Medicinal Action

Cytotoxic agent
Cytotoxic agents work by disrupting cell division, damaging DNA, or interfering with cellular processes, making them effective in managing conditions like cancer or controlling overactive immune responses. Many cytotoxic agents are derived from natural sources and selectively target diseased or abnormal cells. Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) produces alkaloids like vincristine, used in chemotherapy to inhibit cancer cell division. Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) contains podophyllotoxin, a compound with cytotoxic properties against tumor cells. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) exhibits mild cytotoxic effects, selectively inducing apoptosis in abnormal cells. These agents are carefully utilized in therapeutic contexts to minimize harm to healthy cells while addressing pathological conditions.
