Identification and Utilization of Pharmaceutically Novel Chemicals from Plants for the Treatment of Cancer-A Critical Appraisal

Plant-derived natural products remain a critical source of novel anti-cancer agents. Emerging phytochemicals—such as taccalonolides, honokiol, betulinic acid, withaferin A + garcinol combinations, luteolin, palmatine, and synergistic blends from plants like Moringa oleifera—exhibit promising anticancer mechanisms including microtubule stabilization, apoptosis induction, and signal-pathway disruption. This critical appraisal surveys the source identification, isolation methods, mechanistic action, preclinical evidence, and movement toward clinical application. It also explores the role of computational docking, combination strategies, and bioengineering platforms enhancing yield and activity. While many compounds are preclinical, recent computational and synergistic studies show significant BCL 2, AKT 1, and KRAS targeting potential. The challenges of bioavailability, toxicity, resistance, and scale-up are evaluated. Ultimately, the review highlights select promising compounds and provides a roadmap for translating plant-derived molecules into cancer therapeutics.