Artemisinin, a compound derived from the wormwood plant, and its derivative artesunate have demonstrated potential as a complementary treatment for cancer. Research has shown that these compounds can induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells by targeting a cellular process called the iron-dependent pathway. This pathway is often overactive in cancer cells, leading to their increased survival and proliferation. Additionally, artemisinin and artesunate have been shown to reduce inflammation and angiogenesis, which are associated with cancer development and progression.