The causes of cancer in general are classified into two categories. External risk factors come from the environment outside the human body, which include unhealthy habits such as smoking and bad diet. We can easily avoid these causes by adopting a healthier lifestyle such as eating healthy and maintaining regular exercise. On the other hand, internal risk factors include genetic mutations, which cannot be prevented. However, some efforts can be done to help us prevent and even treat cancer.
Some cancers are treatable, and there are many ways to treat them. There are conventional medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These kinds of treatment often come with side effects. On the other hand, there are also alternative treatments using natural substances. Many plants are considered to possess anti-cancer properties, and one of them is the Typhonium flagiliforme.
Typhonium flagiliforme is the scientific name for the plant which is locally known as the Rodent Tuber. This plant belongs to the Araceae family and it can only grow up to 25-30 cm. It is usually found in South East Asia, and grows in a humid habitat, away from sunlight. Its leaves are green and have spade-shaped like betel leaves. The rodent tuber has been proven to cure various types of cancer such as breast cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer, leukemia, prostate cancer, cervical cancer and lung cancer.
Scientifically, the leaves of the rodent tuber have three major substances that have anti-cancer properties. First, ribosome inactivating protein which weakens cancer cells, thus inhibiting their growth. Second, antioxidant agent which protects our body from free radicals. Last but not least, curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties. The combination of these substances helps maintain a strong immune system to fight against cancer cells.
The rodent tuber is an affordable alternative cancer treatment and it has no known adverse effects. This plant also reduces the side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and helps cancer patients recover faster. It should be grown organically, without the addition of harmful chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
The rodent tuber does not only benefit cancer patients, but it also benefits cancer specialists, herbal practitioners and pharmacists. This multi-purpose plant also used to provide relief from cough and asthma, and to cure hemorrhoid as well. Other usages of the rodent tuber are for detoxification, to get rid of boils and pus, heal vaginal discharge, reduce swelling, stop bleeding, ease pain, clean up the digestive system and improve health.