February is Heart Month

We spoke about Mistletoe treatment during class today, and I'm happy to share this article with you.

Mistletoe may not a part of medical oncology treatments in the US, but it is used throughout Europe.

Mistletoe has a unique ability to stimulate the immune system and exhibits anticancer effect.

This can reduce treatment side effect and make a huge difference in how you feel every day!

Mistletoe is a fascinating plant that has its origin in various parts of the world. It is commonly found growing on the branches of trees, such as apple trees, oak trees, and pine trees.

Mistletoe has a unique life cycle and growth pattern. Unlike most plants that root in the ground, mistletoe relies on other trees for support and nutrients.

The host tree is an important component of the physiological and medicinal benefits of mistletoe.

In the mid-20th century, a German physician named Rudolf Steiner developed a cancer treatment approach called Iscador therapy, which involved the use of mistletoe extracts. This therapy gained attention and sparked scientific interest in mistletoe's anticancer effects. Researchers began conducting studies to explore the mechanisms of action and effectiveness of mistletoe extracts against cancer cells. Mistletoe therapy, with its ability to stimulate the immune system, improve quality of life, exhibit potential anticancer effects, and reduce treatment-related side effects, has emerged as an area of interest in breast cancer research.

Immune System Stimulation:

Mistletoe extracts contain biologically active compounds that can potentially stimulate the immune system. These compounds, such as lectins and viscotoxins, enhance the activity of immune cells like natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, and T cells. By increasing the production and activation of NK cells, mistletoe extracts support the body's defense mechanisms against cancer cells. Additionally, mistletoe therapy may enhance the production of cytokines, further promoting an anti-tumor immune response.

Improved Quality of Life:

Breast cancer treatments often result in side effects that impact quality of life. Mistletoe therapy may help alleviate these effects by reducing pain levels, alleviating fatigue and nausea, and possessing antioxidant properties that combat oxidative stress. By modulating physiological processes, mistletoe extracts aim to improve overall well-being and support women through their breast cancer journey.

Potential Anticancer Effects:

Preliminary laboratory studies suggest that mistletoe extracts exhibit anticancer properties in breast cancer. They can interfere with cancer cell growth, induce apoptosis, and inhibit signaling pathways crucial for cancer cell survival. Mistletoe extracts also bind to specific sugar molecules on cancer cells, triggering immune responses that lead to their destruction. Furthermore, mistletoe extracts stimulate the production of reactive oxygen species within cancer cells, inducing cell death.

Reduction of Treatment-Related Side Effects:

Mistletoe therapy may help minimize treatment-related side effects. Its antiemetic properties can alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, while radioprotective effects may reduce radiation-induced damage. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, mistletoe extracts aid tissue healing and support overall well-being. Studies also indicate potential benefits in reducing anxiety, depression, and improving mental health during breast cancer treatment.

Mistletoe therapy holds the potential to enhance immune function, improve quality of life, and contribute to a comprehensive approach in breast cancer treatment. As research continues to unfold, understanding its full impact and benefits will pave the way for more effective integrative approaches to breast cancer care.

The journey from traditional use to scientific exploration highlights the importance of embracing a holistic approach to medicine — this is what I believe in as an integrative practitioner.

While modern medicine has made significant advancements, we continue to gather important information about the potential of natural substances and traditional practices. By combining traditional knowledge with scientific research, we can provide the most direct path for you to recover your health and restore your life.

I recommend the use of Mistletoe therapy under certain circumstances for continued health after breast cancer:

• You’ve finished standard medical oncology treatment and are very unwell

• Your blood work and scans are going in a “downward” direction

• You’re unable, or decided not to, take Tamoxifen or an AI and, in addition to doing a targeted supplement protocol, you want to up your level of care

• You’ve progressed to Stage 3 or 4 and want to recover your health

  
  

There are several different kinds of mistletoe, as well as different ways of administering it.

You want to be treated by a physician who has been trained properly.

The physicians I trust and recommend are listed through this website:

https://anthroposophicmedicine.org/mistletoe

Please reach out to me if you're wondering if this is right for you.