Phytochemicals in the oncology setting.

Phytochemicals--the bioactive compounds found in plants--not only hold historical significance in various medical traditions, but also form the basis of many modern-day drugs. Phytochemicals are often used for primary disease prevention or as adjuncts to conventional therapies--despite uncertain effectiveness or safety. On the other hand, phytochemicals have given rise to numerous conventional drugs, which are widely used in mainstream medicine and compose the primary therapeutic strategies for numerous conditions (including cancer). In this review, we will discuss general safety considerations for integrating phytochemicals in the oncology setting. The supportive evidence and safety concerns of popular plant-based cancer therapies will also be summarized. Finally, a brief overview of the established and emerging anticancer drugs with botanical origins will be provided.