Essiac for Dogs

Significance

• According to the Essiac Tea Herbal Remedies website, Essiac tea was developed in 1922 by a nurse named Rene Caisse who cared for cancer patients and discovered the benefits of this tea for her patients. The name came from the nurse, Caisse, spelled backwards. The manufacturer of this blend of eight herbs claims that the tea has anti-cancer effects, though no scientific studies support this claim. The tea may help with other ailments for both humans and pets alike. Speak with your veterinarian regarding the benefits of Essiac tea for your dog.

Ingredients

• The original Essiac formula included burdock root, slippery elm inner bark, sheep sorrel and rhubarb root. To improve its effectiveness, watercress, blessed thistle, red clover and kelp were added to the recipe.

Benefits of Ingredients

• According to the Canine Cancer website, the original ingredients had special health benefits, such as burdock root to cleanse blood and lymphatic system, strengthen vital organs such as the liver, pancreas and spleen, and reduce mucus to prevent formation of gall and kidney stones. Burdock roots' vitamin A, selenium and chromium help eliminate free radicals and regulate blood sugar levels. Slippery elm helps to eliminate toxins from the body, nourish and restore plasma in the blood and lymphatic system, and improve asthma, indigestion and eczema. Sheep sorrel helps to clear skin problems, nourish the glandular system and improve liver, intestinal and bowel system. Indian rhubarb root works as a gentle laxative and removes toxic buildup and waste.

Health Benefits

• The blend of Essiac tea may help your dog strengthen its immune system, help the body to destroy benign growths and tumors, and strengthen muscles, organs and tissues. The formula also may remove toxic accumulation in your dogs' body, aid in detoxification and elimination, and purify the blood while it adds strength and flexibility to bones, joints and lungs.

Dosage

• Dosage is dependent upon the size of your dog. Dogs weighing 15 to 40 lbs. take 1/2 oz. of tea, twice per day, dogs weighing 40 to 80 lbs. take 1 oz. of tea, twice per day, and dogs over 80 lbs. take 2 to 3 oz. of tea, twice per day.

Administering

• Your dog may not like the taste of the tea so you may have to experiment as to the best method for your dog. You can mix the tea in broth, directly in the food or mix it in the drinking water. Some people have had success with just mixing the tea and administering it directly in the mouth with a syringe. Do whatever works best for you to benefit your dog.