Is mistletoe used to treat cancer?

Answer by  djb228 (510)

Mistletoe extracts have been used as alternative medicine for cancer treatment. Some studies have tried to test its effectiveness, but they were flawed. The FDA has not given its approval to prescribe mistletoe extracts for cancer or for any other medical condition. Some animal studies suggest that mistletoe may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Answer by  MedStudent01 (1131)

No, using mistletoe is a ludicrous treatment for cancer. There has been no medical or scientific proven benefit of using mistletoe. If you know someone just using mistletoe for cancer, that person needs to see a real doctor ASAP!

Answer by  Anna90 (27)

Mistletoe extracts have been shown to kill cancer cells in laboratory studies. It is sometimes even injected directly in a tumor though there is still no evidence of it's effectiveness.

Answer by  karlim (158)

According to wikipedia, available clinical evidence does not support claims of anti-cancer effect from the use of mistletoe extract; Research has likewise shown little or no improvement in rigorous trials.