EFFICACY OF PANCHATIKTA KSHEERA BASTI IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHEMO-RADIOTHERAPY-INDUCED SIDE EFFECTS: A STRUCTURED REVIEW
Abstract
Introduction: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy frequently cause severe systemic side effects, including mucositis, myelosuppression, and peripheral neuropathy, which severely impair quality of life and interrupt therapy schedules. In Ayurveda, Panchatikta Ksheera Basti is recognized for its potent Pitta-Vata pacifying, tissue-regenerating, and immunomodulatory properties. This review evaluates its therapeutic role in managing conventional oncology treatment toxicities. Material: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Ayush Research Portal, and Google Scholar. Review articles, clinical trials, and case studies, ayurvedic samhita investigating the administration of Panchatikta Ksheera Basti for side effects secondary to chemo-radiotherapy were screened and analysed. Discussion: Panchatikta Ksheera Basti serves as an effective, minimally invasive supportive therapy in integrative oncology. By balancing metabolic fire (Agni) and strengthening bodily tissues (Dhatus), it mitigates the oxidative stress and inflammatory cascades triggered by oncology interventions. Furthermore, its nutrient-rich milk base provides systemic nourishment, counteracting severe weight loss, bone marrow suppression, and generalized debility caused by cytotoxic therapies. Utilizing this Ayurvedic protocol helps patients tolerate standard cancer treatments better, leading to improved compliance and enhanced overall quality of life. Conclusion: Panchatikta Ksheera Basti offers a potent integrative strategy to manage chemo-radiotherapy toxicities. By processing five bitter herbs into a lipid-milk matrix, this colorectal formulation bypasses first-pass metabolism, ensuring high systemic bioavailability. Modern research confirms it neutralizes free radicals and downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), arresting mucosal degradation. Furthermore, it interacts with colorectal neural pathways to stabilize systemic Vata, effectively mitigating peripheral neuropathy, chronic pain, and fatigue.