A promising new player in the fight against breast cancer: parsley. Yes, that familiar green garnish often overlooked on your plate.
Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia tested apigenin, a compound abundant in parsley and other plants, on rats with breast cancer. The results were striking: treated rats developed significantly fewer tumors and showed a substantial delay in tumor formation compared to untreated ones.
How it works
Apigenin excels by blocking new blood vessel formation in tumors. This process, known as angiogenesis, supplies tumors with essential nutrients to grow and spread. By halting it, apigenin limits tumor development and numbers—though this study did not cure breast cancer.
Read also: Improved breast cancer care
The right dose
It's unclear exactly how much apigenin humans need for similar benefits. The next research phase will evaluate effects in people, pinpoint safe dosages, and rule out health and safety risks.
Experts recommend maintaining at least low apigenin levels in the blood to help slow cancer progression. You'll find it in celery, apples, oranges, nuts, and certain dietary supplements.
