Products
Anthroposophic mistletoe extract Iscador is commercially available in many countries as a solution for injection. It was developed from 1916 by the founder of anthroposophy, Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) and the physician Ita Wegmann. In addition to Iscador, another product was later launched (Helixor, Swissphar). This article refers to Iscador.
Structure and properties
The aqueous extract fermented with lactobacilli is obtained from fresh mistletoe ( L. and subspecies) growing on various host trees:
- Apple tree (M = Mali)
- Oak (Qu = Quercus)
- Pine (P = Pini)
- Elm (U = Ulmi)
- Fir (A = Abietis)
Some products contain a metal additive in a very low concentration: silver carbonate (Arg), copper carbonate (Cu) or mercury sulfate (Hg). The active ingredients of the extract include mistletoe lectins (glycoproteins), polypeptides (viscotoxins), Kuttan’s peptides, oligosaccharides and polysaccharides.
Effects
Mistletoe extract (ATC L01CZ) is believed to have antitumor and immunomodulatory properties. It is thought to relieve pain, improve well-being, and increase performance. An effect on tumor growth has also been observed. The effects are attributed to immunomodulation on the one hand and direct antitumor effects on the other.
Critique
„“ – Ernst E. (2006) The use of mistletoe extracts as an alternative therapeutic method is controversial in orthodox medicine. Anthroposophic medicine is based on dogmatic and obscure principles that are largely incomprehensible from a rational point of view. In addition, the quality of clinical studies is criticized.
Indications
According to anthroposophical knowledge of man and nature, as an adjunctive treatment for malignant diseases to improve the quality of life and possibly the course of the disease.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drugs are injected subcutaneously two to three times per week in the wider area around the tumor. Do not administer directly into the tumor.
Contraindications
The extract is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, in febrile and inflammatory conditions with temperatures above 38°C, and on the first days of menstruation. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse Effects
The most common possible adverse effects include local inflammatory reactions around the injection site. These are considered harmless up to a diameter of 5 cm. Rarely, severe allergic reactions may occur. Fever, fatigue, chills, feeling sick, headache, joint pain, and regional lymph node swelling have also been reported occasionally.