Khopoli to get country’s first ayurveda-based cancer hospital

This complex will house a research centre dedicated to the exploration of Ayurvedic remedies for cancer.

Anticipated completion for the hospital and research centre is scheduled for March 2026.

Highlighting the financial burden and substantial side effects associated with contemporary cancer treatments, Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, oncologist, Head and Neck Cancer department at Tata Memorial Hospital underscored the need for innovative solutions.

“Our clinical focus centres on exploring medicinal plant-based compounds and herbal aids to enhance current cancer treatments. Cancer management is a recurring clinical challenge, often resulting in prolonged side effects and potential recurrence. Our core aim is to develop treatments that fortify post-treatment immunity, serving as a defense against disease relapse,” said Dr Chaturvedi.

In the report titled “Ayurveda in Cancer Management,” it highlights Sadabahar’s anti-oxidative and anti-carcinogenic properties in single drug therapy, featuring key anti-cancer components vincristine and vinblastine.

Tulsiras leaf extract benefits human cancer, and Ocimum sanctum leaf extract with eugenol is effective against cancer.

The study emphasizes the effectiveness of drug combinations in cancer treatment. Rasayana churna, containing Amlaki for its antioxidative properties, holds potential in cancer treatment.

“So, Ayurveda is used as an adjuvant therapy in cancer. Nowadays Noni capsules are used as an adjuvant drug in which Noni is the main ingredient, and the alkaloids like scopolatin have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ayurvedic drugs also have cytoprotective action so it is used as an adjuvant therapy in cancer patients,” reads the report.

Dr Chaturvedi highlighted that pharmaceutical companies typically neglect Ayurveda, prompting institutions like Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) to proactively explore the untapped potential benefits of these traditional medicinal plants, which have long contributed to human well-being. “This new hospital and research centre’s role will be to research and determine whether these Ayurvedic medicines are genuinely helpful in cancer treatment,” he added.