Natural Compounds and Their Effect on Cancer Stem Cells

Cancer is a serious medical concern, being the second-leading cause of death globally. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are self-replicating oncogenic cells with a central role in tumor formation and the development of cancer in the body. Targeting CSCs is crucial for the effective control and treatment of cancer. Medicinal plants and their derivative natural products are considered promising anticancer agents due to their profound impact on CSCs. Pharmacologically active compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, alkaloids, etc. are widely found in these natural products, with scientific evidence of efficient CSC eradication. This chapter delves into the role of various natural products in cancer treatment and the fundamental mechanisms involved in targeting, modulating, and inhibiting CSCs. Current research findings are reported, elucidating the multifaceted roles of natural compounds in cancer management targeting CSCs at cellular and molecular levels. The opportunities as well as challenges associated with the development of anticancer drugs from these compounds at the clinical level are discussed. This chapter aims to explore the vast horizon of the relationship between natural compounds and CSCs, shedding light on potential breakthroughs in cancer treatment.