Originally, Mistletoe was a common name referring to the European Mistletoe (Viscum album) native to Europe and the UK; however, over time it has been used for a wide range of species and a few genera of parasitic plants with growth habits similar to European Mistletoe.
European Mistletoe is a obligate parasitic plant that attaches to a host tree or shrub to extract the water and nutrients it needs to survive. Mistletoe has been a part of seasonal celebration for thousands of years, now normally associated with Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Mistletoe bunches can be found hanging over a doorway in homes or other area such as from the ceiling, on an arbor, canopy bed, entry-way light or disco ball. When people pass under the mistletoe it is tradition that they kiss.
Mistletoe traditions have been a part of many cultures and have dated back to Druid times in pre-Western civilization.
At one time it was a marriage ceremony for the bride and groom to kiss under the Mistletoe when they were wed. It was also said that enemies who met under mistletoe would not fight.
Mistletoe in many cultures is a very magical plant that is said to be life-giving and to promote fertility. It has also been used in many cultures to chase away bad energies or spirits by hanging in the doorway of the house. Romans associated Mistletoe with peace & love and it was hung over doorways for protection and as part of the Saturnalia festival.
Despite its toxicity, Mistletoe has also been used in traditional herbal medicine for its ability to lower blood pressure, as a sedative and anxiolytic. It has also been used for neurological disease, such as epilepsy, hysterical psychosis and headaches.
Through scientific investigation it has been confirmed to have antiepileptic, sedative, antinociceptive and antipsychotic effects. It is also known to have certain cognitive effects.
Mistletoe has also been in use in the treatment of cancer, and numerous clinical studies exist, some with benefit and some without, so the overall evidence is still controversial.
Cancer patients are prescribed preparations of Mistletoe in Europe as an adjuvant treatments and some studies report increased survival rates, quality of life and stimulation of the immune system.
Mistletoe can change its chemical composition depending on the host plant, so its use in alternative medicine may depend on this, but it is also known that certain components exhibit anticancer effects, such as the viscotoxins.
The German Comission E Monographs approve European Mistletoe for rheumatism and tremors (as a adjuvant). Homeopathic preparations also exist and used for indications such as arthritis, headache, high blood pressure and cancer.
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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
Mistletoe Peace, Love & Healing for the New Year!
