Oncology is the branch of medicine that focuses on study, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancer and related cells. Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in cancer cases, probably due to various factors like modern lifestyle disturbances, unhealthy dietary habits, irregular daily routines, and exposure to various environmental factors etc. These factors often disrupt the natural balance of the body, leading to adaptive changes in the body that can eventually lead to the development of cancer in the body. Considering the complex, multisystem nature of cancer, an integrated approach to its management is essential to improve the quality of life for the affected ones.
Contemporary science offers advanced cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and surgery. However, these can cause severe side effects, weakened strength and reduced quality of life over time. This underscores the need for holistic approaches like Ayurveda to complement treatment and enhance overall well-being.
Ayurvedic Approach for Cancer Management
With its holistic approach to health, Ayurveda offers a significant approach to managing cancer and its associated challenges. According to Ayurvedic principles, cancer can be understood as a disorder involving the imbalance of doshas (Vata- Pitta- Kapha) and a decrease in the digestive fire (Agni), further leading to a decrease in health and immunity of the body.
Gut health and Agni Restoration: Cancer and its treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, often disrupt the digestive system, leading to a decrease in appetite, nausea, vomiting, and malabsorption of various essential nutrients. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a strong digestive fire (Agni) for optimal health. Herbal formulations, dietary patterns, and specific ayurvedic therapies, as well as panchakarma, can help restore digestive function, improve gastrointestinal symptoms, and enhance nutrient absorption.
Weakness and Tissue Deterioration: Cancer patients frequently experience significant physical and mental weakness due to the disease and its treatments. Ayurveda offers rejuvenating therapies (Rasayana) that strengthen the body, help the tissues for their growth, and enhance liveliness. These therapies include the use of medicinal herbs such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Amalaki, and many more, which are known for their adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties.
Mental and Emotional Health: Mental health is crucial in cancer care, as patients often face anxiety and distress. Ayurveda emphasizes the mind body connection, offering medication, Pranayam and yoga to reduce stress and enhance positivity. Herbal remedies like Brahmi, Jatamansi and Guduchi further support emotional well being, promoting balance and resilience.
Dietary Regulations and Pathya: Diet plays an essential role in both cancer prevention and management. Ayurveda emphasizes the concept of Pathya (wholesome diet), which involves consuming foods that are easy to digest, nourishing, and suitable for the individual’s condition. Personalized dietary recommendations based on Ayurvedic principles can help support the immune system, improves the gut health, and promote healing. For example, warm, cooked meals with spices like turmeric, ginger, and cumin can promote digestion process and provide various benefits in terms of tissue formation and strengthening the body’s immune system.
Support During Chemotherapy and Radiation: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can cause a range of side effects, including fatigue, hair loss, and immune system suppression. Ayurveda modalities like Satvavavjaya chikitsa (psychological counselling) can be added to these treatments by making the emotional makeup of an individual strong and enhancing the body’s ability to cope. Also, Ayurvedic medication like Triphala churna, a well-known Ayurvedic formulation, is known for its detoxifying and immune-boosting properties and can be used to support overall health during treatment.
Yoga and Mind-Body Healing: Yoga plays a significant role in cancer care. Gentle yoga postures, along with Pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation, can reduce fatigue, improve sleep quality, and enhance the overall quality of life. These practices also promote a sense of inner peace and help patients to cope up with the emotional challenges of their journey.
The Need for Integration
Integrating Ayurveda with modern medicine will result in a promising approach to cancer care. Modern Systems of medicine deal with diagnosing and treating cancer with accuracy and evidence-based interventions. At the same time, Ayurveda offers an add-on perspective focusing on holistic healing and long-term well-being. By combining these systems, especially for cancer management, healthcare providers can address not only the disease itself but also the broader physical, mental, and emotional challenges faced by patients.
For example, a patient undergoing chemotherapy can benefit from Ayurvedic therapies to manage common gut symptoms like reduced appetite and disturbed sleep and can boost immunity. Similarly, Yoga and meditation can help patients cope with the psychological impact of cancer and its treatment. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care addressing all health aspects.
Cancer is a complex and multisystem disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective outcomes. Integrating these two Systems of management for cancer care will be beneficial for society.
