Researchers from the University of Sharjah have found that extracts from this plant can kill cancer cells while sparing healthy ones.

The plant works through multiple mechanisms, stopping cancer cell growth, triggering cell death, and blocking pathways that allow cancer to spread. These findings are exciting because current chemotherapy treatments often cause severe side effects and struggle with drug resistance.

The research team carefully prepared and analyzed the plant, identifying several compounds with cancer-fighting properties. Tests showed that the extract was effective against various types of colorectal cancer cells, even those missing key tumor-suppressing genes.

However, some cancer cells resisted treatment, suggesting the extract may work best as part of a broader strategy rather than a standalone cure. While the results are promising, further studies are needed before this treatment can be tested on patients. Scientists hope this natural approach could lead to safer and more effective cancer therapies in the future.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent and deadly disease, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Traditional chemotherapy often encounters drug resistance and adverse side effects, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. Artemisia herba‐alba , a plant rich in phytochemical constituents, was investigated for its potential as an anticancer agent against colorectal cancer (CRC). The primary objective of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic effects of the methanolic extract of A. herba‐alba on eight CRC cell lines including: Caco‐2, DLD1, RKO^+/+p53, RKO^−/−p53, HCT^+/+p53, HCT^−/−p53, SW620, and SW480. Specifically, the study investigated the extract's impact on cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle progression, and effects on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

Chemical derivatization and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis revealed a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including ephedrine, hydroxyflavone, quinolinic acid, 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid, borneol, β‐eudesmol, and camphor, known for their cytotoxic properties. The methanolic extract of A. herba‐alba exhibited varying degrees of cytotoxicity across a panel of CRC cell lines, with IC₅₀ values indicating differential sensitivity. The extract triggered apoptosis in many cell lines, irrespective of p53 status.

Importantly, A. herba‐alba extract caused G2‐M phase cell cycle arrest in CRC cells, accompanied by a decrease in Cyclin B1 and CDK1 expression. Furthermore, the extract demonstrated an inhibitory effect on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, crucial in cancer progression. These findings highlight the promising anticancer potential of Artemisia herba‐alba as a valuable resource for innovative CRC treatments. Further research is warranted to elucidate its specific anticancer characteristics and explore its potential incorporation into future cancer therapy approaches.