Role of Panchakarma in the management of side effects of chemotherapy: A review
Stanzin Angmo, Anju S. Raj, Jahnvi Pandey, Ramneek Kaur, Anjali Kaushik, Ramakant YadavaAbstract
Background:
Chemotherapy represents a primary modality in cancer treatment, yet it frequently results in substantial side effects that adversely affect patient quality of life. Panchakarma, an Ayurvedic bio-purificatory intervention, has been investigated as a supportive strategy in integrative oncology.
Methods:
The review employed a systematic methodology consistent with PRISMA guidelines, incorporating comprehensive database searches (PubMed, Google Scholar, AYUSH portals) for literature published between January 2010 and December 2024. Study selection, duplicate removal, and critical appraisal were performed by two independent reviewers using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Mechanistic and quantitative evidence were documented when available; however, most included reports were observational and descriptive, lacking biomarker or statistical validation.
Results:
The evidence base is primarily observational, comprising case reports and qualitative studies. Findings related to symptom management, quality of life, or disease stabilization associated with Panchakarma are hypothesis-generating and do not substantiate causal or therapeutic claims. Mechanistic evidence remains conceptual, and quantitative outcome data are limited.
Conclusion:
The existing literature on Panchakarma in chemotherapy contexts is restricted to exploratory, hypothesis-generating reports. Scientific neutrality was maintained throughout, and definitive clinical recommendations cannot be made. Rigorous controlled studies are necessary to establish safety, efficacy, and mechanistic understanding.