What Is Lung Cleansing And Can It Help Prevent Lung Cancer? Doctor Explains

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. It's primarily caused by smoking, responsible for approximately 85% of all cases. Rising cases are attributed to persistent tobacco use, particularly in Asia and exposure to environmental risk factors like air pollution. Early detection and prevention through tobacco control measures are crucial in reducing the burden of lung cancer. In a conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Director of Surgical Oncology at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi explained about lung cleansing and its role in preventing lung cancer.

What Is Lung Cleansing? Can It Lower The Risk Of Lung Cancer?

Lung cleansing or pulmonary detoxification is a concept rooted in natural and alternative medicine. It focuses on clearing the lungs of toxins accumulated from pollutants, smoking and environmental exposure. Several natural remedies like ginger, green tea, ellagic acid, tulsi leaves and honey are often promoted for their potential detoxifying properties. The Ayurvedic system has also introduced SwarnBhasma (purified gold ash) as a traditional remedy believed to support immunity and cellular repair. More recently, Ayurvedic companies have developed nebulisers using nano-gold and nano-silver particles, aiming to deliver these compounds directly to the respiratory tract.

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The idea behind lung detoxification is appealing, especially in urban environments such as Delhi NCR or Mumbai where residents, regardless of smoking history are routinely exposed to high levels of air pollution and vehicular smoke. For tobacco users or even passive smokers, the concept of cleansing the lungs appears even more relevant.

Theoretically, such practices may aid in reducing inflammation, improving respiratory health and possibly lowering the risk or recurrence of lung conditions including cancer. However, as of now, there is no robust, randomised clinical evidence to support the idea that lung cleansing directly prevents lung cancer or improves survival outcomes.

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That said, if these methods are administered by qualified practitioners and cause no harm, they may offer symptomatic relief or a sense of wellness. It’s essential, however, to be cautious of unverified claims or treatments sold under the guise of detoxification by untrained individuals. Until more scientific data emerges, lung cleansing should not be seen as a replacement for evidence-based screening or treatment but rather as a supportive wellness practice under proper guidance.