Patient Leaflets — 8/11/2026

What If I Am Afraid to Tell My Oncologist About My Ayurvedic Medicines?

You may worry that your doctor will become angry or dismiss Ayurveda.

Questions You're Afraid to Ask

The short answer

Please tell them.

You may worry that your doctor will become angry or dismiss Ayurveda.

But your cancer-care team needs to know what you are taking so that possible interactions and risks can be considered.

NCI specifically advises patients to disclose supplements, herbs and other complementary products. 

Make it easier

Take:

The medicine bottle

The package

A photograph

The prescription

The ingredient list

You can say:

"I want to continue my cancer treatment, but I am also interested in this Ayurvedic medicine. Can you help me understand whether it is safe?"

Remember

Honest communication protects you.

Your doctors cannot help you assess an interaction if they do not know what you are taking.

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.