Carctol: Profit before Patients?
SUMMARY: BACKGROUND: Carctol is a herbal remedy that recently was widely reported to offer a cure for a range of cancers. This article is aimed at evaluating the evidence that supports this claim. METHODS: In addition to numerous websites, we conducted systematic searches in six electronic databases. Any factual information relating to Carctol was considered. RESULTS: The websites provided the composition of the herbal mixture and numerous claims as to its effectiveness. However, not a single scientific study of any style was found. CONCLUSIONS: The claim that Carctol is of any benefit to cancer patients is not supported by scientific evidence.
Ernst
Edzard
E
Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter and Plymouth, Exeter, UK.