Immunotherapy – Can Ayurveda Support the Immune System During Cancer Treatment?

Question

My mother has been undergoing immunotherapy for cancer, and while the treatment is helping, she has been struggling with severe side effects. The doctors explained that immunotherapy works by boosting the immune system to fight cancer cells, but it also causes extreme fatigue, nausea, joint pain, and digestive issues. She’s feeling weak all the time, and her appetite has decreased significantly.

The doctors prescribed medications to manage the side effects, but they come with their own issues—one pill helps with nausea but makes her drowsy, another helps with fatigue but gives her headaches. It feels like we’re stuck in a cycle of treating one symptom while causing another.

I started researching Ayurveda to see if there are natural ways to support the immune system during immunotherapy. Are there Ayurvedic herbs, dietary changes, or lifestyle practices that can help her cope with the treatment better? I’ve read that turmeric, ashwagandha, and amla are great for boosting immunity—would they be safe for someone undergoing immunotherapy?

Also, I’m worried about her digestion. She’s having trouble eating, and I know that Ayurveda considers good digestion essential for overall health. Are there Ayurvedic foods or herbal drinks that can help restore her appetite and energy levels?

If anyone has experience with Ayurveda and immunotherapy, please share what worked for you. We want to support her in every way possible during this difficult journey.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Supporting your mother through immunotherapy with Ayurveda is a gentle yet powerful approach to managing side effects. Since immunotherapy strengthens the immune response, it can also lead to fatigue, inflammation, and digestive issues due to the body's heightened activity. Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body, reducing toxicity (Ama), and enhancing Ojas (vital energy) to build strength during such treatments. Ashwagandha (1/2 tsp with warm milk) can help reduce fatigue and improve resilience, while Amla juice (10 ml daily) strengthens immunity without overstimulating the system. However, it's important to introduce herbs gradually and consult her oncologist before starting any supplements.

For digestion, Ayurveda emphasizes light, easily digestible foods that rekindle Agni (digestive fire) without straining the system. Cumin, coriander, and fennel tea (steeped in warm water) can ease nausea and bloating, while ginger tea with honey before meals can help stimulate appetite. She may also benefit from moong dal soup, steamed vegetables with ghee, and khichdi—foods that provide nourishment while being gentle on digestion. Buttermilk with a pinch of rock salt and roasted cumin can also help maintain gut health, as immunotherapy can sometimes weaken digestion.

To improve energy and reduce discomfort, self-massage (Abhyanga) with warm sesame or Mahanarayan oil can soothe joint pain and improve circulation. Breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom and gentle yoga can help ease stress and improve energy flow. Keeping her hydrated with warm water or herbal teas and ensuring good rest will also aid recovery. Ayurveda offers a holistic way to support the body during immunotherapy, working alongside conventional treatments to reduce side effects, strengthen digestion, and improve overall well-being.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, supporting the body during immunotherapy focuses on strengthening Ojas (vital immunity) while balancing Agni (digestive fire) to reduce side effects. Gentle Rasayanas like Ashwagandha and Amla can help improve energy and resilience, but they should be introduced cautiously under medical supervision. Turmeric, especially in warm golden milk, may help with inflammation and immunity. To improve digestion and appetite, small sips of jeera (cumin) or ajwain (carom) water can stimulate Agni without overwhelming the system. Light, nourishing foods like moong dal khichdi, well-cooked vegetables, and ghee can provide strength without burdening digestion. Herbal teas with ginger and fennel may help ease nausea. Regular oil massage (Abhyanga) with warm sesame or Mahanarayan oil can relieve joint pain and fatigue. Gentle pranayama like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) can help with energy and emotional balance. Always consult both an Ayurvedic expert and her oncologist before adding any herbs or remedies to ensure safety during treatment.

Immunotherapy – Can Ayurveda Support the Immune System During Cancer Treatment? - #15976

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