Ayurveda & Cancer

Around 5000 years ago Ayurvedic doctors

were already treating patients with problems of
abnormal growth or tumors. Charaka Samhita,
Sushruta Samhita as well as the Ashtanga
Hridayam, which was written much later,
give very detailed descriptions about this
subject. These texts clearly signal the fact
that tumors and cancer are not modern diseases, but are already for centuries known
in Ayurveda. This makes the proposition
that cancer is a modern day disease incorrect. Both Charak (internal medicine) as
well as Sushrut (surgery) give their views
on growths, tumors and cancer from their
personal disciplines. Causes, preliminary
stages, symptoms, forms of appearance
and possible treatments are described in
all the works.

The big difference between Western and Ayurvedic

treatment of cancer is that Ayurveda doesn't have any
agressive body therapies. The focus is much more on
stimulating the self healing abilities of the body. This
starts with an extensive treatment program for health
maintenance, existing in regular check-ups and lifelong
guidance to support health. In case of disease, Ayurveda
has a wide range of therapies and herbs to purify and
support body tissues for natural recovery. The starting
point is (re)balancing the Tridosha and Triguna.
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CLAssICAL AyuRvEDA AND CANCER

susHRutA sAMHItA

Arbuda is the Sanskrit word for tumor. According

to Sushrut the three doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha)
when aggravated, may develop a malignant tumor;
especially aggravated Kapha and Vata doshas. This
affects the tissue, which might result in developing a
malignant tumor. This tumor will have the following
features:

Round
Firm
Causing mild pain
Large
Deeply rooted in the body
Slow growth
Showing no suppuration
A swollen, fleshy growth

A malignant tumor does not suppurate, because it

contains an excess of Kapha and adipose tissue, thus
forming firm little balls.
susHRut DEsCRIBEs 6 tyPEs OF tuMORs

The first four of these tumors are benign and can be

succesfully treated at an early stage with the proper
therapies. The last two tumors are malignant.
TUMOR

CAUSED BY:

Vatika granthi

Vata dosha

Paitika granthi

Pitta dosha

Kaphaja granthi

Kapha dosha

Medas granthi
(adipose tissue)

Affected adipose tissue

Rakta arbuda
(blood tumor)

Affected blood

Mamsa arbuda
(muscle tumor)

Affected muscle tissue

Benign tumors
Symptoms of a benign tumor:
TUMOR

CAUSED BY:

Vatika granthi

Variable stinging, sharp

pain; large, black, mobile,
enlarges or shrinks, hard,
bulging.

Patika granthi

Burning sensation, yellow or red colour, grows

quickly.

Kaphaja granthi

No pain, big hard lump,

cold, skin colour, itches.

Medas granthi
(adipose tissue)

Fatty, soft, mobile.

Symptoms similar to disturbed Kapha; increases or
decreases in size with gain
or loss of weight of the
patient.

Benign tumors, when detected in an early state, are

curable because the drying, compressing and contracting qualities of Vata have closed the blood vessels. This has made it impossible for the tumor to
root deeply in the tissues and growth and nourishment are highly limited. However when these tumors
are in the bloodstream, they are much more serious
and harder to cure. Important features for a succesful chance of recovery are pain and mobility of the
tumor. Whenever a tumor is firmly attached and has
started to grow, it is hard to treat and recovery is extremely difficult.
Malignant tumors
Rakta arbuda occurs when aggravated doshas hamper blood vessels in their functioning, impeding the
blood circulation as well. This leads to disturbances in the blood, comparable to the accumulation of
toxins (ama) in the blood. These toxins (e.g. carcinogens) can be the cause of a tumor. When tumors
develop in the blood vessels, their spreading through
the blood- and lymphatic system will soon become
a reality. This large spreading of tumors will make
recovery extremely difficult. Symptoms of blood tumor: little fluid or pus accumulation (inflammatory

signs) around the tumor, grows quickly, covered with

small metastases and secretion of disturbed (vitiated)
blood. This form is very difficult to cure. Mamsa arbuda occurs when muscles get disrupted from fighting
for instance. When from the punching, the muscles
show a swelling which is stony hard, painless, glossy,
immobile without inflammatory signs, of same colour
as the surrounding, then this is the tumor. This form
is more common in non-vegetarians. Mamsa arbuda
is extremely difficult to cure for the same reasons as
Raktarbuda.
Sushrut describes three forms of metastasising:
1. Raktarbuda
when a tumor is surrounded by smaller tumors.
2. Adhyarbuda
development of another tumor over the first tumor.
Or when a tumor arises on a preexisting site or near
a primary tumor).
3. Dviarbuda
when two tumors arise at the same time.
Those tumors that cause large secretion of fluid in the
surrounding tissue, are located in vital locations or
channels (lymphatic system and blood vessel system)
r tenaciously attached to the surrounding tissue are
highly difficult to cure.
CHARAkA sAMHItA

In the Sushruta Samhita, the internal medicine describes the existence of benign and malignant tumors
in a similar manner. Charak explains that large and
rough tumors in the abdomen and intestines, neck and
vital organs are exceedingly difficult to cure. In this
time of age it is already considered as highly important
to be able to surgically remove a tumor. Otherwise
there is a high risk of recurrence. Both works provide
guidelines for the treatment of wounds with specific
herbs, after a tumor is removed, in order to complete
the treatment succesfully.
AstANgA HRDAyAM

This medical work has been written a few centuries

after Charak and Sushrut. It gives a summary of the
two previous works. Besides this, some additions to
diseases have been added. Tumors and cancer are also
discussed in this work. What's so special about this
work, is that it describes a total of nine types of benign tumors: there is one caused by each dosha and six
categorized by the tissue that is vitiated. From these
nine tumors, six are described that can possibly develop into malignant tumors (three doshas and three
tissues). The development of a benign tumor (Granthi)
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is described as follows: Aggravated doshas, of which Kapha is affected the most, enter the muscle, blood and fatty
tissue, where they give rise to round, hard, elevated and slightly nodular growths.
Description of benign tumors:
BENIGN
TUMOR

SYMPTOMS

CAUSE

Vata granthi

Variable, pricking and cutting pain, large, black,

round, non-fixed, its size may fluctuate, hard,
bulging and if pricked, exudes a clear, thin fluid.

Aggravated Vata, due to dry or stale foods,

stress, insomnia, fatigue etc.

Pitta granthi

Burning sensations, red or yellow in colour,

suppurates quickly and exudes a warm blood
when pricked.

Aggravated Pitta, due to restlessness, spicy

food, over-controlling, agressive behaviour etc.

Kapha granthi

Painless, large, hard tumor, pale colour, the area

around is cold and itches. Suppurates slowly and
if pricked, exudes thick, white, cloudy pus.

Aggravated Kapha caused by too much fatty

foods, fast foods, lack of movement, lethargy.

Rakta granthi
(blood)

Loss of tactile sensations. Symptoms similar to

Pitta granthi.

Aggravated Vata, Pitta and Kapha circulate

through the bloodstream, with Pitta dosha as
the main cause for the disturbance.

Mamsa granthi
(muscle tissue)

Large, hard, oily tumor, tends to be very

vascular. They ulcurate and bleed easily and
often become malignant. Symptoms are similar
to imbalance of the Kapha dosha.

Excessive consumption of wrong kinds of meat.

Meda granthi
(Fatty tissue)

Soft, fatty tumor, but movable. Symptoms similar

to imbalanced Kapha dosha, usually grow in
proportion to body growth. If pricked, exudes
a coppery, white or black fatty fluid.

Intake of too much fat, whereupon Vata

transports it to the muscle tissue or skin.

Asthi granthi
(bone tissue)

Tumor growth outside of the normal area of the

bone.

Fractures or injuries to the bone,

that accumulate Vata.

Sira granthi
(channels)

Vascular tumors, painless and do not pulsate.

Contracting, dehydrating, deformation.

Overexertion, severly accumulated Vata

weakens the blood consistency,
which enters the channels of the body.

Vrana granthi
(ulcer)

A long standing ulcer becomes a tumor by growth

of vitiated tissue around the ulcer. Itching and
burning sensations.

Excessive intake of all types of food, whilst

recovering from ulcer. Internal hermorrhage,
where Vata dries up the vitiated blood.

The DevelopmenT of mAlignAnT TumoRs

When a benign tumor suddenly starts to grow excessively and roots deeply into the tissue, with symptoms
compatible with increased Kapha dosha and fatty tissue, a malignant tumor is occurring. Malignant tumors
do not suppurate and also do not exude fluid, blood or
pus anymore. They are no longer removed by the body,
grow quickly and cover a large area. They are caused
by three vitiated doshas and always affect muscle tissue, adipose tissue and blood. For more information
see the detailed descriptions in the Sushruta Samhita.
The four previously described benign tumors (granthi)
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have now developed into a malignant tumor (arbuda).

Curable are those granthi that occur in the blood vessels, are painful and mobile. However, granthi that are
painless, large, immobile and situated in the vital parts
of the body are exceedingly difficult to cure.

AYURVEDA AND CANCER NOw A DAYS

In the present time we are aware that tumors can occur
in almost all body tissues. Furthermore, we have a
better knowledge of the course of tumor growth and
cancer. Because of her unique diagnostics, Ayurveda

can provide an important contribution to the succesful

treatment of cancer. This is due to the fact that Ayurveda
can determine subtle disturbances in a very early stage
of this disease. Even before it manifests itself, Ayurveda
can already establish disturbances in the balance of
mind and body. Both in this first stage, as in the following stages, Ayurveda can help a patient to recover and
prevent serious chronic diseases. In all the stages, even
when a chronic disease like cancer has been diagnosed,
Ayurveda can provide extensive knowledge of herbs
and treatment strategies. During chemotherapy and/or
radiotherapy Ayurveda can help as well to reduce the
side-effects of the treatment and assist the body in its
recovery process. This we will discuss later.
A more modern classification of tumors could be:

3. The main types of swellings are:

a. Vidradhi:
abscess that suppurates due to vitiated blood.
b. Sopha:
an inflammatory swelling due to vitiated blood.
c. Gulma:
abscess without suppuration caused by vitiation
of all three doshas.
According to Ayurveda a primary tumor is situated
in the main location of the corresponding vitiated
dosha (see afbovementioned schedule). Secondary
tumors are located in the organs the disturbed dosha
has invaded. When tumor cells metastasize, the new
tumor is called a secondary or tertiary tumor, according to the site of the original tumor.

1. Benign or malignant tumor:

a. Granthi:
benign, small, hard tumor or cyst.
b. Arbuda:
malignant tumor.
2. malignant tumor classified by cause:

a. Vatarbuda:
tumor due to increased Vata dosha.
b. Pittarbuda:
tumor due to increased Pitta dosha.
c. Kapharbuda:
tumor due to increased Kapha dosha.
d. Raktarbuda:
tumor caused by vitiated blood.
e. Mamsarbuda:
tumor caused by vitiated muscle tissue.
f. Medarbuda:
tumor caused by vitiated adipose tissue.

TUMOR DEVELOPMENT
AyuRvEDIC POINt OF vIEw

According to Ayurveda, a cell releases a toxin after

long-term disturbance of the body. Cancer is namely
the final stage of a chronic imbalance of doshas and
dhatus (tissues). Doshas are the subtle energies of
the body. Doshas are invisible and only perceptible
through indirect methods such as the pulse diagnosis. Doshas can be influenced by our intake of foods,
drinks, our breathing, daily, weekly, seasonal rhythm
and our mental condition. When these factors do nt
correspond to our body constitution (that originates
from birth), the doshas will become imbalanced. Their
natural relationship will begin to show disturbances.
The doshas will start to increase or decrease and in
due course, a malignant tumor may develop.

Additionally, we can add the other remaining tissues:

g. Rasarbuda:
tumor in the lymphatic system.
h. Majjarbuda:
tumor in the bone marrow.
i. Asthiarbuda:
tumor in the bones.
j. Sukrarbuda:
tumor in the male and female reproductive tissue.
Furthermore, there is one category worth mentioning
and that concerns the swellings. Ayurveda has established that if a swelling is left untreated, or if treatment
is improper or incomplete, the swelling can lead to tumor growth. When a swelling has deeply invaded the
body tissues, long-term treatment is especially necessary. All the tissues (dhatus) and doshas will need to
be balanced again, which will take considerable time.

Arbuda develops when for a long period of time:

someone has an improper lifestyle according to his
body constitution, his environment and the seasons.
someone has improper eating habits/diet according
to his body constitution, environment and seasons.
Toxins from the environment penetrate both mind
and body.
Vitiated doshas, dhatus (tissues) and srotas (channels) are left untreated or wrongly treated.
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When a dosha aggravates and moves from his main

location to an other site in the body, this will disturb
the main site firstly and then will vitiate the secondarily affected tissue.
DOSHA

PRIMARY SEAT

Vata

Large intestine

Pitta

Duodenum

Kapha

Stomach

Depending on the location the vitiated dosha has migrated to, a number of important body functions can be
disturbed. These are (disturbances of):
Agni: the digestion in the stomach, liver, pancreas,
intestines and cell metabolism.
Ama: accumulation of toxins in the body from improperly digested food or waste material in the body.
Malas: disturbance of the natural excretion of body
wastes: urine, faeces and sweat.
Dhatus: one or more of the seven body tissues is
unable to function properly. The tissue weakens.
Srotas: these are the body channels, blood- and
lymphatic system. They can be clogged from aggravated doshas or Ama.
Ojas: Ojas is the end product of digestion, it is released when all the body tissues are healthy. The
dhatus (tissues) are mutually interdependent. When
sufficient, Ojas is equated with immunity. When deficient, it means that one or more tissues function
inadequately and immunity decreases.
In an early stage of a malignant tumor, increased
Kapha (Ama) and Vata may disturb a small part of
tissue. This could block the excretion of waste products and Ama and will therefore weaken the whole
area. The cell metabolism is disrupted, as well as the
regulating mechanism between the cell and its surrounding. Potentially damaging substances are being
accepted into the cell. From this moment on in the
process, we can follow the modern views on the development of tumors/cancer.

MODERN MEDICAL POINT OF VIEw

DEFINItION

Cancer refers to a large number of conditions that

is characterized by abnormal cell division. The multiplication of cells is progressive, uncontrolled and
the cells of cancer infiltrate and destroy surrounding
healthy tissue. They have the ability to metastasize
and spread throughout the body.
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stAgEs OF tuMOR DEvELOPMENt

According to modern medical science the process of

cell transformation can be described for the most part
as follows:
Development of a benign tumor
first stage tumor initiation stage

A cancer-producing substance in the body gets a

chance to enter a cell. This occurs because of two
reasons: the cell has become susceptible (has weakened) and there is a carcinogen substance (toxin).
This toxin is called an initiator. The DNA is damaged
to such an extent that normal cell function and multiplication is no longer possible.
second stage promotion

The processes of cell build-up and cell destruction

are disturbed. Cell growth is modified but not yet
agressive. This is caused by a so called promoter.
Development of a malignant tumor:
Third stage progression

The cell multiplies in an agressive way at the expense

of surrounding tissue, due to a progressor. In the
end the cell will develop into a tumor, deeply inrooted in the body tissues. As long as there is one cancer
cell, the immune system will be able to detect and destruct it. This will pose a problem when the immune
system weakens and the cell has a chance to multiply. This perspective of cancer has mentioned three
substances. They can be either (toxins) derived from
the environment or have a genetic cause, like for instance UV radiation, asbestos or genetically modified
DNA; which is inherited or developed during life.

TRIGUNA AND CANCER

Other than body functions, there are also mental
qualities that can contribute to the development of a
tumor: the Triguna. This concept exists in the following qualities:
Sattva (goodness, purity)
having a harmonious, balanced mind or attitude;
friendliness, calm and resolution.
Rajas (passion)
a dynamic mind, sometimes restless and forceful.
Tamas (ignorance)
a quiet state of mind, sometimes slow and uninterested.
A chronic disease like cancer does not only disturb the
body, it also affects the mind. When for instance, due
to any kind of circumstances, someone is blocked in

his development, he may become frustrated. This will

imbalance the mind and lead to all kinds of symptoms
like hyperactivity, lethargy, indifference or even depression. The last three are mental attitudes Ayurveda
refers to as Tamasic, the negative aspect of Tamas.
Tamas has a strong resemblance with the Tridosha
Kapha. When a chronic disease such as cancer develops, Tamas and Kapha can reinforce each other. Ayurveda considers psychotherapy as a meaningful part
of the treatment. Because health can be attained only
through balancing body, mind and spirit.

EARLY SYMPTOMS
Before a tumor develops, the body and mind already
signal severe disturbances of a dosha, tissue or Guna.
Early warning signs are:
Vata

Fear, restlessness, depression, insomnia,

pain in a specific area of the body, dry
coarse skin, minor infections, fatigue, fluctuating body weight, changes in bowel
movements, problems with swallowing.

Pitta

Anger, impatience, irritation, feelings of

hate, resentment, fever, burning sensations, rapidly developing infections,
changes in skin colour, prolonged indigestion and other digestive problems.

Kapha

Fatigue, excessive sleeping, congestions,

excessive mucus, prolonged cough, mild
pain, itching, coldness, slow progression
of minor infections, small lumps under the
skin, hoarseness.

Tridosha

Combined symptoms of all three doshas.

Rakta dhatu
(blood)

A high or seriously aggravated form of

Pitta with heavy pain, burning and fever.

External
cause

Pitta symptoms caused by trauma, with

fever, thurst and burning caused by infection of the wound.

First symptoms of a possible tumor:

Rectum

Feeling of bloating.

Bladder

Problems urinating.

Navel area

Hiccups and irritation.

Abdominal area

Flatulence.

Inguinal area

Severe pain in the side and the back.

Kidneys

Contracting pain in the side.

Spleen

Difficulty breathing without exertion.

Heart

Intense pain.

Liver

Dyspnea (shortness of breath), thirst.

Gallbladder

Excessive thirst.

Skin

Large brown moles that appear

lumpy, hard or swollen.

When you are worried about signs and symptoms,

please consult your doctor. Are you worried about
possible cancer risk, speak to your doctor about it.
Ask him if any diagnostic procedures for cancer or
tests are possible for you. Make well-informed decisions, speak about your concerns, ask for advice and
a possible check-up.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

Over the last decades, there has been numerous research conducted regarding the possible causes and
increased risk factors for cancer. Nearly all research
studies convey that mostly more than one factor contribute to developing a malignant tumor.
The main factors are:
gENEtIC

Recent studies have shown that some types of cancer

are genetically predisposed, such as breast cancer
and certain types of colon and skin cancer. Individuals
with Down syndrome have a greater risk of developing
acute leukemia.
LIFEstyLE

Smoking.
Tobacco is one of the main causes of cancer. It can
bring about head, neck, lung, mouth, larynx and
bladder cancer.
Ultraviolet.
Prolonged exposure to the sun and excessive sun
burning and tanning increase the risk of skin
cancer.
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 X-ray beams.
X-rays are forms of radiant energy that can penetrate
the body and are used to produce medical images,
are used in petrochemical industries, nuclear power
plants and are also present in space. Prolonged exposure to X-rays can result in cancer of the blood cells
or acute leukemia.
Excessive sexual activity or unsafe sex.
Excessive physical effort.
Debilitated persons (people suffering from impairments, disease or medical conditions).
Stress.
Suppression of the 13 natural needs.
Activities that are not in accordance with the body
constitution, whereupon Vata, Pitta or Kapha will
increase.
Not living your life according to your inner needs.
Not following the seasonal rhythm in lifestyle and
diet.

in progress. A vitamin D deficiency is considered

to increase the risk of bowel cancer especially
in persons over the age of 50 years, as their skin
function decreases. This function regulates the
natural production of vitamin D when exposed to
sunlight.
CHEMICAL CARCINOgENIC suBstANCEs FROM
tHE ENvIRONMENt AND INDustRIEs

Asbestos.
Prolonged inhalation of asbestos increases the risk
of lung cancer and pleural cancer.
Nickel.
Prolonged inhalation of nickel increases the risk of
lung cancer and nasal cavity cancer.
Other substances: arsenic, aromatic amines, benzene,
chromates, vinyl chloride.
CHEMICALs usED IN MEDICINE

DES: diethylstilbestrol.
In 1970's DES, a synthetic estrogen, was widely
used by pregnant women to supplement the woman's natural estrogen production.
Other chemicals: alkyl substances, oxymetholone
and Thorotrast (radiographic contrast agent).
gEOgRAPHICAL CANCER

NutRItION

Smoked or conserved foods.

These foods contain substances that may lead to
especially stomach cancer, when eaten in excess.
Fat percentage.
Research studies have shown that foods containing less than 30% calories from fat, reduce breast
and lung cancer risk.
Alcohol.
Consuming large amounts of alcohol increases the
risk of cancer of the oesophagus, mouth and throat.
Spoiled food.
Frequently eating heavy meals.
Not eating foods according to your body constitution.
(Stale) foods that are kept too long.
Incompatible food combinations.
Dry foods.
Vitamins.
Many vitamins are supposed to inhibit the development of tumors, but clinical research is still
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The risk of certain types of cancer is also connected to

the geographic area of residence. Factors that weigh
in are genetic pattern, eating habits and environment.
There is for instance no gastric cancer in Japan.
Yet in Japanese people who have immigrated to
the United States, the risk increased and eventually
equalled the rest of the American population after
some generations.
vIRusEs

Papillomavirus.
A virus that can cause genital warts and increases
the risk of cervical cancer.
Hepatitis B virus.
Might cause liver cancer.
Epstein-Bar Virus.
Causes Burkitt's lymphoma in Africa and cancers of
the nose and pharynx in China.
HIV.
Might cause lymphoma and cancer of the blood.
PARAsItEs

Some species of parasites are known to cause cancer,

such as Schistosoma and Clonorchis. They cause, respectively, bladder cancer, pancreatic cancer and bile
duct cancer.

AgE

Most forms of cancer are developed in people over 60

years or older. Some forms of cancer however affect
people at a younger age, like cervical cancer.

AYURVEDIC TREATMENT
When we live according to our constitution, daily and
seasonal rhythm and every once in a while receive a
Pancha Karma treatment - to prevent or restore the imbalance of doshas and dhatus - a number of conditions
can be relieved at an early stage. The following suggestions can be used to maintain a healthy body and mind
and to prevent the development of a tumor in the best
possible way. A large part of the suggestions is aimed at
prevention. Naturally some of the suggestions can be
helpful in radiation or chemotherapy-treatments.
gENERAL suggEstIONs

Medical:
1. To determine your constitution consult an Ayurvedic doctor.
2. Adapt your daily regime according to your constitution.
3. Does cancer run in your family? Then check
yourself regularly or get yourself checked out by a
doctor.
4. Be alert! Do you feel a lump or notice any other
irregularities on your skin or in your body, please
consult your doctor to determine which dosha or
dhatu is imbalanced, in order to adapt your diet
and lifestyle accordingly. Use herbs prescribed by
your Ayurvedic doctor. Do not hesitate to follow
up on your suspicions and go to a doctor for a full
check-up.
Lifestyle:
1. Make sure you have enough exercise, take (long)
walks outside or relax in nature.
2. Practice meditation and yoga for mental and physical relaxation. To calm the mind to a clear and
tranquil state, will especially help you to distinguish what is beneficial for you and what not.
3. Listening to harmonious music is soothing, calming
and healing for the mind, thoughts and nervous
system.
Diet:
1. Apply the dietary advices, according to your constitution, in your daily life.
2. Eat as much fresh and biological fruit, vegetables
and cereals etc. as possible.

3. Try to have more Sattvic foods. These will balance

both body and mind, respectively doshas and gunas.
Sattvic foods consist of fresh, energizing foods such
as fresh fruit and (leafy) vegetables, milk, cereals,
pure fruit juices, butter and fresh cheese, fresh nuts
and seeds, sprouts, honey and herbal teas.
4. Stay away from snacks, fast food and ready-to-eat
meals.
5. Many food additives create a burden on the digestive process. Nowadays they are added to all kinds
of foods: (instant) soups, meat products, (bottled)
sauces, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, cookies etcetera. Prevent digesting them and use as much fresh
ingredients as you possibly can.
6. Avoid using microwave ovens. This increases the
Kapha nature of the food and therefore the Kapha
in the body as well, after consumption.
7. Limit your meat consumption. Especially red meat:
once a week is enough, also for children in their
growth period. Preferably cook fresh fish, poultry,
alternative protein sources (soya, egg, dairy products) and biological red meat.
8. Vitamin D exerts a protective effect on the development of tumors. Fatty fish, eggs and vegetable
oils are natural sources of vitamin D.
9. Sugar is not a problem as many people think. Sugar
does not feed the tumor. It might cause some extra
body weight though, or hyperactivity.

When radiation or chemotherapy is the only possible

way, the body is severely depleted. There are a few
Ayurvedic remedies to support the body in this process. Please consult with your doctor to ensure that
they are applied properly.
1. Take good care of yourself and preserve your
strength. In this way you can invest all your energy
in your recovery process.
2. Limit the amount of proteins in your diet in order
to slow down tumor growth. For a large part tumors
contain proteins.
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3. Loss of appetite? Consider these tips:

Eat a number of small meals and snacks during
the day instead of 3 large meals.
Eat more when you feel the hungriest.
Plan your meals and snacks during the day,
don't wait until you're hungry.
Drink a little bit more before and after meals.
Eat the food you enjoy the most.
Eat in a pleasant atmosphere, perhaps with family or friends.
Avoid smells that make you nauseous or foods
that make you feel sick.
Have readytoeat snacks like crackers, cheese,
nuts and seeds, icecream, bars or yoghurt.
When your appetite is better, you can change to
healthier foods again.
Avoid cold foods as they suppress digestive fire.
If solid food is a problem, then replace them
with nutritious soups.
4. Persons having a Pitta constitution and with sufficient strength, can have raw vegetables, wheat
juice, celery, alfalfa and sunflower sprouts. It is
well advised to combine them with garlic and ginger in order to stimulate digestion.
5. For weak persons or people having had surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, it is recommended to use
herbs for boosting the immune system, in stead of
the above mentioned raw vegetables and juices.

Bala Sida cordifolia

balances Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), but especially pacifies Vata and excess Kapha.
is primarily known for giving stamina or inner
strength.
also used as a cardiac stimulant, diuretic, decongestant, anti-asthmatic and anti-depressant.
Bhringaraj - Eclipta erecta

balances Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).

prevents aging, maintains and rejuvenates memory,
sight, hearing, teeth, bones and hair.
rejuvenate for Pitta, kidneys and liver.
for internal and external use.
Dashmool traditional herbal formula.

balances Tridosha; when there is a high Vata, Dashmool can be used as a tonic to strengthen the system.
exhibits anti-oxidant, anti-cancer activity.
strengthens the body and enhances the production
of tissue.
guduchi Tinosporia cordifolia
balances Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).
helps increase the effectiveness of protective white
blood cells and builds up the body's own defense
mechanism (immune system), thus helping to
protect ourselves from infections.
increases memory.
wonderful herb for the liver and helps to prevent
liver infections.
beneficial for digestive disorders.
especially recommended before and after chemotherapy, to recover and build up strength.
Kounch Mucuna pruriens

Amrit prash herbal paste.

pacifies Vata, aggravates Pitta and Kapha.

is a muscle strengthening herb and used for revitalization of the musculo-skeletal system.
useful for Vata disorders, stimulates nervous system.
useful for uterine imflammation, painful menstruation and stimulates the male genital system.

balances Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).

improves overall body functions.

lavan Bhaskar Traditional herbal formula.

Immune boosting herbs:

Ashwagandha Withania somnifera (Indian Ginseng)

reduces Vata/Kapha (with excess Pitta).

supports the recovery process of overall fatigue,
nervous conditions; generally rejuvenates tissues.
historically used for debility, sexual debility, old age,
memory loss, emaciation of children, muscular exhaustion, nervous exhaustion and tissue deficiency.

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reduces Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta.

stimulates appetite, improves digestion (constipation, piles, colic, loss of appetite, indigestion etc.)
neem Melia azadirachta
pacifies Vata and Kapha, but aggravates Pitta.
cooling herb.
is a detoxifying herb and removes excess Pitta and
Kapha.

 purifies the blood and cleanses the liver.

has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-parasite actions;
against tumors, overweight and infections.
pippali Piper Longum
pacifies Vata and Kapha, aggravates Pitta.
stimulates digestion, removes excess Kapha, increases
appetite.
useful in respiratory discomfort (including asthma)
and cough.
has a tranquilizing (pain killer) action.
increases circulation, specifically to the lungs.
against tumors.

Tulsi Ocimum sanctum Holy Basil

pacifies Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta.

ignites the digestive fire.
is a cardiac tonic.
is useful in management of all skin diseases.
is useful in respiratory discomfort and cough.
has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant capabilities.
Reduces the effects of chronic stress, promotes
wound healing, lowers blood sugar levels in Diabetes
type II, improves memory and lowers cholesterol.
benefits the immune system, preventive against tumors
and especially beneficial in the first stage of many
types of tumors.

shatavari Asparagus racemosus

reduces Vata and Pitta, aggravates Kapha.

is traditionally used to support the female organs,
prevent sexual debility, help menopausal conditions,
maintanance of healthy female reproductive system.
supports fertility and a healthy libido.
supports digestion, helpful with stomach ulcers,
inflammation and chronic fevers.
supports a healthy immune system, production of
tissue.
shilajit Asphaltum (mineral)

balances Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).

rejuvenative, known to promote strength and immunity, especially in the urinary tract and a primary
rejuvenative for the prostate.
Trifla traditional herbal formula.

balances Tridosha (Vata, Pitta and excess Kapha).

promotes normal appetite, good digestion.
increases red blood cells and hemoglobin.
removes excess Kapha and aids to remove undesirable fat. Helpful in Diabetes.
assists natural internal cleaning.
nourishes and rejuvenates the tissues and is a natural
anti-oxidant.

vidari-Kanda Ipomoea digitata

is rejuvenative for Vata and Pitta and increases
Kapha.
traditionally used to nourish and rejuvenate the
body and to support proper function of the male
and female reproductive systems.
promotes healthy muscle and nerve tissue.
generally strengthening, but especially for seniors
and for weakened and/or emaciated persons.
Yashtimadhu Glycyrrhiza Glabra - Licorice
pacifies Vata and Pitta, aggravates Kapha.
is most known for its soothing effect on inflamed
mucous membranes of the throat, lungs, stomach
and intestines.
soothes sore throat and eases the respiratory sytem.
Promotes expectoration of mucus.
regulates the menstrual cycle.
improves eyesight, strength, sexual power and complexion, strengthens hair.
especially beneficial with all kinds of inflammations.
use moderately with high blood pressure.
boiling Yashtimadhu in milk, prevents inhibited
absorption of calcium and potassium.
Yogaraj guggul Traditional herbal formula.
reduces Vata and Kapha, aggravates Pitta.
reduces joint pain. Clears toxins from joints and
muscles.
reduces cholesterol and removes excess fat from the
system.
6. Foods that help prevent and inhibit tumor growth:
Raisins (soaked, in water)
Red beets are helpful for preventing cancer and
heart disease. They detoxify the liver. Eat (raw)
beets, have beet juice and soup with herbs according to your constitution. Preferably take
fresh and biological ones. Research studies have
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shown beet's anti-cancer capacities when used for

3 months. Recommended is liter of fresh beet
juice per day or 2 bowls of beet soup per day.
Carrot juice or carrot soup has anti-carcinogen
properties when used for 3 months. It's best to
have fresh biological carrots and drink liter
juice per day or 2 bowls of soup per day.
Turmeric (Curcuma) powder, in the morning
with a glass of lukewarm water is antibacterial,
stops bleeding, heals tissue and is a strong antiinflammatory.
Ghee absorbs toxins.
Sweet potatoe.
Squash.
Dried fruit.
Dark chocolate.
Salmon or shrimp.
Nuts.
Wild rice, corn.
Cranberries, clementines or other citrus fruit.

7. Tumors and their dosha imbalance / herbs.

Lymphatic, blood or skin cancer: Pitta / Kapha
imbalance. Herbs: Manjishtha, saffron, jasmine,
sarsaparilla (Smilax regelii). Preferably fresh.
Thyroid, neck or lymphatic cancer: Vata / Kapha
imbalance. Herbs: kelp, seaweed (bladderwreck),
Irish moss, Iceland moss, Pippali, black pepper,
ginger, yogaraj guggul, jasmine, myrrh (Commiphora), turmeric, trikatu. These have expectorant
properties (promoting the secretion of phlegm,
mucus).
Breast, cervical, liver or pancreatic cancer:
Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) imbalance.
Herbs: Turmeric (Curcuma), saffron, safflower,
myrrh, Manjishtha, Bhuamalaki (liver tonic),
yogaraj guggul. These are herbs that stimulate
circulation, remove obstructions and promote
the recovery of tissue.
Brain tumor: Vata / Kapha imbalance.
Herbs: Manjishtha, Brahmi.
Therapy: Shirodhara and Pancha Karma according to dosha and stamina of the person.
8. Support of the body, when side effects occur because
of radiation or chemotherapy.
Diarrhea
Constipation
Sleeplessness
Fatigue
Memory decline
Hair loss

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Bilva, Amla
Haritaki
Cerewell, Jatamansi
Bala
Brahmi, Haritaki, Vacha
Brahmi, Bringaraj oil

CANCER AND PANCHA KARMA

Pancha Karma treatment is recommended to activate
the body's self-healing ability, calm the doshas and gunas and remove excess Kapha and toxins from the body.
Depending on the cause (Vata, Pitta or Kapha), the site
of the tumor and the strength of the patient, large parts
of the body channels are cleansed and the dhatus nourished and revitalized with herbs, diet and complementing therapies. Oil massages and massages on the area
where the tumor is located, is ill-advised. After chemotherapy, Pancha Karma will definitely be beneficial
for recovery of both body and mind. It is remarkable
to determine from the classical Ayurvedic texts, how
the development of tumors and cancer throughout the
centuries coincides with the development of humanity.
According to Ayurveda, the main factor behind this development is the environmental pollution and the stress
and tensions, created by overcrowding. Cancer is a
chronic imbalance of the Tridosha, dhatus and Triguna.
Some types of cancer are definately curable and some
still have poor prognoses. Therefore, developing new
forms of treatments for them is an ongoing search. An
Ayurvedic treament will always focus on restoring the
balance and the harmony to the body, mind and soul.
This is enabled by treating the cause: the imbalance of
the Tridosha nd Triguna. For both there are herbs and
specific therapies available. On the road to recovery,
maintaining inner balance with adequate rest, faith and
hope is an important factor, beside a competent doctor and the proper medical accompaniment. When radiation and chemotherapy are the last resort, Ayurveda
can be of help during and after these treatments. Ayurveda has always turned to nature for inspiration to
practice medicine and wisely uses natural resources.
Thus, Ayurvedic medicine reaches beyond the strict
treatment of symptoms. Ayurveda offers concrete
guidelines about how to interact with our environment,
about our personal development (spiritual, mental and
physical), lifestyle, nutrition and how to adapt to the
rhythms of nature. Factors that are all of great importance to maintaining our precious health and happiness
in our present-day lives.
References:
Sushrut Samhita, Charak Samhita
Ashtanga Hrdayam, The Ayurveda Encyclopedia

Dr. Anil Kumar Mehta