Eye cancers are aggressive diseases that can lead to vision loss or even blindness in severe cases. The current treatment options for these cancers can be quite harsh, often involving surgery or radiation therapy.

However, recent research has shown that there may be a more natural way to combat these cancers- through the use of a specific plant.

What is the plant?

The plant in question is known as periwinkle, or sometimes Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus).

It is a small, flowering plant that is native to Madagascar, but has since been naturalized in many other tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and more recently, researchers have been studying its potential to treat a range of illnesses, including cancer.

How does it work?

The compounds in periwinkle that are believed to have anti-cancer properties are called vinca alkaloids. These compounds are found in the leaves and stems of the plant, and they work by disrupting the growth and division of cancer cells.

Specifically, they interfere with the formation of microtubules, which are essential for cell division. By preventing cancer cells from dividing and replicating, vinca alkaloids can slow or even stop the growth of tumors.

What types of eye cancers can it treat?

Research has shown that periwinkle extract has potential as a treatment for a number of different eye cancers, including:.

Retinoblastoma – a rare childhood cancer that affects the retina
Melanoma – a type of cancer that can develop in the iris, choroid, or ciliary body
Squamous Cell Carcinoma – a type of cancer that can occur on the surface of the eye or in the conjunctiva

How is it administered?

Periwinkle extract can be administered in a number of different ways, depending on the type and severity of the cancer being treated. Some options include:.

Topical application – for cancers that are located on the surface of the eye or in the conjunctiva, periwinkle extract can be applied directly to the affected area as a cream or ointment
Injection – for cancers that have spread beyond the surface of the eye, periwinkle extract can be injected directly into the tumor to slow or stop its growth
Oral administration – for more systemic cancers, periwinkle extract can be taken orally in the form of a capsule or tablet

What are the potential side effects?

While periwinkle extract is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects to be aware of, including:.

Nausea and vomiting
Low blood pressure
Decreased white blood cell count
Peripheral neuropathy (numbness and tingling in the hands and feet)

It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor for any potential side effects and adjust the dosage or method of administration as needed.

What does the research say?

While there is still much to learn about the potential of periwinkle extract as a treatment for eye cancers, early research has been promising.

A 2017 study published in the journal Experimental Eye Research found that periwinkle extract was effective at reducing the size of retinoblastoma tumors in mice, with no significant side effects. Another study published in the International Journal of Oncology found that vinblastine, a type of vinca alkaloid found in periwinkle, was able to induce cell death in human uveal melanoma cells in vitro.

Conclusion

While more research is needed to fully understand the potential of periwinkle extract as a treatment for eye cancers, the early studies are certainly promising.

With its natural, anti-cancer properties and relatively few side effects, periwinkle extract could be a valuable addition to the current arsenal of cancer treatments.