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Page 173
phoma, and leukemia-derived cell lines have shown an inhibitory effect by azelaic acid. Melanoma cells exposed to azelaic acid, for instance, show an inhibitory effect on DNA synthesis and on plasminogen activator activity. This cytotoxic effect is due to the antimitochondrial action, which exhibits itself as degeneration of mitochondria, eventually leading to cell death. Adjacent normal cells, however, remain unaffected, which demonstrates azelaic acid's affinity to abnormal cells. In other studies, it has also been shown that nontoxic concentrations of azelaic acid reduced DNA synthesis of cultured melanoma cells but had no overt effect on the protein synthesis of these same cells.
Still other studies have shown that basal cell carcinoma responds dramatically to a mixture of azelaic acid and other standard dermatological agents such as 5-FU. 131-133
I recommend Melazepam, a brand of azelaic acid produced by Emerson Ecologics (see Resources). This cream, which contains other ingredients as well, is helpful when applied to pre-basal cell cancerous skin growths.
Bloodroot, Turmeric, and Zinc Chloride Escharotic Paste
This is the most popular external herbal skin cancer remedy. It is used for basal cell cancers and will work most satisfactorily on small skin minors of the nose or forehead. I usually recommend my own variation, in which I include bloodroot and zinc chloride, azelaic acid cream, and a powder or fluid extract of turmeric. Be very careful with these ingredients, particularly the zinc chloride, because it bums and could be very painful. Before using the remedy, it is best to cover the surrounding area with adhesive strips for protection. Apply with a piece of cloth and keep on for twenty-four hours. Then remove and clean with warm water. You may or may not need to apply a second time, but never use more than two applications and do not exceed a total of forty-eight hours because it may then work too deeply and cause tissue damage. This formula is not commercially made but can be compounded for you by an herbalist or naturopathic doctor.
Poultice Powder
This is a simple drawing poultice powder (not available commercially) that is used to remove cancerous pus from a tumor.

 
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