The name “Essiac” is the reversed spelling of the last name of its inventor, Rene M Caisse, a Canadian nurse. In the 1920s, she began treating cancer patients with a tea made from a mixture of herbs. However, despite the reported successful results of this treatment, “There have been no published clinical trials in conventional medical journals showing the effectiveness of Essiac in the treatment of cancer,” according to the American Cancer Society.
Types
Essiac may be purchased in liquid or powder form, and preparations may differ according to the manufacturer. Another variation is "Flor Essence," which contains watercress, kelp, blessed thistle and red clover. Recommended dosage is 1 to 12 ounces of daily. For Essiac tea, 1 ounce is taken three times a day on an empty stomach, 2 hours before or after meals, for a period of 1 or 2 years.
Properties
Burdock root has been found to reduce tumor activity and cell mutation. It also stimulates bile production and aids liver function. It may be used as a tonic, blood purifier and a cleanser.
Rhubarb root acts on the digestive system and the bowels to remove debris and tighten the tissues. Sheep sorrel is said to increase appetite, strengthen the heart and cool the liver. Slippery elm bark is noted for wound healing and removing excess mucous in organs, tissues and glands. These claims have not been supported by scientific evidence.
Theories/Speculation
In addition to the above, proponents of Essiac liquid tea claim the tea improves immunity and contributes to better overall health and well being. Others claim that the tea stimulates pancreatic function, thus getting rid of diabetes or helping people to be weaned off insulin. It also helps to clear up headaches. Essiac and Flor Essence are also promoted for the treatment of AIDS and digestive problems.
Essiac And Cancer
It has been said that Essiac cures cancer by first hardening the tumor, then softening and shrinking it, and eventually discharging it from the body. Although no clinical studies exist to prove the efficacy of Essiac tea for treating cancer patients, one letter written by Dr. Charles A. Brusch, physician to the late president John F. Kennedy, states that Essiac reduces tumors in mice.
He claims that the tea also helps reduce pain, helps patients gain weight and restore those patients believed to be at the “end of the road.” In cases where the tumor didn’t disappear, it was easier to remove it surgically. Hemorrhage, radiation burns, open lesions and cancer of the stomach have been reported to be cured by drinking Essiac tea.
Warning
Essiac tea, like other homeopathic remedies, represents an alternative treatment for a number of ailments, including cancer. However, in animal studies conducted by Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, no anti-tumor effects were found. Canadian health officials also did their own research and found no evidence that Essiac liquid tea slowed the progression of cancer. You are therefore advised to consult with your doctor before using Essiac tea or any herbal remedy.
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