In the 1920s, Canadian naturopathic nurse Rene Caisse developed an herbal concoction designed to combat the growth of cancer. Her formula -- which contained slippery elm, Turkish rhubarb, sheep sorrel and burdock -- is still sold today as Essiac tea. Later, experts added a combination of "potentiators" to Caisse's blend. The resulting product, dubbed "Flor-Essence," includes the four original herbs, along with blessed thistle, red clover, kelp and watercress.
While Flor-Essence and its predecessor Essiac are exceedingly popular, the American Cancer Society warns that they are unproven and may cause serious side effects. If you are interested in using Flor-Essence or a similar product, consult a qualified health care provider about the possible benefits and risks.
Kidney Damage
According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, Flor-Essence tea contains tannins. In large amounts, tannins may cause kidney damage. The National Institutes of Health also notes that Flor-Essence can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
Oxalic Acid Poisoning
Rhubarb, slippery elm and sheep sorrel -- three components of Flor-Essence -- contain naturally occurring oxalic acid. The National Institutes of Health warns that this compound can be toxic if you consume it in moderate to large quantities. Symptoms of oxalic acid poisoning include nausea, vomiting, burning throat, seizures, low blood pressure and liver damage.
Laxative Effect
Rhubarb, one of the primary ingredients in Flor-Essence, contains a class of moderately toxic laxative compounds called anthraquinones. Anthraquinones may produce side effects like diarrhea and intestinal cramping, and the long-term use of any laxative can cause dependence. If you use rhubarb routinely, you may find yourself unable to defecate without it. In large doses, Flor-Essence may cause dehydration and loss of electrolytes due to severe diarrhea.
Increased Cancer Growth
According to the American Cancer Society, Flor-Essence may stimulate the growth of some types of cancer. The organization notes that Flor-Essence has never been studied as a treatment for cancer in humans. Furthermore, laboratory tests have suggested that its estrogen-like compounds facilitate the growth of breast tumors.
Headache
The American Cancer Society notes that you may develop headaches and other mild side effects. Headaches from Flor-Essence may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting or mild disorientation. This side effect may related to the product's blood-sugar-lowering effects.
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