Essiac

Websites promote Essiac as a cure or treatment for cancer. But there is no scientific evidence to prove that Essiac can do this.

Some people call Essiac 'the tea of life' and claim it is a miracle cure for cancer. There have been reports of cancers completely disappearing after taking Essiac.

But, in many of these reports, detailed information on the diagnosis was missing. Or what types of conventional cancer treatments doctors used as part of the treatment.

Conventional treatments are more likely to be the reason for the cancer disappearing.

A laboratory study on mice showed that Essiac killed certain cancer cells. Researchers linked it to a chemical found in rhubarb. But we need studies in humans before we can say that Essiac can be used as a cancer treatment.

Some people believe that alternative or complementary therapies can boost the immune system. That way it helps to fight their cancer.

A laboratory study on Essiac showed that it had antioxidant features. That means it can protect cells from damage. It also showed that it had some effect on the immune system. But there is not enough scientific evidence to say it can work as a treatment for cancer.

A study on mice in 2007 showed that Essiac did not affect the immune system.

We need more evidence from research to be sure exactly how Essiac might affect the immune system.

Some people take Essiac because they think it helps to:

• relieve pain

• shrink tumours

• reduce weight loss (cachexia) in advanced cancer

• improve health, energy levels and wellbeing

• detoxify and cleanse the body

Laboratory studies showed that Essiac could kill certain cancer cells. But this was when researchers used a high concentration of Essiac. The researchers suggested more research. In another study Essiac caused breast cancer cells to grow.

Researchers also did a retrospective study on people with breast cancer. It showed that Essiac did not improve quality of life or mood.

Your doctor might tell you there are no further conventional cancer treatments to cure your cancer. But there are treatments to control your symptoms.

The news that your cancer can’t be cured can be difficult to accept. So, it isn’t surprising that some people consider using alternative therapies.

It is understandable that you might hope that Essiac will help you to live longer.