Honored by Druids and prized by ancient Romans, mistletoe is today usually associated with Christmas celebrations. But this plant, so famous for inducing a ritual kiss when pairs stand beneath it, is also notable for its potential health benefits. While the berries of mistletoe are poisonous, the leaves of this plant have been used in folk remedies around the world since antiquity.
Mistletoe has been associated with mystical healing practices for centuries. A parasitical plant that grows on the branches of trees, mistletoe is slow-growing, but it may live as long a seventy years. The plant can often be found growing on the branches of fir, pear, apple, and birch trees as well as other kinds of trees. It is important to note that it is European mistletoe which is the plant used medicinally; American mistletoe’s use is generally confined to holiday decorations.
According to European folklore, mistletoe was associated with fertility. Not surprisingly, it was also revered as an aphrodisiac, but its association with love doesn’t end there. Ancient Romans celebrated marriage ceremonies by kissing beneath a hanging bough of mistletoe. Before becoming associated with Christmas, mistletoe was also regarded as a sign of good fortune and was believed to provide protection against witchery. The Vikings revered it so much that they believed it could even bring a dead person back to life. Medieval people frequently hung mistletoe from the ceiling so that the household could enjoy its protective powers.
Yet, folk practitioners also used mistletoe to treat a variety of ills. Its calming effect made it a popular choice for people suffering from nervous ailments and even epilepsy. It was also used to treat coughs and asthmatic symptoms. A rapid heart rate and high blood pressure were also sometimes treated with mistletoe. The leaves of the plant were frequently brewed into a tea that the sufferer would drink. Additionally, mistletoe was used topically as a treatment for gout.
Today, mistletoe is used in Europe and Asia to treat cancer. In Germany, mistletoe is a popular alternative to more conventional cancer medications. The herb is said to have anti-tumor properties. However, mistletoe has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat any health condition. While mistletoe injection is allowed in Europe, it is not legal in the U.S. Extracts made from mistletoe are typically taken by mouth or used in tinctures and teas.
However, it is vital to discuss mistletoe herb usage with a qualified healthcare professional before taking it or any other herb. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine warns that eating raw and unprocessed mistletoe (both European and American) is poisonous. Be sure to investigate the mistletoe extract you take before considering it for use. Many experts warn that it should not be used outside of clinical trials.
On the other hand, if this herb proves too risky to try, keep it around as a winter decoration. It stays green all year and adds its festive charm to any holiday celebration. With its ancient roots, mistletoe is a mysterious plant that continues to be studied for its potential uses.
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