Patient Leaflets — 8/11/2026

Can I Take Ayurvedic Medicines During Chemotherapy?

Some herbal and dietary products can interact with cancer medicines. They may alter how medicines are absorbed, metabolized or eliminated. 

Questions You're Afraid to Ask

The short answer

Do not assume that an Ayurvedic medicine is safe simply because it is traditional or natural.

Some herbal and dietary products can interact with cancer medicines. They may alter how medicines are absorbed, metabolized or eliminated. 

What should I do?

Before starting an Ayurvedic medicine:

Tell your oncologist.

Tell your Ayurveda physician about your cancer treatment.

Show them the actual product or its label.

Check the ingredients and dose.

Discuss possible interactions.

What should never happen?

An Ayurvedic practitioner should not ask you to stop effective cancer treatment.

Similarly, a cancer doctor should know about all complementary medicines you are taking.

Remember

Good integrative care is collaborative care.

The aim is to support you without compromising your cancer treatment.

This information is intended for education and supportive care. It does not replace consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have cancer, do not stop, delay or change prescribed cancer treatment because of information found on this website. Tell your cancer-care team about all medicines, Ayurvedic preparations, herbs, vitamins and supplements you use.

Reliable sources: National Cancer Institute (NCI), World Health Organization (WHO), relevant national cancer-care guidelines, and appropriate peer-reviewed evidence.

Dr. Aakash Kembhavi

MD (Ayu-Shalya), PGDMLS, MS (Counseling & Psychotherapy) | Academician, Clinician & Researcher | Chief Editor, International Journal of Ayurveda

Founder of Cancer Support India.