Individual therapies
Modified citrus pectin (MCP) is an alternative therapy. There is not enough scientific evidence to say that pectin can treat cancer.
Summary
Pectin is a naturally occurring substance (a polysaccharide) found in the peel of citrus fruits.
Large quantities may cause diarrhoea, stomach pains and wind.
Claims that MCP can treat cancer are not backed up by enough research.
Pectin is in the peel and pulp of citrus fruits - lemons, oranges, grapefruits and apples. It is what we use to make jam set. The pectin in modified citrus pectin has been broken down. This makes it easier for the body to absorb through the gut.
Early trials in the laboratory have shown that MCP may have an effect on cancer growth and very early studies showed it had some effect in prostate cancer cells.
MCP may also stimulate the immune system and lower cholesterol.
Be cautious about believing information or paying for any alternative cancer therapy on the internet. Prices can vary greatly from a few pounds to hundreds of pounds.
Read more about the cost of complementary and alternative therapies
It is understandable that you might want to try anything if you think it may help treat your cancer. It is important to talk with your doctor first before taking an alternative or complementary therapy.
You could harm your health if you stop your cancer treatment for an unproven treatment.
Larger studies need to be done to test MCP to see whether it is useful in cancer care. Until further studies are carried out and published, Cancer Research UK will not be able to offer any other view on this substance.
Last reviewed: 08 Aug 2022
Next review due: 08 Aug 2022
The phrases complementary therapy and alternative therapy are often used as if they mean the same thing. They may also be combined into one phrase – complementary and alternative therapies (CAMs).
You may have a choice of treatments such as surgery or radiotherapy. Or your doctor might suggest that they monitor your cancer instead of treatment straight away.
Treatments can include surgery, radiotherapy and drug treatments (such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted cancer drugs). Find out about treatments and how to cope with side effects.
Our clinical trials aim to find out if a new treatment or procedure is safe, is better than the current treatment or helps you feel better.
Search for the cancer type you want to find out about. Each section has detailed information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, research and coping with cancer.
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
What to ask your doctor about clinical trials.
Meet and chat to other cancer people affected by cancer.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
Image by credit test.
