Phytochemical-Based Strategies in Enhancing Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Efficacy in Cancer Treatment

Despite significant advancements in the field, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the primary cancer therapeutic methods. Nevertheless, they are linked to several adverse effects that significantly lower cancer patients’ quality of life. Due to their diverse range of chemicals and adaptable biological characteristics, plants can be used as adjuvant therapy to lessen the negative effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in cancer treatment. Furthermore, a promising combination of phytochemicals and conventional chemotherapy has demonstrated improved efficacy and low adverse effects in cancer treatment. Numerous phytochemicals have been thoroughly studied for their potential chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic benefits. Nevertheless, their limited target selectivity, low solubility, hydrophobicity, and poor absorption limit their therapeutic uses in clinical settings. Developing nanoformulations of phytochemicals with nanocarriers such as liposomes, micelles, nanoemulsions, and nanoparticles, to increase their bioavailability and target specificity and maximize their therapeutic potential has been a growing area of research. In this chapter, we have discussed the role of phytochemicals in enhancing chemotherapy and radiotherapy efficacy in cancer treatment.