Written by John Immel, Asheville, NC
Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrollable division of abnormal cells. This division can start in almost any part of the body, and may spread to surrounding areas via the blood (rakta vaha srotas) and lymph (rasa vaha srotas). In many types of cancer, these rapidly dividing cells accumulate and form a mass or tumor. In Ayurveda, Cancer is a tridoshic disorder provoked by toxins (ama), with Kapha primarily involved in the formation and growth of a tumor.
Cancers tend to form where tissues are irritated and new cells are constantly regenerated to repair tissue (Kapha). Eventually, these cells become renegade and continue growing out of control (Pitta). In cancer, there is a breakdown of communication between the cells and the rest of the body (Tejo-Dushti). The cancer slowly "learns" how to evade the immune system. It figures out how to stimulate the growth of blood vessels in the tumor and feed itself. The aggressive nature of cancer can use up all metabolic energies of the body. This eventually depletes the body and displaces proper organ function (Vata, Ojo-Kshaya).
Ayurvedic Treatment of Cancer
Traditionally, Ayurvedic addresses cancer according to the specific doshas and imbalances of the individual. It is recommended to follow a diet that works for your unique body type (dosha). An Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle also offers a preventative approach by taking the health of the whole body into account.
As a general rule of thumb, Ayurveda addresses the root of cancer by cleansing ama, balancing blood chemistry, and supporting healthy agni. It is recommended to seek medical treatment for all forms of cancer. Ayurveda is not a substitute for medical care.
Cleanse Ama
As a general rule of thumb, Ayurveda begins by cleansing toxins (ama), removing the source of irritation and any obstruction that would prevent the immune system from recognizing and destroying the cancer. Irritants can include:
- Exposure to environmental toxins, pollutants, or chemical exposure
An imbalanced diet or lifestyle
- Eating food with preservatives, GMO, or chemical additives
- Buildup of toxins from normal bodily processes and/or stagnation
- Inflammation due to parasites, infection, injury, or other disorders
- Anything that irritates any part of your body
