Researchers have not found strong evidence that any type of tea can cure cancer. Some teas may offer mild benefits, like easing stomach upset and boosting hydration. Your doctor can recommend teas that might be helpful additions to a healthy diet.
Some teas have a false reputation for curing cancer when they may actually do more harm than good. In particular, supporters have presented Essiac tea as an alternative cure for cancer. Studies show no positive effects on tumors. Keep reading to learn more about helpful versus harmful teas.
Which Teas May Be Safe and Helpful for Cancer Patients?
Studies have not found conclusive evidence that tea can have a direct impact on cancer. But it may offer some benefits that can be supportive to cancer patients. Varieties recommended by some doctors include green, black and herbal teas.
Teas may help cancer patients by:
- Easing digestive upset: Some teas, such as ginger or green tea, may help manage nausea and other digestive issues.
- Increasing hydration: Tea is often recommended to help patients drink more fluids. It can be almost as hydrating as water and more flavorful.
- Managing some treatment side effects: Some evidence suggests that tea may help decrease side effects from traditional cancer treatment.
- Promoting relaxation: Drinking tea can be a calming ritual that may promote relaxation. Tea also contains a compound that may reduce stress.
- Reducing inflammation: Tea contains antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals. Doing so helps alleviate inflammation, which may improve overall health.
- Supporting immune function: Herbal teas may help strengthen immune system function. Doctors can recommend certain herbal teas depending on each patient’s case.
It is vital that patients get their healthcare team’s approval before drinking tea. There is no “one size fits all” with cancer care. Tea and herbs may negatively interfere with certain medications or cancer treatments. This can make some generally safe teas unsuitable for certain patients. Please be sure to check with your doctor before incorporating tea into your care plan.
Does Essiac Tea Cure Cancer?
Studies have found no evidence that Essiac tea can cure cancer. In fact, research suggests it may help tumors grow in some cases. This may be partly due to the product’s guidance to forgo trusted cancer treatment in favor of tea. This goes against rigorous research that shows traditional treatments offer the best chances of fighting cancer.
Essiac tea traditionally contains 4 herbs, but ingredients can vary. These herbs have no proven cancer-fighting abilities. Essiac tea may even pose risks to cancer patients.
Patients may have heard that Essiac tea helps with cancer. But the medical community largely discourages its use – especially regarding the advice to replace traditional cancer treatment with Essiac tea. This dangerous advice has many serious risks and no scientific support.
Cancer patients may be interested in the potential benefits of other teas. The oncology team can recommend which varieties may best support your treatment goals.
