Mistletoe Extract and Cancer: Can Nature Help Healing?

When most of us hear the word “mistletoe”, we think of holiday traditions. But in Europe, mistletoe has another, more important use. It has been used unofficially for decades in cancer care. Researchers are now studying whether mistletoe extract, made from the berries, leaves, and stems of the European mistletoe plant, could play a role in supporting patients during treatment.

What’s in Mistletoe?

Mistletoe is rich in biologically active compounds such as lectins, flavonoids, viscotoxins, and polysaccharides. Among these, lectins are of particular interest because they interact with cell surfaces and influence how cells communicate with their environment. Studies suggest lectins can stimulate the immune system, increasing natural killer cells and lymphocytes that help fight abnormal or cancerous cells.

How Is It Used?

Mistletoe extract is usually given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Less commonly, it can be taken by mouth, through intravenous infusion, or even injected directly into tumours. Treatment is often personalised, with doctors adjusting doses and methods depending on the patient’s condition and needs.

Why Consider Mistletoe in Cancer Care?

Studies from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre and other basic research indicate that mistletoe extracts may:

• Increase immunological system activity.
• Aids in destroying tumor cells by natural killer cells.
• Reduce the ability of malignant cells.

Numerous medical professionals and patients also mention improvements in their quality of life besides these impacts. Better sleep, more energy, decreased discomfort (particularly from bone metastases), improved hunger, and enhanced chemotherapy tolerance are a few advantages. Improving emotional and mental health have also been noted by patients.

Side Effects and Safety

Mistletoe extract has side effects, just like any other medicine. The majority of people using this treatment have described moderate side effects, such as headaches, chills, fever, or injection site pain. Allergic reactions, cardiovascular issues, or liver damage at extremely high dosages are uncommon, but dangerous side effects. Severe allergic reactions have been reported, including anaphylaxis.

Self-medication should be avoided due to these hazards. Before contemplating mistletoe therapy, always get your oncologist's approval. Your physician can help you assess the possible advantages and disadvantages and direct you toward evidence-based, safe treatment.

Mistletoe extract cannot treat cancer; it may help patients by boosting immunity, reducing symptoms, and enhancing general well-being. Further clinical studies are still required to completely comprehend its safety and efficacy. Mistletoe therapy is still a supplemental treatment for the time being, and it is best utilised under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.