8144 E. Cactus Rd, Ste 820, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 214-3922 staff@drstallone.com

Mistletoe (VAE) Therapy

The world's most researched integrative oncology therapy for immune support, quality of life, and treatment tolerance.

What is Mistletoe Therapy?

Mistletoe therapy uses extracts from the European mistletoe plant (Viscum album) to support cancer patients. Known as VAE (Viscum Album Extract) therapy, it is the most widely used and extensively studied complementary cancer treatment in the world, with over 100 years of clinical use and more than 150 clinical studies published.

In Europe, mistletoe extracts are prescribed by oncologists alongside conventional treatment, with over 60% of cancer patients in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria receiving mistletoe as part of their care. At Arizona Integrative Medical Center, we bring this evidence-based approach to our patients seeking comprehensive integrative oncology support.

How Mistletoe Works

Mistletoe extracts contain several bioactive compounds that work together to support cancer patients:

Immune Stimulation

Mistletoe lectins activate natural killer cells, T-cells, and macrophages - key components of your immune system's ability to recognize and fight cancer cells.

Cytotoxic Effects

Active compounds in mistletoe have been shown to directly inhibit cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in laboratory studies.

Quality of Life

Clinical studies consistently show mistletoe improves energy, appetite, sleep, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life during cancer treatment.

Treatment Tolerance

Patients receiving mistletoe alongside chemotherapy often experience fewer side effects and require fewer dose reductions or treatment delays.

Research Evidence for Mistletoe Therapy

Mistletoe therapy has an extensive research base supporting its use:

  • Over 150 clinical studies published in peer-reviewed journals
  • Multiple randomized controlled trials demonstrating benefits
  • Large observational studies with thousands of patients
  • Studies at major cancer centers including Johns Hopkins and Memorial Sloan Kettering

Research has shown benefits for breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, and other malignancies. Studies consistently demonstrate improved quality of life, reduced chemotherapy side effects, and enhanced immune function.

Benefits for Cancer Patients

  • Improved Energy: Significant reduction in cancer-related fatigue
  • Better Treatment Tolerance: Fewer chemotherapy and radiation side effects
  • Enhanced Immune Function: Measurable increases in immune cell activity
  • Reduced Nausea: Less chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
  • Improved Appetite: Better nutritional status and weight maintenance
  • Better Sleep: Improved sleep quality and duration
  • Emotional Well-being: Reduced anxiety and depression
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Overall improvement in daily functioning

Mistletoe Extract Products We Use

We use pharmaceutical-grade European mistletoe extracts that have been used clinically for decades:

Helixor

German-manufactured mistletoe extract available in formulations from apple, fir, and pine trees. Different host trees have varying properties suited to different cancer types.

Iscador

Swiss anthroposophic mistletoe preparation with over 80 years of clinical use. Available in multiple formulations matched to specific cancer types and patient needs.

What to Expect During Treatment

Initial Consultation

Dr. Stallone will review your cancer diagnosis, treatment plan, and overall health to determine if mistletoe therapy is appropriate for you and which product and dosing schedule would be optimal.

Administration

Mistletoe is typically administered by subcutaneous injection (just under the skin), similar to an insulin injection. After initial training, most patients learn to self-administer at home. We also offer IV mistletoe therapy for patients who prefer office-based treatment or need higher doses.

Treatment Schedule
  • Starting Phase: Treatment begins with low doses, gradually increasing to find your optimal therapeutic dose
  • Maintenance: Typically 2-3 injections per week, adjusted based on response
  • Duration: Most patients continue throughout their cancer treatment and often beyond
Expected Response

A mild local reaction at the injection site (slight redness, warmth) is normal and indicates immune activation. Some patients experience a mild fever (100-101F) in the hours following injection, which is also a positive sign of immune response.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, mistletoe is commonly used alongside chemotherapy in Europe and has been shown to reduce side effects while potentially enhancing treatment efficacy. Studies show no negative interactions with standard chemotherapy regimens. We coordinate timing with your oncologist to optimize benefits.

Medical mistletoe uses European mistletoe (Viscum album), which is different from American mistletoe. The pharmaceutical extracts we use are highly purified, standardized preparations - never consume raw mistletoe plants, which can be toxic.

Many patients notice improvements in energy and well-being within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment. Quality of life benefits typically become more pronounced over 2-3 months as the immune system responds to therapy.

Mistletoe should be used cautiously in patients with certain autoimmune conditions, organ transplants, or specific hematologic cancers (leukemias, lymphomas). It's also typically avoided during pregnancy. Dr. Stallone will review your complete medical history to ensure mistletoe is safe and appropriate for you.
Cancer Care Therapies
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