Plant product toxicity or herbal toxicity is a field that has rapidly grown worldwide over the last few years, along with increased use of plant products. The aim of this study is to discuss the mutagenic and carcinogenic effects of some plant products. This chapter mainly focuses on the plants that are accepted as healthy; however, they contain genotoxic and carcinogenic compounds. This chapter discussed the commonly used herbal foods and medications that are carcinogenic. Moreover, the risks and hazards of some plants were discussed, and thorough studies were conducted.
Herbs, seeds, leaves or plant products are widely used as food, medicines,
and even some people become addicted to betel nut chewing, pan masala, tobacco
products, particularly cigarettes, etc., but sometimes may cause adverse
effects in the body. These products induce various diseases, illnesses and even
cancer. Therefore, using herbal products or medicines does not ensure their
complete safety. These plant products or extracts are known to contain chemical
components identified as significant genotoxic mutagens and carcinogens.
Sometimes, these genotoxic agents are transformed or metabolised into
procarcinogens and carcinogens. For example, fungal toxin aflatoxin is
metabolised into a poisonous carcinogen that can cause the mutation of the p53
gene, and finally, hepatocellular carcinoma is induced. Contradictory results
are often obtained with the beneficial and adverse effects of plant products as
reported. The researchers should conduct further studies to assess the toxicity
of plant products and their interactive effects on cancer risk. The government
should take the initiative to inspire researchers to conduct extensive research
in this field and to educate the general public about the need to restrict the
excessive use of these products.
Author
(s) Details
Sudipta
Chowdhury
P.G. Institute of Medical Sciences, Chandrakona Town, Paschim
Medinipore -721201, West Bengal, India.
Samarendra
Nath Banerjee
Department of Zoology, Rammohan College, 102/1 Raja Rammohan
Sarani, Kolkata-700009, West Bengal, India.
Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/rpbs/v5/5703
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