If you have done any research on Resveratrol, then you know that it is an antibiotic that is created in some plants when they are injured or under attack by organisms (such as bacteria).
It is also found naturally in grapes, red wine, peanuts, certain berries, and Japanese Knotweed.
A good deal is known about this antioxidant; like the fact that it may help humans in areas such as mental clarity, aging, and prevention of heart disease.
More and more is being learned about it and its' potential uses, which may not be limited to the above mentioned areas.
One very important application of Resveratrol is the use of the compound as an antioxidant (a substance that protects cells from free radicals that can be caused by cancer).
In lab studies, mice that had been exposed to carcinogens were given topical doses of the compound.
The mice were given topical applications before and after exposure to Ultra Violet Radiation.
The studies showed that it repressed skin damage and reduced incidence of skin cancer.
Resveratrol protected skin cells from the development of tumors and skin cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most widely diagnosed malignancies; which makes this particular benefit even more exciting.
Though the studies mentioned here have been done on lab rats and in vitro (test tube), the implications are great enough that human studies have begun.
So far, there have been no long term side effects of those taking the supplement (which may also be marketed as Japanese Knotweed in some stores).
Some physicians theorize that antioxidants can actually protect tumors.
However, studies at the University of Rochester Medical Center show that Resveratrol reaches its target while protecting healthy tissue at the same time.
Many studies suggest that it can help prevent and treat not only skin cancer, but also pancreatic cancer, cancer of the eyes, and cancer of the colon.
As of yet, one cannot simply take a single pill and be cured of cancer.
However, if you have cancer, you may want to discuss with your doctor the possibility of adding antioxidants to your treatment plan.
When it comes to cancer, each patient must be proactive in his or her treatment.
It may be a relief to add an agent that protects your healthy cells while attacking the damaged ones.
It may also be liberating to add an agent that has limited, if any, side effects.