By /

Brain Tumor

What is Brain Tumor

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells inside the brain or the surrounding structures (like meninges, nerves, or glands). Some tumors are benign (non-cancerous) and grow slowly, while others are malignant (cancerous) and can spread or grow aggressively.

Since the brain controls almost every function of the body, even a small tumor can cause serious problems depending on its location.

Types of Brain Tumors

  1.  Primary brain tumors (start in the brain):
  • Gliomas (most common, arise from glial cells – e.g., astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma).
  • Meningiomas (arise from meninges, often benign).
  • Pituitary tumors (affect hormones).
  • Medulloblastomas (common in children).
  • Ependymomas.

2. Secondary (metastatic) brain tumors:

  • Cancer that spreads to the brain from other organs (like lung, breast, kidney, or skin melanoma).

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Exact cause often unknown.
  • Genetic mutations in brain cells.
  • Family history of brain tumors.
  • Radiation exposure to the head.
  • Weakened immunity.
  • Other cancers spreading to the brain.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the size and site of the tumor, but common signs include:

  • Persistent headaches, often worse in the morning.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Seizures (fits).
  • Vision problems – blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision.
  • Hearing problems.
  • Weakness or numbness in arms/legs.
  • Difficulty in balance or walking.
  • Personality or behavior changes.
  • Memory problems, confusion, or difficulty concentrating.
  • Hormonal changes (in pituitary tumors).

Diagnosis

  • Neurological examination.
  • MRI or CT scan of the brain.
  • Biopsy – to confirm type of tumor.
  • Blood & hormonal tests (especially in pituitary tumors).

Conventional Treatment

  • Surgery – to remove tumor if possible.
  • Radiation therapy – to shrink or kill tumor cells.
  • Chemotherapy – in aggressive or malignant tumors.
  • Targeted therapy / immunotherapy – in some cases.
  • Steroids – to reduce brain swelling.

Homeopathy Perspective

In homeopathy, brain tumors are seen as a deep constitutional disease often arising from suppressed conditions, hereditary tendencies, or weakened vitality. Homeopathy aims to:

  • Support natural healing.
  • Relieve symptoms (headache, seizures, weakness).
  • Improve quality of life.
  • In some benign cases, slow or stop progression.

Important remedies (selected based on patient constitution):

  • Conium maculatum – for dizziness, weakness, and tumors in brain tissue.
  • Calcarea phosphorica / Calcarea carbonica – for patients with glandular swellings, bone weakness, slow-growing tumors.
  • Thuja occidentalis – for growths and tumors, especially linked with past vaccination or suppressed conditions.
  • Arsenicum album – for burning pains, restlessness, anxiety.
  • Hydrastis canadensis – for debility, poor nutrition, and tumors with pain/pressure.

  • Carcinosinum – in those with family history of cancer, sensitive, artistic patients.

    (Remedies are always individualized after detailed case-taking.)

Precautions

  • Early medical checkup if symptoms like persistent headache, seizures, or vision problems occur.
  • Avoid suppression of skin eruptions or chronic issues with strong ointments/steroids.
  • Balanced lifestyle – adequate sleep, fresh air, avoid stress.
  • Nutritious diet – rich in antioxidants, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
  • Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and junk food.
  • Supportive care – gentle physiotherapy, counseling for mental health.

Summary

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth in the brain. Symptoms like persistent headaches, seizures, or sudden changes in vision or behavior should never be ignored. Conventional treatment often includes surgery and radiotherapy, while homeopathy works gently to strengthen the body, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life. With early diagnosis and holistic care, many patients live better and longer lives.