What's Mistletoe?
It is an extremely magical and special plant that can be found all over the globe. Most commonly, it's associated with Christmas. It can be hung from doors or ceilings to decorate the holiday season. Mistletoe is a part of our culture since thousands of years. Its mythical properties are believed to have brought good fortune, protection against evil forces, and even luck.
Mistletoe is an evergreen parasitic shrub that can grow on trees. The leaves are dark green and produce small, white berries all year. Sticky substance is what helps the berries attach to trees. The mistletoe can spread over time and become a problem. It will eventually grow into tree bark, and then take nutrients from it.
Modern romance is synonymous with the traditional Christmas tradition of hanging mistletoe above doors during the holiday season. It is believed that mistletoe can be used to make two people kiss each other. The custom originated in Ancient Greece where mistletoe was thought to possess magical powers. It could be used to bring good luck or ward off evil spirits.
Mistletoe - Purported benefits
It has been used as a medicine for many centuries and it is widely believed that mistletoe may have health benefits. The herb is believed to treat a wide range of conditions, such as headaches, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression and asthma. The immune system is also boosted and Inflammation reduced by mistletoe. Studies have found that mistletoe may help reduce symptoms of cancer.
It is believed that mistletoe has spiritual and psychological properties. Mistletoe is used in many cultures to bring good fortune, happiness, and peace. Mistletoe is believed to promote love, joy and harmony in relationships. Mistletoe has been regarded as a symbol for fertility in some cultures. It is said to be able to give birth to children and bring prosperity to people who use it.
Mistletoe supporters claim it can treat many illnesses. According to some, it can improve focus and mental clarity, lower stress levels, alleviate depression, as well as calm anxiety and reduce stress. Although there are no solid scientific proofs to this, some believe it may even be able to cure some diseases.
Mistletoe: Experts' and Professional Opinions
Although mistletoe has been widely believed to be beneficial, experts warn against its use without first consulting a doctor. Author and founder of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine Dr. Andrew Weil warns against mistletoe consumption. It contains toxic chemicals that could be fatal if consumed in high amounts. Anyone who is interested in mistletoe can only do it under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals.
Experts warn mistletoe can interact with some medications and shouldn't be used together. Consult your doctor before you take any herbal remedies, such as mistletoe. It can cause side effects and interfere with treatment plans.
How to get started with mistletoe
There are many ways to get mistletoe, such as tinctures and teas or extracts. You should carefully read the package directions before you start taking mistletoe. The dosage may vary depending on your age and weight. Adults should consume 250 to 500 mg mistletoe extract at least four times daily.
A licensed healthcare provider is the best place to purchase mistletoe. You should only purchase mistletoe products from trusted sources. Some may have harmful fillers or contaminants. Mistletoe should not be used directly on the skin, even though it can be taken orally.
Wild mistletoe may also be taken but it should only be done with care. Mistletoe harvested from wild should never be consumed raw. It can cause poison if not properly prepared.
Do you need to be aware of any side effects or drawbacks?
Although mistletoe can be safely taken in small amounts, it has toxins that could prove to be hazardous if it is consumed in high quantities. Mistletoe may interact with some medications and shouldn't be used in combination.
Mistletoe can cause nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Mistletoe should be avoided by people with allergies to members of the Viscum family, Pregnant Women and nursing mothers as well as children younger than 12.
Mistletoe is still revered and believed to be beneficial for health. Because mistletoe can have different dosages depending on each person's needs, it is important that you consult a qualified healthcare professional before using the product. Mistletoe may interact with some medications and shouldn't be used in conjunction.
Many potential health benefits are believed to be associated with mistletoe, including mental and physical. According to some, it can improve focus and mental clarity, decrease stress levels, alleviate depression, lower anxiety and calm down anxious thoughts. The immune system is believed to be boosted and inflammation reduced. Although there are no studies to back these claims, it is safe to take moderate amounts of mistletoe. This may make it worth your consideration as part of holistic health and wellness.