It is sometimes claimed that alternative treatments are a cruel rip-off that further impoverishes desperate cancer patients. While Essiac-type formulas are available at a reasonable cost in many health food stores, the brew is potentially even less expensive, since it is derived from weeds found in many backyards. Essiac's use is growing in both the U.S. and Canada, where it is legal, but only for terminal cancer patients. Because of its underground popularity, some entrepreneurs have tried to cash in. Companies have come out with competing formulas to trademarked Essiac, some with deceptively similar names or claims to authenticity.
Some patients complain about the confusion.
Canadian author Sheila Snow has been studying the question for 20 years. According to Snow, the authentic Essiac decoction can be homemade from ingredients obtainable from any good herb store. According to Snow, these dried herbs can be used to create enough liquid brew for a daily one ounce dose for 18 to 24 months. In other words, homemade, this treatment costs about4 cents per day. Snow gives complete instructions for preparing the brew.