THE ACTION OF OLEOCANTHAL AGAINST BREAST CANCER
Oleocanthal, a natural phenolic compound found in extra virgin olive oil, has shown promising effects against breast cancer.
Researchers investigated how oleocanthal influences the growth of breast cancer cells and whether it can enhance the action of tamoxifen, a well-established breast cancer therapy.
Key findings:
-Oleocanthal inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells both in laboratory experiments (in vitro) and in animal models (in vivo).
-Its effect was especially strong in cell cultures exposed to estrogen, a hormone that often fuels breast cancer growth.
-When combined with tamoxifen, oleocanthal produced a synergistic effect—together, the two were more effective than either alone.
-In animal studies, oleocanthal treatment led to up to 97% inhibition of tumor growth.
READ ALSO:OLEOCANTHAL: A NATURAL ALLY AGAINST BREAST CANCER RECURRENCE
How does it work?
Oleocanthal appears to block estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells, reducing their ability to multiply. Since many breast cancers depend on these receptors, this mechanism makes oleocanthal a particularly interesting natural compound.
Why it matters:
The study suggests that oleocanthal may play a beneficial role in suppressing hormone-dependent breast cancer, especially when used alongside conventional therapies such as tamoxifen. While more clinical research in humans is needed, these findings add to the growing evidence that extra virgin olive oil is not just a food, but a true Mediterranean health treasure.
