Globally incidences of cancer-associated morbidity and mortality are still increasing. Despite tremendous innovations in the development of many chemically developed anti-cancer drugs the unsatisfactory prognosis of the disease still remains a major challenge. The most widespread negative aspects of conventional cancer treatments are the formation of drug resistance eventually leading to the termination of chemotherapy. Moreover, most patients in developing countries are unable to afford the high cost of sophisticated target-specific therapies like stem cells and immunotherapy. Therefore, to supplement the present cancer therapy treatments, new and less costly therapeutic strategies need to be developed. The use of natural products in cancer management has gained significant attention due to their diverse mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits. Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds produced naturally by plants and have great potential in human health and disease. Natural Products have antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antiproliferative properties. Phytochemicals are highly beneficial in managing a variety of diseases, including cancer, immunological disorders, and cardiovascular disease. They reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), stop cancer from spreading, alter the immune system, and cause cancer cells to undergo apoptosis or autophagy. Investigating natural products is an effective way to find compounds that are biologically active and have unique structures and modes of action. Natural products represent a rich source for the discovery and development of cancer preventive and anticancer drugs. This comprehensive review explores the role of natural products in various aspects of cancer management and the development of anticancer drugs.
