Can Ayurveda Support Oncology Treatments and Help with Recovery?

Question

My mother, who is 62 years old, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, and we have been consulting an oncology team for treatment. She has already undergone surgery, and now the doctors are suggesting chemotherapy and radiation. While we understand that oncology treatments are necessary, we are worried about the side effects of chemotherapy, as we have heard that it can cause nausea, weakness, and hair loss.

We have been reading about Ayurveda and how it focuses on strengthening the body’s natural healing process. Some people have told us that Ayurveda can help manage the side effects of chemotherapy and improve overall immunity. My mother is already feeling very weak, and she has lost her appetite completely since the surgery. The oncology team has given her a diet plan, but she struggles to eat much due to fatigue and stress.

We would like to know if Ayurveda has any supportive remedies for people undergoing oncology treatments. Are there herbs or Ayurvedic formulations that can help her maintain strength and reduce side effects from chemotherapy? Can Ayurveda help in preventing recurrence and improving long-term immunity after her oncology treatment is over?

Also, are there any dietary recommendations from Ayurveda that she can follow alongside the diet given by her oncology doctors? We don’t want to interfere with her ongoing treatment but are looking for a way to make her journey easier and more comfortable.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Ayurveda can play a supportive role in helping your mother manage the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation while improving her overall strength and immunity. Since chemotherapy can weaken digestion and cause nausea, herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) can help restore energy, reduce fatigue, and boost the immune system. Triphala is often recommended to support detoxification and digestion, while Amalaki (Indian gooseberry) provides antioxidants and strengthens tissues.

For reducing nausea and improving appetite, Ayurvedic herbal teas made with ginger, fennel, and coriander can be soothing. Chyawanprash, a traditional Ayurvedic tonic, may help rebuild strength if tolerated well. Abhyanga (gentle oil massage) with warm sesame or coconut oil can improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote better sleep. To prevent excessive heat and inflammation from radiation therapy, cooling herbs like Aloe Vera juice and Brahmi may be beneficial.

Diet is crucial during oncology treatment. Ayurveda recommends warm, nourishing foods that are easy to digest, such as moong dal khichdi, vegetable soups, rice porridge, and fresh fruit juices. Avoid heavy, fried, and processed foods, which can burden digestion. Hydration with coconut water, herbal infusions, and buttermilk can help balance the body. Post-treatment, Rasayanas (rejuvenating therapies) can help restore vitality and prevent recurrence by strengthening immunity. It’s best to consult an Ayurvedic doctor to ensure safe integration of these remedies with her ongoing oncology treatments.

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