A systematic review of 22 medicinal plants for chemotherapy-induced nausea found cannabis, ginger, and turmeric had the strongest evidence for antiemetic, chemosensitizing, and immunomodulatory properties.
oncologists, integrative medicine practitioners, cancer patients experiencing nausea
What the researchers found
Among 22 botanicals reviewed, cannabis (THC, CBD) modulates the endocannabinoid system and 5-HT3 receptors for CINV relief and may enhance chemotherapy sensitivity. Ginger acts via 5-HT3 and NK-1 inhibition. Turmeric offers anti-inflammatory effects and boosts chemosensitivity via NF-κB modulation. Synergistic combinations (e.g., ginger with turmeric) showed enhanced efficacy.
Why it matters
CINV remains poorly managed by conventional antiemetics for many cancer patients. Understanding the specific mechanisms of plant-based alternatives could lead to evidence-based complementary therapies.
The numbers in context
22 botanicals reviewed. Cannabis: THC and CBD act on endocannabinoid system and 5-HT3 receptors. Ginger: gingerols and shogaols antagonize 5-HT3 and NK-1. Turmeric: curcumin modulates NF-κB and P-glycoprotein.
How the study worked
Systematic review with comprehensive literature search and critical analysis of studies on medicinal plants for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Evaluated bioactive compounds, mechanisms, and chemosensitizing/immunomodulatory properties.
What this study cannot tell us
Systematic review of heterogeneous studies with varying quality. Many findings based on preclinical data. Clinical trial evidence is limited for most botanicals. Drug interactions with chemotherapy agents are not fully characterized.
How to read the evidence
Comprehensive systematic review, but much of the evidence base is preclinical with limited clinical trial data.
When this study was published
2025 publication.
The bigger picture
Many cancer patients already use these botanicals for symptom management. This review consolidates the mechanistic evidence, though the authors emphasize that rigorous clinical trials are still needed before these can be formally recommended.
Questions still open
- Could standardized botanical formulations be developed for CINV?
- What are the drug interaction risks when combining these plants with chemotherapy?
Common questions
Can cannabis help with chemotherapy nausea?
What natural remedies help with chemo nausea?
Read the original research
Medicinal Plants for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: A Systematic Review of Antiemetic, Chemosensitizing, and Immunomodulatory Mechanisms.
Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 21, 1187-1218
Citation
Sun, Xue; Nie, Fangfang; Sun, Jizhuo; Zhang, Jingdong; Wang, Yuanhe. (2025). Medicinal Plants for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: A Systematic Review of Antiemetic, Chemosensitizing, and Immunomodulatory Mechanisms.. Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 21, 1187-1218. https://doi.org/10.2147/TCRM.S531645
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