Liver cancer is a dangerous and potentially deadly disease that must always be diagnosed and treated by a medical professional. Alternative health options such as Ayurveda, a natural and holistic healing system originating in India, may offer some relief of symptoms and support to the whole body without the side effects of treatments such as chemotherapy. It is not a substitute for conventional cancer treatment, however. If you suffer from liver cancer, consult your medical doctor before trying Ayurvedic methods.
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer begins in the cells of the liver. Its causes are not always known, but liver infections such as hepatitis and conditions such as cirrhosis, diabetes and obesity may increase your risk. It is most commonly found in older men, although in developing countries it affects a younger population as well. Only a medical doctor can diagnose liver cancer, which is often asymptomatic until its late stages. Traditional medical treatments for liver cancer include surgery, liver transplants, radiation and chemotherapy.
Ayurvedic Approach to the Liver
The Ayurvedic system believes that cancer is the result of a buildup of ama, or toxins, in the body. Therefore, a healthy liver is crucial to preventing not only liver cancer, but cancers throughout the body. The liver is considered a fire -- or pitta -- organ, since it is primarily concerned with purification and digestion. Therefore, a healthy liver requires balance in the pitta forces in the body. If the liver is overloaded with fats and toxins, it can become overworked and inflamed. Such inflammation is treated with cooling and cleansing foods and herbal remedies, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes such as stress reduction and meditation.
Ayurvedic Dietary Support for Liver Cancer
Food is an essential part of the Ayurvedic treatment for cancer. Ayurvedic dietary recommendations for liver cancer focus on cooling, clean, easily digested foods. Spicy foods, fried foods, fatty meats, alcohol, drugs and caffeine are taxing for the liver and should be avoided. Melons, mangoes, pomegranates, berries, sprouts and pears are considered cooling foods, as are some vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower, which should be lightly steamed and served with small amounts of whole, unmilled grains such as quinoa. Cilantro, dill, mint, fennel and cardamom are good cooling spices.
Ayurvedic Treatments for Liver Cancer
The Divyajyot Ayurvedia Research Foundation conducts research on Ayurveda and cancer in India. It has had some success prescribing its patients with liver cancer a tonic of bijoru fruit, herbal medicines and an oil-free diet of boiled vegetables, goat milk, papaya and citrus. While only a fraction of these patients were cancer-free after six months of treatment, the majority of the patients reported improvements in their condition. While promising, it is important to remember that these trials were conducted under the joint supervision of Ayurvedic and medical professionals and should not be attempted on your own. Treatment for liver cancer must be recommended and supervised by a medical doctor.
