Mistletoe

At a Glance

Common name

Mistletoe

Scientific name

Viscum album

Family

Santalaceae

Region

Europe

Plant part

Aerial parts (young twigs & leaves)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An evergreen hemi-parasitic shrub forming dense round clumps on host tree branches, with thick leathery oblong green leaves in pairs and small round translucent white berries; the aerial parts are used.

Also known as: European Mistletoe, Viscum, Druid's Herb

Historical Background

Mistletoe has been a sacred plant of Celtic and Druidic winter rituals for millennia, a symbol of peace and healing under the oak. A gentle European tea tradition used it for circulation and calm, though the raw plant requires caution.

Earliest recorded uses: Celtic, Druidic, and European folk traditions for millennia; a sacred winter plant of peace and healing.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mild, slightly bitter, green

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Mistletoe has a European folk tradition for circulation and calm; parenteral mistletoe extracts are studied as cancer therapy support in some countries, but oral tea evidence is insufficient. It is not a treatment for hypertension, cancer, or any disease; use only with clinician oversight.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.