Intravenous Mistletoe in Supportive Cancer Care

What is mistletoe?

European mistletoe (Viscum album) is a plant that grows on a variety of trees. It is sometimes recommended to people with cancer as an integrative or complementary treatment. The plant is extracted into a liquid that is used mainly as a subcutaneous (SC) injection or an intravenous (IV) infusion. Mistletoe should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.

What is mistletoe used for?

Mistletoe is used in cancer care as it may:

• Enhance immune function
• Support quality of life
• Reduce cancer symptoms and side effects
• Improve treatment outcomes or slow progression

Mistletoe is not used as a cure for cancer.  

To read more about IV Mistletoe - download the research summary.

IV therapies at the CHI are supportive and not intended as alternatives to chemotherapy, radiation, surgery or other hospital based treatments.

IV treatments are provided in a group setting at the CHI by Registered Nurses (RNs) and IV-certified Naturopathic Doctors (NDs).

Eligibility for IV therapy is determined through visits with your CHI care team including a naturopathic doctor, integrative & functional medicine practitioner and nurse practitioner. IV therapies are not suitable for every patient under our care.

More questions?  Read more about intravenous therapy and FAQS