Introduction

Iscador is a preparation of White-Berried Mistletoe (Viscum album), a plant introduced in the treatment of cancer by Rudolf Steiner, the founder of the anthroposophical system of medicine. It is usually administered by injection and occasionally in the form of drops for oral use. Iscador can be used alongside conventional treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy or in comjuction with other forms of complementary medicine such as herbal medicine or nutritional/neutraceutcal medicine. Originally devised for use in people, Iscador can work equally well in domestic cats and dogs. The exact choice of treatment depends on the site of the tumour, general state of health of the animal, sex of the patient and treatment regime implemented.

The composition of Iscador

Iscador contains a fermented aqueous extract prepared using white berried mistletoe from different host trees (apple, pine and oak).

What can be treated?

Iscador may be able to help in the following situations:

In the management of malignant tumours except blood (haematological) based cancers

To reduce the risk of recurrence of surgically removed tumours

To reduce the risk of metastases

To maintain states of remission

To help in some pre-cancerous states

In the relief of tumour pain

Contra-indications and adverse effects: Iscador

Adverse effects are extremely rare in animals. Where given by injection it is possible to see an allergic reaction, either at the injection site, or a more generalised reaction involving urticarial skin bumps (hives). A transient rise in body tempertaure is observed in some animals, shortly after being dosed with Iscador.

Contraindications: Cats which are hyperthyroid should not be treated. Pregnant animals should not be treated.

Tumours in the spine or brain need special monitoring and may additionally benefit from oral Iscador treatment.

How is iscador given

Iscador is normally given by injection, just under the skin two or 3 times each week, sometimes with a break of one week after an initial series of injections. We can show you how to do the injections and will provide suitable syringes and needles. Alternatively we can do the injections for you if you live near to the practice.

We can also supply Iscador for your own vet to use along with full instructions.

If you are interested in using Iscador to help with sarcoids in horses, you can follow this link to read a summary of the research article.