Chondroma: Causes, Symptoms & Natural Treatment

Abstract

The skeletal system serves as the structural foundation of the human body, providing shape, support, protection, and movement through an intricate network of bones, cartilages, ligaments, and joints. The adult skeleton comprises 206 bones, divided into two main components: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. Each bone is a living tissue that undergoes constant remodeling, balancing the actions of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) and osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells), which together maintain mineral homeostasis and structural integrity. Cartilage, an elastic yet firm connective tissue, ensures smooth articulation at joints and acts as a precursor during bone development. Disturbances in this complex system can give rise to various pathological conditions involving either the bone or cartilage. Among these, Chondroma is a benign cartilaginous tumor that originates from mature hyaline cartilage. Although non-malignant, its growth may cause local deformity or discomfort, particularly when it occurs in bones of the hands, feet, or long bones, thereby affecting the normal structure and function of the skeletal framework. We shall be discussing more about this in the text below.

Introduction

The term “Chondroma” refers to a benign (non-malignant) tumour composed of mature hyaline cartilage. In the skeletal system, when the tumour arises within the medullary cavity of a bone it is usually called an enchondroma; when it grows on the surface of a bone (subperiosteally) it may be a periosteal chondroma. In soft-tissue locations unrelated to a bony surface or periosteum, the tumour is often called an extraskeletal chondroma (or soft‐tissue chondroma). Although benign, chondromas present diagnostic challenges because their imaging and histological appearance can overlap with low‐grade malignant cartilage tumours (such as chondrosarcoma). For example, the distinction between benign intraosseous chondroma and early chondrosarcoma may be subtle and requires correlation of imaging, pathology, clinical features and sometimes follow-up.

Causes

The exact aetiology of chondroma formation is not fully known, but several mechanisms and associations are described in the literature:

• Embryonic rests of cartilage: Particularly for intracranial or skull‐base chondromas, it is postulated that cartilaginous rests (from the basilar synchondroses) persist and give rise to tumours.
• Metaplastic transformation: In extraskeletal chondroma, one theory suggests mesenchymal soft tissue cells or tendon sheath fibroblasts undergo chondroid metaplasia to form mature cartilage nodules.
• Trauma or repeated micro‐trauma: Some case reports speculated that repeated mechanical stress or micro-injury may trigger soft-tissue chondromas, especially in tendon sheath regions.

Signs and Symptoms

The clinical presentation of chondroma depends upon its size, location, and whether it causes mechanical or space-occupying effects. Often, especially for intraosseous forms, the lesion may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on imaging for other reasons. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling or palpable mass
• Functional limitation
• Pathologic fracture or bone expansion

Investigations

The main aim is to characterise the lesion, define its extent, and exclude malignant cartilage tumours. Key investigations include:

• Plain radiographs (X-ray)
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Histopathology (biopsy/excision specimen)
• Additional investigations

Management

The management of chondroma is guided by lesion location, symptomatology, potential risk of complications (e.g., fracture, functional impairment), and exclusion of malignancy.

• Observation
• Surgical excision/ curettage
• Follow-up

Ayurvedic Aspect of Chondroma

In Ayurveda, benign cartilaginous growths like Chondroma can be conceptually correlated with Asthi Arbuda (tumour originating from bone tissue) or Asthi Granthi (nodular growth arising in bone or adjoining soft tissues). These are considered as localized, slow-growing, non-suppurative, and non-infective swellings resulting from derangement of Vata and Kapha doshas in the Asthi dhatu (bony tissue). Ayurveda interprets it as an abnormal proliferation (vriddhi) of mamsa (muscle), meda (fat), and asthi (bone) dhatus due to dosha dushti (dosha imbalance) and impaired metabolic fire (dhatu-agni mandya).

In Ayurvedic pathology, any tumour-like growth, whether benign or malignant, is primarily categorized under Granthi (nodular swelling) or Arbuda (large immobile tumour), depending upon its size, site, and involvement of dosha-dhatu-mala (trienergies-body tissues-metabolic wastes).

Samprapti (Pathogenesis)

Vata (responsible for movement and cellular metabolism) and Kapha (responsible for cohesion and growth) become vitiated due to improper diet and lifestyle. These doshas localize in the Asthi dhatu (bony tissue) or Mamsa-asthi sandhi (junction of muscle and bone). Vitiated Vata causes irregular tissue proliferation (ati-vriddhi), while Kapha induces stagnation, compactness, and firmness of the mass. Pitta dosha remains relatively uninvolved, explaining the non-inflammatory, painless nature of the swelling. The dhatu-agni (metabolic fire) of Asthi dhatu becomes sluggish (manda), resulting in the production of immature and abnormal bone or cartilage tissue. This localized accumulation of vitiated kapha-meda-asthi elements forms a hard, painless, slow-growing Granthi or Arbuda (benign mass).

Chikitsa (Management)

Management of Asthi Arbuda or Chondroma in Ayurveda follows the principles of Shamana (palliative) and Shodhana (purificatory) therapy based on dosha involvement and tissue strength. Since the lesion is benign, the primary goal is to arrest abnormal growth, restore (metabolism) dhatu agni, and correct dosha imbalance.

Shodhana Chikitsa (Purificatory therapies)

If the patient’s strength permits, Shodhana therapy helps eliminate vitiated doshas from their roots.

• Snehana (Oleation) and Swedana (Sudation) to soften Kapha and mobilize doshas.
• Virechana (Therapeutic purgation) with Trivrit lehya or Avipattikar churna to clear Pitta and Ama.
• Basti karma (Medicated enema) – especially Tikta Ksheera Basti or Dashamoola Niruha Basti – pacifies Vata and nourishes Asthi dhatu.

Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative therapy)

The following formulations are useful to normalize Vata-Kapha imbalance and regulate Asthi dhatu metabolism:

• Kaishore Guggul – for detoxification, reduction of swelling, and clearing ama and kapha
• Kanchanar Guggul – classical formulation for benign and glandular swellings (granthi, arbuda). It disperses kapha aggregation and supports lymphatic clearance.
• Lakshadi Guggul / Asthi Poshan Rasayan – strengthens Asthi dhatu and promotes normal bone healing.
• Triphala Guggul – improves metabolism, aids in resorption of abnormal tissue.
• Dashamoola Kwatha / Rasna Saptaka Kwatha – relieves stiffness, pain and enhances circulation in deeper tissues.

Rasayana (Rejuvenative Therapy)

To improve Asthi dhatu quality and resist recurrence, the following Rasayana dravyas are recommended:

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Promotes tissue regeneration, balances Vata, and enhances bone marrow vitality.
• Guggul (Commiphora mukul): Anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and Lekhana (scraping) properties beneficial in Granthi.
• Haridra (Curcuma longa): Potent antioxidant and anti-neoplastic herb, reduces Ama and tissue inflammation.
• Amalaki (Emblica officinalis): Rich in natural Vitamin C, improves Dhatu agni, acts as Rasayana for bone and cartilage.
• Shilajit: A mineral resin rejuvenator, enhances calcium metabolism and prevents tissue degeneration.
• Laksha (Laccifer lacca): Mentioned in Asthi-dhatu vardhaka yoga for improving bone integrity.

Surgical Aspect (Shastra Karma)

In cases where the tumour is localized, well-encapsulated, and causing mechanical obstruction, Sushruta Samhita recommends Shastra karma (surgical excision) under strict aseptic care.

Principle:

“Yatra granthayo drishyante tatra shastram prayojayet.”
(Sushruta Samhita – Nidana Sthana 11/19)
Meaning – Where solid nodular masses (granthi) occur, surgical removal is justified when they are well-demarcated and non-suppurative.*

Thus, surgical removal (bhedana karma or lekhana karma) followed by local application of Kshara (chemical cauterisation), Agni karma (cauterization), or Ropana taila (healing oils like Jatyadi taila) prevents recurrence.

Pathya-Apathya (Diet & Lifestyle Recommendations)

Pathya (Wholesome)

• Warm, light, easily digestible food like yusha (soups), mudga dal, old rice, ghrita, and tikta rasa
• Regular mild exercise and Abhyanga (oil massage) to promote circulation.
• Yoga practices like Trikonasana, Bhujangasana, and Surya Namaskar to strengthen bone metabolism.
• Pranayama (especially Anulom Vilom and Bhramari) to balance Vata dosha.

Apathya (Unwholesome)

• Avoid excessive curd, cheese, fried and refined foods (kapha vardhak ahara).
• Suppression of natural urges, excessive cold exposure, or irregular meal habits.
• Overexertion, late nights, and mental stress (which aggravate Vata).

Herbal Remedies for Chondroma by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a globally recognized Ayurvedic healthcare brand dedicated to promoting holistic wellness through authentic herbal formulations and classical Ayurvedic wisdom. Planet Ayurveda offers a wide range of natural, pure, and chemical-free products designed to address both acute and chronic health concerns. The brand focuses on maintaining the balance of body, mind, and spirit by using standardized herbal extracts and traditional formulations prepared under strict quality control. Its extensive product line includes capsules, churnas, oils, tablets, and syrups formulated from organically grown herbs. With a strong commitment to purity, efficacy, and global standards of safety, Planet Ayurveda has earned the trust of health-conscious individuals worldwide, serving as a beacon of authentic Ayurvedic healing and holistic wellness for modern lifestyles.

Product List: 

Kanchnaar Guggul
Crab Baccata Capsules
Crab Go Capsule
Chandraprabha Vati
Telomere Boostup
Rumogin 5 Capsules
Crab Artemisinin Capsules

Product description

Kanchnaar Guggul

Kanchnaar Guggul is a classical herbal product and exhibits Kapha-Vata shamak and Lekhana (anti-proliferative) properties. The key ingredient Kanchnaar (Bauhinia variegata) acts on abnormal glandular and cartilaginous growths, helping to dissolve hard, nodular swellings. Guggul (Commiphora mukul) enhances micro-circulation, removes accumulated toxins (ama), and prevents stagnation of Kapha and Meda dhatus (fat) which are responsible for tumour-like masses. Supporting herbs like Triphala, Trikatu, and Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) further stimulate Agni (metabolic fire), promote lymphatic drainage, and regulate the function of Asthi dhatu (bone tissue), thereby checking irregular proliferation of cartilage cells. From a modern perspective, the phytochemicals in this formulation exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-proliferative effects that help inhibit abnormal tissue growth and maintain cartilage integrity. Thus, Kanchnaar Guggul works holistically to arrest tumour progression, enhance tissue detoxification, and restore the dosha equilibrium underlying Chondroma, promoting gradual resolution of the benign mass.

Dosage:  Two tablets twice a day.

Crab Baccata Capsules

Crab Baccata Capsules are a product of Planet Ayurveda which are highly effective in managing Chondroma (benign cartilage tumor) due to their potent cytotoxic, anti-tumor, and immunomodulatory properties. The formulation contains standardized extract of Taxus baccata (Himalayan Yew), a herb known for its bioactive compound Paclitaxel (Taxol), which inhibits abnormal cell division and growth. This action helps restrict the proliferation of chondrocytes. The herb also possesses strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby preventing further degeneration. Additionally, its detoxifying (Ama-pachak) effect and Kapha-Vata balancing properties aid in dissolving abnormal growths and restoring tissue homeostasis. By strengthening the immune system and promoting healthy cellular metabolism, Crab Baccata Capsules support natural tumor regression and help maintain the structural and functional integrity of bones and cartilage in Chondroma management.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day.

Crab Go Capsule

Crab Go Capsules by Planet Ayurveda are highly beneficial in the management of Chondroma (benign cartilage tumor) due to their potent anti-tumor, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. The formulation contains herbs such as Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Haridra (Curcuma longa) and other supportive botanicals that work synergistically to inhibit abnormal cell proliferation and regulate tissue metabolism. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components reduce oxidative stress and local inflammation, thereby preventing further degeneration of cartilage cells. Additionally, the cytotoxic phytoconstituents support natural regression of abnormal tissue growth and enhance immune actions against uncontrolled cell division. By promoting healthy regeneration of Asthi and Majja dhatu (bone and marrow tissues) and improving overall metabolic function, Crab Go Capsules provide an effective approach to control and prevent the progression of Chondroma.

Dosage: Two capsules twice a day.

Chandraprabha Vati

Chandraprabha Vati by Planet Ayurveda is a classical polyherbal formulation that proves highly beneficial in the management of Chondroma (benign cartilage tumor) due to its potent Vata-Kapha pacifying, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. This formulation contains over thirty herbal and mineral ingredients such as Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Shilajit (Asphaltum), Haridra (Curcuma longa), and Triphala, which work to restore balance in the body’s metabolic and tissue functions. Chandraprabha Vati improves Dhatu Agni (tissue metabolism), enhances circulation, and removes Ama (toxins) that contribute to such abnormal proliferations. Its Rasayana (rejuvenative) action strengthens musculoskeletal tissues and promotes natural healing by improving cellular health. Moreover, its Lekhna (scraping) and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) actions help in reducing the size of the tumor and preventing further progression. Thus, Chandraprabha Vati provides comprehensive internal support in managing Chondroma and maintaining healthy bone-cartilage function.

Dosage: Two tablets twice a day.

Telomere Boostup

Telomere Boostup by Planet Ayurveda is highly effective in the management of Chondroma (benign cartilage tumor) due to its rejuvenating, antioxidant, and cellular-protective properties. It contains potent herbs such as Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Grape seed (Vitis vinifera), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Shigru (Moringa oleifera), and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), which work together to promote healthy cell growth and prevent abnormal proliferation of cartilage tissue. Chondroma is linked to Vata-Kapha imbalance and impaired Asthi Dhatu Agni (bone tissue metabolism). The adaptogenic and Rasayana actions of these herbs enhance tissue rejuvenation, while their antioxidant effects reduce oxidative stress that contributes to cellular mutation and tumor formation. Additionally, Telomere Boostup supports Ama pachan (toxin elimination) and strengthens Ojas (vital energy), thereby improving immunity and metabolic function. By protecting telomere length and promoting balanced cellular division, this formulation helps maintain healthy bone and cartilage cells, making it a valuable Ayurvedic support in managing Chondroma.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day.

Rumogin 5 Capsules

The Rumogin 5 Capsules are a product of Planet Ayurveda and it has anti‐inflammatory, circulatory‐enhancing, and tissue‐metabolic actions. This Ayurvedic formulation comprises standardized extracts of Haridra (Curcuma longa), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Maricha (Piper nigrum) and Pippali (Piper longum) known for enhancing tissue metabolism, reducing stagnation of Kapha/Medas and pacifying Vata dosha. Rumogin 5’s ingredients like turmeric and ginger extracts help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation (Shothahara), Boswellia improves micro-circulation and reduces proliferation by limiting local immune-mediated growth stimuli, and the pepper herbs increase bioavailability and tissue penetration, supporting “Lekhana” (scraping) and improvement of Dhatu Agni (metabolisation). Thus, Rumogin 5 Capsules help by improving bone‐cartilage microenvironment, and restoring Vata–Kapha balance, thereby helping to stabilize and possibly regress the lesion.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day.

Crab Artemisinin Capsules

Planet Ayurveda’s Crab Artemisinin Capsules possess anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory properties. The key constituent, Artemisinin, derived from Artemisia annua, exhibits strong cytotoxic effects on abnormally growing cells by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) that disrupt cellular metabolism and induce apoptosis in proliferating tissues. This mechanism helps to check the irregular growth of cartilage cells seen in benign tumours. It also aids in reducing stiffness, heaviness, and localized swelling, promoting better cellular health and preventing recurrence of abnormal cartilaginous growth. Thus, it acts as an effective supportive formulation in chondroma management.

Dosage: One capsule twice a day.

Conclusion

Chondroma, though a benign cartilaginous tumor, represents a deeper imbalance within the body’s dosha and dhatu systems, particularly involving Vata, Kapha, and Asthi dhatu. Modern medicine manages it primarily through surgical excision and observation, while Ayurveda provides a holistic framework for prevention, control, and restoration through dosha balance, detoxification, and tissue rejuvenation. Ayurvedic management focuses on correcting dhatu-agni (tissue metabolism), eliminating accumulated Ama (toxins), and nourishing the bone and cartilage tissues through Shamana and Rasayana therapies. Lifestyle and dietary modifications—such as maintaining a warm, light, and easily digestible diet, regular exercise, and stress management through yoga and pranayama—further enhance recovery and prevent recurrence. In this integrative approach, Planet Ayurveda’s authentic herbal formulations are of great help in balancing Vata–Kapha doshas, regulating abnormal cell proliferation, and rejuvenating Asthi dhatu. Their pure, standardized, and classical preparations help support natural healing, detoxification, and tissue regeneration, making them valuable in the holistic management of Chondroma.