Mistletoe
All About Mistletoe
Mistletoe is commonly hung in an entryway to promote a kiss during the holidays. This hemi-parasitic plant is poisonous to humans.
Fun Fact
While mistletoe is poisonous to humans, many birds and insects thrive off eat the berries and leaves!
Mistletoe Research
There is limited scientific research on the human use of mistletoe. However, more research is warranted on the topic of mistletoe supplements as a cancer treatment. Further, it has shown potential as an anti-inflammatory, sedative, hypotensive, and anti-diabetic. Click the button below for a detailed review of research.
Mistletoe Blog Articles
Mistletoe Herb
Latin Name: Viscum album
Family: Santalaceae
Other Names
- Druid's herb, mistelkraut, all-heal, banda, viscum
- Other Scientific names: Visci herba
- Not to be confused with: Phoradendron serotinum, American mistletoe
Plant Description
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant growing in trees with forked stem pieces, white pea sized berries, small yellowish flowers, and yellowish-green leathery lanceolate leaves.
Herb Description
Leaf, twigs and berries are used. Small amounts can be toxic and lethal. Mistletoe has a low therapeutic margin and serious side effects with overuse.
Key Constituents
Lectins, toxic polypeptides (viscotoxins), lignans, flavononoids, amines, phenylpropanes, biogenic amines
