Taxol is a chemotherapy medication used primarily to treat various types of cancer, including breast cancer and ovarian cancer. It works by preventing cancer cells from dividing and growing, which helps to slow down or stop the progression of the disease. Originally derived from the bark of the Pacific yew tree, Taxol was discovered in the 1960s and has since become an important part of cancer treatment regimens. It is often administered intravenously and can be used alone or in combination with other cancer therapies to enhance effectiveness.