Cancer Bush / Kankerbos
Sutherlandia frutescens
Sutherlandia frutescens — literally named 'Cancer Bush' in Afrikaans (Kankerbos) — has been used by South African traditional healers for centuries to treat cancer, wasting diseases, and viral illness. It contains L-canavanine (an arginine antagonist that disrupts cancer cell protein synthesis), pinitol (insulin sensitiser with anti-wasting effects), GABA (inhibitory neurotransmitter reducing anxiety and cortisol), and SU1 — a novel compound unique to the plant. Clinical studies in South Africa show it reduces cancer-related wasting (cachexia), improves appetite and energy, and modulates immune function. The MRC (Medical Research Council of South Africa) has conducted formal safety and efficacy studies.
Medicinal Properties
Cancer Types Studied
Recommended Dosage
300–600 mg dried leaf extract daily. Traditional use: 1–2 cups leaf tea daily. MRC standardised dose: 9 mg/kg body weight.
Preparations
Standardised Capsules (SU1 Extract)
300–600 mg standardised Sutherlandia extract daily. Look for products standardised to total flavonoid and L-canavanine content.
Traditional Leaf Tea
1–2 tsp dried Sutherlandia leaves steeped in hot water for 10 minutes. Drink 1–2 cups daily. Bitter — add honey. Used traditionally on empty stomach.
NIH / PubMed Research
Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.
Cautions & Interactions
- L-canavanine is a non-protein amino acid — may interfere with arginine metabolism; avoid in lupus (may worsen autoimmune conditions)
- May potentiate antiretroviral drugs — used extensively in HIV/cancer co-management in South Africa
- May lower blood sugar — monitor in diabetics
- Avoid in pregnancy — traditional use as an abortifacient reported
- Do not use alongside immunosuppressant drugs without supervision
Related Herbs
Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before use.