeutic benefits against colon cancer, thanks to its potent compounds. The herb in question is Artemisia herba-alba, more widely known as white wormwood or artemisia

This shrub naturally grows in North Africa and the Middle East, where it has traditionally been used as a remedy for bronchitis, diarrhea, hypertension, and diabetes. A recent study, published in Food Science and Nutrition, now identifies it as a potentially powerful tool against cancer.

“Our findings suggest that Artemisia herba-alba holds significant potential as a new weapon in the fight against colon cancer,” states Dr. Lara Bou Malhab, lead author of the study and research fellow at the Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Sharjah. “Based on our study’s results, this plant extract could serve as a promising natural component for future cancer treatments.”

From Nature to the Laboratory

Dr. Bou Malhab’s research team collected plant material from southern Jordan in May 2021. After collection, the plant parts were air-dried at room temperature, shielded from direct sunlight to preserve their sensitive compounds. The dried plant material was then mechanically ground into a fine powder, a crucial step in enhancing the effectiveness of the extraction process.

The team then tested a methanol-based extract of the plant on eight different types of colon cancer cells to examine its impact on survival, growth, and cell death, as well as its effect on a key cancer-related molecular pathway.

Significant Anti-Cancer Properties

The results revealed that the extract contained multiple active compounds with cancer-fighting properties, demonstrating varying levels of effectiveness against colon cancer. Specifically, the Artemisia herba-alba extract inhibited cancer cell growth and induced cell death, regardless of specific genetic traits.

Explaining its mechanism of action, Dr. Bou Malhab noted:
“The extract disrupted the cell cycle and reduced the activity of proteins like cyclin B1 and CDK1, which are crucial for cancer cell division. Additionally, it blocked the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, a key driver of cancer progression.”

A Step Toward Alternative Cancer Treatments

In conclusion, the study highlights the selective cytotoxicity of the extract against cancer cells, suggesting its potential as a complementary therapy to conventional cancer treatments.

“Our findings showcase the immense potential of Artemisia herba-alba as a natural source for developing innovative treatments for colon cancer. This research addresses the urgent need for therapies that are both more effective and less harmful,” emphasizes Dr. Bou Malhab.

These findings could pave the way for pharmaceutical companies to explore new, plant-based treatment options. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which often comes with severe side effects and drug resistance issues, this plant extract offers a promising, less toxic alternative.