A Review on the Anti-Cancer (Arbudahara) Potential of Classical Ayurvedic Herbo-Mineral Formulation- Roudra Rasa

Abstract

Arbuda (cancer) is said considered to be the leading cause in the world. Though there are many Ayurvedic formulations mentioned in the classics, there are still various medicines which are underexplored. One of them is Roudra rasa. Roudra rasa is a herbo-mineral classical Ayurvedic formulation which is mentioned in Bhaishajya ratnavali traditionally indicated for the treatment of Arbuda. Despite its importance, this formulation has not received much scientific or clinical importance. This review aims to critically analyse the formulation, provide pharmacological evidence supporting the anticancer potential of ingredients present in Roudra rasa and discuss the probable mode of action of Roudra rasa in the management of Arbuda. Roudra rasa possess Tikta (bitter), Katu rasa (pungent), and Ushna virya (hot in potency), which help in Ama pachana (digestion of toxins) thereby stimulating Agni (digestive fire). This helps in Srotoshodhana (cleansing the channels) thereby working on the root level to arrest the progression of Arbuda. Roudra rasa holds promising anticancer effects. Further pharmaceutical standardization and clinical studies are required to validate and use this formulation in cancer care.