Integrating Ayurveda for Better Tolerance to Chemotherapy

Cancer is a major social, public health, and economic problem in the 21st century. Chemotherapy is the second most widely accepted treatment protocol for cancer after surgery. But it comes with an increased risk of infections and side effects. Failure to manage the adverse effects of chemotherapy in a timely manner could have life‑threatening consequences. Ayurveda Treatment has been found to be significantly handle the negative effects of chemotherapy. It allows patients to tolerate adversities of chemotherapy. This review mainly deals with brief idea about chemotherapy, Side effects of Chemotherapy and how the adversities managed in western medicine as well as in ayurveda. Although Ayurvedic treatments may improve the quality of life for cancer patients and serve as a crucial immunity booster after chemotherapy. But there is a lack of evidence–based research to demonstrate its efficacy and potential. Research gaps and opportunities will be identified to guide development of research programs to validate safety and efficacy of these therapies. Importantly, the use of Ayurvedic modalities is not intended to substitute for allopathic treatments for cancer but as an integrative component for prevention and restoration of strength and immunity post treatment.