Publication

Abstract :

Cancer is one of the biggest and most researched causes of death in developed countries. Cancer can be correlated with arbuda in Ayurveda. According to acharya Susruta, the aggravated doshas (balancing elements in the body) vitiate muscles and produce round, firm, large, deep routed, slowly developing, non suppurating and swollen fleshy mass which is known as arbuda. Susrutacharya describes about six types of arbuda which are caused by vata, pitta, kapha, rakta, medas and mamsa. Classical Ayurvedic treatment of arbuda includes samana chikitsa (internal medication) followed by sodhana chikitsa (purification processes). By using Ayurvedic medicines, we can minimise the side effects of chemotherapy and thereby increase the life span of patients. Rasasastra (Ayurvedic Chemistry) has been successful from very early times in using various formulations in preventing or treating arbuda. Some of the important formulations that can be used for treating arbuda in Rasasastra are Roudra rasa mentioned in Rasendra sara sangraha, Arbudahara rasa in Rasaratnasamucchaya, Vajra bhasama in Rasatantra sara, Kanchanara guggulu in Sarngadhara samhita etc. In the present work we are discussing about the role of these formulations in the management of arbuda. The aim of this work is to provide a general outline about arbuda and its management by following the principles of Ayurveda.