European mistletoe is a plant that grows on several different trees. The berry, leaf, and stem of European mistletoe are used to make medicine.

Interest in mistletoe for cancer has grown in North America, ever since Suzanne Somers announced on Larry King Live that she is using it to treat her breast cancer. European mistletoe has been used for treating cancer since the 1920s, especially in Europe. Several brand name mistletoe extracts are available there: Iscador, Eurixor, Helixor, Isorel, Vysorel, and ABNOBAviscum. So far these products are not readily available in North America. There is no proof that they work for breast or other cancers. Using European mistletoe can also be unsafe. Avoid these products and stick with proven cancer treatments.

15 Health Benefits Of Mistletoe

Many people relate mistletoe with decorations for doorways or dropping hints to someone you like to keep the holiday tradition alive. But do you know that is not all to mistletoe? In fact, mistletoe has been known by many names over the years. The names go by all-heal, devil’s fugue, drudenfuss, golden bough, birdlime, and iscador.

It is also used in a broader context to heal health and mental disorders. In short, its potent extracts are known for preventing diabetes, promoting good sleep, boosting immune system, treating skin conditions, and other problems.

Before going into the health benefits of mistletoe, let us first learn what are mistletoe and its different types.

What Is Mistletoe?

Mistletoe belongs to the Viscaceae plant family. It is an evergreen hemiparasitic plant which latches on trees and feeds off them. Its leaves, stems, and berries are harvested. Ayurvedic specialist uses these extracts to make herbal concoctions for treating physiological effects.

The plant has thick, gristly leaves that are lance shaped or oval. It has dense branches in oval shapes that are two inches long.

Its flowers are found in compact spikes, and are regular. They are more yellow compared to the leaves and appear during winters. The seeds are taken by birds and spread to other trees.

1. Lowers Blood Pressure:

The extract of mistletoe is known to have a great effect on hypertension, a growing mental condition affecting millions of people all over the world. It helps lower blood pressure and eases the stress on our cardiovascular health, and cut down atherosclerosis impact. The extracts of mistletoe also help in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and coronary heart diseases. It slows down the pulse and reduces the heart exertion.

These benefits are commonly prevalent in Japanese and European mistletoe species.

2. Anti-cancer Potential:

The most significant impact of mistletoe’s extract benefits is its function of slowing down cancer progression. Studies stated that breast cancer patients are likely to see an improvement in their overall well-being with the use of mistletoe. Another research in China suggests that mistletoe contain chemo-preventive agents known to lower the side effects of chemotherapy like hair loss, nausea, and numbness.

3. Promotes Good Sleep:

Mistletoe has effective nervine properties and has been used for several years. If one is suffering from restlessness or insomnia, then having a strong tea of mistletoe can help induce sleep. The chemical agents found in mistletoe can affect neurotransmitters release and soothe nervous sleep, and allow a restful sleep. The nervous system is connected to Circadian rhythms and calm down sleep cycle.

4. Treats Respiratory Diseases:

Mistletoe has nerve-soothing properties which makes it important to calm down respiratory system. From treating coughs, to sore throats, and bronchial inflammation, it has shown its skill to calm irritation and discomfort in the chest.

5. Prevents Diabetes:

The herb has anti-diabetic agents and has been discovered recently and practiced for generations. Studies has indicated that it can help in lowering blood glucose levels, and others studies suggests that the mistletoe extract can stimulate insulin production in pancreas which helps in regulating the body levels, and reducing the disorder severity. It is commonly suggested as a natural remedy for diabetic patients.

6. Calms Nervous System:

If you are suffering from depression or anxiety, restlessness, or other mental symptoms, then uses mistletoe as a nervine tonic. It helps lower stress hormone levels and calms your nerves to maintain a balance.

7. Boosts Immune System:

One significant health benefits of mistletoe is the affect it has on immune system. This is the reason why this plant is used for the treatment of several chronic diseases and also protects from sickness. The antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiviral agents of the herb protects the body, and strengthen immune system.

8. Prevents Inflammation:

For several years, the mistletoe tinctures have been used for treating body inflammation. Arthritic pain is one of the common forms of inflammation present in several people, and a portion of this plant can greatly benefit to ease the pain and increase the range of motion as we one ages. The anti-inflammatory agents can be also good for digestive and gastrointestinal problems, too.

9. Eases Menstrual Disorders:

If you are suffering from menstrual pain and cramps, then make use of mistletoe plant. It is a great option. You can brew a mistletoe tea for calming the muscle inflammation, spasms, cramping, and release the tension. Always seek advice from a health consultant before using a strong nervine remedy like mistletoe. It may be particularly harmful for pregnant woman and those considering getting pregnant.

10. Treats Snoring:

If you snore during your sleep, then you should try a cup of strong mistletoe tea. It soothes the nerves and promotes a good sleep, while ease respiratory problems. In addition, it can also help in reducing chances of snoring whilst sleeping.

11. Use Topically To Treat Skin Conditions:

Mistletoe can be used for bathing purpose. You can also apply the paste of mistletoe onto skin for treating varicose veins, eczema, and ulcers on lower legs. Many also believe that mistletoe has pain-killing agents and can be used for treating joint pain when rubbed onto skin.

12. Treat Anxiety and Depression:

Mistletoes are a powerful remedy to treat mood related conditions like anxiety, depression, and fatigue, and also cancer treatments. Some studies have revealed that mistletoe can help during recovering period of cancer patients.

13. Support Hormonal Balance:

Mistletoe is used in the treatment for menopause symptoms like insomnia, restlessness, and fatigue. It also regulates hormones when a woman is experiencing irregular periods.

14. Strengthen Bone And Teeth:

Mistletoe can treat several diseases. Its leaves also contain minerals which can help in strengthening teeth and bones.

15. Prevent Miscarriage During Pregnancy:

Mistletoe leaves helps in preventing miscarriage. You may also consult a doctor if you want to use mistletoe leaves to its full benefits for treating bleeding problems during pregnancy.