What is Essiac.
Essiac is a herbal tea. It is made up of a blend of ingredients namely Burdock Root, Sheep Sorrel, Turkey Rhubarb Root
and Slippery Elm Bark. Each one of these ingredients has particular qualities that allow it to contribute to the healing
formula. Burdock Root has been used for centuries. It is renown for reducing the pain and swelling of arthritis. An
extract of root contains Inulin,which the body converts to insulin, helpful to diabetics. Eaten as spring greens it stimulates
bile production and promotes liver function. As a first year root it is used as a blood purifier. There are many other qualities
but the most significant is it's reputation for tumor regression long used in macrobiotic diets. This perhaps points to the
remarkable results cancer sufferers find when using Essiac.
The rootstock of Turkey Rhubarb is both laxative and astringent. It is effective for diarrhoea and known to work in
removing debris and cleaning of the bowels. In Chinese medicine it is used to treat chronic liver problems. Liver
toxicity is often found in cancer patients.
Sheep Sorrel has been used to treat scurvy, strengthen the heart and cool the liver. It is respected as a diuretic and
a treatment for blood disorders. Rene' Caisse (essiac spelt backwards) noted how it is effective in breaking down
tumors as well as alleviating degenerative diseases.
Slippery Elm, or the inner bark thereof, is used to heal wounds and is known for it's blanketing effect for the
mucus membrane of the digestive system. It is soothing for sore throats, and coats the intestinal tract, producing
speculation that it's role in the Essiac formula is to protect when toxins are released. It is nutritive as well, used by
Native American for food when none other was available.
The dried powder is sold in units of 10 grams. That is enough to make one liter. Full treatment is approximately
four liters used per month. For Prophylaxis or as a tonic two liters per month are used. Tablets are also available.