Essiac Tea, Four Herbs

Essiac Tea, Four Herbs

Essiac tea is an herbal compound with an abundance of significant antioxidants that may help the body fight against DNA damage.  This tea mixture of roots, barks, and leaves was made famous by Rene Caisse, a nurse who set up a clinic in Ontario, Canada, to help cancer patients. Rene Caisse believed in the tea and offered it to patients free of charge.  Although she named the tea Caisse spelled backward, she did not invent the herbal blend. Essiac was given to her by a patient who claimed to use the herbs' unique combination to cure herself of breast cancer in her early years. The original blend is said to be a traditional Ojibwa remedy.

 In 1922 Caisse introduced Essiac to the world as an alternative treatment for cancer. In 1934, she opened a cancer clinic in Ontario, Canada, where cancer patients received the tea for free as part of their health regimen. 

The original blend contained these herbs:

• Burdock root (Arctium lappa)
• Indian rhubarb root (Rheum palmatum)
• Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella)
• Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)

Burdock Root

The root contains volatile oils, plant sterols, tannis, and fatty oils.  It contains a compound called arctigenin, which is believed to inhibit cancer cell production.  It is a diuretic to remove excess fluids from the body, increases blood flow, and help stabilize blood sugar.  It also reduces mucus, stimulates the immune system, and strengthens digestion and the gastrointestinal tract. 

Indian Rhubarb Root

This root has a rich source of antioxidants including polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins, that seems to fight free radical damage.  Used in small amounts, it acts as a gentle laxative that helps to remove toxic buildup in liver.  It aids in healing the digestive system.

Sheep Sorrel

Contains anthraquinones which can stimulate the gastrointestinal tract and increase the secretion of mucous. Traditionally, sheep sorrel was used to cool the body and induce sweating to detox the skin.  It is also a diuretic to remove excess fluids for a healthy kidney and urinary functions.

Slippery Elm

The inner bark is rich in mucilage which forms a soothing gel fiber that contains antioxidants.  It is a demulcent and emollient to the digestive system that is nourishing and soothing.  Folk remedies contain slippery elm to treat cancer and urinary inflammations.

Cautions

You should consult with your doctor before taking any herbal products, especially if you are taking prescribed medications.  If you are pregnant or nursing, use with caution.  People taking chemo or radiation should use with caution.  People with kidney and liver problems, consult doctor before taking.