There is a lot of controversy concerning the use of supplements in conjunction with cancer medications. Many doctors say that supplements interfere with conventional treatments. I’ll never forget that a well-known oncologist responded, “absolutely not” when I asked him if my husband could take supplements to support his body’s nutritional and immunological health after two rounds of chemotherapy.
My gut instincts always told me that cancer patients need supplemental support to keep their bodies strong even more so than the rest of us do. Cancer is usually caused by an overload of toxic and inflammation build-up in our body. And to make matters worse, the cancer treatments are toxic. Even though our body naturally knows how to detoxify the inflammation on its own, a lot of times it’s not fast enough and our body needs extra help.
Over the past six months, I have been interested in a supplement called, Essiac. The product itself spoke to me, the story behind its creation was quite intriguing, and I believe in the powers of its ingredients. While I am not comfortable touting cancer cures – I offer this information, because I would have wanted to know about it during my own cancer battle and my husband’s. Also, I believe we are led to what we need to know when the time is right.
I have yet to discover a product with a blend that works on as many levels as Essiac does!
What it is
Essiac was introduced to the medical community by a nurse in the 1920’s who obtained the herbal tea formula from a healer in the Ojibway Indian tribe and used it to treat breast cancer. Over time Essiac’s orginal formula of herbs have varied ever so slightly, but today the proprietary version is that of four potent herbs: burdock root, sheep sorrel, slipper elm bark, and Turkish rhubarb root. Essiac can be made into a tea or taken in capsules from tonic form. Essiac primarily provides antioxidant rich nutrients and contains anti-cancer properties.
What it does
Essiac promotes health through eliminating waste products and supporting cellular health. Essiac is used to cleanse the blood, promote cell repair, restore energy levels, and detoxify the body. Essiac also strengthens the immune system, improves well-being, relieves pain, and increases appetite.
The herbs contained in Essiac can relieve inflammation, , stimulate the stomach, and eliminate excess mucous in organs, tissues, lymph glands, and nerve channels. All which are very supportive during chemotherapy.
I recommend Essiac Tonic Softgels that can be taken on a daily basis
Why it works
Burdock Root – Provides powerful anti-tumor, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties. Burdock root is an essential blood purifier and detoxifying herb as it can neutralize and safely eliminate poisons and toxins from the body.
Sheep Sorrel – Stimulates cellular regeneration, detoxification and cleansing. It contains significant levels of phytoestrogens known for their health promoting properties.
Slipper Elm Bark – Contains soothing chemicals good for the digestive tract and stimulates mucous secretion, is also used for alleviating pain.
Turkish Rhubarb – Bochemical compounds in Turkish rhubarb have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and also contain several anti-cancer properties, including anthraquinones that have been observed for cancer fighting effects including death of cancer cells, prevention of metastasis, and protecting the body from radiation damage.
Essiac is not for everyone…do not take if
If you are pregnant, nursing or trying to conceive.
If you have kidney disease, are prone to kidney stones, or kidney infections.
If you have ulcers or colitis. Properties in Essiac can irritate ulcers and colitis, worsening these conditions.
If you have increased levels of iron in your blood.
If you have a brain tumor or tumors that are encroaching on a major blood supply or an area of an organ that expansion of the tumor could have dire consequences. Consult with your doctor to find out if this applies to you.
I’m a curious, have you or someone you know taken Essiac? What has your experience been? For myself, I know going into a new season presents itself as a perfect time to cleanse. I would suggest starting an Essiac regimen now to fully cleanse for fall and share your experience with me here!
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for a consultation with a licensed practitioner. You should always consult your doctor before taking any new supplement. Information about diet, food or supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnosis, treat or cure a disease or illness.
