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| - Last Updated on October 26, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a herbal supplement containing essential oils fights cancer. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A Facebook post showcases an advertisement for a product called “Intervene Herbal,” emphasizing its potential as an anti-cancer supplement. The caption highlights that the product contains pure organic essential oils, presenting a holistic approach to combating cancer by detoxifying the body of potential cancer-causing elements and restoring pH balance—an essential factor in the fight against cancer. The post claims that Intervene Herbal is a nutritional supplement with multiple benefits, including reducing antiseptic bacterial, antiviral, and fungal properties. It can clean, rejuvenate, and optimize overall health without any undesirable side effects.
A screenshot of the post is attached below:
Fact Check
Can a herbal supplement containing essential oils fight cancer?
Not exactly. No scientific evidence supports the claim that a supplement containing over 30 essential healing oils can fight cancer. In fact, cancer organizations, such as cancer.net also state that essential oils are not proven as a treatment module.
Research has shown that some essential oils might have anti-cancer properties in laboratory studies. This study, however, only involved animal subjects, and it remains uncertain whether humans would experience similar effects. Some products may exhibit properties that can hinder cancer cell growth in labs or on animals. However, this does not guarantee their efficacy as standalone cancer treatments for humans. Clinical studies involving humans are necessary to determine the safety, efficacy, and appropriate dosages of any potential treatment.
The use of natural products for cancer treatment is a topic of ongoing research and debate. While some studies have suggested that certain compounds found in essential oils may have anti-cancer properties, one cannot rely solely on them to treat the disease.
Cancer is a complex disease with many different types and variations. The effectiveness of any type of cancer treatment, including natural remedies, can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, as well as individual factors.
Dr Anil Sharma, Consultant Haemato-Oncologist and Paediatric Oncologist at Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Gwalior, informs, “The use of herbal remedies, also known as botanical medicine, is common in many traditional medicine systems. Herbal medicines encompass plant parts such as roots, leaves, berries, and flowers in their production. These may contain active ingredients that can cause chemical changes in the body. People can take herbal remedies orally or apply them topically to address diseases and enhance well-being. At times, herbs and plants receive categorization as biological treatments. Many scientific studies have examined the effects of various herbs on people with cancer. Although certain remedies have demonstrated the ability to mitigate the side effects of cancer treatment, numerous remedies lack research-backed support.”
We also approached Dr Sarthak Moharir, Chief Radiation Oncologist Apollo Cancer Centre, Bilaspur to shed some light on the claim. He explained, “Essential oils are pseudoscience. They do nothing other than smell good and perhaps clear your sinuses. No medical benefit has been demonstrated in any clinical study. So essential oils have no role in fighting or preventing any kind of cancer.”
We have also debunked claim such as Hoxsey Herbal Therapy cures cancer naturally to inform that cancer cannot be cured with mere herbs and diet. We fact checked another claim stating that Fenbendazole can cure cancer which is completely wrong.
Can there be any side effects of using this concoction?
Possible. The side effects of using a supplement containing over 30 essential healing oils to treat cancer are not well-known due to the lack of research or scientific evidence. However, some potential side effects that may occur include:
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to essential oils and an allergic reaction can cause hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
- Skin irritation: Essential oils can irritate the skin due to the presence of plant products.
- Toxicity: Essential oils can be toxic if taken in large doses.
- Interaction with medications: They can interact with certain medications. So it is better to consult a doctor before using them if you are taking any prescription drugs.
These are just potential side effects, and not everyone who uses this supplement will experience them. Remember, cancer treatment should have proper evidence and done under the guidance of qualified medical professionals. Conventional cancer treatments undergo rigorous testing and are supported by extensive scientific research.
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