Alternative Cancer treatment refers to any form of treatment that can be used in conjunction with, or as a substitute to, conventional medicine for the treatment of cancer.

The ‘AYUSH’ initiative by the Government of India seeks to provide legitimacy, and promote, alternative systems of medicine, particularly Ayurvedic alternatives. AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-rigpa and Homoeopathy. These are alternate systems of medicine recognised by the government of our country.

Ayurveda is one of the oldest medical traditions of the world which can serve as an efficient method for Alternative Cancer treatment. The therapeutic approach of Ayurveda is divided into four categories in cancer treatment. These include –

1. Curative – Medicines that have shown positive results in the treatment of Cancer.

2. Supportive – Use of Ayurveda in conjunction with Allopathic treatment to combat the side effects of the latter, and improve quality of life for the patient.

3. Preventive – This includes Swasthavritta (hygiene), Ahara (diet), and Vihara (lifestyle). Maintaining these is essential to the prevention of Cancer.

4. Palliative – The use of Ayurvedic herbal drugs to boost immunity – Ojas, and drugs known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

The currently available methods of Cancer treatment include chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, and chemically derived drugs. Treatments such as chemotherapy can put the patient under a lot of stress and strain. They can even effect further damage to their already fragile health. As such, there exists a need to focus on Alternative Cancer treatment.

Ayurvedic treatment is not delimited to the treatment of the malignancy. Ayurveda is holistic in nature. It assists the body in the recovery process as well. From a scientific perspective, Ayurvedic formulations work in synchronisation on multiple biochemical pathways and influence different organ systems, nourishing the body as a whole by offering support to the body’s defence system. Each medicinal herb contains multiple active principles that effectively function to produce therapeutic benefits whilst concurrently reducing the possibility of adverse side effects. Ayurvedic therapy helps avoid the need for supplemental therapy to manage Cancer cachexia.

Before opting for any type of Alternative Cancer treatment, one should always remember to consult their healthcare provider.