This article has been prepared to review some medicinal plants used for the treating cancer disease. The plant sources of India are likely to provide effective anticancer agents. Herbs have a vital role in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Examples are provided in this review of promising bioactive compounds obtained from various plants with medicinal and other therapeutic uses. The photochemical exploration of these herbs has contributed to some extent in this race for the discovery of new anticancer drugs. In recent years owing to the fear of side effects people prefer to use of natural plant products for cancer treatment. This review also helps to summarize the diverse methodologies and various ways to evaluate the potential natural compounds having anticancer activity. Although drug discovery from medicinal plants continues to provide an important source of new drug leads, numerous challenges are encountered including the procurement of plant materials and their selection.