Cancer treatment in ayurveda

Fagonia cretica

Botanical Name: Fagonia cretica
Family: Zygophyllaceae

Here are various names for Fagonia cretica, commonly known as Dhamasa or Dhanvyas in Ayurveda, across different languages:

1. Sanskrit: Dhanvyas, Dhamasa, Yavatikta
2. Hindi: Dhamasa, Dhamas, Dhanvaya
3. Punjabi: Dhamasa, Dhamasa Booti
4. Gujarati: Dhamaso
5. Marathi: Dhamasa
6. Tamil: Thalanarunthi, Arugu Poo
7. Telugu: Kharijarja, Nilatulasi
8. Kannada: Dhanvayas
9. Malayalam: Kattukaruka
10. Urdu: Dhamasa Booti
11. Arabic: Shawk al-Daba, Shawkat al-Manshur
12. Persian (Farsi): Khare-e-Shutur
13. Pashto: Dhamasa
14. English: Dhamasa, Fagonia, Virgin’s Mantle
15. French: Fagonia
    
    Fagonia cretica has shown immense potential as a supportive remedy in cancer care, particularly in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda. Here are detailed explanation on how Fagonia cretica benefits cancer patients:

1. Antioxidant Properties

• Fagonia cretica is rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals that can lead to oxidative stress and DNA damage, a precursor to cancer development. By reducing oxidative stress, it helps protect healthy cells from damage and slows the spread of cancer cells.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

• Chronic inflammation is associated with tumor progression and cancer metastasis. The anti-inflammatory compounds in Fagonia cretica, such as tannins and saponins, help reduce inflammation, potentially limiting the environment conducive to cancer growth.

3. Induction of Apoptosis (Programmed Cell Death)

• Research has confirmed that Fagonia cretica promotes apoptosis in cancer cells. This means it could help the body’s natural process of clearing abnormal cells without harming healthy cells, which is crucial in managing cancer.

4. Cytotoxic Effects on Cancer Cells

• Certain bioactive compounds in Fagonia cretica exhibit cytotoxic effects, meaning they can selectively inhibit the growth and multiplication of cancer cells. This effect has been confirmed in research as well and many patients have been opting for intake of Fagonia cretica since 2011 when first such research was published in the UK, suggesting it could be a helpful adjunct therapy to conventional treatments.

5. Immune System Modulation

• Fagonia cretica helps modulate the immune system, supporting the body’s defense against cancerous cells. Strengthening immune response is essential in both prevention and treatment, as it assists in recognizing and destroying abnormal cells.

6. Potential Reduction of Chemotherapy Side Effects

• Traditional use and emerging studies suggest that Fagonia cretica helps alleviate major chemotherapy side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, and inflammation, making treatment more tolerable for patients. Its cooling and soothing effects help in managing treatment-induced inflammation and discomfort.

7. Support for Liver Health

• The liver is crucial in processing toxins, including those generated by cancer treatments. Fagonia cretica has hepatoprotective properties that can support liver function, helping the body process and eliminate toxins effectively, which benefit patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. In particular for all patients suffering from Liver Metastasis / carcinoma, intake of fagonia cretica is a true blessing. 

8. Blood Purification and Detoxification

• Traditionally, Fagonia cretica is known for its blood-purifying qualities. For cancer patients, detoxifying the blood can be helpful in reducing tumor-promoting substances and supporting overall vitality, particularly during aggressive treatments.

9. Pain and Fatigue Management

• The analgesic properties of Fagonia cretica can help manage pain, which is common among cancer patients, particularly those with advanced disease. Additionally, it  alleviate fatigue by improving circulation and reducing inflammation, helping to enhance quality of life.

10. Potential Inhibition of Cancer Metastasis

• Research has also confirmed that Fagonia cretica inhibits the migration and invasion of cancer cells, meaning it could play a role in slowing or preventing metastasis. This property is especially valuable in cases where controlling the spread of cancer is critical and its a true life saving medicinal plant for all cancer patients. 

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1. Description

Fagonia cretica, known as “Dhamasa” in Ayurveda, is a small, thorny shrub with tiny, linear leaves and purple or pink flowers. The plant typically grows up to 30–60 cm and bears sharp thorns and clustered leaves, which help it survive in arid, desert environments. Its medicinal uses are well-regarded in traditional medicine for a variety of conditions, especially for its purifying, anti-inflammatory, and cooling properties.

2. Occurrence

Fagonia cretica is native to arid and semi-arid regions, commonly found in parts of India, Pakistan, the Middle East, and Africa. It thrives in dry, rocky, and sandy soils, and is commonly found in deserts, wastelands, and mountainous terrains.

3. Chemical Constituents

The key chemical constituents of Fagonia cretica include:

• Flavonoids: Quercetin, kaempferol – known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Tannins: Contributing to its astringent properties.
• Saponins: Helpful in cleansing the blood and supporting immune health.
• Alkaloids: Act as natural purifiers and are known to help detoxify the body.

4. Guna (Qualities in Ayurveda)

• Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent)
• Guna (Qualities): Ruksha (dry), Laghu (light)
• Virya (Potency): Sheeta (cooling)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (pungent)

5. Uses in Ayurveda

Fagonia cretica is highly valued in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly for:

• Blood Purification: Used to treat skin conditions and to cleanse the blood.
• Skin Disorders: Beneficial in treating acne, eczema, and boils due to its purifying effects.
• Fever and Infections: Effective for reducing fever, particularly in cases of chronic fever.
• Inflammation: Used to reduce swelling and pain associated with inflammatory conditions.
• Digestive Health: Known to relieve indigestion and support liver health.

6. Mode of Action

Fagonia cretica has a cooling effect and works by pacifying Pitta dosha, which makes it suitable for treating heat-related disorders such as skin diseases, fever, and inflammation. Its purifying and detoxifying actions are due to its bitter and astringent taste, which cleanses the blood, removes toxins, and supports liver function. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation, especially beneficial in managing skin and joint conditions.

7. Home Remedies

• For Skin Health: Prepare a paste by grinding fresh leaves of Fagonia cretica and apply it on acne or boils to help reduce inflammation and redness.
• For Fever Relief: A decoction made from Fagonia cretica leaves, taken once or twice daily, may help lower fevers and provide relief from chronic fevers.
• For Detoxification: Drinking a mild infusion of the dried plant once daily aids in blood purification and helps prevent skin breakouts.

8. Dosage

• Powdered Form: 3–5 grams, once or twice daily with water or honey.
• Decoction: 10–15 ml, once daily, typically before meals.
• Paste: Applied externally as required on affected skin areas.

9. Caution

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Fagonia cretica should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation unless prescribed by a qualified practitioner.
• Low Blood Pressure: Those with hypotension should use it cautiously as it may have a mild blood-pressure-lowering effect.
• Sensitive Skin: May cause irritation when applied externally; a patch test is recommended.
• Excessive Use: Overuse can lead to digestive discomfort due to its astringent nature.

Conclusion

Fagonia cretica, or Dhamasa, is a versatile Ayurvedic herb widely used for its blood-purifying, cooling, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its efficacy in treating skin ailments, chronic fever, and inflammation makes it an important herb in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. While generally safe, it should be used under guidance, particularly during pregnancy or by those with low blood pressure. With careful application, Fagonia cretica offers a natural approach to cleansing the body, improving skin health, and managing inflammation.