Extracts from this woody plant are injected or infused for cancer treatment, often reducing side effects and improving quality of life, and perhaps improving survival.
How can mistletoe help you? What the research says
Learn more about how we research and rate therapies and practices in How We Rate Therapies ›
Preclinical evidencetesting a drug, a procedure, or another medical treatment in isolated cells or in animals; preclinical evidence is considered only an initial indication of possible effects in people is summarized in Are you a health professional? ›
Improving treatment outcomes
Is mistletoe linked to improved survival? Is it linked to less cancer growth or metastasis? Does it enhance the anticancer action of other treatments or therapies? We present the evidence.
Optimizing your body terrain
Does mistletoe promote an environment within your body that is less supportive of cancer development, growth, or spread? We present the evidence.
Research has only begun studying the connections between body terrain factors and cancer outcomes, and the oncology community is not yet sure how to interpret all the findings. If immune function, the terrain factor listed here, could be an issue for you, we recommend that you ask your doctor if you need any diagnostic tests to detect immune imbalances or any adjustments to your lifestyle or medications.
We also recommend that you share with your doctor the information here about how mistletoe might affect immune function.
Managing side effects and promoting wellness
Is mistletoe linked to fewer or less severe side effects or symptoms? Is it linked to less toxicity from cancer treatment? Does it support your quality of life or promote general well-being? We present the evidence.
Reducing cancer risk
Is mistletoe linked to lower risks of developing cancer or of recurrence? We present the evidence.
Helpful links
Believe Big: Panel Discussion on Mistletoe Therapy
Play videoLearn more
References