Mistletoe Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that invades a host tree for its survival. It commonly grows on host trees such as apple, ash or hawthorn trees. It attaches itself to the tree and ends up growing out of the host tree’s branches to absorb nutrients and water. It grows as a bush 2-5 feet wide in diameter.¹ The mistletoe plant is known for producing sticky red or white berries with light to dark green, tongue-shaped leaves. There are over 900 species of mistletoe that grow all over the world, but it is commonly associated with the European and English regions.² The Ancient Greeks used mistletoe extract as a health tonic. English folklore discussed mistletoe uses for fertility.^{2 3}

Mistletoe Health Uses and Health Benefits

Mistletoe health benefits are plenty and it is a popular alternative medicine throughout the world. Mistletoe is typically given as a tonic or injection for a number of reasons.² One of the most common mistletoe uses is for cancer treatment as studies have shown its ability to induce cancer cell death.^{4 5} Studies have also shown that mistletoe may help ease side effects of conventional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy.⁵ Some of the common mistletoe health benefits include:^{2 3 4}

• Balances hormones
• Stops chronic fatigue
• Reduces blood pressure levels
• Lowers stress and anxiety
• Regulates circulation
• Improves sleep quality
• Treats menstrual cramps
• Relieves epileptic seizures
• Improves breathing
• Boosts immune system function
• Kills cancer cells

Mistletoe uses in extract form can help with the following health conditions:

• Mesothelioma - Mistletoe uses include being a natural remedy for killing mesothelioma cancer cells in the linings of the lungs or abdomen.
• Bladder Cancer - Mistletoe health benefits include being able to kill cancer cells, which can be beneficial for people with bladder cancer.
• Pancreatic Cancer - Mistletoe has been reported to help extend the life expectancy of pancreatic cancer patients by slowing disease progress.
• Deafness (Hearing Loss) - Mistletoe is a traditional remedy for improving certain forms of hearing loss, including tinnitus.
• Liver Cancer - Mistletoe extract injections have been used to help kill liver cancer cells and slow the rate of disease spread.

Mistletoe Side Effects and Precautions

Overconsumption can include mistletoe side effects like aching, vomiting, lowered heart rate and seizures. It is recommended to find a trustworthy homeopathic practitioner to deliver mistletoe treatments for any health condition in order to prevent mistletoe side effects.⁴

References

1. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/m/mistle40.html
2. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/mistletoe-2.html
3. http://www.livestrong.com/article/524884-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-mistletoe-extract/
4. http://www.drmercola.com/health-tips/does-the-mistletoe-have-health-benefits/
5. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/patient/mistletoe-pdq