Mistletoe Therapy for Cancer Patients

Mistletoe therapy is a complementary cancer treatment derived from Viscum album, a plant with immune-modulating and anti-cancer properties. It works by stimulating the immune system, promoting apoptosis (programmed cancer cell death), reducing inflammation, and improving the body’s tolerance to conventional cancer treatments. Studies suggest that mistletoe extract can help regulate the tumor microenvironment, making it a valuable addition to an integrative oncology approach​.

No. Mistletoe therapy is not a standalone cancer treatment. Instead, it is used alongside conventional therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy to enhance efficacy, minimize side effects, and improve overall quality of life​.

Mistletoe therapy has been studied in a wide range of solid tumors, including breast, lung, colorectal, pancreatic, prostate, and ovarian cancers.

Studies show that mistletoe therapy is particularly beneficial to those with solid tumor cancers or hematologic malignancies from stage zero through stage four.

It is often used to support patients undergoing active treatment, those in remission seeking recurrence prevention, and individuals in palliative care looking to enhance comfort and well-being​.

However, mistletoe therapy is typically not recommended for patients with acute leukemia.

The most common method of administration is subcutaneous injection (under the skin), typically three times per week. In certain cases, other administration methods, such as intravenous (IV), intratumoral, or intracavitary injections, may be used under clinical supervision​.

Most patients tolerate mistletoe therapy well. Mild redness or swelling at the injection site is common and considered a sign of an appropriate immune response.

Occasionally, flu-like symptoms such as mild fever, fatigue, or body aches may occur. These symptoms typically subside as the body adapts to treatment​.

Yes, but with caution. Since immunotherapy also works by stimulating the immune system, mistletoe therapy must be carefully monitored to prevent excessive immune activation. Close supervision by an integrative oncologist ensures these therapies work synergistically rather than competitively​.

No. Studies indicate that mistletoe therapy does not negatively interfere with chemotherapy or radiation. In fact, it may help patients tolerate these treatments better by reducing their toxicity and side effects​. However, it is essential to discuss mistletoe therapy with your oncology team to ensure it aligns with your treatment plan.

Item The duration of mistletoe therapy varies depending on the individual’s treatment goals. Some patients use it throughout active cancer treatment, while others continue it long-term for immune support and recurrence prevention. Therapy plans are customized and regularly reassessed to optimize benefits​.

Yes. Research and clinical experience suggest that mistletoe therapy is safe for extended use under medical supervision. Long-term use may help maintain immune function and support ongoing cancer surveillance​.

Mistletoe therapy is not currently covered by most insurance providers. However, we strive to make it accessible by offering transparent pricing and personalized guidance on sourcing and affordability​.

Yes. After the initial dose is administered in-office to ensure patient safety and comfort, most patients can self-administer subcutaneous injections at home. Detailed instructions and ongoing support from our clinical team help ensure proper technique​.

Mistletoe therapy requires ongoing monitoring, individualized dosing adjustments, and integrative oncology expertise to ensure safety and effectiveness. Because of this, it is exclusively available to CIOFM members, who receive personalized care and close follow-ups as part of their treatment plan​.