Vijaya in Cancer Care: Ayurveda’s Forgotten Ally in Modern Oncology

In my clinical experience as an Ayurvedic doctor and medical cannabis researcher over the past few years, I’ve seen firsthand how cancer care often leaves a gap when it comes to managing side effects and supporting overall well-being.

While conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery aim to eliminate cancer cells or achieve remission, they frequently come with debilitating side effects—ranging from severe nausea and pain to sleep disturbances, appetite loss, and mental fatigue.

In Ayurveda, these symptoms are viewed through a holistic lens. They are often seen as resulting from imbalances in Vata and Kapha, weakened Agni (digestive fire), and reduced Ojas (vitality). This is where Vijaya (Cannabis sativa) plays a crucial role—not as a cure, but as a supportive and rejuvenating companion in the patient’s healing journey.

Vijaya in Classical Ayurveda

Ayurvedic scriptures such as the Sushruta Samhita and Bhavaprakasha recognize Vijaya as a powerful herb when used in the correct form and dosage. Traditionally, Vijaya is described as:

• Vedanasthapana – Relieves pain

• Madakari – Calms the nervous system

• Deepana & Pachana – Stimulates digestion and improves appetite

• Grahi – Enhances nutrient absorption

• Vrishya – Restores strength and energy

These traditional uses are now finding increasing relevance in modern oncology, particularly in palliative and supportive care settings.

Modern Applications in Cancer Support

A growing body of evidence supports the role of medical cannabis in relieving many of the symptoms that cancer patients commonly experience, including:

Nausea & Vomiting Relief
Chemotherapy often induces persistent nausea and vomiting. Vijaya’s active compounds, such as THC and CBD, interact with specific receptors in the brainstem to significantly reduce these sensations.

Appetite Stimulation
Many cancer patients struggle with loss of appetite and muscle wasting (cachexia). Vijaya can help stimulate hunger signals, enabling patients to regain strength and proper nourishment.

Pain Management
Whether it’s neuropathic pain, joint aches, or tumor-related discomfort, Vijaya helps modulate pain perception. It provides relief without the heavy sedation or dependency associated with opioids.

Improved Sleep and Mood
Anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia are common during cancer treatment. Vijaya’s grounding and calming effects can enhance sleep quality and stabilize mood, contributing significantly to emotional well-being.

How Ayurveda Approaches Vijaya Use in Cancer

In Ayurvedic practice, raw cannabis is never used directly. It undergoes a purification process known as Shodhana to reduce toxicity and enhance its medicinal value. This process often involves mediums such as:

• Cow’s urine

• Triphala decoction

• Herbal juices

Examples of Ayurvedic Formulations with Vijaya

Some commonly prescribed Ayurvedic combinations include:

• Vijaya Taila + Brahmi + Jatamansi – For anxiety, insomnia, and mental fatigue

• Vijaya Capsules + Shatavari + Yashtimadhu – To support digestion and mucosal healing during chemotherapy

• Vijaya + Dashamoola Decoction – For managing fatigue and inflammatory pain

• Anu Taila enriched with Vijaya microdose – Used nasally in advanced cancer stages with severe neurological symptoms

These formulations are always administered under strict medical supervision, with close monitoring of dosage and patient response.

Legal Framework in India

Under Indian law, Vijaya is a controlled substance, but its use for medical purposes is permitted within the Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani (ASU) systems, provided the necessary licenses are in place.

Several licensed Ayurvedic companies in states such as Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh are now producing standardized Vijaya-based formulations in the form of oils, capsules, and decoctions—prescribed by trained Ayurvedic practitioners.

Final Thoughts: Responsible Use, Real Benefits

Vijaya is not a miracle herb, nor is it a replacement for standard oncology treatments. However, when used correctly, ethically, and with the guidance of Ayurvedic principles, it offers a safe, effective, and deeply supportive approach for individuals navigating the challenges of cancer.

- Dr. Ashvini A.

BAMS, MD (Ayurveda)