Ayurvedic Herbs with anti-cancer potential on national cancer awareness day

National Cancer Awareness Day is observed every year on 7th November in India for the cause of early detection, prevention, and care related to cancer, with campaigns aimed at improving public knowledge and outcomes regarding diagnosis and treatment. 

Anti-Cancer Potential in Ayurvedic Herbs: 

Most of the plants or Ayurvedic herbs showed promising anti-cancer properties in various preclinical and some clinical studies. 

Turmeric/Curcumin, from Curcuma longa, represents one of the most studied substances in Ayurveda, and its anti-inflammatory and chemo preventive activity is very well documented. Therefore, in many contexts, it has been studied for its effects as an agent inhibiting tumour cell growth, besides possessing additional radio protective and chemo protective effects in cancer situations. 

Withania somnifera: Ashwagandha has also demonstrated anti-cancer properties, represented both in preclinical and early clinical studies. It may be related to the induction of apoptosis, combined with antioxidant effects. It is a traditionally Ayurvedic formulation, reported to possess anti-cancer, radioprotective, and chemoprotective activities, mainly for bowel health and total body detoxification. 

Tinospora cordifolia: This plant has also exerted strong anti-tumour activity in animal models wherein the volume of tumours was reduced along with an improvement in the blood parameters. 

Ayurveda's Approach to Cancer: 

In Ayurveda, the etiology of cancer is considered an imbalance of three doshas, namely Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These doshas cause a proliferating mass of tissue referred to as Granthi or Arbuda. The cornerstone of the treatment generally includes a restoration of the balance of dosha, immunity strengthening by the administration of Rasayana therapy, and treatment of the root cause rather than just symptoms. 

In general, herbal formulations employ more than one herb that acts synergistically through multiple biochemical pathways to support the whole body and diminish adverse side effects from conventional therapies. None of these herbs is used as a substitute for conventional treatment of cancer but as an adjuvant to enhance the treatment outcomes by reducing the unfavourable side effects and improving quality of life. 

Research Evidence and Applications: These include antioxidant activity, immune response modulation, and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation. While quite promising in terms of efficacy in preclinical models, further study and substantive clinical trials are needed to fully validate the therapeutic benefit and optimum dosing for the prevention and treatment of cancer in man. 

Interventions that include an integrative approach with Ayurveda programs, including diet and lifestyle programs, are feasible and acceptable among cancer survivors mainly for symptom alleviation and improvement in the quality of life.  

Zeon Lifesciences actively integrates Ayurvedic herbs with proven anticancer potential into its product development, backed by scientific research, patents, and regulatory compliance aligned with national and global cancer prevention goals. Zeon Lifesciences has focused its R&D on science-based botanical products aimed at cancer prevention and recovery, including the development of sachets and capsules designed specifically for cancer patients. The company’s mission emphasizes not just chemotherapy and radiation support, but innovative natural solutions rooted in traditional Ayurveda and functional foods.​ 

FAQs: 

How do herbs work against cancer? 

The active compounds in these herbs work through various mechanisms, including:  

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions: Reducing chronic inflammation and neutralizing free radicals that can damage cells and DNA. 

Inducing apoptosis: Triggering the programmed death of cancer cells without harming normal, healthy cells. 

Inhibiting angiogenesis: Blocking the formation of new blood vessels that tumours need to grow. 

Immune system modulation: Enhancing the body's natural defence mechanisms to better identify and destroy cancer cells.  

What about the holistic approach of Ayurveda in cancer care? 

Ayurveda takes a holistic approach that goes beyond just herbal remedies. It includes:  

Dietary and lifestyle changes: Emphasizing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation. 

Detoxification (Panchakarma): Procedures aimed at removing toxins from the body. 

Mind-body therapies: Addressing the mental and emotional aspects of health which are vital during cancer treatment. 

References: 

Lopus, M. (2022). Nano-ayurvedic medicine and its potential in cancer treatment. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 21(2), 117–119. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joim.2022.12.001 

Arnold, J. T. (2022). Integrating ayurvedic medicine into cancer research programs part 2: Ayurvedic herbs and research opportunities. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 14(2), 100677. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaim.2022.100677 

Balkrishna, A., Mittal, R., Malik, R., Verma, H., Mehra, K. S., Chaturvedi, H., Okeshwar, O., Ishdev, S., Kumar, A., & Arya, V. (2024). Comparative analysis of Doxycycline and Ayurvedic herbs to target metastatic breast cancer: An in-silico approach. Biomedicine, 14(2), 74–79. https://doi.org/10.37796/2211-8039.1448 

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