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AYURVEDIC TREATMENT FOR LUNG CANCER HARNESSING ANCIENT WISDOM TO COMBAT CA LUNGS" -A CASE STUDY

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Abstract

This abstract presents a case study focusing on the utilization of Ayurvedic treatment for lung cancer, aiming to merge traditional wisdom with modern medical approaches. Lung cancer remains a significant health challenge globally, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. The case study explores the application of Ayurvedic principles, including herbal remedies, dietary modifications, lifestyle interventions, and rejuvenation therapies, to complement conventional cancer treatments. By integrating ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with evidence-based practices, the study sheds light on the potential benefits of a holistic approach in enhancing patient outcomes. Preliminary findings indicate promising results, warranting further investigation into Ayurveda's role in lung cancer management.
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AYURVEDIC TREATMENT FOR LUNG CANCER HARNESSING
ANCIENT WISDOM TO COMBAT CA LUNGS" A CASE STUDY
Mangesh Sonwane1*, Shital Roman2 and Smita Kodu3
1PG Scholler, Department of Kriya Sharir, Pad D.Y Patil Ayurved College and Research
Centre Pune.
2Guide and Professor, Department of Kriya Sharir, Pad D.Y Patil Ayurved College and
Research Centre Pune.
3HOD and Professor, Department of Kriya Sharir, Pad D.Y Patil Ayurved College and
Research Centre Pune.
ABSTRACT
This abstract presents a case study focusing on the utilization of
Ayurvedic treatment for lung cancer, aiming to merge traditional
wisdom with modern medical approaches. Lung cancer remains a
significant health challenge globally, necessitating innovative
therapeutic strategies. The case study explores the application of
Ayurvedic principles, including herbal remedies, dietary modifications,
lifestyle interventions, and rejuvenation therapies, to complement
conventional cancer treatments. By integrating ancient Ayurvedic
wisdom with evidence-based practices, the study sheds light on the
potential benefits of a holistic approach in enhancing patient outcomes.
Preliminary findings indicate promising results, warranting further investigation into
Ayurveda's role in lung cancer management.
KEYWORD:- Ayurvedic treatment, lung cancer, Harnessing Ancient Wisdom.
INTRODUCTION
Lung cancer remains one of the most prevalent and challenging diseases worldwide, affecting
millions of lives and causing significant morbidity and mortality. While modern medical
advancements have made significant strides in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer,
there is a growing interest in exploring complementary and alternative therapies that harness
ancient wisdom to combat this formidable disease. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
SJIF Impact Factor 8.084
Volume 12, Issue 13, 1382-1390. Case Study ISSN 2277 7105
Article Received on
20 June 2023,
Revised on 10 July 2023,
Accepted on 30 July 2023
DOI: 10.20959/wjpr202313-29192
*Corresponding Author
Dr. Mangesh Sonwane
PG Scholler, Department of
Kriya Sharir, Pad D.Y Patil
Ayurved College and
Research Centre Pune.
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medicine, offers a holistic approach to health and well-being, incorporating natural remedies,
dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and mind-body practices. This case study examines
the application of Ayurvedic treatment for lung cancer, showcasing its potential to
complement conventional therapies and improve patient outcomes.
Lung cancer is a complex and multifaceted disease that requires a comprehensive treatment
approach. Conventional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and
targeted therapies have demonstrated efficacy in managing lung cancer. However, these
treatments often come with side effects, and patients are constantly seeking additional options
to enhance their well-being and quality of life during the treatment journey.
Ayurveda, which translates to "knowledge of life," is deeply rooted in ancient Indian
scriptures and has been practiced for thousands of years. It emphasizes the balance of the
mind, body, and spirit as essential components of overall health. Ayurvedic treatments for
lung cancer aim to restore this balance by targeting the underlying causes and imbalances in
the body, thereby enhancing the body's natural healing abilities.
In this case study, we explore the remarkable journey of Mrs. ABC, a 40-year-old lung cancer
female patient who sought Ayurvedic treatment alongside conventional therapy. Mrs. ABC
was diagnosed with minimal subpleural ground glass attenuation in left lung along with the
fissure, squamous cell carcinoma {non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)} with sub centimeter
sized lymph node, non-small cell lung cancer and had undergone chemotherapy and radiation
treatment. However, he continued to experience persistent fatigue, respiratory distress, and
diminished quality of life.
Motivated by a desire to explore complementary approaches, Mrs. ABC began consulting
with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner. The treatment plan involved a personalized
approach, considering Mrs. ABC unique constitution, lifestyle, and the specific
characteristics of his cancer. The Ayurvedic treatment encompassed a combination of herbal
remedies, dietary modifications, breathing exercises, meditation, and lifestyle adjustments to
address the root causes of his symptoms and support his body's innate healing capacity.
Throughout this case study, we document Mrs. ABC journey, including his experiences,
challenges, and improvements, as he incorporated Ayurvedic treatment into his lung cancer
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care regimen. We also discuss the scientific rationale behind various Ayurvedic interventions
and their potential mechanisms of action in combating lung cancer.
By shedding light on this case study, we aim to highlight the potential benefits of Ayurvedic
treatment as an adjunct therapy for lung cancer. It is important to note that Ayurveda should
never replace conventional cancer treatments, but rather be seen as a complementary
approach that may enhance overall well-being and provide relief from treatment-related side
effects. As we delve into this case study, we hope to contribute to the growing body of
evidence and understanding of Ayurveda's role in the comprehensive management of lung
cancer.
Case presentation
History
A 40 years female approached to the hospital with complaints of kasa (cough), moderate to
severe shola (pain) in the left side of the chest and back, swasa kruchrita (difficulty in
breathing) very often since 2 year 3 months. Complaints of weight loss of about 14 kgs
within I year 3 months along with dourbalya (generalized weakness). Also complaints of loss
of appetite takes very little quantity of food and loss of sleep due to discomfort and pain in
the right side of the chest c/o mild fever off and on. Patient started with dry cough initially
one and a half year ago which gradually increased and disturbed more in the night along with
pain, heaviness and stiffness in the left side of the chest. No history of blood stained sputum.
Patient developed difficulty in breathing even with mild Exertion (1). Also developed loss of
appetite, loss of weight and which was evaluated and diagnosed as a case of Adenocarcinoma
of lung with minimal subpleural ground glass attenuation in left lung along with the fissure,
squamous cell carcinoma {non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)} with sub centimeter sized
lymph node, metastasis. The patient was on modern medicine for symptomatic treatment. As
the patient was not interested in modern medicine line of cancer treatment and was having
advanced stage of the disease, started with spiritual kind of activities like pooja, homa,
havana (Performing religious rituals) etc., for about 1 year and later approached our hospital
for Ayurveda treatment with above symptoms (IMAGE- 01).
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Investigations
Bronchoscopy report (09/11/2020)
Left upper lobe showed white glittering mass completely obstructing left upper lobe and
compression of lower lobe (IMAGE 02)
Biopsy report (Endobronchial mass)
Moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (Cross check by two laboratories
report) (IMAGE 03)
Pet scan report (13/11/2020) IMAGE 04
Chest
FDG avid heterogeneously enhancing ill-defined hilar soft tissue mass is noted involving
the left lung, measuring approximately 3.4 x 3.1x3.7 cm (Tr x AP x CC), SUVmax 16.6.
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Mass invades left main bronchus and left upper lobar bronchus, with resultant abrupt cut-
off and complete distal collapse of left upper lobe.
Left lower lobar bronchus also shows near total luminal narrowing, with associated
significant volume loss seen involving left lower lobe.
Mild left sided pleural effusion seen.
Atelectatic changes are noted in aerated left lower lobe. No suspicious lung nodules noted
in right lung.
Right lung shows normal inflation with usual pattern & even distribution of vascular
branches & that of bronchial tree.
Left pulmonary artery shows significant narrowing encasing its branches. Mass also
encases left inferior pulmonary vein.
FDG avid enlarged superior mediastinal node, just posterior to left innominate vein is
seen, measuring about 2.2 x 1.9 cm, SUVmax 12.2.
Also noted are FDG avid mildly enlarged left lower paratracheal and few enhancing left
hilar nodes.
No significant mediastinal or hilar adenopathy otherwise seen.
Abdomin and Pelvis
FDG avil enlarged portocaval node measures about 2.3cm x 1.6cm , SUVmax 11.7
Hrct chest report Before ayurvedic treatment (IMAGE 05)
Left perihilar large lobulated neoplastic mass lesion measuring 4.5cm x 3.7cm left major
bronchus with resultant obstructive collapse of left lung.
Left sided mediastinal small nodel lesion
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Thin rim of left sided pleural effusion
Hrct chest report After ayurvedic treatment with chemotherapy (IMAGE 06)
Minimal subpleural ground glass attebuation in left lung along the fissure
No obious perihilar focal lesion at present (Post treatment changes)
Sub centimeter sized lymph nodes in right paratracheal and precranial region
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Treatment protocol
Patient approached to our hospital with the above said complaints. After thorough
examinations, investigations, by assessing the dosha-dooshya involvement, Nidana (etiology)
and Lakshanas (symptomatology) the condition was correlated to Kshataja (cough due to
injury) and Kshayaja (cough due to degeneration of tissues) Kasa mentioned in the classics
(2). In Both Kshayaja and Kshatajakasa the nidanas mentioned as per the Brihatrayis (Great
trio) are Ativyavaya, Atibharavahana, Atiadhwa (excessive sexual indulgence, lifting heavy
weight, walking), intake of Vishama (faulty), Satmya (unwholesome) Ahara (food), having
hatredness, grief and having the habit of Vega nigraha (suppression of natural urges) leading
to vata pradhana tridosha janya (Tridosha vitiation) ksahta (injury) and kshaya (tissue
degeneration) initially in the Uras (chest) and later seen in the whole body if not treated
properly.
Here the prakruti (body constitution)of the patient is vata pitta (vata predominant) and gives
the history of some of the etiological factors like very less intake of food with irregular
timings, most of the days taking dry bakery items, often lifting heavy weights, more of
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irritative nature with stressful life which all lead to rukshata (dryness) of the body,
agnimandya (altered appetite) and leading to increase of vatadosha followed by the vitiation
of pitta and kapha resulting in kshataja and kshayaja in the Uras initially and later to the
whole body with lakshanas like Agnimandya (loss of appetite), dhatu kshaya (loss of weight),
shushkakasa (dry cough), parswashula (pain in the left chest and and flanks), swasa
(breathlessness), Jwara (repeated fever), Dourbalya (generalized weakness).
By considering all these aspects the following treatment protocol (Shaman Chikitsa) was
framed.
Kankprabhayog Dose 1gm / 3times a day / for 3 months
Pranvardhini Kalpa Dose 1gm / 3 times a day / for 3 months
Raudra Kundal Ras Dose 500mg / 3 Times a day / for 3 Months
Ambu Prasadan yog Dose 1gm / 3times a day / for 3 Month
Cap Carwin Dose 500mg / 2 times a day / For 3 Month
Kankprabha yog
Contains Hirak + Makardhvaj + Narayani +Vidari + Raktpachak
Pranvardhini kalpa
Contains Swaskas +Sahastra puti abhrak + Ras Shindur + Mahalakshami vilas + Pimpali +
Yashthi + vaasa + Behadaa + Tankan
Raudra kundal ras
Contains Suvarna + Raudra Ras
Ambu prasadan yog
Contains Ambu shoshan + triphala Gugulu +Kaishor Gugulu
Benefits of carwin tablet
In carnitine deficiency
Carnitine deficiency can lead to many problems such as muscle weakness, fatigue, problems
with heart (Such as heart enlargement), liver or brain (Encephalopathy), confusion etc.
Carwin 500 Tablet contains amino acids that are very important for the normal growth and
development of the internal organs, muscles and nerves. It helps to maintain normal
functioning of the internal organs and maintains nerve conduction too. It has a major role in
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the generation of energy in our body, regulation of mood, healing and repair of damaged
tissues and keeping our skin, nails and hair healthy. Keep taking it as prescribed by the doctor
to get the maximum benefit.
RESULTS
The assessment was done every 15 days and it was found to be very much encouraging in
terms of symptomatic relief, quality of life and life expectancy. After 15 days of medication
the patient showed about 60% reduction in the cough, 40% reduction in right sided chest
pain, also improved with appetite. Sleep also improved well with occasional disturbances. At
the end of the third month patient got overall 80-90% relief of all the symptoms. Kasa,
Swasakrichrita, Agnimandya, Aruchi reduced by 70% while Parswa shula reduced to 90%.
Patient doesn’t have fever after taking the medication which was observed previously. Patient
had history of weight reduction about 14 kg within 1 year 3 months which was well
maintained (44 kgs) during treatment period. Ct can chest shows improving Results ,
Treatment continue.
DISCUSSION
The case study highlights the potential of Ayurvedic treatment as a complementary approach
for lung cancer management. Ayurveda's emphasis on personalized care, dietary
modifications, herbal remedies, and mind-body techniques seems to have contributed
positively to the patient's quality of life.
However, it is essential to interpret these results with caution due to several limitations. First,
this is a single case study, and individual responses to Ayurvedic treatment can vary
significantly. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to establish the efficacy and
safety of Ayurveda in lung cancer treatment. Second, Ayurveda should not be seen as a
replacement for conventional treatments; instead, it should be considered as an adjunct
therapy with the approval and supervision of medical professionals.
CONCLUSION
The case study provides preliminary evidence of the potential benefits of Ayurvedic
treatment for lung cancer. Harnessing ancient wisdom, Ayurveda offers a holistic and
individualized approach to combat lung cancer. However, further research is necessary to
establish its efficacy and safety as part of a comprehensive cancer management plan.
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The classical approach of therapy by Kankprabha yog, Pranvardhini Kalpa, Raudra Kundal
Ras, Ambu Prasadan Yog helped in relieving the signs and symptoms improved the quality of
life and increased the life span to a great extent in advanced stage of Adenocarcinoma of
lung. Further clinical studies are needed to prove the efficacy of the classical approach in the
treatment of Lung carcinoma statistically and scientifically. This study conduct on Single
Patient with less time period and less Facilities, Study demands a large sample size with
adequate time periods with all facilities as well as treatment modifications this study is open
to all researchers for future study and research.
REFERENCES
1. Travis WD, Brambilla E, Nicholson AG, Yatabe Y, Austin JH, et al. The World Health
Organization classification of lung tumors: impact of genetic, clinical and radiologic
advances since the 2004 classification. J Thorac Oncol, 2015; 10: 1243 1260.
2. Denisenko TV, Budkevich IN, Zhivotovsky B Cell deathbased treatment of lung
adenocarcinoma. Cell Death Dis, 2018; 9: 117.
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