Essiac Cancer Cure

Essiac has been reported to be an effective treatment for asthma, arthritis, depression and numerous other chronic illnesses. It is, however, best known for its effect on cancerous tumors. These cancers include (but are not limited to) pancreatic, ovarian, esophageal, prostate, bladder and lymphomas. Since its discovery, Essiac has undergone numerous adjustments and ingredient changes. Despite its lack of researched efficacy, it does not prevent thousands of people from using it daily.

History

• Essiac is named after the nurse who discovered it. Her name was Rene Caisse and the name spelled backward becomes Essiac. She worked as a public-health nurse in Ontario, Canada, and found that one of her patients appeared to recover from cancer by drinking an Indian herbal tea. This tea was originally developed by an Ojibwa medicine man. Caisse obtained the recipe and in 1924 began to offer the remedy free of charge to cancer patients in a clinic she opened. The original formula consisted of eight herbs, but she eventually modified it by reducing it down to burdock root, sheep sorrel powder, slippery elm bark powder and turkey rhubarb root. Despite numerous testimonials from individuals claiming to be helped by the herbal mixture, the Canadian medical authorities found there was little evidence of its effectiveness. Caisse gave her formula to a manufacturer in 1977 with the hope and intent of it being scientifically researched and gaining credibility in the medical field. Sadly, she died at the age of 90 without seeing that occur.

Preparation

• Essiac is available in both dry and liquid formulas. Methods of preparation and dosage will vary by manufacturer. It is recommended that spring or reverse-osmosis water be used during preparation. Most preparations require refrigeration after brewing. An average dose is 1 ounce taken 1-3 times per day. It should be taken two hours before or just after a meal, for a period of at least two years. It is best to make just enough tea for 1-2 weeks because even if refrigerated, it will spoil. Discard any tea that tastes sour or has white mold floating on the surface. The herbs themselves are light and heat-sensitive, so it is important to store them in a cool, dark place. Do not microwave the tea. Instead, place 1-2 ounces of the refrigerated tea in a cup and add hot water to it.

Precautions

• Because the tea is high in oxalic acid, people that are prone to kidney stones or gout should not use it. Turkey rhubarb promotes bowel peristalsis, therefore it should not be used by individuals with a history of recurrent bowel obstruction or diarrhea. If there is a history of elevated iron levels in the blood (which is a rare condition), this tea should be avoided due to its high iron levels. Because it has been reported that while taking Essiac tea tumors could enlarge just before dissipating, it is important not to use this tea if there is a tumor that is encroaching on a major blood vessel. As Essiac may affect blood clotting, individuals that are taking anticoagulants (such as Coumadin) should discuss this with their health care provider first.

  Before undergoing any changes or additions to your medical regime, it is always wise to discuss it with your physician first. Safety comes from full disclosure to your physician.