A Native American Herbal Remedy: Essiac

Cat's Claw & Essiac - Mother Nature's Wondrous Healers
by Phillip N. Steinberg

By now most of you have heard of Cat's Claw, a remarkable herb being imported from the Peruvian Amazon. After almost three years of working with and writing about this miracle from the rainforest, I have become increasingly convinced of it's tremendous healing power.

It seems to have the ability to help people suffering from many different illnesses both acute and chronic, sometimes in just a matter of a few days. I have personally received testimonials from alternative practitioners, health stores and individuals from all across the United States and other countries, who claim that Cat's Claw, also known as U–a de Gato or in Latin as Uncaria tomentosa Willd DC, has literally changed their patients, customers and personal lives.

Though most of these claims are anecdotal in nature, they never the less give us reason for optimism. Based on these reports, there is evidence that Cat's Claw can help, at least in some cases, people suffering from tumors and growths, arthritis, bursitis, gout, fibromyalgia, asthma, hay fever, allergies, chemical and environmental sensitivities, multiple sclerosis, shingles, canker sores, chronic fatigue and depression, candidiasis, parasites, dysbiosis, Crohn's disease, ulcers, gastritis, hemorrhoids and inflammatory bowel, prostate problems, diabetes, hypoglycemia, PMS and menstrual irregularities, circulatory problems and various viral and bacterial infections, including secondary infections in AIDS patients.

There have also been reports of Cat's Claw's effectiveness in reducing the side effects of both radiation and chemotherapy when used in conjunction with conventional cancer treatments.

Will all this stand up to scientific scrutiny?

I believe that in time it will; however, we will have to wait until the appropriate clinical trials have been completed. For now, at least, Cat's Claw seems to be virtually non-toxic and safe to use up to as much as 20 grams per day for several weeks to several months at a time. This is the amount generally used by the indigenous people of Peru, who boil inner bark and/or root in a liter of water for 30 minutes, then consume this decoction throughout the day for a variety of illnesses.

Here in the U.S. individuals with minor illnesses have often responded with as little as 2-4 grams per day in capsule or tablet form. I personally have been taking 1 gram (1,000 mg.) three times per day almost every day for the past three years. I have found this amount to virtually eliminate the pain and discomfort in my lower back associated with an arthritic condition that developed as a result of two car accidents. I have also witnessed Cat's Claw's ability to clear-up sinus, ear and throat infections in 48 to 72 hours and I have used drops of tea in the eyes to clear-up conjunctivitis and powdered herb between toes to clear-up athletes foot.

So, what is it that makes Cat's Claw such a powerful natural medicine?

The answer lies in the herbs unique phytochemical make-up. In all, the herb contains five different groups of beneficial plant compounds. These include: alkaloids, polyphenols and proanthocyanidins, triterpines, glycosides, and phytosterols. Laboratory research in Austria, Germany, Hungary, Italy, England and Peru has demonstrated that these compounds possess immune augmenting, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant and adaptogen properties.

Because Cat's Claw has been referred to as an adaptogen and anti-oxidant herb, it is suitable to be used on a daily basis by those seeking to maintain maximum resistance to the stresses and strains of modern life.

Is Cat's Claw an herb for everyone?

No, there is a small percentage of people who should not use the herb. These include: anyone taking anti-ulcer medications, transplant patients or those being injected with foreign proteins as a part of their normal therapy. Cat's Claw can also cause uterine contractions and therefore, should not be taken by pregnant women or women seeking to conceive.

What about side affects?

In a small number of people, Cat's Claw will cause constipation or diarrhea and in rare occasions a slight fever or reoccurrence of former symptoms as it drives a deep seated pathology out of the body. These usually pass or normalize within two weeks. I have also heard of a few people who have broken out in a rash after taking Cat's Claw.

For these reasons, I always suggest starting out with a lower dose and then gradually increase the amount over a ten to thirty day period. If side effects are going to occur, they will generally do so within the first week. It is important to keep in mind that these side effects are rare and that the vast majority do not experience any at all.

Today, there are a wide variety of Cat's Claw products available in capsule, tablet, tea, liquid and powdered extract forms. Most products are made from the inner bark of the vine, however, I recently learned that a small amount of root & root bark is being harvested legally and ecologically in Peru and is now available in various products. Recent assays have determined that Cat's Claw root and root bark contain a significantly higher alkaloid content.

There is also a highly specialized pharmaceutical extract developed from the root that is currently being used to treat cancer, AIDS and other diseases in Austria and Germany. The pharmaceutical has not been approved for sale in the U.S.; however, more products containing root and root bark will soon become available from health food stores, mail-order and network marketing companies.

ESSIAC AND CAT'S CLAW
Something new and promising is the prospect of using Cat's Claw with other medicinal herbs and plants. One such product has recently been introduced that combines Cat's Claw with watercress, burdock root, sheep sorrel, turkey rhubarb root and slippery elm bark. The last four herbs are what makeup the original formula from Canada known as Essiac.

In case you haven't heard of Essiac, here's the scoop: Rene Caisse, a registered nurse living in Canada learned of the original four herb formula from a patient in a hospital she had been working in. The patient reportedly had been cured of breast cancer by using this herbal preparation which had been given to her by an Ojibwa Indian. In 1922 at the age of 33, Rene left the hospital and moved to Bracebridge, Ontario, where she began administering this formula to all who came to her. Later she named the formula Essiac, which is her last name spelled backwards.

The majority of her patients were referred by physicians who certified them as being terminal or incurable by the accepted methods of treatment. Nurse Caisse prepared the herbal remedy in her own kitchen and administered it both orally and by injection. In cases where there was severe damage to life support organs, her patients died. However, many of them lived far longer than the medical professionals had predicted and more significantly, they lived free of pain. Others who were listed as hopeless and terminal, but without severe damage to life support systems became cured and lived 35 to 45 more years.

Unfortunately, Caisse sold the rights to the name Essiac to a company in Canada which no longer prepares the individual herbs as she did and there are many knock off products under different names, that do not prepare the herbs as she did either. In order for the herbs to be most effective, sheep sorrel must never be boiled or it's medicinal properties will be destroyed. It must be simmered for 20 minutes at no higher that 140 degrees. Burdock root and turkey rhubarb root must be boiled for 20 minutes and slippery elm bark needs to be boiled for 20 minutes, allowed to cool and then boiled again for another 20 minutes. This is a tedious procedure that must be followed religiously if one expects to see the kind of results experienced by nurse Caisse's patients.

A few years before her death, Caisse came to the United States and worked with Dr. Charles Brusch, the former personal physician to John F. Kennedy. Together they modified the original formula by adding a specific amount of watercress. This was done because the original formula contains a high level of oxalic acids which can contribute to forming kidney stones. Brusch and Caisse determined that the correct amount of watercress would help the kidneys flush the acids out of the system. Later this new five herb formula was given to Dr. Bill Maclean who began preparing all the herbs individually in order to maximize their effectiveness.

Recently, Dr. Maclean began adding Cat's Claw to the formula and it is now being offered commercially under a number of different names. Though it is too soon to know how effective this new product will be, preliminary reports suggest that it may be helpful with cancer, diabetes, Parkinson's disease and even AIDS. It is certainly a product worthy of further investigation by the wholistic health community. I suspect that over the next five years the potential of this product will become realized as more doctors and individuals begin using it. For now I am content in knowing that this product exists and is readily available to anyone who needs it.

I would now like to share some of the positive results that have been reported by both health practitioners and individuals who have used this proprietary preparation. Included, is an explanation of the difference between Ezzeac plus Cat's Claw and other commercial Essiac products, along with a brief explanation of the individual herbs used in this exciting product.

Finally, I am reprinting a letter written by Dr. Charles A. Brusch, (former personal physician to President John F. Kennedy) summarizing his experiences working with Rene Caisse and the herbs in Essiac at his clinic in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

ANECDOTAL REPORTS FROM HEALTH PRACTITIONERS
(From Phil Steinberg's Personal Telephone Conversations with the Following: Dr. B.B., Clinical Psychologist, Oklahoma City, OK recommended Ezzeac plus Cat's Claw to a client with the following results: 80 year old woman, in previous years treated for anal & lung cancer with conventional therapies, later diagnosed with large tumor in left pelvic region. Because this tumor was considered inoperable and the large amount of radiation used previously, her doctor did not recommend additional treatment. The patient began taking Ezzeac plus cat's claw, 2oz twice daily. Within 5 months, her tumor was no longer detectable.

Dr. William Pearce N.D., Matthews, NC combines Ezzeac plus Cat's Claw with a comprehensive vegetarian nutritional program for cancer patients including: beta-carotene and vitamin C intravenously. Using 2oz three times per day of Ezzeac, the following results were observed in 5 cases of prostate cancer: 1 & 2. 61 year old, PSA-17; 65 year old, PSA-24-26, radical prostatectomy performed on both, failed to reduce PSA's and blood analysis indicated metastasis. Both patients refused any other conventional treatment and started on Dr.Pearce's program. Within 10 months, PSA counts on both patients dropped to normal levels, where they have remained for 2 years, with no signs of cancer in the blood. 3,4 & 5. Three men ranging in age from 55-59, with PSA's ranging from 13-18, refused all conventional treatments.

On Dr. Pearce's program, PSA counts on all 3, were reduced to normal levels within 9-12 months and have remained normal for 12-18 months. Dr. Jacqulen McDaniel D.C., Arlington, TX suggested Ezzeac plus Cat's Claw to the following 2 patients: 77 year old male, esophageal cancer, given 6 months to live, on 1oz twice daily, still alive after 9 months, with tumor noticeably shrinking. 33 year old woman, 2 pap smears indicated a likelihood of cervical cancer. She took 1oz Ezzeac twice daily for 2 weeks, then for economical reasons, switched to cat's claw root & bark capsules, 1-500mg capsule 3 times per day. After 6 weeks pap smear came back negative.

Dr. McDaniel's results are especially promising, because the amounts used were only 1/2 of the recommended dosages, due to her patients budget limitations. Dr. Ingegard Hanson, D.D., Fishkill, NY Recommended Ezzeac to a woman with quarter sized melanoma on her skin, on 2oz twice daily. Growth shrunk to tiny spot within 7 months. Patient went into hospital for hip surgery, came off vegetarian whole foods diet and Ezzeac, cancer returned rapidly and she died shortly thereafter. In addition, there have been reports of individuals using cat's claw and/or Ezzeac in conjunction with conventional chemo & radiotherapy, with results suggesting faster recovery times and a reduction in the side affects of these therapies.

EZZEAC plus CAT'S CLAW has also been reported to be helpful in alleviating some of the symptoms associated with: PARKINSONS DISEASE, DIABETES, SYSTEMIC CANDIDIASIS, HEPATITIS and RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS. Several doctors I'd spoken to would not commit to what role EZZEAC plus CAT'S CLAW plays in their multi-tiered cancer treatment protocol; but they all continue to use it.

WRITTEN TESTIMONIALS TO DR. BILL MACLEAN AT GREEN LEAF HERBS A. H., Silver Spring, MD 3/5/98

Dear Dr. Maclean:
I have made many attempts to write my testimonials for many years and have battled unfounded fears in doing so. Today I want to make known the miracles that you have created in my life and the lives of my family. I tell anyone who will listen about the miracles and have hopefully led many to contact you in attempts of healing themselves or those they care about. My story begins actually with the chance encounter of one of your patients. While having lunch at a local restaurant in Dallas, a woman asked to sit in an available chair next to mine. (I was sitting at a counter.) This person was Susan Christine Rose. I had never met her before. She proceeded to tell me about all sorts of things positive and about healing of all sorts. She startled me by telling me how she had over come cancer more than once. To make a long story short, Susan and I became good friends. That friendship lasted well over two years until a time that we both became very busy and I eventually moved away to Maryland. It was during the time of our friendship that she introduced me to you and Ezzeac.

Attached you will find three testimonials about how your product, your genuine concern and kind words, helped me in ways that I can never fully put to words. Thank you and bless you always. Three Ezzeac plus Cat's Claw Miracles I first tried Ezzeac in an act of desperation when I was diagnosed by my OB/GYN with Polycystic Ovarian disease. My physician was a well know, trusted OB/GYN who specialized in women's diseases/fertility and other things. She was my regular physician. I believed her diagnosis since I complained of symptoms that were interpreted as being characteristics of this disease. A physical exam was also performed to confirm this diagnosis. I was scheduled for an internal sonogram / biopsy in approximately ten days from the initial diagnosis. Upon leaving her office I found the need to call family and friends regarding my diagnosis. It was during this time that a friend recommended that I try Ezzeac. I followed her instructions and drank Ezzeac three times a day up until the time of my exam.

By the time of my exam, my symptoms had disappeared. In fact, the technician who performed the internal sonogram commented that everything looked normal. There were no growths. The ovaries / follicles all appeared normal. This startled the technician to the point that she informed me of the unbelievable results and went in search of the physician. I have had no symptoms in more than five years since this happened. Additionally, I have since been tested for Polycystic Ovarian disease and have had no diagnosis. Ezzeac was used once again during a time when my mother became quite ill with gallstones. I have never seen anyone behave in a manner depicting pain anymore than what my mother did during the time of her attacks. She commented that it was worse pain than experienced during childbirth. She had given birth to four children. Unfortunately my mother was in a situation in which she did not have insurance. It was criminal in the way that it made all the difference in seeking treatment. She was hospitalized twice at a local county hospital within a two month period. She was given sonograms to confirm the existence of gallstones. As beds were needed for more critical cases, my mother was sent home. The hospital then put her on a waiting list to return for surgery to remove her gallbladder. Each time when she was released she became more and more disillusioned. She was also placed on a restricted diet which had her eating mainly bananas. Honestly, her fear of pain stopped her from eating anything most days.

Finally in desperation I contacted Dr. Maclean. I had no hope at this point. I was watching my mother waste away from lack of nutrition and fear of the next gallstone attack. Dr. Maclean recommended a simple gallbladder / liver cleanse combination of lemon juice and olive oil along with Ezzeac. Within a week of following his recommendation, mother passed all of her gallstones. This was ultimately confirmed when she returned to the hospital for pre-op procedures. To this day she has no recurrence of the pain associated with gallstones. She continues to take Ezzeac.

It has been over four years since this episode occurred. Finally, the last Ezzeac story is the best. These testimonials have been in chronological order; it is just a coincidence that the last of my direct experiences with Ezzeac with my family is the one most critical. This one involves my youngest brother who is 9 years younger than I. Raymond was 21 at the time. He is very dear to me and others. He is a missionary who frequents third world countries building homes / plumbing, etc...for others selflessly. Most of my siblings had suffered from allergies at one time or another our whole lives. Raymond in particular always had a stuffy nose.

Finally, we urged him to seek out medical attention. He was employed at a union shop with all of the right benefits to enable him to see all sorts of trained professionals. He first saw a local doctor who took x-rays and referred him to a specialist in Dallas. Since I lived in Dallas at that time I told my brother that I would accompany him to this visit. I went into the examination room with my brother. After a while the doctor come in and diagnosed a tumor (growth) sitting underneath my brother's face. I saw the x-ray. The doctor carefully traced the image with his pencil outlining an area underneath his nose and surrounding his eye sockets. The doctor performed a biopsy before my eyes, carefully entering the nose and cutting tissue from this growth and placing it in a cup. I saw the cuttings and it was a solid mass of tissue. The doctor indicated that whether it was cancerous or benign, it would need to come out. The doctor continued talking about the procedure and other tests and specialists that would be required to pinpoint the growth and adequately remove it without harming the brain.

My head swam in disbelief. My thoughts wandered between having to tell my mother and potentially losing my young brother. By the time we left I was numb. I insisted that Raymond stay at my house in Dallas during the testing period and days leading up to the operation. I called my mother crying hysterically with the news. My mother first thought of Ezzeac. I remained cheerful during the time leading up to Raymond's surgery making cup after cup of Ezzeac for him. Raymond was not as aware as I of the healing power of this product. I was hopeful. I never once contacted Dr. Maclean until after this event.

On the day of Raymond's surgery my mother and I waited patiently for news of the progress. The doctor had informed us that the surgery would take approximately 6-8 hours. This Ear-Nose-Throat Specialist also had a team assisting him that included a brain surgeon. It was a critical surgery. Incidentally, an MRI done prior to surgery had further documented and pinpointed the growth. The doctor approached us early on. We were stunned. The doctor had an odd expression on his face that concerned us even further. Apparently, in his explanation, the tumor had somehow become liquefied. He described it as the color and consistency of molasses. He thought that maybe it was a fungus. He wasn't sure. He informed us that he would be sending the material out for additional testing. He stated that they would simply drain the fluid and release Raymond later that afternoon. We took Raymond home that day. He required no medication and has since had no recurrence of the growth. Raymond is now 24.

Shortly after this miracle I contacted Dr. Maclean. Without telling him what had just happened, I asked him what effect Ezzeac had on growths / tumors. He explained to me that Ezzeac works differently in different people; however he explained that Ezzeac was able to breakdown tumors. Essentially dissolve them. After hearing this I told him of Raymond. It was truly a miracle. Raymond took no drugs up to the time of his surgery that would have altered this tumor in any way. D.U., Cincinnati, OH

Dear Debby,
This is just to confirm our phone conversation and provide you with additional details on Mom's use of Ezzeac. It will be 11 years in May that Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. In 1995 the breast cancer spread to her lung and a tumor developed on her rib cage. She was on hormone therapy until September. In September she went through her first round of chemotherapy. She began taking Ezzeac about a week or two prior to starting her chemotherapy. There is a blood test that allows the doctor to determine if the breast cancer tumor is active or in remission. Prior to starting the chemo her count was at 79. During the first two chemo treatments Mom was able to continue on Ezzeac. Her breast tumor count dropped from 79 to 55. During her final two treatments. Mom experienced some nausea and changes in taste due to the chemo and was not able to take her Ezzeac on a regular basis. Her count after the final treatment 6 weeks ago had only gone from 55 to 52. The doctor described the chemo as "being only moderately effective" and said the cancer was "beaten down" but not in remission. She stated that the only available treatment would be "maintenance chemo" to try and keep the cancer under control, but didn't really offer and hope of remission.

After her chemo, Mom went back on Ezzeac and Cat's Claw three times a day. She under went a bone scan and blood test last week and saw the doctor this morning. Her bone scan shows the tumor on the rib cage has healed and there is no cancer anywhere in her bones. The blood test indicated that her breast tumor factor has dropped from 52 to 28 (normal). HER BREAST CANCER IS IN REMISSION!

Before beginning the chemo the Doctor told us there was only a 50% chance the chemo would be effective and after the treatment, as I stated previously she described the treatment as being moderately effective. Today after 6 full weeks of taking Ezzeac three times daily, her cancer is in remission. We truly believe that Ezzeac is the reason and have given several other people information on Ezzeac and Green Leaf Herbs. Mom has been taking various vitamins and herbs for the last two years. The last hormone she was on to treat the cancer had only controlled the cancer for 6 to 9 months in tests. For Mom it was effective for 17 months and we attributed this to supplementing her treatment with the natural herbs and vitamins. She had a relatively easy time with the chemo - i.e. - a little nausea, some taste change, and slightly tired for a day or two, but then she would bounce back. The doctor was extremely pleased with how well she tolerated the chemo and we attribute this to the Ezzeac. You and Ezzeac are the greatest!
C.W., Ft.Worth, TX

Dear Phil,
I am writing this testimonial in regards to the product Ezzeac, from Green Leaf Herbs, to which I owe my life. On Aug.27, 1997 I was diagnosed with lung small cell carcinoma, a very fast growing cancer. The doctors told me I had six months to live without chemotherapy and two years with. My fear made me take one treatment of chemo, which nearly killed me. I have pictures to prove how far I've come since Sept. 1997. I would not take anymore treatments. The benefits of Ezzeac have restored my immune system and as far as I know have my cancer in check. My body weight has increased from 76 pounds to 98 at present. I have not had to take any pain medication, which has dumbfounded the medical people. As a matter of fact, my last appointment in January with my doctor, he told me if I wasn't willing to take chemo or the drugs, there was no reason to see him anymore. I could go on and on about this wonderful product. My heart is forever grateful to all the people at Green Leaf Herbs, for the Ezzeac and their love and support.
M.J., Norwood, NC

Dear Dr. Maclean,
In September I was diagnosed as having cancer of the breast (inflammatory). A rare, fast, highly invasive type of cancer, fortunately I was given Dr. Macleans name within days, and was using Ezzeac within a weeks time. Thankfully lack of funds and a strange work schedule kept me from my first biopsy for almost two weeks, by that time my surgeon could only get fluid that contained dead cancer cells, a fact I was to find out later. Not having any belief herself in anything but the slice and dice MD approved treatment, she scheduled another biopsy, this time with a larger needle, 2 weeks later. She could not at that time get through the mass that had shrunk greatly. Still, only dead cancer cells. She then scheduled a surgical biopsy, which did prove her diagnosis. By this time over 2 months had passed and she had lost another young woman, to the same type of cancer (rare?) I was sent to Bowman Grey/Baptist Hospital School of Medicine Research Center; who did try to convince me I should let them kill me off by offering 6 to 8 monthly chemo sessions, then a radical mastectomy, followed by 6 to 8 more sessions of chemo.

At this time they said I'd need a bone marrow transplant and they would most likely find another cancer sight. Unhappily for them, they couldn't find any swollen lymph nodes, my lungs were fine, and I wasn't having any pain, cramps or weight loss, all things they told me would be associated with their treatment of me. I now have a mass very contained, its size made it inoperable in September. 70% smaller and shrinking every day, I feel great. My favorite Holiday greeting came from a friend who said "you look so (long pause)-----Healthy". I tell people I meet about Ezzeac whenever I can, and intend to keep doing so, for a very long time. Thank you Ezzeac and Dr. Maclean.
B.B., Reno, NV

I was diagnosed as having an inoperable brain tumor in April 1993. I was 70 years of age at the time. After 3 medical Dr.'s told me in a nice way there was nothing more they could do for me, I turned to a homeopathic Dr. to treat me. He suggested that I take EZZEAC to help my tumor to decrease in size. I started taking EZZEAC about the 15th of Dec. 1993. I called Dr. Maclean at Green Leaf Herbs in Coppell, TX. I followed his directions in taking EZZEAC about 90% of the time. I had a MRI test on the 25th of July of 1994 and to my delight it shows that my brain tumor has decreased to almost half the size. I certainly give the Praise & Glory to my Lord Jesus Christ and to EZZEAC. It works!!
M.V., Lawton, OK ...about a year ago, my daughters family had been so busy on the farm they had not noticed that one dog, a very old hound dog had not been up and around. He was so far gone he could not get up on his own. She began to massage him and with a roast baster fed him carrot juice with crushed vitamins and he was slowly getting better but he really improved after she added the Ezzeac tea to his mixture. Whatever was the trouble we never knew but he is still doing fine. D.B.

In October of this year my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her prognosis did not look very promising at that time. Her cancer was so severe that surgery could not be performed due to the size and amount of tumors. Further tests showed that the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes, lung and liver areas. Her oncologist stated to me that he had not seen such a severe case of breast cancer in more than ten years, and in his estimate she had about six months to live. My family opted to go with the standard chemo and radiation therapy as a course of treatment.

As soon as I could I got my mother taking one of the two leading Essiac herbal tea formulas. It was the dry formula, which I would prepare for her. She took this tea for about six weeks. I never did look forward to making her tea for her due to the fact that the tea was difficult to work with. I would always make such a mess when it would come time to strain the tea. The mucilage in the formula would make it very difficult to strain and it would always take a long time to prepare. The results from the tea were not as good as what I expected so I decided to try a different form of this tea. Its name was Ezzeac Tea with cat's claw.

After reading the literature about Ezzeac Tea, I saw something unique and different about this formula. So I purchased the dry form of this tea and made my mother her first batch. What a surprise, the tea was very easy to make without the usual problems I had with the other brand of this tea. We noticed an immediate response in my mother as soon as she started taking the Ezzeac Tea. Her sense of well being greatly improved and we noticed a shift in her energy levels. The side effects from her chemo were greatly reduced and mother seemed to have a renewed sense of hope. After a month on the dry Ezzeac I decided to try the liquid form of Ezzeac Tea. My mother noticed an even better response from this than the dry form. She said that this tea seemed a lot stronger and more effective. It has been 10 months since my mother's diagnosis of cancer and the wonderful news from her last checkup is that she is cancer free. Her doctors said that this is a miracle, but I am convinced that Ezzeac Tea was part of this miracle. My mother still takes her daily preventive dosages of this marvelous tea. I have recommended this tea to three other people who have cancer and they are all getting good to excellent results. I would highly recommend that if anybody or their loved ones has cancer they cannot afford not to take this tea. Believe me there is something special about this tea and I'm sure after anybody tries it they will see what I mean.

ARE ALL ESSIAC FORMULAS THE SAME? Potency levels, potential side effects, manufacturing procedures and cost may vary greatly from one brand to another. Unfortunately, there has been a great deal of confusion and misinformation circulating about the Essiac formula, with numerous companies claiming that theirs is the only original formula on the market and therefore, the only one that is effective. The truth is that Rene Caisse, R.N. on her own and later with Dr. Charles Brusch, experimented with a variety of different herbs, in many different strengths and combinations, one of which was sometimes injected directly into the bloodstream. She also oft times modified the formula to fit the individual patients needs.

Both Caisse and Brusch where in their 90's when they past away, Caisse in 1978, Brusch in 1993. After years of working with Caisse and various modifications of the original Essiac formula, Brusch developed his own formula based on personal experiences with cancer patients at his Massachusetts clinic. Dr. Bill Maclean was given this formula as a result of several telephone conversations with both Dr. Brusch and his wife, resulting in Maclean actually supplying Brusch with the finished product for his personal use. In 1995, Maclean added cat's claw to the formula, because of research suggesting this botanical might offer significant benefit to cancer patients. His company, Green Leaf Herbs, introduced this new product as Ezzeac plus Cat's. His companies' philosophy has been simple: "If our product is superior, it will sell itself." The testimonials strongly suggest this philosophy to be true.

According to Maclean's research and the three plus years his product has been available, Ezzeac Plus Cat's Claw differs from other commercial preparations in three separate categories. First - Ezzeac Plus Cat's Claw supplies approximately three times by weight, the herbs offered by other commercial products. Maclean has stated that according to Blood analysis, these higher amounts are necessary to achieve the results being reported by his customers. Second - his company never boils all the herbs together, in fact, some are never boiled. According to traditional preparation and verified by Caisse, Brusch and Maclean, some herbs must be boiled, one even twice, while others must be simmered. Boiling herbs that should be simmered will destroy their enzyme activity. These enzymes play a crucial role in the effectiveness and synergy of the formula. If the herbs that need to be boiled are only simmered or not boiled long enough, some of their medicinal components (phytochemicals & nutrients) will not be released.

To the best of my knowledge, Green Leaf Herbs is the only company that treats each herb in the formula separately, brewing each according to its individual protocol. Third - oxalic acid present in Indian Rhubarb (Turkey Rhubarb), when consumed in large doses or taken over an extended period may cause kidney stones or kidney deterioration. By adding the correct amount of Watercress, as discovered by Nurse Caisse and Dr. Brusch, Dr. Maclean has been able to virtually eliminate this problem. Using the wrong amount may cause additional kidney problems. THE HERBS IN EZZEAC PLUS CAT'S CLAW EXPLAINED BURDOCK ROOT - Throughout history burdock has become legendary as one of the best "blood purifiers" possessing an ability to rid the body of numerous toxins. Herb books indicate that it is has traditionally been used to treat skin problems, stomach ulcers and the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, sciatica and rheumatic diseases. Medical research at Nagoya University in Japan has revealed burdocks ability to reduce cell mutation and shrink tumors. Some health professionals believe that fungus plays a major role in promoting cell mutation and the development of cancer. In laboratory experiments using cultures of fungus and various types of bacteria, burdock displayed an ability to destroy both. Burdock root has also been used to help regulate blood sugar levels. Inulin, a substance in the root, helps the pancreas to produce insulin, indicating the herbs possible use in the treatment of diabetes.

Finally, burdock helps the body eliminate excess fluid assisting kidney, liver and digestive function, and it is a rich source of the B and E vitamins and the minerals; potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, zinc, silicon, cobalt and chromium. Dr. Maclean considers burdock root to be the most important herb in the formula and is the main ingredient used.

SHEEP SORREL HERB -
Unlike Burdock, the leaves, stem, flowers and seeds of this plant are used. The arrowhead shaped leaves is rich in chlorophyll. Used extensively in the Ezzeac formula, sheep sorrel helps increase oxygen in the blood and enhances phagocytic activity, resulting in an improved ability to defend against invasive bacteria, viruses, parasites, malignant cells, etc. Research at M.D. Anderson Cancer Hospital in Houston, TX has shown that chlorophyll aids the bodies' immune system by helping to cleanse various carcinogenic substances from the bloodstream. In addition, Sheep sorrel displays an ability to cleanse and improve the function of the lymphatic system, further aiding immune response and general detoxification. Sheep sorrel has traditionally been used to treat the following: worms and parasites, jaundice, putrefaction in the blood, skin diseases, tumors, boils, urinary and renal diseases. It may also be effective at protecting cells from chromosomal damage, considered by many to be a precursor to cancer development. Sheep sorrel is a rich source of Beta-carotene, other carotenoids 8-12%, Vitamins A, B complex, C, D, E, and K, and the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, silicon, sulfur, and zinc.

CAT'S CLAW - is perhaps the single most important immune augmenting, anti-oxidant botanical to come out of the Amazon Rainforest. It is an herb that is rapidly becoming a legend both here in the United States and in other parts of the world; due to the many glowing testimonials being reported by both individuals and health practitioners. Among indigenous Indian tribes, Cat's Claw has traditionally been used to treat a wide range of health problems. These include: tumors and growths, ulcers, gastritis, rheumatism, menstrual disorders, parasites, prostate problems, asthma, diabetes, viral infections, general debility, gonorrhea, and cirrhosis. According to ongoing research which began in Europe during the early 1970's, Cat's Claw possesses a wealth of beneficial phytochemicals including: alkaloids, polyphenols, triterpines, glycosides, and phytosterols. It is believed that these various plant substances are what gives the herb it's powerful anti-microbial, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor and adaptogen properties.

SLIPPERY ELM BARK - The inner bark of the Slippery Elm tree is stripped, dried and ground into powder. This herb differs from the others because of its mucilage properties. When wet, it becomes slimy. Because of its nutritional value, Indians in the U. S. and Canada would oft times survive hard winters, when game was scarce, by eating the inner bark of the Slippery Elm tree. Its mucilage property makes this herb superb for coating any area it touches. It protects membrane linings and relieves inflammation. Various texts have reported it's use in treating stomach and intestinal ulcers, sore throats, coughs, bronchitis, lung inflammation and joint stiffness. Slippery elm can serve as a tonic to the entire gastrointestinal tract, normalizing bowel consistency, increasing peristalsis and aiding elimination, As it moves through the digestive tract, attaching to toxins and expelling them out through the bowel.

TURKISH (INDIAN) RHUBARB ROOT - This ancient herb has been used in both the Orient, (specifically by the Chinese) for more than 2,000 years and by the Indians in North America. In 1987 a research team compared 178 Chinese herbs for antibacterial activity with one of the major microorganisms in human intestinal flora. Only Rhubarb was found to have significant activity. Recent scientific findings show Rhubarb in small amounts as a cathartic (causing a laxative effect) due to the anthraquinones and anthraquinone sugar derivatives it contains and in large amounts as an astringent (anti-diuretic effect) due to the tannins. The opposite effects caused by this plant are simply due to the amount taken at any given time. Take a small amount and get one effect, take a large amount and get the opposite. One hospital studied three kinds of extracted Rhubarb over a 10-year period. Employing a double blind method, patients in each of three groups showed an efficiency of over 90% in curing their upper digestive tract bleeding. One problem associated with this herb is that it contains a high level of oxalic acid. If consumed in large amounts over time it may cause renal damage, as a result of the formation of calcium oxalate. Oxalates can cause the development of kidney stones and lead to kidney damage. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to add another herb to the formula to help offset this potentially negative side effect.

WATERCRESS - Historically the Greeks and Romans thought this herb improved brain function and later in medieval Europe it was used for sword wounds. Early settlers used watercress to prevent scurvy, as a spring tonic and appetite stimulant and the Indians adopted it as a food, also using it to treat kidney and liver problems. Today the British eat watercress sandwiches and use it instead of lettuce. Dr. Charles Brusch, Physician to the late President John F. Kennedy and fellow researcher with Nurse Rene Caisse (the promoter of the original Essiac formula) informed Dr. Maclean that watercress should be added to the formula in very specific amounts, to offset the negative effects of the oxalic acid. Watercress contains high amounts of vitamin C and additional antioxidant nutrients including: carotenoids, vitamins B2, D and E. Antioxidants may be helpful at preventing stone formation and dissolving kidney stones. More importantly however, watercress acting as a diuretic, can help the kidneys flush out excessive oxalic acids. Brusch told Maclean that although he and Nurse Caisse had experimented with other herbs in the formula, the herbs listed above (with the exception of cat's claw), where all that were necessary to get the desired results (As previously mentioned Maclean added cat's claw in 1995).

WHY COMMERCIAL ESSIAC AND MOST ESSIAC KNOCK-OFF PRODUCTS ARE ONLY PARTIALLY EFFECTIVE
The original Essiac Formula given to Rene Caisse can be traced back to the native Ojibwa Indians of Canada. It is a formula that consists of four herbs: Burdock root, Slippery Elm bark, Turkey Rhubarb root and Sheep Sorrel. Of these four, the first three are referred to as hard tissue herbs (roots and/or barks) while the fourth is a soft tissue herb (leaves and/or flowers). Hard tissue herbs must be boiled in order to release all of their medicinal properties, while soft tissue herbs must be simmered at a temperature not exceeding 140 degrees. The majority of these products available in health food stores today have all the herbs mixed together with instructions to either boil or simmer them and they cannot be prepared separately. If all herbs are boiled, the enzymes and other medicinal properties in the Sheep Sorrel will be destroyed. If all herbs are simmered together, much of the medicinal properties in the Burdock root, Slippery Elm bark and Turkey Rhubarb root will not be released. This is the reason why many people do not experience the same results that Rene Caisse did, with her 50 plus years of using the formula in Canada. I only know of one commercial product available in the United States that has proportioned the herbs according to the directions of Dr. Charles Brusch, the personal physician to John F. Kennedy, who modified the original formula with Rene Caisse, to include a specific amount of watercress. This product is called Ezzeac Plus and is manufactured and distributed by Green Leaf Herbs. Under the direction of Dr. Brusch, Dr. Bill Maclean has created Ezzeac Plus, a ready to use preparation where the hard tissue herbs are boiled separately and the soft tissue herbs, of which Watercress is included, are properly simmered. This is a labor intensive, more tedious procedure, resulting in a more expensive commercial product, at a higher cost to the consumer; however, when faced with a problem that this product might address, which product would you choose?

There is no doubt in my mind. I would choose the product where all the herbs have been prepared in the proper manner. In closing, I'd like to share a letter written by Dr. Charles A. Brusch on April 6, 1990, where he shares his personal experience with Essiac.

To whom it May Concern:
Many years have gone by since I first experienced the use of ESSIAC with my patients who were suffering from many varied forms of Cancer. I personally monitored the use of this old therapy along with Rene Caisse, R.N. whose many successes were widely reported. Rene worked with me at my medical clinic in Cambridge, Massachusetts and where, under the supervision of 18 of my many medical doctors on staff, she proceeded with a series of treatments on terminal Cancer patients and laboratory mice and together we refined and perfected her formula. On mice it has been shown to cause a decided recession of the mass and a definite change in cell formation. Clinically, on patients suffering from pathologically proven Cancer, it reduces pain and causes a recession in the growth. Patients gained weight and showed a great improvement in their general health. The elimination improved considerably and their appetite became whetted.

Remarkably beneficial results were obtained even on those cases at the "end of the road" where it proved to prolong life and the "quality" of that life. In some cases, if the tumor didn't disappear, it could be surgically removed after ESSIAC with less risk of metastases resulting in new outbreaks. Hemorrhage has been rapidly brought under control in many difficult cases, open lesions of lip and breast responded to treatment, and patients with Cancer of the stomach have returned to normal activity among many other remembered cases. Also, intestinal burns from radiation were healed and damage replaced, and it was found to greatly improve whatever the condition.

All these patient cases were diagnosed by reputable physicians and surgeons. I do know what I have witnessed in my clinic and know of many other cases where ESSIAC was the therapy used, a treatment which brings about restoration through destroying the tumor tissue and improving the mental outlook which reestablishes physiological function. I endorse this therapy even today for I have in fact cured my own Cancer, the original site of which was the lower bowel, through ESSIAC alone. My last complete examination, where I was examined throughout the intestinal tract while hospitalized (August 1989) for a hernia problem, no sign of malignancy was found. Medical documents validate this. I have taken ESSIAC every day since my diagnosis (1984) and my recent examination has given me a clean bill of health.
Charles A. Brusch, M.D. Charles Armao Brusch, M.D. Co-Founder of: First Medical Centre, Cambridge MA., Instigator of first prepaid medical plan, Creator of first Acupuncture Centre, First clinic in Western Hemisphere for the Order of St. George to provide medical care for the poor, One of the largest medical clinics in the state. Personal physician to the late President John F. Kennedy.

Among Dr. Brusch's patients were many of Massachusetts best known politicians and other notables. Recipient of many prestigious awards including a citation from The Governor's Council of Massachusetts, for "30 years of unexcelled medical care" and a life membership in The Dante Alighieri Society for philanthropic work, and more recently, an Alumni Citation in recognition of "Outstanding achievements and service in the field of Medicine" from St. Lawrence University, New York (1983). A total of 54 years in Medicine; over one million people passed through his clinic during this time. John F. Kennedy laid the cornerstone.

Phillip N. Steinberg, C.N.C. is a certified nutritional consultant, Author and Owner of Wildfire Natural Products. For more information on products and Dr. Steinberg work, visit the World-Wide Web at: www.philsteinberg.com or call toll free: 1-888-583-3532, outside the U.S. call 314-390-2552.

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A Native Indian formula used by Renee Caisse, RN of Canada. It is in the form of a high potency extract tincture (10-15 drops makes 1 cup of tea) for better assimilation and ease in taking.

ORDER 2oz bottle with dropper $29.95