Article By: Major Dr. Carl Nutsugah
Cancer is the major cause of death worldwide, researchers are working to develop more therapeutic components for cancer treatment with fewer side effects. Plants are the main sources of pharmacologically active molecules, used for therapeutic purposes. Recently, cashew nuts have been gaining attention as a potential source for anticancer therapies. Interestingly, cashew fruit is tasty and rich in minerals, vitamins, and some essential nutrients. It has high vitamin C, nearly five times higher than oranges, and also with high mineral content. The fruit comprises some volatile compounds, e.g., esters, terpenes, and carboxylic acids. Cashew bark and leaves have a rich amount of tannins as well
Cashew nuts are rich in Anacardium, which is a type of resin. Anacardium has been shown to have anticancer properties. In vitro studies have shown that Anacardium inhibits the growth of several types of cancer cells. Additionally, Anacardium has been found to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. apoptosis is the natural process by which cells die and are disposed of.
Anticancer Activity of Anacardium Resin from Cashew Nuts
Anacardium resin is a rich source of antioxidants, including flavonoids and terpenes. These antioxidants can protect cells from damage caused by cancerous cells. In vitro studies have shown that Anacardium resin can inhibit the growth of several types of cancer cells. Additionally, Anacardium has been found to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Apoptosis is the natural process by which cells die and are disposed of.
Thus, cashew nuts are beneficial for both your health and weight loss goals. They are also high in antioxidants, which can help protect you from damage caused by cancerous cells.
Weight loss benefits of cashew nuts
Cashew nuts are also beneficial for weight loss. Cashew nuts are high in protein and fiber, which can help reduce calorie intake and help you control your weight. Additionally, cashew nuts contain monounsaturated fats, which can help you lose weight and prevent heart disease.
Antioxidant Activity of Cashew Nuts
The oxidation process produces free radicals which contain an unpaired electrons. They can cause DNA damage and attack lipids and proteins. Antioxidants can protect free radical-induced damages by transferring electrons or hydrogen. Thus, foods with antioxidants may provide defense against free radical damage in the body and may prolong the shelf life of food products.
Cashew nuts are also rich in antioxidants. Some of the antioxidants found in cashew nuts include vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium. Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause cancer and other diseases.
The potential benefits of consuming cashew nuts make them a valuable addition to a cancer treatment diet. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, cashew nuts may be an effective way to reduce the side effects of cancer treatments and promote healthy weight loss.
Conclusions and Future Perspectives
Cashew nuts are a valuable source of healthful nutrients and antioxidants. These nuts may be beneficial for cancer treatment, helping to reduce the side effects of treatments and promote healthy weight loss. Further study is needed to confirm these findings, but cashew nuts may be an important addition to the cancer treatment diet.
Anacardium plants have extensively been largely reported for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial effects. A number of in vitro studies have been reported with promising results. On the other hand, the anticancer potential of Anacardium secondary metabolites is also quite prominent. Thus, Anacardium plants should be further studied to better elucidate their therapeutic potential not only in the in vitro and in vivo studies, but also in the clinical application.
