Palliative care in Ayurveda for Cancer Patient: A Case Study

Abstract

Methodology: This case report includes two male CML patients from Bihar managed with individualized Ayurvedic protocols over 12 months and 2 years respectively, with regular clinical and haematological follow up. Interventions comprised herbomineral formulations such as Shila sindoor, Muktashukti, Motipishti and Tamra bhasma in rational combinations with herbs including Kanchnaar, Haridra, Shatavari, Guduchi (Giloye), Gokshura and Punarnava, alongside tailored dietary regulation, Yoga and Pranayama. Treatment was modified according to patients’ symptoms, tolerance and laboratory responses, reflecting a dynamic, patient‑centred palliative approach. Results: In Case 1, a 38‑year‑old male with suggestive CML, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, raised TLC (11,700), haemoglobin 12.6g/dl and deranged lipid profile showed stabilization of haematological parameters and symptomatic improvement over 12 months. In Case 2, a 55‑year‑old male with CML, marked leucocytosis (TLC 1,80,000) and haemoglobin 10.0g/dl exhibited significant clinical response and better tolerance of chronic illness under a 2‑year Ayurvedic regimen. Both patients reported improved energy, reduced constitutional complaints and better overall well‑being, indicating an important palliative role of Ayurveda in chronic cancer care. Conclusion: These cases suggest that Ayurveda can contribute meaningfully to palliative care of chronic cancer patients by offering Rasayana‑oriented, herb-o-mineral and lifestyle-based interventions that enhance quality of life and support haematological stability. As an adjunct to conventional oncology, Ayurvedic palliative care may provide holistic symptom relief, psychological support and long‑term, cost‑effective integration for patients living with CML and similar chronic malignancies. Further systematic clinical studies are warranted to substantiate these preliminary observations and to define safe, standardized protocols.