Mistletoe

Mistletoe is an evergreen plant found on the branches of a deciduous tree.

The Celtic Druids depended on this parasitic evergreen plant to guard them from evil.

Today we know mistletoe as part of a Christmas kissing ritual.

There is a lot of controversy concerning this plant's medical value. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has labeled this herb “unsafe” and does not give it’s approval for its use in treating any illnesses.

It has proteins that slow and weaken the heartbeat and constrict blood vessels.

TARGET AILMENTS

* reduce blood pressure and ease arteriosclerosis

* cancer, has been shown to have anti-tumor activity ( In conjunction with conventional medical treatment.)

* relieves headaches due to high blood pressure

* will quiet, soothe and tone the nervous system

PREPARATIONS

CAUTION - Do not use the berries.

Preparations and Dosage

	Infusion
Pour one cup of boiling water           Tincture        
onto 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the         Take 1-4 ml of the 
dried herb and leave to infuse       tincture three times a day.
for 10-15 minutes.  This should
be drunk three times a day or as
needed.

Collection: Collect the young leafy twigs in the spring.

Actions: A nervine, cardiac depressant, possibly anti-tumor, anti-spasmodic, hypnotic, tonic

Combinations: The herb combines well with Hawthorn Berries and Lime Blossom in the treatment of raised blood pressure.

SIDE EFFECTS

Serious: Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, decreased heart rate, hallucinations, muscle spasms, and convulsions.

SPECIAL 1NFORMATION

* WARNING: This plant is a poisonous herb and can be potentially fatal. Do not use unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional.