Detailed aspects of Breast Cancer along with its Interpretation and Management in Ayurveda

Abstract

An integrated approach is needed to manage cancer using the growing body of knowledge gained through scientific developments. Thousands of herbal and traditional compounds are being screened worldwide to validate their use as anti-cancerous drugs. The science of Ayurveda is supposed to add a step on to the curative aspects of Cancers that have resemblance with clinical entities of Arbuda and Granthi mentioned in Samhitas. Hence, an attempt is made in this review to discuss about the pathogenesis and therapeutic management of various types of breast cancers (Sthana Arbuda) described in Ayurveda and modern science. Various literature studies on anticancer drugs of plant origin revealed identification of newer ayurvedic drugs that are not mentioned in the ancient texts. These new findings add up to Ayurvedic science that has been developed through ages. In addition, details of experimental and clinical studies conducted on single and compound ayurvedic preparations for their anticancer efficacy strongly emphasize ayurvedic therapy as a scientifically driven one and not simply unconventional.