Natural Products as Anticancer Agents: Current Status and Future Perspectives

Cancer is one of the leading causes of global death. For ages, research has been carried out to find a lasting cure to this global burden. Conventional cancer treatment such as Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy had been helpful over the years. But this treatment has its adverse side effect which makes it not an effective tool in cancer treatment. Of recent, Scientists have shifted their focus to Natural Products from Medicinal Plants. Natural products are integral to the development of innovative anticancer drugs in cancer research, offering the scientific community the possibility of exploring novel natural compounds against cancers. This study focuses on the diversity of Nigeria plants; its traditional uses and also its anticancer activities. This study also focuses on scientific studies and research trends on Nigeria Medicinal plants, In Vivo and In vitro studies conducted on the plants to assess their antitumor activities. The study also shows the mechanism of action and potential benefits of natural products over conventional cancer treatment. And also highlights investigative methods for further and effective research on cancer treatment.