Natural Chemotherapy (Mistletoe)
Mistletoe, or Viscum Album is a plant that attaches itself to trees, such as apple, oak, maple, elm, pine, and birch. It is native to Europe and Western Asia, with medicinal uses dating back to ancient civilizations. The biologic extracts from this plant have broad applications in the field of oncology that have demonstrated consistent safety and effectiveness when used with the established treatment protocols.
Mistletoe Therapy can be used in malignant and non-malignant tumors for stimulation of bone marrow activity along with conventional treatments to offset the side-effects of chemotherapy and radiation, such as nausea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. It can also be used to diminish tumor-related pain and to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence.
- The extract of the Mistletoe plant has been used as an alternative method to treat cancer for close to a century.
- Mistletoe is one of the most widely studied and evidence-based, naturopathic medicines prescribed for cancer patients in Europe and Asia.
- Numerous studies have shown Mistletoe Therapy can enhance cancer patient survival rates, improve quality of life and reduce the side-effects of chemotherapy and radiation.
Benefits
- Activation of the immune system and the production of defense cells.
- Stimulation of programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells and blockage of angiogenesis (new blood supply).
- Protection and stabilization of the DNA of healthy cells against damage caused by cytostatic drugs, such as chemotherapy.
- Improvement in general well-being.
- Reduced fatigue, particularly during and after chemotherapy.
- Reduced nausea during chemotherapy.
- Improved appetite and sleep.
- Less sensitivity to pain, so fewer painkillers and sedatives are needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Mistletoe Therapy be a beneficial therapy for the type of cancer I have?
Mistletoe is indicated for all sites and histological cancer types, including all cancer stages, any point in the course of cancer and as an after-cancer prophylaxis for relapse or for secondary cancer.
What can I expect when I am treated?
Mistletoe is injected under the skin on the abdomen for most patients. It typically causes some harmless localized inflammation, including swelling, redness, tenderness and itching, up to the size of a silver dollar. Other side-effects can include a temporary rise in body temperature and fatigue. Overall, patients tolerate the treatment very well.
Are there any special group of people that cannot use the Mistletoe Therapy?
Yes. This therapy is not recommended for anyone with an allergy to Mistletoe, or anyone with acute inflammatory disease,autoimmune disease, high fever, pregnancy, Myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, or uncontrolled hyperthyroidism.
Can I receive Mistletoe Therapy while receiving other treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy?
Yes. Mistletoe can actually help alleviate some of the common side-effects of radiation and chemotherapy, such as fatigue, nausea and difficulty sleeping.
