Ayurvedic Perspective of Cancer and the Potential of Nutri-Ayur Interventions for the Well-Being of Cancer Patients
摘要
Cancer is a complex, systemic, proliferative disease that causes nearly ten million deaths worldwide each year. Modern therapies, although effective, possess increased side effects, high drug discovery costs, disease relapse, and patient non-compliance, which have led to the inclination of the general population toward traditional interventions. Hence, Ayurvedic products, backed by a rich traditional history of over 5000 years, have gained traction in the last few decades. Ayurvedic formulations contain multiple ingredients and bioactive components which can target multiple biological pathways and cellular functions. Various nutraceuticals from plants claim cancer treatment, which has been extensively discussed in Ayurveda. Furthermore, a balanced intake of nutraceuticals works synergistically with Ayurvedic therapies since nutritional imbalance results in various risk factors associated with cancer. These comprise dietary elements, such as vitamins, minerals, herbs or botanicals, amino acids, and other substances or constituents, which are meant to complement the diet. Additionally, some preclinical studies indicate that a balanced diet containing multiple nutraceuticals may protect against carcinogens by preventing oxidative stress, reducing inflammation, and regulating gut microbiota. Exploring the ethnopharmacological claims made by various traditional practices has led to several nutritional-Ayurvedic combinations in the global market. Here, we review some interventions of Ayurvedic and nutritional approaches for the wellness of cancer patients.