Breast cancer is a common health concern for women all over the world. It is characterized by an abnormal growth of tumors or malignant cells in the breast tissues. Ayurveda offers a comprehensive and integrative approach to managing the complexities of breast cancer. Ayurvedic treatment for breast cancer revolves around the use of potent Ayurvedic herbs to suppress the growth of tumors. In addition, diet and lifestyle changes are also recommended to breast cancer patients for the further acceleration of their rehab.
Understanding Breast Cancer in Ayurvedic Terms
Breast cancer, in Ayurveda, is categorized under Stana Arbuda (breast tumor) or Granthi (cystic growths). Ayurveda views breast cancer as follows:
- Vata Imbalance: An aggravation of the Vata dosha negatively impacts cellular movement, leading to irregular growth and metastasis in breasts.
- Pitta Imbalance: Pitta, in excess amounts, causes inflammation, tissue damage, and abnormal cellular activity.
- Kapha Imbalance: Dominant Kapha results in the thickening of tissues that may develop into tumors.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
- A new lump or thickening in the breast, especially in one breast
- Dimpling, redness, or flaky-looking skin in the breast or nipple area
- Retraction of the nipple
- Discharge (not breast milk)
- Pain in the breast or nipple area
- Swelling in the armpit
Ayurvedic Treatment for Breast Cancer: Herbal Remedies
Ayurvedic treatment for breast cancer is unimaginable without herbs. Specific Ayurvedic herbs are used to manage the complications of breast cancer. Some of the most often used herbs to treat breast cancer are:
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha has strong anticancer properties and it has displayed properties that induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. This helps in containing the growth of cancerous cells in breasts. Ashwagandha is also helpful in reducing stress and boosting immunity in cancer patients.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): This Ayurvedic herb has immunomodulatory and adaptogenic effects. It helps reduce oxidative stress by attacking free radical cells in the body.
- Neem (Azadirachta indica): In a study, Neem extracts demonstrated the suppression of angiogenesis, cell migration, and proliferation of cancerous cells in the body. The neem extracts have also shown excellent results in enhancing cell death and purifying blood.
- Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi is an excellent herb for overall detoxification of the body. It strengthens our immunity and helps treat the complexities of breast cancer.
Though the herbs mentioned above rarely cause any severe side effects, it will be wise to consult with your doctor before consuming them. Self-medication should be avoided at all costs.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Breast Cancer: Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is vital for not only supplementing the nutritional needs of breast cancer patients, but also improving treatment outcomes and quickening the rehab period. Some effective lifestyle changes for breast cancer patients are discussed below.
Dietary Changes
- Balanced Diet: As a breast cancer patient, you must focus on having a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This diet helps strengthen immunity.
- Limit Processed Foods: You must not consume high-sugar, high-fat, and processed foods. These foods are known to promote inflammation in breast cancer patients.
- Hydration: Staying well hydrated is essential for breast cancer patients, as it improves their overall health.
- Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Berries, leafy greens, and nuts are effective to combat oxidative stress in the body; include them in your diet.
- Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds should be consumed in good quantities. These fats promote good health.
Physical Activities
- Regular Exercise: If your health permits, you should engage in moderate exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming. Engage in any kind of physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week.
- Strength Training: You can also incorporate light weights or resistance exercises for muscle mass maintenance.
Emotional Well-being
- Stress Management: This assumes importance, as suffering from breast cancer can be mentally quite taxing. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to keep a check on the anxiety and stress that accompany breast cancer.
- Counseling or Support Groups: If required, you must seek professional help to cope with the emotional support. You also have the option of joining support groups to connect with others suffering from breast cancer.
- Positive Activities: Keeping a positive attitude is vital. Have hobbies or engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Limit Alcohol: Completely avoid alcohol to avoid any recurrence risks in the future.
- Avoid Smoking: To significantly decrease your risks of recurrence, stay away from tobacco.
- Adequate Rest: Sleep for at least 7-8 hours a day.
Follow Medical Advice
- Adherence to Treatment: You should not skip medical checkups and always report any changes to your health to your doctor honestly.
Suffering from breast cancer is quite tough, however, early detection goes a long way in treating this disease. Ayurveda has emerged as a great alternative to conventional treatments, especially, in the early stages. Thorough treatment of breast cancer and a positive outlook towards life is vital for a sustained recovery from the symptoms of this disease.
