What is Cancer
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and division of cells. A cancerous cell has the potential to invade/spread to other parts of the body while the benign tumor does not spread to other parts of the body & remain localized.
Understanding Cancer
Normal cells undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis) but when exposed to cancer-causing stimuli the Proto-Oncogenes/Tumor suppressor genes that regulate cell growth and differentiation are mutated. Such mutations change proto-oncogenes into oncogenes and can cause abnormal cell divisions & proliferation unnaturally.
Stages of Cancer as per Allopathy
Stage 0 – It means there’s no cancer yet, only abnormal cells with the potential to become cancer.
Stage I – The tumor is small and localized only in one area. This is also called early-stage cancer.
Stage II and III- The cancer is larger and has grown into nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
Stage IV – cancer has spread to other parts of the body and it is the metastatic stage. .
Ayurvedic treatment for cancer
In Ayurveda, Arbuda can be correlated with cancer which originates due to metabolic changes during cell division. As per Ayurveda, the cell division is governed by Vata Dosha. Aggravation of Vata Dosha and vitiations of Kapha Doshas along with Mamsa and Rakta Dhatu may result in the proliferation of cells that can lead to abnormal cell division which causes the Ekadesavriddhi (growth at a specific part) is a part of an abnormal cell division.
In Ayurveda Shushruta Acharya has explained about six stages in the pathogenesis of diseases: –
I. Sanchaya: – It is an early stage that shows localized neoplastic changes due to an unhealthy accumulation of Doshas.
II. Prakopa: – It is the second stage that shows a transformation of primary growths into metastatic tumors.
III. Prasara: – This is a metastasis stage in which the capability of spreading begins.
IV. Sthana Sansraya: – This stage encompasses complete metastasis and secondary growth.
V. Vyakti: – In this stage, the clinical signs and symptoms are apparent and can be observed during a medical examination.
VI. Bheda: – This is the final stage where differentiation of growth is understood on the basis of histopathology.
The ancient medical system of Ayurveda (Asthang Sangraham) dictates that most diseases are caused due to Mithya Aahar and Vihaar (improper dietary and lifestyle).
The aim of cancer treatment is to first find the root cause of disease, while the therapeutic approach is divided into four categories: –
I. Prakritisthapan Chikitsa (to maintain health)
II. Rasayana Chikitsa (restoration of normal function of cell by the use of rejuvenating herbs)
III. Roganashani Chikitsa (treatment against disease)
Diet for the treatment of cancer
- Eat anti-oxidant rich food/fruits (apple, strawberries blueberries, plum, pomegranates, avocados, green leafy vegetables, and cruciferous vegetables) to reduce free radicals concentration.
- Eat vitamin C rich foods along with whole grains, cereals, and pulses.
- Consume probiotic (yogurt or whey water) & prebiotic (raw onion, garlic, wheat bran) food items.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables with warm water to destroy contaminations.
Beneficial Yoga Asana for the treatment of cancer
- Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Butterfly pose)- It relieves the tension of shoulder, chest muscles, & stimulates abdominal organs. This Yoga Asana ensures a naturally relaxed state of abdominal muscles. It is effective especially for breast cancer patients as the muscles become weak and tight around these particular areas.
- Viparita Karani (Legs up the wall pose)- It is a restorative posture that allows mind and body to relax, and facilitates venous drainage and increases circulation. It relieves lower back tension and causes pelvic floor relaxation. It stretches hamstring and lowers back. It soothes swollen or cramped feet and legs.
Beneficial Pranayama for the treatment of cancer
1. Anulom Vilom
- Detoxifies the body.
- Optimizes the stress level.
- Activates nervous system.
2. Ujjayi Pranayama
- Instills endurance.
- Regulates heating.
- Relieves pain.
- Strengthens digestive and nervous system.
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
Exercise for the treatment of cancer
1. Lymphedema
- Lymphatic bandages can be used to assist the drainage of excess fluid.
- Manual lymph drainage techniques i.e. effleurage helps in effective management and increases blood circulation.
- ROM (Range of Motion) exercises to increase the efficiency of drainage.
- Aerobic exercises are also useful.
2. Deconditioning
- Walking and cardiovascular training can be performed but under proper monitoring and guidance.
- No resistive training.
- Relieves pain.
3. Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) Functional training including ADL’s (Activities of Daily Living) helps to reduce fatigue and increases the efficiency of performing day to day tasks.
4. Cancer-related Pain
Massage- Helps in removal of toxins responsible for causing pain with the increase in blood flow.
Modalities- TENS, IFT has no side effects and works on the pain gate mechanism to inhibit pain.
Stretching exercises- Realigns disorganized muscle and brings about relief from pain and spasm.
5. Peripheral neuropathy (balancing exercises) It is helpful in proprioception.
6. Genitourinary complications (Kegel’s exercises) Helps in toning and strengthening of pelvic floor muscles.