(no subject)

[novapsyche]

Ancient remedy 'shrinks cancer'

Chaparral, an evergreen desert shrub, has long been used by native Americans to treat cancer, colds, wounds, bronchitis, warts, and ringworm.

But experts dismissed its worth, and warned it could be dangerous.

Now researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have shown an extract may shrink some tumours.

Chaparral tea was widely used in the US as an alternative anti-cancer agent from the late 1950s to the 1970s.

However, the American Cancer Society said there was no proof that it was an effective treatment for cancer - or any other disease.

And the US Food and Drug Administration warned against its use after research showed it could damage the liver and the kidneys.

However, initial results from the latest study show that an extract of the shrub appears not only to be safe, but to have a positive effect.

Comments

[akaiyume.livejournal.com]

How does the FDA decide this stuff?

I mean, some meds are being pushed that have potentially dangerous side effects that dwarf what they are supposed to cure. But a possible treatment for cancer is too dangeross because it could damage the liver and kidneys. But chemo and radiation treatments aren't too dangerous?

At least finally someone is asserting that it may be helpful.