Need integrated cancer approach to enhance quality of life via Ayurveda.
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Need of integrated approach against cancer to improve quality of life insight of ayurveda
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
*Kiran Tawalare
Assistant Professor, Department of Kriya Sharir, Shri Ayurved College, Nagpur
Ganesh Hedaoo
P.G. Student, Department of Kriya Sharir, Shri Ayurved College, Nagpur
Snehvibha Mishra
Associate Professor, Department of Kriya Sharir, Shri Ayurved College, Nagpur
Ravindra Dhimdhime
Professor, Department of Kriya Sharir, Govt. Ayurved College, Osmanabad
Gopal Sharma
Professor, Department of Rachana Sharir, Govt. Ayurved College, Nagpur
Kalpana Tawalare
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Rachana Sharir, Shri Ayurved College, Nagpur.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Need of integrated approach against cancer to improve quality of life insight of ayurveda
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality globally, affecting both developed and developing nations significantly. In India alone, estimates indicated that approximately 155,863 new cancer cases would be diagnosed in 2015, leading to 75,957 deaths. Despite advancements in treatment by scientists and health organizations, cancer continues to proliferate. Conventional treatments like chemotherapy can extend patients' lives; however, they often bring about severe side effects that diminish life quality. The promise of palliative care, alongside the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, offers an integrated approach to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. Ayurveda presents holistic treatment methods that include dietary regulations and lifestyle recommendations relevant to combating cancer and alleviating its symptoms.
The Role of Ayurveda in Cancer Treatment
Ayurveda, described in classical texts, refers to cancer using terms like 'Arbuda' (malignant tumor) and 'Granthi' (benign tumor), attributing its root causes to imbalances among the body’s three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. This ancient system emphasizes preventive care, with treatments tailored to the individual’s constitution. Ayurvedic therapies encompass both Shodhana (curative) and Shaman (palliative) approaches. Notable components of Ayurvedic treatment plans include dietary guidance (Aahar), daily routines (Vihar), seasonal conduct (Rutucharya), and mental well-being techniques (Satvavajaya). Research underscores several Ayurvedic herbs and spices, such as curcumin from turmeric and eugenol from cloves, demonstrating anti-cancer properties and enhancing patients' overall health.
The Importance of Palliative Care
The significance of palliative care in cancer management cannot be overstated, especially as patients navigate the difficult side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Symptoms like fatigue, pain, and emotional distress can severely impair a patient’s quality of life. Ayurvedic principles advocate for an integrative approach that addresses both physical and emotional challenges. Treatments like Yoga, Panchakarma (detoxification), and Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy) are essential components that can enhance immunity, reduce stress, and improve emotional well-being. Additionally, the incorporation of daily routines and principles of healthy living furthers the aim of restoring balance within the patient, allowing for emotional and psychological resilience amidst the challenges of cancer treatment.
Conclusion
The prevailing challenges in cancer treatment necessitate an integrative approach that harmonizes modern medical practices with traditional Ayurvedic wisdom. This collaboration can significantly elevate the quality of life for patients enduring the side effects of conventional therapies. By implementing Ayurvedic principles, such as proper nutrition (Aahar), balanced daily routines (Vihar), and supportive therapies, patients can experience a holistic enhancement in their physical and emotional well-being. Ayurveda, with its comprehensive and patient-centered approach, has the potential to play a crucial role in the ongoing battle against cancer, ultimately aiding patients in leading a meaningful life even in the face of adversity.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Ayurveda in cancer treatment?
Ayurveda plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for cancer patients. It provides holistic treatments that reduce side effects of conventional therapies, enhance immunity, and focus on palliative care through dietary changes, daily routines, and herbal remedies.
How does Ayurveda classify and define cancer?
In Ayurveda, cancer is identified with terms like Arbuda and Granthi, which describe conditions resulting from vitiation of Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). These classifications help in developing targeted treatment approaches that align with ancient Ayurvedic principles.
What approaches does Ayurveda recommend for cancer management?
Ayurveda recommends an integrated approach involving Aahar (diet), Vihar (lifestyle), Panchkarma (detoxification), and therapies like Rasayana and Satvavajaya. These methods aim to enhance quality of life, manage symptoms, and offer emotional and psychological support during cancer treatment.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Need integrated cancer approach to enhance quality of life via Ayurveda.�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Cancer:
Cancer is a large group of nearly 100 diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and the ability to invade other parts of the human body. In India, it has been a significant cause of death, with rising incidence and mortality rates projected for recent years.
2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine aimed at maintaining health and treating diseases by balancing bodily doshas like Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. It employs various treatments like Shodhan (curative) and Shaman (palliative) approaches, often recommended for managing cancer symptoms.
3) Disease:
Cancer is one of the many diseases degrading patients both physically and mentally. Ayurveda categorizes cancers under terms like Granthi and Arbuda, addressing them with specific treatments to improve the quality of life of patients.
4) Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is a common cancer treatment aimed at reducing cancer cells in the body. However, it often has side effects, ranging from nausea to organ failure, which Ayurveda aims to mitigate through palliative care practices.
5) Death:
Death in cancer patients can result from untreated spread of malignant cells, organ failure, or severe side effects of conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Ayurveda aims to offer palliative care to enhance the quality of life in such cases.
6) Yoga:
Yoga is a supplemental therapy in Ayurveda for cancer patients, used to manage side effects, reduce psychological stress, and improve overall quality of life by balancing physical, mental, and pranic energy.
7) Radiotherapy:
Radiotherapy is another conventional cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill or damage cancer cells. It also has severe side effects, which Ayurveda seeks to alleviate through treatments like Panchakarma and Shaman therapy.
8) Arbuda:
Arbuda refers to a malignant tumor in Ayurveda, characterized by deep-rooted, slow-growing swelling in the body and associated with vitiated doshas. It is managed through both curative and palliative Ayurvedic treatments.
9) Granthi (Gramthi):
Granthi in Ayurveda denotes benign tumors that are round, bulged, and hard swellings, vitiated by aggravated doshas. These swellings are treated with specific Ayurvedic therapies aimed at reducing symptoms and improving life quality.
10) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are fundamental bodily bio-elements in Ayurveda—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—that must be balanced for good health. Imbalances in these doshas are believed to cause diseases like cancer, where Ayurveda aims to restore balance through various treatments.
11) Kriya:
[see source text or glossary: Kriya]
12) India:
India is significant in the context of this article as it is the place where Ayurveda originated and remains widely practiced. The article discusses the Ayurvedic approaches to cancer prevalent in India.
13) Aahar:
Aahar refers to diet or food in Ayurveda. Certain foods and spices like Kesar, Haridra, Lashuna, and others are believed to have anti-cancer properties and play a crucial role in the Ayurvedic dietary recommendations for managing cancer.
14) Food:
Food, or Aahar, is emphasized in Ayurveda for its role in health and disease prevention. Specific foods and spices are identified to have anti-cancer properties, making dietary management a significant aspect of cancer treatment.
15) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation in Ayurveda refers to the imbalance or aggravation of doshas. In the context of cancer, vitiation of doshas like Pitta and Kapha can lead to the development of tumors diagnosed as Arbuda or Granthi.
16) Nagapura (Naga-pura):
Nagpur is mentioned as the location of Shri Ayurved College, where some of the authors of the journal article, like Kiran Tawalare and others, are based. Research and treatments discussed in the article are connected to this institution.
17) Science (Scientific):
The article stresses the necessity of integrating scientific methods with traditional Ayurvedic knowledge to create effective cancer treatments that improve the quality of life. This approach involves combining research-based evidence with ancient wisdom.
18) Medicine:
Medicine in the context of this article ranges from conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy to Ayurvedic treatments using herbs and therapies that aim to improve the quality of life for cancer patients.
19) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to Ayurvedic herbal or mineral ash preparations used in treatment. In cancer, various bhasmas like Suvarna Bhasma and Praval Bhasma are used for their therapeutic properties.
20) Shri (Sri, Sr):
[see source text or glossary: Shri]
21) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pittadosha is one of the three main doshas in Ayurveda, associated with heat and metabolism. In cancer treatments, its aggravation is linked to symptoms like nausea and inflammation, which are addressed through palliative Ayurvedic therapies.
22) Depression:
Depression is a common side effect of conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Ayurveda uses treatments like Satvavjaya and Rasayana therapy to address psychological stress and enhance patients' mental well-being.
23) Knowledge:
Knowledge, especially ancient Ayurvedic knowledge, is deemed valuable for its holistic approach to healthcare. The integration of this knowledge with modern scientific research is advocated to improve cancer treatment and patient quality of life.
24) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is an Ayurvedic formulation that has antioxidant properties and is used in cancer treatment for its immunomodulatory effects and to counteract the side effects of conventional therapies.
25) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana therapy in Ayurveda focuses on rejuvenation and longevity, aiming to enhance immunity, memory, and overall health. It is particularly valuable in cancer management to strengthen the body and mitigate the side effects of other treatments.
26) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
[see source text or glossary: Ashtanga]
27) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a frequent side effect of chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Ayurvedic principles address this issue through specific dietary guidelines and herbal remedies to alleviate this and other related symptoms.
28) Swelling:
Swelling, or inflammation, is a symptom associated with tumors in cancer. In Ayurveda, this is linked to vitiation of doshas like Kapha and is treated through various Ayurvedic therapies.
29) Indriya (Imdriya):
[see source text or glossary: Indriya]
30) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical texts of Ayurveda, like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, which contain extensive knowledge on diagnosing and treating diseases, including cancer, using Ayurvedic principles.
31) Nausea:
Nausea is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Ayurveda aims to alleviate nausea through dietary adjustments and herbal treatments that balance the doshas, particularly Pittadosha, which is often aggravated.
32) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three main doshas in Ayurveda, associated with mucous and lubrication in the body. Its imbalance is linked to conditions like tumors (Granthi) and requires specific Ayurvedic treatments to balance it.
33) Basti:
Basti is an Ayurvedic Panchkarma therapy involving medicated enemas. It is used as part of cancer treatment to detoxify the body, reduce dosha vitiation, and enhance overall health and immunity.
34) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the bodily tissues in Ayurveda. In the context of cancer, vitiation of specific dhatus like Mansa (muscle), Rakta (blood), and Medas (fat) can lead to tumor formation, which is addressed through various treatments.
35) Fight:
Fight against cancer involves an integrated approach combining modern treatments like chemotherapy and holistic Ayurvedic therapies to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
36) Anger (Angry):
Anger is considered a factor that can exacerbate disease in Ayurveda. Emotional imbalances like anger are managed through therapies like Satvavjaya, which aim to maintain mental peace and overall well-being.
37) Vega:
[see source text or glossary: Vega]
38) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with movement and nervous system functions. Its imbalance can contribute to diseases like cancer, necessitating treatments to restore balance.
39) Mana:
Mana refers to the mind in Ayurveda. The mental state, including emotions and stress, significantly impacts physical health. Treatments like Yoga and Satvavjaya are used to stabilize Mana, improving overall well-being for cancer patients.
40) Diet:
Diet, or Aahar, is crucial in Ayurveda for maintaining health. Specific dietary recommendations are provided to cancer patients to support their treatment and improve their quality of life.
41) Fear:
Fear of recurrence or the disease itself causes significant psychological stress in cancer patients. Ayurvedic treatments include psychological therapies like Satvavjaya to help manage fear and improve mental well-being.
42) Pain:
Pain is a common and debilitating symptom in cancer patients. Ayurveda addresses pain through various treatments like Panchakarma and herbal formulations to improve the patient's comfort and quality of life.
43) Drug:
Drugs in Ayurveda include a variety of herbal and mineral formulations like Triphala, Ashwagandha, and Bhasma, which are used to treat the side effects of conventional cancer therapies and improve patient outcomes.
44) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Guduchi, is an herb used in Ayurveda with immunomodulatory and anti-cancer properties. It is used to support overall health and improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment.
45) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, or Licorice, is utilized in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It forms part of the herbal regimen in cancer treatment to enhance patient recovery and well-being.
46) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula is one of the components of Triphala and is used for its antioxidant properties in Ayurveda, aiding in cancer treatment by improving immunity and reducing side effects of conventional therapies.
47) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha, is an important herb in Ayurveda used for its anti-cancer, anti-stress, and immunomodulatory properties, making it beneficial for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
48) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, or Tulsi, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to support cancer treatment and improve the overall health of patients.
49) Human body:
The human body, in Ayurveda, is managed through balancing doshas, dhatus, and malas. In cancer treatment, sustaining this balance through various Ayurvedic practices aims to enhance the body's innate healing abilities.
50) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris is an herb used in Ayurveda for its various health benefits, including anti-cancer properties. It is included in the treatment regimen to support overall patient health and recovery.
51) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta Samhita is a foundational text in Ayurveda, offering detailed knowledge on surgery and treatments for various diseases, including cancer, categorized under Granthi and Arbuda.
52) Ashtangahridaya (Astangahrdaya, Ashtanga-hridaya):
Ashtanga Hridaya is one of the classical Ayurvedic texts consulted for its insights on disease management, including cancer, providing guidelines on treatments and overall lifestyle management.
53) Commiphora mukul:
Commiphora mukul, or Guggul, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It is used in formulations to support the management of cancer and its symptoms.
54) Adharaniyavega (Adharaniya-vega):
Adharaniya Vega refers to the non-suppression of natural urges in Ayurveda, deemed essential for maintaining good health and preventing diseases like cancer. Suppressing these urges is believed to lead to dosha imbalances.
55) Allium sativum:
Allium sativum, or Garlic, is recognized in Ayurveda for its cancer-preventive properties due to its organosulphur compounds, which help in reducing tumor growth and supporting overall health.
56) Raktamokshana (Raktamoksana, Rakta-mokshana):
Raktamokshana is a bloodletting therapy in Ayurveda, part of Panchakarma, used to expel vitiated blood and balance doshas. It is employed to manage symptoms and improve outcomes in cancer treatment.
57) Bhallataka:
Bhallataka, or Semicarpus anacardium, is an herb with anti-cancer properties used in Ayurveda. It is part of formulations aimed at managing cancer symptoms and enhancing patient immunity.
58) Saptadhatu (Sapta-dhatu, Saptan-dhatu):
Saptadhatu refers to the seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda. Ensuring their health and balance is critical in managing diseases like cancer, achieved through treatments like Rasayana therapy.
59) Discussion:
The discussion section of the article explores the modern and Ayurvedic perspectives on cancer, emphasizing the benefits of an integrated approach to improve the quality of life for cancer patients.
60) Meditation:
Meditation in Ayurveda is a practice used to calm the mind and restore balance. It is particularly beneficial for cancer patients to manage stress and improve mental well-being during treatment.
61) Vyavasaya:
[see source text or glossary: Vyavasaya]
62) Sadvritta (Sadvrtta, Sat-vritta):
Sadvritta refers to the code of good conduct in Ayurveda, promoting well-being and prevention of diseases like cancer. It includes practices like cleanliness, truthfulness, and mental discipline.
63) Jatiphala (Jati-phala):
Jatiphala, or Nutmeg, is used in Ayurveda for its potential anti-cancer properties. Its methanol extracts have been found effective against certain cancer cells, supporting its use in treatment formulations.
64) Fenugreek:
Fenugreek, known as Methika in Ayurveda, has been shown to possess cytotoxic properties against cancer cells. It is included in dietary recommendations to support cancer treatment and patient health.
65) Education:
[see source text or glossary: Education]
66) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha refers to the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—in Ayurveda. The balance of these doshas is crucial for health, and their vitiation is associated with the development of diseases like cancer.
67) Shatavari (Satavari):
Satavari, or Asparagus racemosus, is an herb used in Ayurveda for its rejuvenating and anti-cancer properties. It supports immune function and overall health in cancer patients.
68) Dirghayu (Dirgha-ayu):
Dirghayu refers to longevity in Ayurveda. Rasayana therapies aim to promote Dirghayu by enhancing overall health, immunity, and vitality, which is particularly beneficial for cancer patients.
69) Oblation:
[see source text or glossary: Oblation]
70) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
[see source text or glossary: Hridaya]
71) Grishma (Grisma):
[see source text or glossary: Grishma]
72) Vishaya (Visaya):
[see source text or glossary: Vishaya]
73) Kalpana:
[see source text or glossary: Kalpana]
74) Lashuna (Lasuna):
Lashuna, or Garlic, is recognized in Ayurveda for its anti-cancer properties. It is part of the dietary recommendations for cancer patients to support overall health and mitigate tumor growth.
75) Suvarna:
Suvarna, or gold, is used in Ayurvedic formulations like Suvarna Bhasma. These preparations are believed to have rejuvenating and immune-boosting properties beneficial for cancer patients.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 117]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Need integrated cancer approach to enhance quality of life via Ayurveda.�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Chronic disease, Adverse effect, Palliative care, Quality of life, Ayurvedic physician, Ayurveda treatment, Panchkarma therapy, Emotional stress, Yoga Therapy, Integrated approach, Sadvrutta, Principles of Ayurveda, Cancer treatment, Aahar Vihar, Rasayan Therapy, Granthi and Arbuda, Three Dosha, Cancer Insurgence, Holistic method, Herbal Remedie.