Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageToxicityInteractionsHow to StoreSimilar SupplementsSources & What to Look ForFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
Toxicity
Interactions
How to Store
Similar Supplements
Sources & What to Look For
Frequently Asked Questions
European mistletoe leaves, stems, and berries are used in treating diabetes, seizure disorders, and heart health, and as a complementary treatment forcancerin Europe. This mistletoe (Viscum album) grows on various types of trees, such as apple, oak, and pine.American mistletoe, however, is toxic.
Research evidence for the use of mistletoe for cancer or for other medicinal purposes is mostly lacking.However, mistletoe is available in products as a dietary supplement.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s):Lectins (glycoproteins)Alternate name(s):Viscum, all-heal, birdlime, white-berry mistletoe,Viscum albumLegal status:Legal in the United States; may be sold over-the-counter (OTC), with some forms requiring a prescription in other countriesSuggested dose:Insufficient information to recommend dosageSafety considerations:Side effects, including allergic reactions, headache, fever, and chills; may be unsafe when pregnant or breastfeeding
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s):Lectins (glycoproteins)Alternate name(s):Viscum, all-heal, birdlime, white-berry mistletoe,Viscum albumLegal status:Legal in the United States; may be sold over-the-counter (OTC), with some forms requiring a prescription in other countriesSuggested dose:Insufficient information to recommend dosageSafety considerations:Side effects, including allergic reactions, headache, fever, and chills; may be unsafe when pregnant or breastfeeding
Uses of Mistletoe
Mistletoe use has been studied for appropriateness in several health conditions but many studies have been performed in labs, on animal models, or are of poor quality.
What follows is a look at some evidence surrounding the common uses of mistletoe. Keep in mind that no supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Neurological Disorders
Mistletoe is thought to have properties that make it helpful in the treatment of various neurological disorders.
Researchers have found that chemical components in mistletoe may promote the release of the neurotransmittersdopamine, glutamic acid, andGABA(gamma-aminobutyricacid). The release of these neurotransmitters may help improve conditions likeinsomniaandepilepsy.
The lectins in mistletoe are thought to be responsible for the potential benefits of the herb on neurological disorders.
At this time, though, research surrounding mistletoe and neurological disorders has been chiefly performed in lab settings or on animal models. More robust human trials are needed to confirm mistletoe’s role in treating epilepsy, insomnia, and other neurological disorders.
9 Best Natural Sleep Aids
Cancer Care
According to the National Cancer Institute, mistletoe is one of the most widely researched alternative therapies for people living with cancer.Research suggests that mistletoe may stimulate theimmune systemto help fight cancer.
Mistletoe may help people with cancer in more than one way.
Mistletoe extracts may possess anticancer qualities, as the herb has been found to inhibit cancer cell proliferation (spread) and even kill existingcancercells in experimental laboratory settings.
Research also suggests that mistletoe may effectively improve the quality of life of people with cancer. According to one review, mistletoe has been found to improve common side effects of cancer treatment, includingpainandfatigue.However, some of the studies used in the review were of poor quality.
In other reviews, mistletoe has most commonly been reported to improve other indicators of quality of life, including sleep,nausea,appetite,anxiety, and emotional and functional well-being.
Cardiovascular Health
Some research suggests that mistletoe may benefit cardiovascular (heart) health.
One study performed on rats found that mistletoe may help prevent high blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of issues likecoronary heart diseaseandstroke.
Other research has shown that mistletoe may have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are thought to improve circulation and protect the heart and blood vessels from damage.
Once again, though, human trials are lacking in this area, and more research is needed to confirm mistletoe’s potential role inheart health.
Diabetes
Mistletoe has been used for generations to help balanceblood sugarlevels. However, research in this area has mostly been performed in labs or on animal models, and results are conflicting.
Some research has found that mistletoe may be anti-glycemic, meaning it may help reduce excessglucose(sugar) in the blood. Mistletoe is also thought to stimulate the secretion ofinsulin, the hormone needed to remove glucose from the bloodstream.
One animal study suggests that mistletoe extract may protect liver cells fromfree radicaldamage, a possible side effect ofdiabetes.
Further research, including human trials, is needed to understand mistletoe’s potential role in balancing glucose levels.
Madeleine Steinbach / 500px Plus / Getty Images
What Are the Side Effects of Mistletoe?
When used in the recommended amounts, mistletoe is rarely associated with side effects. However, side effects are possible when using mistletoe and may be mild or severe.
Common Side Effects
Although side effects are more likely to occur when mistletoe is used in doses that are too high, anyone may experience side effects.
More common side effects of mistletoe include:
Injectable forms of mistletoe (mostly used in Europe) may cause soreness, pain, andinflammationat the injection site, as well as fever and chills.
Severe Side Effects
Mistletoe rarely causes severe side effects.
However, there have been a few reported cases of severe allergic reactions to mistletoe.Anaphylaxiswas also reported in some of these cases.If you experienceanaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction, you must seek immediate medical attention.
Rare cases ofliver damageand toxicity have also been reported. However, the people who experienced liver damage were also taking otherherbs, making it impossible to pinpoint mistletoe as the sole cause.
Only European mistletoe can be used therapeutically, as American mistletoe is unsafe. Don’t consume raw mistletoe of any variety, as it can be poisonous and may induce vomiting, seizures, slowed heart rate, and even death.
There is still much to learn about mistletoe. Because of this, certain people should take extra precautions before using the herb.
Mistletoe is thought to be unsafe duringpregnancy.Therefore, you should avoid mistletoe if you are pregnant.
It is unknown if mistletoe is safe to use whilebreastfeeding.To be safe, avoid using mistletoe while nursing.
More research is needed to determine the overall safety of mistletoe. Please speak with a healthcare provider before using mistletoe, especially if you have any health conditions.
Dosage: How Much Mistletoe Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
There are no dosage recommendations for mistletoe. This is due to an overall lack of information regarding the safety and effectiveness of the herb.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Mistletoe?
Although mistletoe overdose has not been reported, the herb may be toxic if taken in high doses.
Injectable mistletoe is not considered toxic, but oral forms may cause side effects or severe reactions if used improperly.
Although rare, some cases ofanaphylaxis,allergic reaction, and liver toxicity have been reported in people who have taken more mistletoe than they should.
It’s also worth noting again that American mistletoe should never be ingested, as its leaves and berries are considered toxic.This type of mistletoe is mostly used for decoration.
Mistletoe may interact with various medications, as well as other herbs. However, possible interactions are not well-documented, which means there is not much information available on this subject.
It is essential that you read the ingredients list and nutrition facts panel of any new supplement before purchasing. Doing so will help you know which ingredients are in it and how much of each ingredient is included in the supplement. It is best to review supplement labels with your healthcare provider to discuss any potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
How to Store Mistletoe
It’s important to store supplements properly to ensure proper shelf life.
Mistletoe should be stored in a cool, dry place that is kept from direct sunlight. Mistletoe extracts don’t typically require refrigeration, but check the product label for storage instructions. Discard mistletoe once the expiration date has passed.
Be sure to keep all supplements out of reach of pets and small children.
With so many supplements on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. That’s why working with your healthcare provider regarding supplements is always best.
Some supplements and herbs that have been studied for similar uses include:
Sources of Mistletoe & What to Look For
Mistletoe is not naturally found in foods but comes in several supplement forms. It’s important to know what to look for when choosing new supplements.
Food Sources of Mistletoe
Mistletoe in its raw form is not edible. Eating mistletoe leaves and berries may cause an upset stomach and other side effects.
Some people use dried mistletoe to make tea. Mistletoe is also sold in individual tea bags.
Mistletoe Supplements
Mistletoe is available at health foods stores and online as a liquid extract, dried herb, or loose-leaf tea. Some oral supplements, like capsules and tablets, may contain mistletoe in combination with other herbs and nutrients.
It’s important that you avoid using American mistletoe and only use European mistletoe (Viscum album) or other safe herb varieties.
It’s also worth noting that much of the scientific research has focused on injected forms of mistletoe that are not approved as prescription medications in the United States. These are mostly used in Europe.
If using an oral mistletoe supplement, be sure to follow the dosing instructions carefully to avoid unwanted side effects.
Summary
Mistletoe may be more than just a symbolic token of the holiday season. Although there are many species of the plant, European mistletoe has been used for centuries for its potential health benefits.
Scientific evidence surrounding mistletoe’s uses is lacking, with many studies being performed in labs or on animal models. More human trials are needed on mistletoe.
Discuss any herbs and supplements you plan to use with your healthcare provider.
European mistletoe (Viscum album) is not poisonous but can become toxic if you take too much.American mistletoe is thought to be more toxic than European mistletoe. It is considered embryotoxic (toxic to a fetus) and abortifacient (may cause spontaneous abortion).Learn MoreThe Difference Between Venomous and Poisonous
European mistletoe (Viscum album) is not poisonous but can become toxic if you take too much.American mistletoe is thought to be more toxic than European mistletoe. It is considered embryotoxic (toxic to a fetus) and abortifacient (may cause spontaneous abortion).
European mistletoe (Viscum album) is not poisonous but can become toxic if you take too much.
American mistletoe is thought to be more toxic than European mistletoe. It is considered embryotoxic (toxic to a fetus) and abortifacient (may cause spontaneous abortion).
Learn MoreThe Difference Between Venomous and Poisonous
At this time, mistletoe is not thought to interact with any medications.In lab studies, mistletoe has shown little to no interactions with various medications.However, interactions may still be possible.It’s best to talk with your healthcare about any medications you’re currently taking if you’re thinking of starting mistletoe.Learn MoreReducing Your Risk of Adverse Medication Interactions
At this time, mistletoe is not thought to interact with any medications.In lab studies, mistletoe has shown little to no interactions with various medications.However, interactions may still be possible.It’s best to talk with your healthcare about any medications you’re currently taking if you’re thinking of starting mistletoe.
At this time, mistletoe is not thought to interact with any medications.
In lab studies, mistletoe has shown little to no interactions with various medications.However, interactions may still be possible.
It’s best to talk with your healthcare about any medications you’re currently taking if you’re thinking of starting mistletoe.
Learn MoreReducing Your Risk of Adverse Medication Interactions
No, mistletoe should not be used as a cancer treatment. In Europe, mistletoe extracts are a popular complementary treatment option for people with cancer. However, mistletoe should not be used in place of conventional cancer therapy. In the United States, the FDA has not approved mistletoe extract for its use as a complementary therapy in cancer.
Learn MoreAn Overview of First-Line Treatment for Cancer
15 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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