Introduction

In a remarkable breakthrough, researchers from the University of Sharjah have unveiled that **Artemisia herba-alba**, a familiar aromatic plant also known as common wormwood or white wormwood, possesses powerful compounds that could significantly aid in fighting colorectal cancer (CRC). This herb has long been utilized in traditional medicine across North Africa and the Middle East to alleviate various ailments such as bronchitis, diarrhea, hypertension, and diabetes.

Research Findings

The promising findings were published in the prestigious journal **Food Science and Nutrition**, showcasing the herb's remarkable potential to combat one of the most common and deadly forms of cancer globally. Dr. Lara Bou Malhab, the lead author of the study, emphasized the herb's capacity to offer a new avenue in cancer treatment. “These results suggest that Artemisia herba-alba has great potential as a new tool in fighting CRC. It could be a promising natural ingredient for new cancer treatments based on our findings,” she stated.

Methodology

The research team meticulously sourced the plant from southern Jordan, ensuring its aerial parts were collected during May 2021. After drying and grinding the herb into a fine powder, they conducted a thorough analysis of its extract. The findings revealed that **Artemisia herba-alba** contains diverse active compounds with varying levels of effectiveness against colorectal cancer cells.

Mechanism of Action

The study highlighted how the extract successfully stunted the growth of cancerous cells, triggering their death irrespective of particular genetic traits. "It also disrupted the cell cycle and diminished the activity of critical proteins such as Cyclin B1 and CDK1 that are essential for the division of cancer cells,” Dr. Bou Malhab elaborated. Moreover, the extract inhibited the significant **PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway**, a crucial factor in cancer progression.

Significance of Colorectal Cancer Research

Colorectal cancer is not only the third most prevalent cancer worldwide but also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In 2020, the disease resulted in over 1 million deaths and 2 million new reported cases, predominantly affecting individuals aged 50 and above, according to the World Health Organization. This highlights the urgent need for innovative treatment options.

Challenges in Current Cancer Treatment

Dr. Bou Malhab stressed the essential nature of discovering more effective therapies in light of the challenges facing traditional chemotherapy, including resistance in cancer cells and severe side effects. “Which is why alternative solutions are needed,” she affirmed, referencing the potential role of Artemisia herba-alba that researchers tested against eight types of CRC cells.

Conclusion

With these promising insights, stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry might take notice, particularly as the scientific world continues to search for improved treatments with fewer adverse effects. More than just a common herb, **Artemisia herba-alba** emerges as an extraordinary candidate in the endeavor to provide better outcomes for those afflicted by colorectal cancer, marking a significant step forward in cancer treatment research.