Medicinal Plants Commonly Used Against Cancer and Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Malaysia

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and cancer are both considered life-threatening diseases that impose a significant global burden. Despite significant advancements in the treatment and management of both cancer and HIV, challenges persist. However, challenges such as drug resistance, limited accessibility in low-resource settings, and a paucity of cost-effective alternatives persist, underscoring the need for continued research. Chemotherapy frequently results in severe toxicities, including myelosuppression and organ damage, while antiretroviral treatments can lead to long-term adverse effects such as metabolic disorders and liver toxicity. Conversely, natural therapies, encompassing the utilization of plant-derived products in cancer and HIV treatment, have emerged as a potential avenue to mitigate adverse side effects. The utilization of natural products has demonstrated consistent efficacy in the prevention of HIV and cancer. The development of anti-HIV/cancer products has incorporated natural plants and extracts. Indigenous communities have utilized traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of various diseases, including HIV and cancer. A number of Malaysian plants have been identified as having significant anti-HIV/cancer properties, and some of the commonly used plants are described in this review with an account of their compounds and modes of action. However, to date, only a limited number of Malaysian plants have been subjected to bioactivity testing, highlighting the necessity for further research to fully elucidate their medicinal potential and inform the development of novel therapeutic interventions for combating HIV/cancer.