Cytotoxic effects of herbal medicine: An overview of mechanistic pathways and clinical relevance

Abstract

Herbal medicines have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. However, the potential cytotoxic effects of certain herbal compounds pose significant safety concerns. This review explores the mechanistic pathways underlying the cytotoxicity of herbal medicines, the factors influencing these effects, and their clinical relevance. It also examines current research on identifying and mitigating these risks to improve the safety and efficacy of herbal therapeutics. The article highlights the need for comprehensive toxicological assessments and regulatory frameworks to balance the benefits and risks of traditional herbal products.