Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent and sometimes dose-limiting adverse effect of cancer treatment. It is most often associated with platinum compounds, taxanes, vinca alkaloids and proteasome inhibitors. Patients commonly experience distal numbness, tingling, burning pain, altered temperature sensation, weakness and impaired balance. The underlying injury differs among drugs but may involve axonal degeneration, disturbed microtubule-dependent transport, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, ion-channel changes and damage to dorsal root ganglion neurons. Treatment options remain limited, and supportive care is therefore important. CIPN has no exact disease equivalent in classical Ayurveda. Nevertheless, its acquired onset after a toxic therapeutic exposure and its predominance of pain, altered sensation, weakness and impaired movement allow a careful interpretation within the broader framework of acquired Vata Vyadhi. Concepts such as Dhatukshaya and Srotodushti may further support hypothesis development. This narrative review brings modern neurobiology and Ayurvedic reasoning together without treating them as identical systems. Abhyanga, selected Basti procedures, rehabilitation and standardized Vatahara or Rasayana interventions deserve systematic investigation as supervised supportive measures. Future studies should use validated CIPN scales, objective neurological outcomes, oncology-specific safety screening and formal herb-drug interaction assessment. The aim is to improve symptoms, function and quality of life without compromising anticancer treatment.