Essiac
This is a herbal formula developed by Rene Caisse, a Canadian nurse
born in 1888. Adapted from an old Indian tea recipe of Sheep’s Sorrel and other
herbs, Rene treated many cancer patients with it over the years.
Since then, Essiac has been widely used for many chronic illnesses with
great benefit.
What Is Essiac?
The original compound contains Sheep’s Sorrel, Burdock, Slippery
Elm and Rhubarb root. Recent scientific research has shown that other herbs may be added
with benefit, so that many derivative compounds now exist.
Purity of Sample
Traditionally, herbs were sourced from wilderness areas – Wild
Crafted – but in this modern age even these areas can be polluted. Certified Organic
Herbs are often used instead, but still need to be analysed by spectroscopy and
chromatography to ensure both purity and strength of supply.
How Does It Work?
Essiac is believed to act as both a detoxifier and tonic to the system,
fighting disease by strengthening the body’s resistance.
It has a very wide range of actions on the body, accounting for its
broad range of applications. It has traditionally been used for cancer, skin problems,
liver and kidney problems, ulcers, gastritis, inflammation, general detoxification,
rheumatic conditions and immunological weaknesses.
Combinations
I use a number of different combinations in my clinic, according to
individual requirements
For example:
The addition of astragalus further supports immunity whereas galium
directs the formula to the lymphatic system.
Watercress, spirulina and rosehip can be added to increase the tonic
effect, or dandelion and yellow dock root to increase detoxification.
Caution should be used with some herbs. Red Clover , although excellent
in many ways, should not be used in cases of oestrogen dependant cancers. This is because
clover is a rich source of phyto oestrogen.
What Form Does It Take?
The mixture can be taken as tea, tincture or microgranular capsule.
Tea
This is the traditional method of use. The hot water does, however,
result in antioxidant loss.
Tincture
This is an alcohol extract of the herbs. Enzymic activity may be lost
owing to denaturization of protein by the alcohol.
