AbstractThis section discusses the potential of noscapine, a plant-derived alkaloid, as a chemotherapeutic drug for cancer. This alkaloid is from Papaver somniferum. The discovery of the compound as a novel microtubule drug, its structure-activity relationship, mechanism of action, effect on healthy and cancerous cells and its non-toxic profile in animals are described. Discussions on noscapine and drug-resistant cancer cells, pharmacokinetic profile, angiogenesis and cytotoxicity are also given. Other medicinal uses are mentioned. Issues on biotechnological production and future uses are also tackled briefly.