This book outlines the potential of Mexican medicinal plants in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), a disease with significant incidence in Mexico. By examining the rich history and traditional uses of Mexican flora, the book focuses on the bioactive compounds and mechanisms of action that contribute to the anti-cancer properties of these plants. The chapters cover a range of topics, including the pharmacognostic evidence supporting the anti-cancer potential of Mexican flora, the chemical structures of bioactive compounds, and the ways in which these plants can modulate the tumor microenvironment. The book also explores the synergistic effects of combining Mexican medicinal plants with conventional CRC therapies, offering a comprehensive analysis of preclinical and clinical evidence. Particular attention is given to sustainable harvesting practices, quality control, and toxicity considerations, ensuring the responsible use of these natural resources.

This book is an invaluable resource for researchers, scholars, and practitioners in oncology, pharmacology, and phytochemistry. It invites readers to consider the integration of traditional and modern medicine, offering insights into future research opportunities and the potential for novel CRC therapies derived from Mexican flora.

Jorge L. Mejía-Méndez works as a Researcher at the Tecnologico de Monterrey, Querétaro, México, holding a Ph.D. in Molecular Biomedicine and B.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Universidad de las Américas Puebla (UDLAP), México. His research explores the antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties of medicinal plants, as well as metal oxide and lanthanide-based nanoparticles for applications in agriculture, food industry, electronics, and biomedicine. He collaborates with leading institutions including ITESM, UNAM, UBC, and COLPOS, and serves as Guest Editor for journals on natural products and drug development. Actively engaged in translational research, he is a Level 1 member of the National System of Researchers (SNII).

Jorge Cadena Iñiguez is a Research Professor at Colegio de Postgraduados, Campus San Luis Potosí, Mexico, and Level 2 member of the National System of Researchers (SNII). He holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Botany from Colegio de Postgraduados and a B.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering from Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas. With 40+ years of experience in plant sciences, biodiversity, and phytogenetic resources, he has published 60+ scientific articles, 12 books, and holds 19 plant patents, 3 process patents, and 9 technological innovations. His research focuses on agricultural biodiversity conservation, Nagoya Protocol implementation, and germplasm banking, including the world’s only Chayote Germplasm Bank. He directs the journal Agro Productividad and has led international projects in Mexico, Japan, and Latin America.