Sri Lankan cancer-fighting supplement set for global launch

A nutritional supplement developed using several natural, indigenous herbs proven to destroy cancer cells in research conducted three years ago is being further enhanced for introduction to the international market.

This was stated by Professor Sameera R. Samarakoon, an expert in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo.

The supplement has achieved successful results among cancer patients in Sri Lanka. A survey conducted by the University of Kelaniya confirmed a 93% consumer confidence rating for the product.

Professor Samarakoon and his team conducted 17 years of research to develop this product, which is a blend of 155 medicinal compounds derived from five key plants: Vernonia zeylanica, Nigella sativa, Hemidesmus indicus, Leucas zeylanica, and Smilax glabra.

The compounds have been shown to destroy cancer cells by controlling the activity of cancer cell proteins and minimising side effects. The research identified 155 natural compounds that influence the activity of cancer cell proteins like AKT1, BCL2, and CAST3, while controlling and destroying cancer cells by regulating proteins such as EGFR, HSP90A1, and STAT3.

Professor Samarakoon believes that this research which combines Indigenous Medicine with modern scientific research represents the next significant step in Sri Lanka's healthcare and scientific progress. The study was conducted using the Pharmacology Network method, a widely used and highly successful research approach globally.

The findings have been submitted to a leading international scientific journal and are currently published in the BioRxiv pre-print service.

The supplement is already available in the domestic market. The ongoing additional research and enhancement work is focused on facilitating its move to the foreign market.

Professor Samarakoon stated that discussions regarding international commercialisation are currently underway. The team's goal is to generate $2 million per month for Sri Lanka by 2027 through international sales.

This research has received collaboration and support from both Western and Ayurvedic doctors in the country.