Mistletoe, (Viscum album) Cut and Sifted Bulk

Family

Loranthaceae (Mistletoe Family)

Etymology

The genus name Viscum is the Latin name for the species; it also refers to birdlime, a sticky substance smeared on twigs to trap birds, in reference to the viscous juice of mistletoe's berries. The species name album is Latin for "white," in reference to the white berries. The common name misteltoe derives from the Anglo-Saxon mistel, "dung," and tan, "twig," meaning "dung on a twig."           

Range of Appearance

Mistletoe is an evergreen, semiparasitic plant native to Europe, Asia, and north Africa. It grows on fruit, poplar, chestnut, pine, spruce, and other trees. The host trees are usually at least twenty years old before mistletoe encroaches, and they are not usually killed by the mistletoe. The plant forms pendant bushes where it grows. Its leaves are thick, oval to round, and 1 to 2 inches long. Its small, inconspicuous, sticky, white flowers are about 1/4 inch long. It is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are borne on different plants.

Parts Used

Young branches, leaf (gathered in spring before the berries appear)

Physiological Effects

Antispasmodic, antitumor, cardiotonic, diuretic, hypotensive, immune tonic, narcotic, nervine, sedative, vasodilator

Medicinal Uses

Mistletoe reduces the heart rate and at the same time strengthens the capillary walls, improves circulation, and relaxes the muscles. It has been shown to destroy cancer cells and stimulate the immune system. European mistletoe is used to treat anxiety, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, cancer, chorea (rapid, jerky movements), convulsions, epilepsy, gout, headache (due to high blood pressure), hypertension, hysteria, insomnia, migraine, seizures, varicose veins, and vertigo. It is available in Europe in products sold under the trade names Abnobaviscum, Eurixor, Helixor, Iscador, and Vysorel. Topically, mistletoe leaves can be made into a poultice to relieve rheumatism pain.

Culinary Uses

The plant and its berries are toxic and should not be eaten.

Other Uses

The Druids considered mistletoe a sacred plant. They celebrated the beginning of winter by having a highranking priest collect some of the plant, cutting it free from its host plant with a golden knife, and they hung it in their homes as protection against all evils. Folkloric tradition holds that carrying mistletoe will bring men good fortune in hunting and women fertiltity. When placed at the bedroom door, it is said to promote restful sleep and positive dreams.

Constituents

Glycoproteins, polypeptides (viscotoxin), flavonoids, triterpene saponins, caffeic acid, lignans, choline, vitamin C, histamine; constituents may vary according to the plant mistletoe grows on

Contraindications

Raw, unprocessed mistletoe is toxic, as are its berries. It should be used only under the guidance of a qualified health-care practitioner, and then should be used only in small doses. Rather than making your own products and risking toxicity, purchase those of reputable companies, and use them according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Mistletoe may cause temporary numbness, vomiting, and reduced heart rate. Avoid during pregnancy.

Plant details were provided by iPlant by Brigitte Mars.

Hyperlink it to https://brigittemars.com/iplant-app/