Essiac is a natural supplement that contains a combination of four herbs: slippery elm bark, sheep sorrel root, rhubarb root and burdock root. This supplement was developed by Rene Caisse in the 1920s and is purported to improve immune system functioning and reduce cancer cell growth; however there is not research available that supports these beneficial effects of essiac. Talk with your medical provider about the potential side effects and contraindications of essiac before using this supplement.
Mild Side Effects
Essiac is typically prepared as a tea that you may drink on a daily basis. Sporadic use of essiac tea typically does not cause side effects. Mild side effects, including stomach upset, nausea and vomiting, may occur in certain people. You may also develop diarrhea or frequent, loose bowel movement urges that are accompanied by abdominal bloating or cramping. If stomach discomfort or diarrhea becomes severe or persists, seek care from your doctor. Chronic diarrhea may increase your risk of dehydration.
Severe Side Effects
Daily or long-term consumption of essiac may cause severe side effects in certain people. The loss of electrolytes caused by chronic diarrhea may result in low blood potassium levels -- a side effect called hypokalemia. Additionally, essiac may reduce the amount of sugar in your blood, which may cause symptoms of hypoglycemia such as dizziness, fatigue or headache. Essiac also contains a class of chemicals called oxalate that may cause liver and kidney damage, Cancer Research UK warns. Infrequently, a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis may occur following treatment with essiac. Consult your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of anaphylaxis or kidney or liver damage. Such symptoms include fatigue, excessive itching, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, pale skin, jaundice, difficulty breathing, facial swelling, urination changes, difficulty swallowing and loss of consciousness.
Contraindications
Discuss all pre-existing health concerns you may have with your health care provider before taking supplements that contain essiac. Do not take this supplement if you have a personal history of kidney or liver disease or damage, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center advises.
Drug Interactions
Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before you begin treatment with essiac. One case study cited by Cancer Research UK indicates that essiac may inhibit a liver enzyme called cytochrome P450, which is involved in removing toxic materials -- such as chemotherapeutic drugs -- out of your body; however, additional research is necessary to examine this potential effect of essiac.
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