Though not a primary treatment against cancer, administration of Ayurveda medicines with controlled diet and lifestyle changes does make patients better, said K.M. Madhu, Senior Physician, Arya Vaidya Shala , Kottakal.
Speaking on ‘Cancer management in Ayurveda’ here on Sunday, Dr. Madhu said that cancer was not so prevalent when principles of Ayurvedic treatment were codified in the ancient ages. But there were several treatment principles mentioned in the ancient texts that could be given to cancer patients.
Dr. Madhu said the ancient texts of Ayurveda were exhaustive on treatments. “It is necessary for the practitioners to look for the treatment techniques that relieve a patient of the ‘dosha’ (ill effects),” he said. Ayurvedic practitioners stick to practices mentioned in the ancient texts, Dr. Madhu added.
Dr. Madhu’s talk was among the lectures organised as a part of the Continuing Medical Education programme of Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala held here of Sunday.
In his inaugural talk, M.S. Baliga, senior scientist at Father Muller Medical College, said that there was a lack of awareness among practitioners and the public about Ayurvedic treatment for cancer patients. Apart from being effective against side effects resulting from chemotherapy, Dr. Baliga said there were Ayurvedic drugs that could prevent some cancers.
Dr. Baliga said research showed the effectiveness of gargling with turmeric water against the problems noticed on tongue following chemotherapy. Patients had got relief from burns on the neck by applying turmeric cream, he said.
