Can Origanum be a hope for cancer treatment? A review on the potential of Origanum species in preventing and treating cancers

ABSTRACT

In this study, the potential of aromatic Origanum species belonging to Lamiaceae family to prevent and treat cancer was investigated. Since aromatic plants contain phytochemicals such as essential oils, phenolic acids, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, vitamins, enzymes and minerals with beneficial biological activities, they have become more interesting and important in medicine, pharmacy and industry. Publications/research between 1950 and 2022 were screened to investigate the effects of Origanum species on cancer, and the effects of their extracts and essential oils in cancer prevention and treatment. Essential phytochemicals found in plants provide efficacy in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Besides, the essential oils found in these plant extracts are another reason that makes them important. Therefore, it is preferred in traditional medicine in the fight against many diseases as well as cancer. Essential oils of Origanum species mainly contain monoterpenes such as p-cymene, carvacrol, thymol and γ-terpinene. Since these compounds exhibit anticancer properties, Origanum species are becoming the plants of choice in the fight against cancer. In this context, Origanum majorana L. Origanum vulgare and Origanum munzurense are promising species, considering the composition of their extracts and essential oil.

KEYWORDS:

• Origanum
• carvacrol
• anticancer activity
• cancer treatment
• phytochemical

Authors’ contribution

Erdal Yabalak: Designed the study, writing and correcting the original draft, commented on the manuscript, critical feedback and helped shape the research, provided technical support during literature review and reviewing & editing the final draft. Zuhal Emire: Writing the original draft, commented on the manuscript, critical feedback and helped shape the research, provided technical support during literature review.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.