Escharotic Treatment
the naturopathic way
Escharotic therapy is a topical, non-surgical treatment to the cervix used to selectively kill HPV-infected and dysplastic cells while preserving healthy, non-infected cervical cells. An initial naturopathic intake visit is required and then each escharotic session lasts 30min. It involves inserting a speculum to visualize the cervix and applying the solution directly onto the cervix with cotton swabs.
More details on Escharotic Treatment
A typical course of treatment is weekly topical applications for 8 - 12 weeks depending on the severity of the cervical lesion
A solution of zinc chloride and the herbs, Sanguinaria canadensis and Curcuma longa are used
This treatment is not intended to replace current screening or medical recommendations
It can be used as a complementary therapy to reduce occurrence of repeat positive colposcopies and further reduce need for surgical management of cervical dysplasia
For best results, an oral supplementation program in addition to lifestyle changes is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions about Escharotic Treatment
What is Cervical Dysplasia?
A precancerous condition of the cervix caused by HPV
HPV (human papilloma virus) is a virus responsible for several cancers including cervical cancer
What is a pap test?
Pap tests are used to screen for cervical dysplasia and cancer
A sample of cervical cells is collected and analyzed for the presence of normal or abnormal cells
An abnormal result may be called low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), ASC-US, ASC-H, CIN 1, CIN 2, CIN 3 or adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS)
Is this the same as black salve?
No. A “black salve” treatment involves applying a paste directly onto the skin and leaving it there for days. This is highly dangerous and often leads to severe tissue destruction. The solution used in an escharotic treatment is applied onto the cervix and washed off after 90 seconds.
Does escharotic “burn” the abnormal cells off?
No. The solution used destroys abnormal cells by inhibiting the sodium-potassium pump and facilitating a highly selective immune response targeting HPV.
Is escharotic therapy right for everyone with cervical dysplasia?
No. It depends on the degree of dysplasia, which is best determined by a colposcopy and on your goals, which can be discussed with your naturopathic doctor.
Currently, escharotic therapy is only offered by a few practitioners in Alberta. To see if escharotic therapy in Calgary is right for you, book a complimentary 15min Meet & Greet with Dr. Kate.
Research Papers:
Swanick, S., Windstar-Hamlin K., & Zwickey, H. (2009). An Alternative Treatment for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia II, III. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 8(2), 164-167.
Leaver, C.A., Yuan, H. & Wallen, G.R. (2018). Apoptotic Activities of Sanguinaria canadensis: Primary Human Keratinocytes, C-33A and Human Papillomavirus HeLa Cervical Cancer Lines. Integrative Medicines. 17(1), 32-37.