Essiac Herbal Medicine |
Brand Name:Vitaltea, Flor-Essence Purpose:Some people claim that essiac boosts the immune system, acts as a tonic, and reduces cancer tumor size. It may also be used to increase appetite, relieve pain, and improve overall quality of life. Some essiac users report that it helps reduce some side effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy. What is Essiac?Essiac is a mixture of four or more herbs taken in the form of a tea. The four most common botanicals are: burdock root (Arctuim lappa), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella), slippery elm (Ulmus fulva), and rhubarb (Rheum palmatum). What Is The Evidence?There is no published evidence to support any beneficial claims of essiac. Based on research results from Memorial Sloan Kettering, essiac has no effect on tumor size. These studies also showed that essiac could be toxic in high doses. Therefore, more research is required to establish its safety and effectiveness in cancer patients. Testing of the individual herbs in essiac have proven to be more promising. Together, the four herbs protect cell damage from oxygen and reduce the rate of abnormal change in cells. Slippery elm relieves pain and irritation of mucous membrane. It has also been proven to stop tumor growth in mice. Animal studies show that burdock reduces blood sugar. Therefore, there is an interaction between insulin and burdock. Burdock extract has been shown to cause tumor cell death and block the effects of abnormal cancer cells in mice. Rhubarb also showed anti-tumor effects in mice. Little is known about sheep sorrel. It is important to note that no studies in humans have shown benefit from usage of the individual herbs or from essiac as a combination of herbs. Possible Side Effects:Side effects of essiac may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low potassium blood due to chronic diarrhea, contact skin inflammation, anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergy reaction), and blood thinning. There are minimal side effects if essiac is taken as directed. Manufacturers suggest taking the tea on an empty stomach to reduce possible side effects. Special Considerations/ Contraindications:Patients with kidney or liver insufficiency should not take essiac. As with all complementary therapies, individuals considering a therapy should talk to their doctor to avoid harmful interactions with current medications and treatments. Resources: Mayo Clinic, Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, National Cancer Institute, and The American Cancer Society
Written 11/05 |
