Integrating ayurvedic medicine into cancer research programs part 2: Ayurvedic herbs and research opportunities

The aim of this two-part review in this issue is to provide some basic perspectives from Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, and to discuss how current research methodologies may be used to shed light on mechanisms of Ayurvedic treatments to support cancer care and prevention. It addresses some of the challenges for scientific validation of Ayurvedic herbal compounds, protocols, and modalities in four areas. Part 1 [1] has reviewed Ayurvedic theories and applications of body constitution (Prakriti), digestion (Agni and Ama) and mind-body-spirit health in relation to cancer. Here in Part 2, the focus is on preclinical and clinical research of Ayurvedic botanical herbs, with a review of pertinent literature on three selected herbs, Curcumin, Ashwagandha, and Triphala. A discussion of the challenges and possibilities of research in Ayurveda is offered to guide the development of translational research programs. Ayurvedic modalities are not intended as a substitute for allopathic treatments of cancer but as an integrative component for prevention and restoration of strength and immunity.