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 Bitter Leaf, Sweet Promise: Traditional Plant Shows Power Against Brain Cancer in Unpad Study

Glioblastoma, one of the deadliest brain cancers, leaves patients and families with limited hope. But scientists at Universitas Padjadjaran, led by Dr. Fathul Huda from the Faculty of Medicine, are turning to a surprising ally: Vernonia amygdalina, known locally as daun Afrika or bitter leaf.

In laboratory tests, extracts of this plant were applied to glioblastoma cells. The results were striking—the compounds slowed cancer cell growth and triggered apoptosis, or programmed cell death. This echoes traditional uses of the plant in African medicine but grounds it in modern science.

Why does this matter? Glioblastoma is aggressive and resistant to most therapies. Natural, plant-based compounds like those from bitter leaf could complement existing treatments, offering patients safer, more affordable options.

For the public, the study reminds us that biodiversity holds untapped answers to urgent health problems. “Our local and global plants may carry the future of medicine,” Dr. Huda explains. Supporting sustainable cultivation ensures not just health benefits but also environmental resilience.

The discovery contributes to SDG 3 (Health) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by valuing indigenous plants. Through this work, Unpad showcases Indonesia’s rich ecosystems as sources of solutions for global health crises.