Viscum album (mistletoe) | Plants & Fungi At Kew Discover more Geography and distribution Mistletoe ranges from North Africa to southern England and southern Scandinavia, across Central Europe to southwest and east Asia to Japan. In Europe three subspecies (ssps.), which grow on different species of host trees, have been recognised. Viscum album ssp. album grows on hardwoods, V. album ssp. abietis on fir trees (Abies) and V. album ssp. laxum grows on pines and spruce. Further east there are well-known forms of V.album which have coloured fruits. In the UK V. album occurs from east Devon to Yorkshire, and is particularly common in central and southern England and around London. Viscum album bush Habitat Mistletoe is partially parasitic, growing on several woody hosts (trees and shrubs) in a variety of wooded habitats, extending from the tropics (typical V. album is recorded from the Chin Hills in Burma) into temperate regions. Across its geographical range, it can be found growing on gymnosperms as well as broadleaved trees.

In the UK, poplar, lime, apple and hawthorn are common hosts. Mistletoes on native European oaks are rare. Description Viscum album is a small woody shrub, frequently globular in shape and can reach over 1 m in diameter. It grows on the branches of other trees, to which it is attached by a swelling called a haustorium. In common with all mistletoes, it is hemiparasitic which means that although it depends on its host for water and mineral nutrients, it is able to photosynthesise (create its own carbohydrates using sunlight) because it has green leaves and stems. The stems of the mistletoe appear characteristically forked, (pseudo-dichotomously branched) and it is possible to estimate the age of a mistletoe bush simply by counting the number of times that the branches fork and adding two years (since often one fork is produced in each year from the third year after germination). V. album is dioecious, which means that male and female flowers are produced on separate plants.

The small, easily overlooked flowers are produced in a short inflorescence of three to five flowers in the forks of the branches. Although small, the flowers are reported to be insect-pollinated and they are said to be sweetly scented and to produce nectar. The white berries appear from about October until May. Inside they contain a single green seed which lacks a seed coat but is surrounded by a sticky pulp. An apple tree killed by mistletoe Other common names German: Mistel, Vogelmistel, Leimmistel, Affolter, Bocksfutter, Drudenfua, Elfklatte, Geiakrut, Guomol, Hexenbesen, Immergrune, Kluster, Marenklatte, Marentaken, Mischgle, Mischgelt, Misple, Nistle, Uomol, Vogelchrut, VogelKlab, Vogellim, Wespe, Wintergrun, Wispen, Wasp.

French: gui, gui commun, gui de druides Italian: vischio, visco, vescovaggine, guatrice, pania, scoaggine Spanish: muerdago Threats and conservation Viscum album is locally common in the UK. The most recent survey (1993-6) showed that, in its stronghold in the former apple orchard areas of the Welsh borders, the populations had fallen in numbers as a direct consequence of the decline of the orchards. In spite of this, the plant was still much more common in the counties of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire, when compared with what are probably more natural frequencies found elsewhere. Infestations of mistletoe are detrimental to the host tree, and large infestations can eventually lead to the host's death, particularly during prolonged periods of dry weather. As mistletoe reduces the productivity of commercial fruit trees it is often pruned out to try and stop its spread. Uses Male plant Mistletoe has had a long history of use in folk medicine. Druids (members of a priestly class active in Gaul during pre-Christian times) regarded mistletoe growing on oak as superior.

Some of the constituent compounds of mistletoe affect the immune, circulatory and cardiac systems. Mistletoe has been used as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, digestive and diuretic, and, among the many ailments it has been used to treat, are epilepsy, ulcers, high blood pressure, rheumatism and certain types of cancer. Despite experimental anti-tumour effects, research is still underway to determine its clinical role, although the commercially available mistletoe extracts such as Iscador and Helixor are widely used as oncological drugs, particularly in Germany. Druids used the plant as an aphrodisiac, and in Scandinavian tales it symbolises peace and love. Until the arrival of Christmas trees in the nineteenth century, the kissing bough held centre stage at Christmas, when a berry was plucked with each kiss until none was left. Today, mistletoe is still a favourite Christmas decoration. Cultivation Viscum album has been introduced to host trees in Kew Gardens many times, but has been difficult to establish. In 1996 seeds were placed on 14 different Malus species.

None of these became a host but a nearby Crataegus monogyna now exhibits a good clump, which appears to be about eight to nine years old. In 2004 a Kew Diploma student introduced locally-collected seed. He rubbed 20 seeds into the bark of each of nine suitable host trees. Mostly the sides or undersides of branches were used, with the pulp surrounding the seeds used as glue. The bark was not cut into at all. This process mimics seed dispersal by birds. Point of attachment to an apple tree On one of the Malus trees in the trial, six seeds germinated, and by 2009 four of the plants were doing well. Three seeds germinated on a lime tree but the plants then disappeared. However, in autumn 2009, a new seedling appeared on the same lime tree. It is hoped that some of the trees on which seeds germinated but then disappeared may similarly produce more plants in the future. Some authors suggest that the best method is to build up a store of good viable seed, which can be sown after winter, when the chance of predation by small birds such as tits is at its lowest.

Seeds from robust, healthy bushes, collected from January onwards can be stored once the fruit skins have been removed and the seeds air-dried. Critically, the seeds must be stored in the light, as it seems that the green embryo needs to photosynthesise. The rehydrated seeds can then be sown from March onwards. The Arboretum team at Kew collected more seeds during the winter of 2009 in order to continue research on the cultivation of mistletoe. Kew and the mistletoe trade Scientists in Kew's Sustainable Uses of Plants Group were commissioned by the Countryside Agency, English Nature and Scottish Natural Heritage to undertake research on the commercial uses of wild and traditionally managed plants in England and Scotland. Border towns between England and Wales, in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Shropshire and Worcestershire, are the traditional centres for mistletoe trade. Tenbury Wells (in Herefordshire) has the last remaining specialist mistletoe auctions based on material gathered by local orchard owners and their casual workers. Despite the English harvest, imports - mostly from France - seem to be the source of most seasonal mistletoe in the London markets.

In recent years, small amounts of imported French mistletoe have even reached the market at Tenbury Wells, but 99% of mistletoe traded there is still collected in local counties. Kiss of death? Mistletoe contains a mixture of toxic proteins, viscotoxins and mistletoe lectins. The leaves and stems are reported to be more poisonous than the fruits, and there is some evidence that the toxicity depends on the species of tree on which mistletoe is growing. Most problems are likely to arise when mistletoe is cut and brought indoors (for example at Christmas-time), and usually involve children who have eaten the fruits. Reactions vary and depend on the age of the child and the number of fruits eaten. As few as three or four berries may produce mild stomach ache; if large numbers are eaten gastroenteritis and diarrhoea may result. Poisoning is rarely serious, but it is best to seek medical advice. Pets can be at risk; some cases of dog poisoning have been fatal. References and credits Becker, H. (2000). European mistletoe - taxonomy, host trees, parts used, physiology.

In: Mistletoe: The Genus Viscum, ed. A. Bussing. Harwood Academic Publishers. Bown, D. (2008). The Royal Horticultural Society Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses. Dorling Kindersley, London. Cooper, M.R. and Johnson, A.W. (1998). Poisonous Plants and Fungi in Britain: Animal and Human Poisoning. 2nd Ed. The Stationery Office, London. Cooper, M.R., Johnson, A.W. & Dauncey, E.A. (2003). Poisonous Plants and Fungi: An Illustrated Guide. 2nd Ed. The Stationery Office, London. Duke, J.A. (2001). Handbook of Medicinal Plants. CRC Press, Boca Raton and London. Kirkup, D.W., Polhill, R.M. & Wiens, D. (2000). Viscum in the context of its family Viscaceae and its diversity in Africa. In: Mistletoe: The Genus Viscum, ed. A. Bussing. Harwood Academic Publishers.

Prendergast, H.D.V. & Sanderson, H. (2004). Britain's Wild Harvest: The Commercial Uses of Wild Plants and Fungi. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Ramm, H., Urech, K., Scheibler, M. & Grazi, G. (2000). Cultivation and development of Viscum album. In: Mistletoe: The Genus Viscum, ed. A. Bussing. Harwood Academic Publishers. The Golden Bough. (a newsletter to foster the biosystematics of Loranthaceae and Viscaceae). Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Kew Science Editor: Don Kirkup Kew contributors: Tony Hall (HPE); Steve Davis (Sustainable Uses Group) Copyediting: Emma Tredwell While every effort has been taken to ensure that the information contained in these pages is reliable and complete, the notes on hazards, edibility and suchlike included here are recorded information and do not constitute recommendations. No responsibility will be taken for readers’ own actions.

Viscum album Mistletoe, European mistletoe PFAF Plant Database 6-9 Known Hazards All parts of the plant are poisonous[10, 19], though the toxicity level is very slight[65]. Hepatitis may occur. Toxic doses: hypotension, coma, seizures, pupil dilation, death. Contraindicated during pregnancy. Can interfere with allopathic drugs for high blood pressure, heart disease, antidepressants and anticoagulants. Avoid for progressive disorders like tuberculosis. It's use for cancers and leukemia is currently under review [301]. Habitats Grows on the branches of many trees, especially poplars, apples, chestnut and birch and especially on calcareous soils[7, 17]. Not usually found on conifers[17]. Range Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, central Asia and Japan. Edibility Rating Physical Characteristics Viscum album is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). It is hardy to zone (UK) 7.

It is in leaf 12-Jan It is in flower from Feb to April, and the seeds ripen from Nov to December. The flowers are dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required)The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. Synonyms Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Edible Uses Edible Parts: Fruit . Edible Uses: The ripe fruit is edible[272]. Some caution is advised, see notes above on toxicity[K]. Medicinal Uses Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally. Narcotic ; Nervine ; Stimulant ; Tonic ; Vasodilator .

Mistletoe is chiefly used to lower blood pressure and heart rate, ease anxiety and promote sleep. In low doses it can also relieve panic attacks and headaches, and also improves the ability to concentrate[254]. The plant's efficacy as an anticancer treatment has been subject to a significant amount of research - there is no doubt that certain constituents of the plant , especially the viscotoxins, exhibit an anticancer activity but the value of the whole plant in cancer treatment is not fully accepted[254]. It is said that the constituents of mistletoe vary according to the host plant it is growing on - that found on oak trees is said to be superior[238]. Because of the potential side effects, this plant should only be used internally under the guidance of a skilled practitioner. Using the plant internally can provoke intolerant reactions to certain substances[7]. The leaves and young twigs contain several medically active compounds[279].

They are antispasmodic, cardiac, cytostatic, diuretic, hypotensive, narcotic, nervine, stimulant, tonic and vasodilator[4, 7, 19, 21, 46, 66, 165, 238, 279]. They are harvested just before the berries form and are dried for later use[4]. Mistletoe has a reputation for curing epilepsy and other convulsive nervous disorders[4]. The effect of the correct dosage is to lessen and temporarily benumb the nervous activity that causes the spasms, but larger doses can produce the problem[4]. Mistletoe has also been employed in checking internal haemorrhages, in treating high blood pressure and in treating cancer of the stomach, lungs and ovaries[4, 9, 238, 279]. Externally, the plant has been used to treat arthritis, rheumatism, chilblains, leg ulcers and varicose veins[238]. A homeopathic remedy is made from equal quantities of the berries and leaves[4].

It is difficult to make because of the viscidity of the sap[4]. The German Commission E Monographs, a therapeutic guide to herbal medicine, approve Viscum album Mistletoe for rheumatism, tremor therapy as a adjuvant (see [302] for critics of commission E). Other Uses None known Cultivation details A parasitic plant, growing on the branches of several deciduous species of trees. It is not usually found on coniferous trees, though the subspecies V. album abietis is found on conifers, especially Abies spp, whilst V. album austriacum is found on pine and larix. The host tree must be at least 20 years old[200]. Although the host branch might eventually succumb, the host tree is seldom killed[200]. Propagation This is a parasitic plant that grows entirely on the host tree. To grow it you need to obtain berries and squash them onto the branches of host trees in late autumn and early winter[11]. This is best done on the lower side of the branch[1]. It is then simply a matter of waiting and hoping. Other Names Found In Weed Potential Right plant wrong place.

We are currently updating this section. Please note that a plant may be invasive in one area but may not in your area so it’s worth checking. Conservation Status IUCN Red List of Threatened Plants Status : Related Plants Mistletoe Mistletoe Common names Mistletoe Mistletoe is actually the general name for obligate hemi-parasitic herb belonging to the Loranthaceae family of genus Santalales. While several species of this plant are found in places like North America, Asia, Europe, Australia and Korean, the most common species is known as American Mistletoe (botanical name, Phoradendron Leucarpun) and the European Mistletoe (botanical name, Viscum album). As mistletoe is a parasitic plant, it generally grows on other trees/ plants, for instance, apple trees, pines , firs, in addition to oaks and produces yellowish green leaves, flowers and extremely waxy berries.

While the berries of the American mistletoe as well as European mistletoe have been regarded as a toxic substance for long, the leaves of the herb when taken as a tea are known to have a significant standing as a home remedy. In fact, these two plants - American mistletoe and European mistletoe - not only differ in their names, but also in known usage. In effect, it is believed that the American mistletoe invigorates the smooth muscles resulting in a rise in blood pressure and enhances tightening of uterine as well as intestine. On the other hand, the European mistletoe just works in an opposite manner and reduces blood pressure as well as functions as a calmative and anti-spasmodic agent. In effect, both American mistletoe as well as European mistletoe enclose toxic proteins , which are very identical in their chemical structure. These are selected phoratoxin, which when separated from Phoradendron species as well as viscotoxins are obtained from a variety of Viscum album. Different from the traditional reputation, these two species of mistletoe enclose them.

In effect, phoratoxin and the viscotoxins resulted in the same effects when they were injected into animals during trials. The effects caused by these species of mistletoe in the animals included slowing as well as weakening of the heartbeat, hypotension as well as narrowing of the blood vessels in the skeletal muscles as well as the skin. Nevertheless, it is important to note that scientists/ researchers are yet to study the effects caused in humans following the oral use of the herb. In Germany, occasionally extracts obtained from European mistletoe are used to treat malignant tumors. A sterilized solution, which is commercially available, is administered as an intravenous injection or injected directly into the tumor offering pain -killing treatment for specific cancer types. However, authorities in the United States are yet to approve the use of this medication. In effect, this type of use of mistletoe has led scientists to identify three lectins in the plant. It may be noted that lectins are actually proteins that make the red blood cells (RBC) clump (agglutinate).

Several plant lectins are known to be extremely cytotoxic (a substance that has noxious influence on specific cells) and currently, scientists have undertaken studies to find their probable usefulness in cancer chemotherapy . In effect, extracts of a number of species on which the parasitic mistletoe grows in Australia have shown to enclose two toxic substances - glycosides and alkaloids . Hence, mistletoes that grow on Duboisia species enclose toxic solanaceous alkaloids, while those growing on oleander enclose very strong cardiac glycosides. Therefore, the identification of the plants that host the parasitic mistletoe is of utmost importance provided the raw plant material is used in the form of a medication. Several well-known and accepted writers on herb advise taking mistletoe tea in the form of a remedy for a number of medical conditions varying from nervousness to cancer. On the other hand, as coffee is an expensive beverage, several people have even advised taking mistletoe tea as a pleasing substitute. It may be noted that the latest surveys of toxic plants in the United States keep on highlighting the poisonous nature of the berries borne by American mistletoe.

On the other hand, sources in Germany now claim that the berries of European mistletoe and not the leaves are only somewhat toxic in nature, if there is any toxicity at all. Over several hundred years, herbalists all over Europe have been depending on the tea or tincture prepared with the berries of mistletoe to cure a number of symptoms related to high blood pressure, such as headaches , wooziness, tetchiness, loss of vitality and others. Therefore, one ancient remedy has emerged from the grave which can be used for an extremely acute medical condition. In Europe, herbalists have a few dissimilar methods of employing mistletoe in the form of a heart sedative as well as an antihypertensive (any substance that helps to lower high blood pressure). One of these methods is to take equivalent portions - approximately two tablespoonful of each - of mistletoe and hawthorn berries, and leaves of lemon balm and subsequently soak them in two pints of steaming water for about 25 minutes. Half a cup (125 ml) of this tea is taken twice daily - once in the morning and again in the evening.

The other method is to steep four teaspoonful of finely sliced mistletoe in 1 pint to 1 1/4 pints of cold water for the night and drink one cup (250 ml) of the beverage as the first thing you do in the following morning. Parts used Leaves, branches, berries. Uses Chemical analysis of mistletoe has revealed that this parasitic herb possesses calming, anti-spasmodic, purgative, immuno-modulator, immuno-stimulator, a potent hypotensive (causing low blood pressure), an excellent cardio-tonic, diuretic and vermifuge (any medication that helps to expel worms from the body) properties. Due to its multifarious therapeutic attributes, mistletoe is prescribed to cure cough , particularly spasmodic cough, asthmatic attacks attributed to psychological tension as well as bronchial asthma .

Simultaneously, this herb is also used to alleviate the symptoms of epilepsy , hysteria , dizziness , nervous fits, neurosis, cardiac ischemia, arterial hypertension, hiccups , predispositions to virosis (a viral infection ), digestive as well as uterine cramps , memory problems related to hypertension (high blood pressure) , ganglionary ailments as well as immunity disorders owing to old age. The herb is also applied topically to treat gout , leucorrhoea (a white or yellowish vaginal discharge) and sciatica (pain in some portions of the sciatic nerve). The Druids and ancient Greeks were the first to use European mistletoe for the reported health benefits offered by the herb. These people employed European mistletoe in the form of a ï¿½cure all' to treat almost all types of medical conditions. In effect, since long, mistletoe has been extensively employed in the form of an herbal therapy for an assortment of health disorders, counting alleviating headaches, pains caused by arthritis as well as the menopausal symptoms . Primarily, European mistletoe is employed to reduce high blood pressure and slow down the rapid heart rate, alleviate nervousness and induce sleep.

When used in small doses, mistletoe helps to provide relief from headaches, panic attacks and, at the same time, augments concentration. Herbalists especially prescribe European mistletoe to treat epilepsy and tinnitus (a ringing or similar sensation in the ear). The extracts obtained from mistletoe berries are administered in the form of injection to cure cancer in anthroposophical (a medical philosophy founded on Rudolf Steiner's teachings) medicine. Mistletoe is a very effective remedy for women's problems. For instance, this herb is used to lessen the profuse menstruation flow , menstrual problems as well as hemorrhage following child birth. In addition, this herb can also be employed to treat persistent cramping, infertility as well as to cure uterine problems. Before being a part of a sequence of signs of the winter holidays, in the olden times, mistletoe was regarded to be a religious symbol of the pagans. Mistletoe was considered to possess magical properties since it was effective in curing ailments, brought good luck, defended against witchcraft and was also believed to be a source for treating infertility.

For instance, during the Middle Ages, people were of the belief that hanging branches of mistletoe from the ceiling protected their homes as well as the inhabitants from tainted spirits. There are numerous other instances of the magical attributes of mistletoe. Among these, one relates to the Vikings, who regarded this species to possess the power of getting the dead back to life. On the other hand, the Romans used mistletoe to make their marriages lawful by a famous kiss under the mistletoe tree. Other medical uses Ovarian cancer Habitat and cultivation Mistletoe is indigenous to the northern regions of Asia and Europe. The species called European mistletoe (Viscum album) usually grows on trees that host them, particularly the apple trees. European mistletoe, one of the most common species of the genus, is harvested during autumn. Research The effectiveness of European mistletoe in treating cancer has undergone considerable amount of research. There is little qualm regarding the fact that specific constituents of European mistletoe, particularly the viscotoxins, show anti-cancer activities, but scientists are yet to accept the worth of the entire plant for treating cancer.

Constituents polypeptides (viscotoxins which slow down tumors and encourage the resistance of immune system ) polysaccharides in the berries Usual dosage Although mistletoe is sometimes used to treat cancer, the dosages of the herb mentioned below are all for non-cancerous conditions. This herb may be taken in various forms, including cold infusion, warm infusion, tincture, powder, dried herb and fluid extract. Cold infusion Prepare a cold infusion by adding 2.5 g of delicately sliced fresh leaves of mistletoe to cold water and allow it to soak at room temperature for about 10 to 12 hours. The fresh leaves are preferred to dried leaves as they are considered more active. Take one to two cups of this cold infusion every day. Warm infusion The warm infusion prepared with mistletoe is prepared using 2 g to 6 g of the dried leaves steeped in warm water. For best results, take this warm infusion thrice every day. Tincture Mistletoe tincture is prepared using the leaves and alcohol (40 to 50 per cent) in the ratio of 1:4.

The standard dosage of the tincture is taking 10 to 60 drops thrice every day or 0.5 ml two times every day. Fluid extract The fluid extract obtained from mistletoe leaves is diluted in alcohol (25 to 50 per cent) in the ratio of 1:1. Take the fluid extract in dosage of 25 to 60 drops thrice every day, or, alternately, 1 ml to 3 ml thrice every day. Powder The dosage for mistletoe powder is taking 10 grains to 60 grains thrice or four times every day. Dried herb The normal dosage of the dried herb is taking 9 g to 16 g every day. If you are taking the herb parenterally (administering a medication into the body in a way other than the digestive tract), which is true for a specific product imported from Europe, it is essential to strictly follow the instructions of the manufacturer. Side effects and cautions Taking large doses of mistletoe may have a harmful action on the functioning of the heart. Even consumption of the berries of this parasitic herb may prove to be hazardous, particularly for children.

Moreover, the mistletoe berries may also be toxic for your pets, particularly cats. People taking therapeutic preparations with mistletoe may experience adverse side effects like dehydration , mild to serious fever , diarrhea , seizures , delirium and even hallucinations. This herb or its preparations should never be used during pregnancy or be given to nursing mothers. Plant of the Week – Viscum album | This and That A blog about a bit of this and a bit of that Plant of the Week – Viscum album The second plant profile in the Christmas series focuses on my festive favourite – mistletoe! I hope you find it interesting. 🙂 Genus: Viscum Family: Santalaceae Common name: Mistletoe Translation: Viscum is the Latin name for mistletoe, the album part means “white” which is a reference to the berries it produces. Type of plant: Parasitic evergreen shrub. Origin: Native to Europe. Cultivation: Viscum album is a parasitic plant, which means it lives off the water and nutrients of a host.

It grows on several trees and shrubs in a variety of wooded habitats, the most common hosts it has in the UK are: poplar (Populus), lime (Tilia), apple (Malus) and hawthorn (Crataegus). It occurs from east Devon to Yorkshire, and is particularly common in central and southern England and in areas around London – such as Hertfordshire! Resilience: Very hardy. Pest and disease problems: Viscum album is generally pest and disease free. Interesting Facts 1. Viscum album grows on the branches of other trees, to which it is attached by a swelling called a haustorium. It is also hemiparasitic which means that although it depends on its host for water and mineral nutrients, it is able to photosynthesise because it has green leaves and stems. 2. The stems of Viscum album appear characteristically forked, and it is possible to estimate the age of a mistletoe bush simply by counting the number of times that the branches fork and adding two years. 3. Viscum album is dioecious, which means that male and female flowers are produced on separate plants.

It has small flowers which can be found in the forks of the branches that are reported to be insect-pollinated which are sweetly scented and produce nectar. The white berries appear from about October until May that contain a single green seed, surrounded by a sticky pulp. 4. The berries of Viscum album are often spread by birds from one tree to another, and this is how the large rounded clumps of mistletoe form in tree branches. Mistle thrushes and blackcaps commonly eat the berries, the association with the former being the possible origin of the common name of this plant. 5. Viscum album has had a long history of use in folk medicine. It has been used as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, digestive and diuretic, and, among the many ailments it has been used to treat, are epilepsy, ulcers, high blood pressure, rheumatism and certain types of cancer. 6. Viscum album contains a mixture of toxic proteins, viscotoxins and mistletoe lectins, the leaves and stems are reported to be more poisonous than the fruits.

Poisoning often occurs when mistletoe is cut and brought indoors at Christmas time – although poisoning is rarely serious it is best to seek medical advice. Reactions vary, however as few as three or four berries may produce mild stomach ache; if large numbers are eaten gastroenteritis and diarrhoea may result. Pets can be at risk and some cases of dog poisoning have been fatal. 7. The Druids considered Viscum album to be a sacred plant and believed it had miraculous properties which could cure illnesses, serve as an antidote against poisons, ensure fertility and protect against the ill effects of witchcraft. Moreover, whenever enemies met under the mistletoe in the forest, they had to lay down their arms and observe a truce until the next day. From this has seemingly come the ancient custom of hanging a ball of mistletoe from the ceiling and exchanging kisses under it as a sign of friendship and goodwill. 8. Another version, however, says that this custom was connected to the Norse legend of Freya, goddess of love, beauty and fertility. According to legend, a man had to kiss any young girl who, without realizing it, found herself accidentally under a sprig of mistletoe hanging from the ceiling.

Until the arrival of Christmas trees in the nineteenth century, the kissing bough held centre stage at Christmas – it is still a favourite festive decoration to this day. 9. The custom of exchanging a kiss under the mistletoe can still be found in many European countries as well as in Canada. If a couple in love exchanges a kiss under the mistletoe, it is interpreted as a promise to marry, as well as a prediction of happiness and long life. In France, the custom linked to mistletoe was reserved for New Year’s Day: “Au gui l’An neuf” translates as “Mistletoe for the New Year”. The original custom of kissing under the mistletoe was that a berry was picked from the sprig of mistletoe before the person could be kissed and when all the berries had gone, there could be no more kissing. 10. Mistletoe comes from the Anglo-saxon word “mistle” which means dung, because it was recorded that mistletoe grew where the mistle thrush deposited its droppings on the branches of trees.

The Anglo-saxon word for twig was tan so a literal translation of the word mistletoe would be “dung on a twig”. Resources Plant Names Simplified (Johnson & Smith) RHS A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants Kew’s A-Z guide of Plants and Fungi (website) Viscum album: Mysterious Mistletoe and its Cytotoxic and Immune Enhancing Properties Synonyms English: Bird Lime, Birdlime Mistletoe, Mystyldene, Lignum Crucis, All-heal German: Affolter, Donnerbesen, Heil aller Schï¿½den, Hexenbesen, Nistel, Vogelleimholz, Heiligholz, Heilkreuzholz, Drudenfuss, Wintergrï¿½n, French: Herbe de la Croix, Gui de Chï¿½ne Description Mistletoe grows as a parasite on various deciduous trees. Occasionally it also grows on pines. Contrary to popular belief it is rarely found on oak trees but commonly associated with apple, poplar, and lime.

Mistletoe has some relatives that actually grow as trees or bushes, which suggests that the parasitic habit is acquired and has subsequently been passed on genetically. Mistletoe has an odd appearance: a yellowish ball hanging high up in the tree, visible only after the host tree has lost all its leaves. Mistletoe is evergreen and sustains its greenish yellow leaves throughout the winter. Its growing habit is distinctly round; its twigs branch frequently, and its elongated, oval leaves always grow in opposite pairs. The tiny, inconspicuous yellowish flowers appear in May, but the white, pea-sized, white berries don't ripen until late in the year. Birds, in particular thrushes, are responsible for their seed distribution. The berries are distinctly sticky (hence the Latin name Viscum album - "white sticky stuff") and easily cling to branches and soon send out a sucker rootlet that penetrates the bark of the host tree and taps its sap for nutrients and water. Ecology Although mistletoe is a parasite and as such dependent on the host-plant for nutrients and water, its does not rely on it for carbon dioxide.

Since mistletoe produces green, chlorophyll-containing leaves, it can perform its own photosynthesis. As a rule mistletoe does not kill the host-plant and thus is not really harmful to it. While birds feed on the berries without apparent harm, they are toxic to humans. History, Mythology and Folklore The enigma of the mistletoe, airborne between heaven and earth, has always been a mystery. Where did it come from? How could it sustain itself, without roots, yet bear leaves and fruit, even throughout the winter long after the green life-force has retreated into the womb of the earth? The Druids revered the Mistletoe as the holiest of holies, especially when it appeared on an Oak, their most sacred tree. It was their 'Golden Bough', the key to the heavens and the underworld. The mysterious plant was regarded as the reproductive organs of Thor, the god of thunder, who also presided over the sacred oak tree. In the Druidic tree calendar, the 23rd of December is given to the mistletoe, the day when it was ceremoniously cut.

After offering prayers the chief Druid would ascend into the tree to cut the mistletoe with a golden sickle. Utmost care was taken to prevent the herb from touching the ground. Instead, it had to be caught in a white cloth. Two white bulls, sacred to the Moon-Goddess, all dressed up in garlands were also sacrificed on the holy occasion. The sacrifice of the regenerative power of the solar deity was to bestow blessings of abundance and protection from all evil for the new year. It represented a marriage of the solar and lunar forces, a harmonization of all opposites in perfect balance at the turning point of the year. To celebrate the return of the life-force an orgiastic celebration ensued. Tame and shallow remnants of these ancient and long forgotten ritual enactments have survived even into the 21st century. To this day mistletoe twigs are hung in doorways at Christmas time giving permission to kiss, even a stranger and receive the blessing of the humble twigthough nobody remembers why. In some of the rural, more traditional areas of France, young children can occasionally be seen distributing mistletoe blessings on New Years Day.

Running through the village, shouting 'Au gui l'an neuf' (gui de chï¿½ne  mistletoe) they dedicate the New Year to the mistletoe and invoke its protective blessings. Mistletoe was believed to ward off all evil, bad spirits and witchcraft, and was sometimes worn as a protective amulet. It was also believed to bestow fertility and abundance. In Norse mythology, a darker, though related aspect of the mistletoe symbolism is revealed. The story goes that Baldur, the divine solar hero child of Frigg and Odin was killed by a twig of mistletoe and would not return until after doomsday, when he would bring a new era of light, a golden age. We are told that Baldur, having visions of his immanent death grew concerned. When his parents heard about this they too grew concerned and Frigg went out to obtain oaths from all the elements, the stones, tree, plants and even venomous beasts. All swore never to harm the beautiful young Godall but the mistletoe, who Frigg had deemed too feeble to do any harm and so she never asked for its allegiance.

Satisfied with all the promises she thought her divine son invincible and it became a favorite pastime among the gods to shoot arrows and throw stones at the young God, none of which could harm him. Indeed, aiming shots at Baldur became a sign of honoring him. Unfortunately for Baldur, though the jealous God Loki found out about the neutral status of the mistletoe. He went and picked a branch and returned to the Gods assembly where everyone was having fun shooting at the invincible Godall, except Hodur, Baldurs blind brother. Slyly, Loki went up to Hodur and asked, "Why don't you show honor to your brother by taking a shot at him?" "Because, I can't see, nor do I have anything to throw," he replied. "Here, I will help you," Loki offered, passing Hodur the mistletoe twig and assisting him to direct his aim. In an instant Baldur lay dead. The Gods were aghast and horrified, shocked and angered, and immediately swore to avenge the attack. Meanwhile another brother was sent off to the Underworld to plead with the Goddess of Death to allow Baldur to return to the heavens.

However, the plea was only granted under the condition that all the gods and all the beings of the earth, living or dead, must weep and show their sorrow or else Baldur would have to remain in the Underworld until doomsday. After hearing this, all the gods and all the beings of the earth, living and dead, wailed and wept to show their sorrowall but one: Loki, disguised as an old hag. And so it came to pass that we must wait till doomsday passes for the young sun god to return (which can't be far off - the way things are going.) This legend follows the classic pattern of the solar hero myth, promising redemption and renewal after a period of darknessa perfectly appropriate myth for the celebration of the winter solstice, which marks the return of the Sun God. Hardly surprising, the mistletoe also found its way into Christian mythology as the wood from which Christ's cross was said to have been fashioned. It is due to this disgrace that the mistletoe has been reduced to a parasitic existence. In Greek mythology mistletoe was also associated with the Underworld.

Here, the sacred bough presented the key with which a living mortal could enter the Underworld and return to the world of the living unharmed, as is told in the story of Aeneas. Aeneas, a young hero, enters the underworld by the power of the golden bough and the aid of the age-old Sybil as his guide. He enters this frightful place in search of his father to seek his guidance and advice. He finds him and receives his teachings concerning the cycles of life and death, which he had come for. Eventually he returns safely to the world of the living. But it is the mistletoe that provides him with the key to his destiny and opens the gates to the transformational powers of the underworld from which he returns spiritually reborn. Magical Powers Protection, key to life's mysteries, fertility, abundance, blessings, peace, harmony, balance of opposites, love, transformation. Astrologically this herb is governed by the Sun and Jupiter. Medicinal Uses Viscum album | rottenbotany Mistletoe: Kiss for the Cure for Cancer Mistletoe The globular-leafed, green little bunches are synonymous with Christmas cheer of a very romantic variety.

But mistletoe may well be more than just an excuse to steal a kiss: this parasitic little plant could contain the cure for colon and other cancers. Other common names: All Heal, Birdlime, Devil’s Fuge, Golden Bough, Witches Broom, Wood of the Cross “Mistletoe” is the common name for a hemiparasitic (semi parasitic–a plant that gains nourishment from the host plant but also photosynthesizes) plant of several families (all within the order Santales.) Some of the most familiar plants we know as mistletoe are the common European variety, Viscum album and the North American species, Phoradendron serotinum, both of which are widely harvested as Christmas decoration. A very recent study from the University of Adelaide in Australia has shown an extract from the European Viscum that grows specifically on Ash trees, Viscum fraxini, is ” highly effective against colon cancer cells in cell culture and was gentler on healthy intestinal cells compared with chemotherapy. Significantly, Fraxini extract was found to be more potent against cancer cells than the chemotherapy drug.” Yes, you read that right. More potent against cancer cells than the chemotherapy drug.

It also has fewer side-effects and is gentler on the system. Scientists, herbalists, and ethnobotanists have been studying mistletoe for years. It is known to be poisonous, causing stomach pains and other intestinal distress. For centuries the stems and leaves have been used to make an extract to treat sluggish circulatory systems and major respiratory problems. Rudolf Steiner , the founder of Anthroposophy , pioneered the concept of mistletoe as an anti-cancer medicine. A spiritual botanist , Steiner believed that the parasitic nature of the plant could counteract the parasitic nature of a disease like cancer. It turns out he was right. Scientists have been studying mistletoe’s many varieties for years. In this article published the National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, you can see photographs of a tumor virtually disappearing after six months of treatment with the fraxini extract. Researches at University of Adelaide in Australia extracted three different varieties of mistletoe, all from the Viscum species. Each variety grows on a different kind of tree. The one that grows on the Ash tree so far has proven to be the most effective.

However, there are hundreds upon hundreds of types of mistletoe. The potential is actually quite astounding. In Europe, mistletoe is already being used in the treatment of colon cancer but not it is currently not legal in the United States or Australia, where research is underway to approve it. Mistletoe is steeped in mythology. Viscum album is thought to be The Golden Bough–the branch that Aeneas must give to the Queen of the Underworld in the epic Greek myth. The Romans believed mistletoe contained divine male essence. The Ancient Druids believed the most sacred mistletoe to be the one that grows on oaks. The Norse believed mistletoe contained the power to resurrect the dead. Viscum synonyms, Viscum antonyms - FreeThesaurus.com Viscum synonyms, Viscum antonyms - FreeThesaurus.com noun Synonyms for Viscum type genus of the Viscaceae: Old World evergreen shrubs parasitic on many trees including oaks but especially apple trees, poplars, aspens and cottonwoods Synonyms Want to thank TFD for its existence?

Tell a friend about us , add a link to this page, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content . Link to this page: References in periodicals archive ? Complete structure determination of N-acetylgalactosamine-binding mistletoe lectin-3 from Viscum album L. The treatment of infertility using ethnomedical practices in northern Jordan: a medical anthropological study viscum, Acinodrillia Kilburn, 1988a: 225, figs 165, 166. Richard ('Dick') Neil Kilburn (1942-2013): bibliography and listings of new taxa named by him and in his honour Immunomodulatiry activity of a peptide isolated from Viscum album extract. Versum efficit ipsa relatio contrariorum: il modello agostiniano del dissidio in Petrarca Although largely of the same viscum album variety, the continental cousins are said to be limper and less generous with their berries.

Cherish mistletoe clumps or you'll be kissing it goodbye THERE are about 70 species of mistletoe growing wild across the world's temperate zones, but only one that matters at Christmas time in Britain - Viscum album , with wishbone-shaped pairs of leaves and pairs of white berries that can be toxic to humans. Gardening: Magic of mistletoe Virax Holdings Limited Viscum AG Wilex AG Xenon Genetics Inc. BIO CEO & Investor Conference 2002 Spotlights Industry Leaders; Biotechnology Event Features More than 200 'Companies to Watch' in 2002 Iscador therapy today, popular in special European clinics like the Lukas Klinik in Arlesheim, Switzerland, involves a series of injections of a fermented extract of Viscum album, given in conjunction with radiation and chemotherapy Other adjunctive treatments such as homeopathy and movement and art therapy also are commonly used. Mistletoe Uses, Benefits & Side Effects - Drugs.com Herbal Database ●...Moderate to serious danger. What is Mistletoe?

Mistletoe is a hemiparasitic plant that grows on a wide variety of host trees such as pine, oak, birch, and apple. The term hemiparasitic is used to indicate that the mistletoe plant carries out photosynthesis independently but obtains water and minerals from the host. Slideshow What is it used for? Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses Mistletoe preparations have been used medicinally in Europe for centuries to treat epilepsy, infertility, hypertension, and arthritis. The Celtic priests, known as Druids, revered the oak tree and the mistletoe that grew on it, according to Roman author and naturalist Gaius Plinius Secundus (also known as Pliny the Elder). At the winter celebration of Samhain, the sacred oaks were bare except for the green boughs of mistletoe, and this was taken as a sign of eternal fertility. The Celts placed a sprig of mistletoe above the door of their houses and its sacred nature prohibited fighting beneath it. This evolved over centuries into the custom of kissing underneath mistletoe at Christmas.

In 1921, the Austrian anthroposophical spiritual leader Rudolf Steiner suggested that mistletoe might be used to treat cancer, based on the observation that mistletoe, like cancer, is parasitic and lethal to its host. Swiss and German clinics were founded to implement this idea and still actively use a mistletoe preparation fermented with a strain of Lactobacillus for 3 days. Mistletoe extracts contain several toxic proteins, several of which are lectins, or proteins capable of binding to specific sugars. General uses Mistletoe has been used to treat cancer, although there is a lack of quality clinical trials and no evidence of an effect. Most evidence is ancedotal and based on case reports. Further study is needed. In folk medicine, it has been used for its cardiovascular properties, but its clinical efficacy has not been established. Injectable mistletoe extract is widely used in Europe but is not licensed for use in the United States. What is the recommended dosage? Crude mistletoe fruit or herb is used to make a tea to treat hypertension at a dosage of 10 g/day.

There are a number of proprietary extracts containing low levels of mistletoe lectin-Ι (ML-Ι) used as adjuvant cancer therapies. These extracts usually are given by intravenous or subcutaneous injection at dosages of 0.1 to 30 mg several times per week. Mistletoe preparations, produced according to anthroposophical methods, are given in incrementally increasing dosages depending on the patient's general condition and response to the injection. Use in pediatric patients has been reported. The pharmacokinetics in healthy adults has been determined. How safe is it? Contraindications Data are limited. Use of mistletoe extracts in patients with primary or secondary brain tumors, leukemia, or malignant lymphoma is contraindicated. Pregnancy/nursing Mistletoe contains toxic constituents. Avoid use during pregnancy or lactation. Interactions None well documented. Side Effects Local reactions following injection include redness, itching, inflammation, and induration at the injection site. Systemic reactions include mild fever or flu-like symptoms. Anaphylaxis has been reported. Toxicities Poison centers report toxicity of the whole plant, but especially mistletoe berries.

The use of preparations standardized to small doses of ML-Ι or depleted of lectins may reduce toxicity. References Mistletoe. Review of Natural Products. Facts & Comparisons 4.0. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc; December 2008. Accessed January 21, 2009. Copyright © 2009 Wolters Kluwer Health European Mistletoe | NCCIH European Mistletoe This fact sheet provides basic information about European mistletoe—common names, usefulness and safety, and resources for more information. Common Names: European mistletoe, mistletoe Latin Name: Viscum album Background European mistletoe grows on several types of common trees such as apple, oak, pine, and elm trees. Where the term “mistletoe” is used in this fact sheet, it refers to European mistletoe. European mistletoe is different from American mistletoe, the type of mistletoe that grows in the United States and is used as a holiday decoration.

Mistletoe has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for a variety of conditions including seizures, headaches, and arthritis. Today, mistletoe is used in Europe as a treatment for cancer. The berries, leaves, and stems of mistletoe are used to make extracts, which are usually given by injection under the skin. Mistletoe may also be taken orally (by mouth) as a dietary supplement. In Europe, mistletoe extracts that are given by injection are sold as prescription drugs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved the use of mistletoe as a treatment for cancer or any other medical condition. In the United States, the use of injectable mistletoe extracts is permitted only in clinical trials. How Much Do We Know? Although mistletoe has been studied for cancer, its effects are not well understood because much of the research on it has been of poor quality. What Have We Learned? There have been clinical trials of mistletoe for cancer, mostly in Europe. Although some trials indicated that mistletoe improved survival or quality of life, almost all of the trials had major weaknesses that raise doubts about their findings.

These weaknesses have included small numbers of patients, incomplete data, lack of information about the dose of mistletoe, and problems with the design of the studies. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) and the National Cancer Institute have completed a preliminary trial to evaluate the safety of injected European mistletoe extract in combination with a cancer drug in patients with advanced cancer. It showed that patients could tolerate the herb/drug combination and provided other information that may be helpful in the design of future studies to evaluate mistletoe’s effectiveness. Mistletoe is not a proven cancer treatment. It should not be used outside of clinical trials. What Do We Know About Safety? Mistletoe berries and leaves can cause serious harmful effects when taken orally. Injected mistletoe extract may cause soreness and inflammation at the injection site, headache, fever, and chills. Serious side effects are rare, but a few severe allergic reactions have been reported. Keep in Mind Tell all your health care providers about any complementary or integrative health approaches you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care. For More Information Key References European mistletoe.

Natural Medicines Web site. Accessed at naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/ on April 14, 2015. [Database subscription]. Horneber M, Bueschel G, Huber R, et al. Mistletoe therapy in oncology. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2008;(2):CD003297 [edited 2010]. Mansky PJ, Wallerstedt DB, Sannes TS, et al. NCCAM/NCI Phase I study of mistletoe extract and gemcitabine in patients with advanced solid tumors. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2013;2013:964592. National Cancer Institute. Mistletoe Extracts (PDQ). National Cancer Institute Web site. Accessed at on April 14, 2015. This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged. NCCIH has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your primary health care provider.

We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH. NCCIH Publication No.:

Question: What is the more common name for the plant viscum album?
Answer: Mistletoe