Critical Review on Herbo-Mineral Formulations in Cancer: Palliative Care

Abstract

Rasashastra [Iatrochemistry] is a branch of Ayurveda which contain herbo-mineral preparations which helps in treatment of diseases. Minerals and metallic compounds like Mica, Copper and Iron pyrites, Mercury, Gold, Zinc, Brass, gems like Ruby, Diamond, calcium compounds like Lime soda are used after proper purification. Several studies done on these formulations shows anti-cancer activity. Thus some are directly indicated in arbuda chikitsa [cancer treatment]. Arbuda chikitsa [cancer treatment] has described by acharyas in classics. In that few herbomineral preparations are mentioned like Vajra bhasma, Raudra rasa, Nithyananda rasa etc. Some compounds are used by physicians for cancer according to their logic and practical experience like Shiva gutika, Tuttha bhasma etc. some metallic compounds like gold, diamond etc. are used in chemotherapy also. Trisenox injection made of Arsenic oxide [Gouri pashana] is used in leukaemia treatment. This is a compilation of medicines which are described in classics, proved in researches and used in clinical practices. BACKGROUNDRasa medicine is a renowned holistic system of traditional medicine emphasizing curative and preventive measures. Rasashastra [Iatrochemistry] has developed a rich and unique treasure of drug knowledge in which use of metals and minerals is very much advocated. Cancer is one of the most life threatening diseases and possess many health hazard in both developed and developing countries, characterized by irregular proliferation of cells. Cancer kills about 3500 million people annually all over the world; it accounts more than 2-3% of the annual deaths recorded worldwide. It refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissues. Common sites of cancer are thyroid, oral, prostate, uterus, breast, ovary, GIT, lungs and kidney. In Ayurveda cancer is correlated with term "Arbuda". CANCER Cancer is a deadly disease which is difficult to cure if it reaches advanced stages. So we should be aware about the stages of cancer. It has 4 stages: