Safety of High Dosages of Mistletoe Extracts in Animals and Humans
Author Information
Author(s): Kienle Gunver S, Grugel Renate, Kiene Helmut
Primary Institution: Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology at the University of Witten/Herdecke
Hypothesis
Can higher dosages of Viscum album L. induce harm or immunosuppressive effects?
Conclusion
Higher dosages of Viscum album or mistletoe lectins do not cause immunosuppression and exhibit low risk when monitored by clinicians.
Supporting Evidence
- 69 clinical studies and 48 animal experiments were reviewed.
- Most studies reported stable or increased immune parameters.
- Common side effects included flu-like symptoms and local reactions at injection sites.
- Reversible hepatotoxicity was observed in some cases after high doses of recombinant mistletoe lectins.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether high doses of mistletoe extracts are safe. It found that they don't weaken the immune system and are generally safe.
Methodology
Systematic review of clinical studies and animal experiments assessing immune parameters and adverse drug reactions.
Potential Biases
Some studies lacked control groups, increasing the risk of false positive findings.
Limitations
The studies included varied in quality and design, which may affect the reliability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Included both healthy individuals and cancer patients, with a total of 69 clinical studies and 48 animal experiments.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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