In the 1920s, Rene Caisse, a Canadian public health nurse, developed the formula for Essiac tea. This four-herb concoction later became the world's most popular alternative cancer treatment. After Caisse's death in the 1980s, her colleague Dr. Charles Brusch inherited her formula and added four "potentiators" designed to augment the its medicinal effects. Brusch's formula, dubbed Flor-Essence, is now sold as liver cleanser, alternative cancer treatment and general health tonic. However, Flor-Essence and its predecessor Essiac can both cause serious side effects.
Liver Damage
As of 2010, there is no evidence to support the popular notion that Flor-Essence can detoxify the liver. It may, paradoxically, have the opposite effect. According to the National Institutes of Health, Flor-Essence contains tannins and oxalic acid, both of which can damage the liver if taken in large doses.
Kidney Damage
Oxalic acids and tannins in Flor-Essence may harm the kidneys, according to the National Institutes of Health. The long-term use of herbs containing oxalic acid, including those found in Flor-Essence tea, may increase a person's risk of developing kidney stones.
Aches and Pains
The American Cancer Society notes that serious side effects from Flor-Essence are uncommon. Many users complain of mild discomforts such as headache, joint pain and abdominal discomfort.
Diarrhea
Rhubarb root, a component of Flor-Essence, contains powerful stimulant-laxative compounds known as anthraquinones. These may cause side effects such as diarrhea, cramping and incontinence. The National Institutes of Health warn that prolonged rhubarb use may cause dependence.
Reflux
Flor-Essence may irritate the upper digestive tract. According to the National Institutes of Health, issues such as reflux, nausea and vomiting may occur in people using Essiac. The National Institutes of Health also note that blessed thistle--an herb found in Flor-Essence but not its predecessor--may increase the production of stomach acid. This may worsen conditions such as peptic ulcer, hiatal hernia and Barrett's esophagus.
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