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Review Paper | Ayurveda | Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026 | Pages: 762 - 767 | India
Metal-Based Ayurvedic Nanomedicines in Breast Cancer: Mechanistic Insights, Pharmacological Evidence, and Translational Relevance
Abstract: Breast cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed malignancy globally, with recent estimates surpassing 2.26 million new cases and nearly 685, 000 annual deaths. Despite the progress in mastectomy, chemotherapy, and hormonal interventions, these standard modalities are often restricted by systemic toxicity, the emergence of multi-drug resistance, and a significant decline in patient quality of life. This clinical bottleneck has catalyzed interest in integrative oncology, particularly the traditional Ayurvedic system of Rasa Shastra, which utilizes incinerated metal and mineral preparations known as Bhasmas. These formulations are increasingly understood as ancient forms of "ethno-nanomedicine", where rigorous pharmaceutical processes transform bulk, toxic elemental metals into biocompatible nano-structured particles. This review synthesizes current scientific understanding regarding the preparation, physicochemical nature, and therapeutic potential of major Bhasmas such as Swarna (gold), Abhraka (mica), and Tamra (copper) in breast cancer management. By highlighting mechanisms such as the induction of p53-dependent apoptosis, modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the polarization of pro-tumor macrophages, this work underscores the potential of these drugs as adjunct or alternative therapeutic agents.
Keywords: Breast cancer, Ayurvedic Bhasma, herbo-mineral nanomedicine, apoptosis, oxidative stress, translational oncology
How to Cite?: Sruthi S., Sneha S., J. Anbu, Sadhana Goswami, "Metal-Based Ayurvedic Nanomedicines in Breast Cancer: Mechanistic Insights, Pharmacological Evidence, and Translational Relevance", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 762-767, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26511105257, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26511105257