Mistletoe Therapy

Mistletoe Therapy is one of the most widely studied and evidence-based medicines prescribed for cancer patients in Europe. The liquid extract of the Mistletoe plant has been used as an alternative method to treat cancer for nearly a century.

Numerous studies have shown Mistletoe Therapy for cancer treatment can enhance cancer patient survival rates, improve quality of life, and reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

The lectins found in the parasitic plant Mistletoe have powerful immune stimulating capabilities.  By selecting a particular Mistletoe, based on the host tree on which it grows, we can customize a prescription to match an individuals constitution, temperament and individual health concern.

Mistletoe is useful in the following conditions:

•  Cancer of all types

• Chronic infections (Lyme, EBV, mycoplasma, etc.)

• Radiation and chemotherapy side effects (nausea, vomiting, lack of appeitite)

• Circulatory issues

• Post surgical issues and chronic pain

• Secondary prevention of cancer

• Chronic fatigue

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.

The maintenance treatment is typically given three times each week. Your first mistletoe injection will be done at ANM so we can demonstrate safe and proper injection techniques, as well as observe you for any allergic reaction. Allergic reactions to subcutaneous mistletoe are extremely rare. All subsequent injections can be administered at home by you or a trained caregiver.

The therapy can also be provided via IV, when appropriate. IV therapy is administered at ANM.

Please complete the form below if you are interested in having a consult to see if Mistletoe therapy is right for you. 

Mistletoe Therapy FAQs

Should I be concerned about any interactions with other drugs I take? 

There are no known interactions, including chemotherapy drugs.

What benefits can I expect from Mistletoe Therapy? 

• 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

• Improved sleep

• Increased energy

• A slight increase in body temperature (many cancer patients have a lower-than-average body temperature and often feel cold)

• Less sensitivity to pain, so fewer painkillers, and sedatives are needed

• Patients often report a more positive outlook, more courage, and initiative, and less fear

Are there any special populations that cannot use 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 help alleviate some of the common side effects of radiation and chemotherapy, such as fatigue, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. Read the above-detailed list of benefits of Mistletoe Therapy.