SAFEGUARDING ORAL CANCER WITH AYURVEDA: A REVIEW

Vd. Rutuja Ajit Ingale*, Vd. Ramesh Ujwale and Vd. Nitesh Joshi

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Oral cancer is becoming an alarming condition globally. Its ranking stands among the first ten common carcinomas around the world. Approximately 90% of the total oral malignancies are squamous cell carcinomas. The underlying causes can be linked with tobacco intake, smoking, smokeless tobacco (snuff or chewing tobacco), alcohol, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). The treatment measures for oral cancer are very costly and affordability is very low. Hence, taking preventive measures at first place becomes of utmost importance. Ayurveda‘s holistic approach could be a ray of hope in either prevention or prolonging the symptoms of Oral cancer. Certain Ayurvedic modalities like Dantadhawan, Jinvha Nirlekhana, Kaval, Gandush, Pratisarana along with supportive Pranayama like Sheetali, Sitkari and treatments like Rasayana therapies could safeguard Oral cancer and its metastasis. Aim and Objective: To study the role of Ayurveda in prevention of Oral cancer. Material and Methods: All literature related to Oral cancer and its Ayurvedic preventive aspects is compiled from Ayurveda textbooks, internet, articles, scientific journals. Conclusion – Role of different Ayurvedic preventive measures could be helpful in safeguarding Oral cancer.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Oral cancer, Prevention.