Medicinal Potential of Tropical Rainforest Plants in Cancer Therapy: Challenges and Innovations

Abstract: Tropical rainforests are one of the richest ecosystems on Earth, providing a vast array of plant species that have been essential in the development of pharmaceuticals. This review highlights the medicinal potential of plants found in these ecosystems, with a focus on their role in cancer therapy. These plants provide bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, terpenoids, and alkaloids, which serve as the basis for several cancer therapies. The contribution of rainforest plants to drug discovery, particularly in cancer treatment, is evaluated alongside the challenges related to deforestation, illegal logging, and climate change, which threaten their biodiversity. With an emphasis on sustainable plant sourcing, it advocates for preserving these valuable resources for future pharmacological innovations.