Pancreatic Cancer, Ascites, Diet, Bioactives and Ayurveda Efficacy: Mini Review and a Case Report

Abstract

Background: Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains one of the deadliest malignancies, often associated with late diagnosis, resistance to chemotherapy, and complications such as malignant ascites. Ayurveda and functional foods have shown promise in both adjuvant and recovery roles, amid interest in integrative oncology. We review a case study and the literature to find promising action pathways. Materials and Methods: We analyzed the anti-carcinogenic activity of the four most important herbs using literature, which were used sans chemo- or radio-therapy or allopathic drugs to improve the well-being and prolong life without pain of a 80 year old male PC patient in Pune city by 6 months. Results and Discussion: The use of Ayurvedic herbs and their bioactives includes (1) Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra – glycyrrhizin, isoliquiritigenin, and licoflavone (A)), (2) Giloy/Heart-leaved moonseed (Tinospora cordifolia – berberine, octacosanol, and polysaccharides), (3) Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare – anethole and flavonoids), and (4) Ash gourd (Benincasa hispida – Cucurbitacin, Terpenoids, and Vitamin C). These are known in the literature to cause apoptosis in cancer cell lines, improve oxidative status by blocking free radicals, boost immunity, and wound healing. Conclusion: The said herbs seem promising medicines in addressing PC, including ascites. Their integration with the current treatments of chemotherapy and radiotherapy demands research.