**Mistletoe (Viscum album)**

Also known as: European Mistletoe • Holy Wood • Golden Bough
Family: Santalaceae (Sandalwood family)
Origin: Europe and Western Asia
Parts Used: Leaves and stems (never the berries)
Primary Use: Internal (cardiovascular and nervous system) & Metaphysical (protection, purification, and vitality)

✨ Description

Mistletoe is a sacred evergreen herb steeped in both mystery and medicine. Growing high in the branches of oak, apple, and poplar trees, this semi-parasitic plant has long been revered by the Druids, Celts, and herbalists alike as a symbol of life, protection, and divine balance.

Medicinally, Mistletoe has been used for centuries as a nervine and circulatory tonic, supporting healthy blood pressure, heart rhythm, and stress regulation. Its compounds are believed to relax the nervous system while gently strengthening the heart — making it one of Europe’s most studied and respected cardiovascular herbs.

🍵 Internal Uses & Benefits

Cardiovascular Support: Helps regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
Nervous System Calm: Eases nervous tension, headaches, and stress-related conditions.
Sleep & Stress Relief: Traditionally used for mild insomnia and anxiety.
Immune Modulation: Research suggests potential immune-balancing effects when used under guidance.

How to Use:

Tea or Infusion: Use 1 tsp of dried mistletoe per cup of cool water. Allow to steep overnight (cold infusion preserves its delicate alkaloids).
Drink ½ to 1 cup once or twice daily.
Never boil mistletoe, as heat may release toxic compounds.

🌬️ Smoking & Aromatic Use

⚠️ Not recommended for smoking.
Mistletoe leaves contain alkaloids and viscotoxins that can be harmful when inhaled or combusted.

🐾 For Pets

🚫 Toxic to animals.
Even small amounts of mistletoe (especially berries) can be dangerous to dogs, cats, and livestock. Keep stored securely and avoid using in pet formulas.

💧 External Uses

Poultices & Compresses: Traditionally used for joint pain, arthritis, and nerve inflammation.
Baths: Add a small handful to warm water for relaxation and circulation support.
Anointing Oils: Used spiritually for protection and cleansing rituals.

🔮 Metaphysical & Energetic Uses

Element: Air & Spirit
Chakra Alignment: Heart & Crown

In European folklore, Mistletoe was believed to ward off evil and invite divine blessings. It symbolizes peace and renewal — used to purify energy, protect the home, and strengthen spiritual connection.
It is also a fertility and love herb, known to attract affection and unity when hung in thresholds or burned in ritual.

Affirmation:

“I am surrounded by peace and protected by light. My heart beats in harmony with life.”

🌿 Pairing Suggestions

Hawthorn Berry & Leaf: For heart and blood pressure support.
Motherwort: For emotional calm and heart balance.
Valerian Root or Skullcap: To deepen its calming effects.
Ginkgo Leaf: For circulation and mental clarity.

🌼 Harvest & Sourcing

Our Mistletoe is wildcrafted in Europe during the winter solstice season, when its medicinal energy is at its peak.
Only the leaves and stems are harvested — never the berries — ensuring safety and potency.

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

Taste: Slightly bitter, earthy, and herbaceous.
Energetic Profile: Cooling, grounding, relaxing, and protective.

⚠️ Warnings

Toxic in high doses. Always use small amounts under professional herbal guidance.
Avoid during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in children.
May interact with blood pressure or cardiac medications.
Do not use berries internally — they are poisonous.

🌻 A Note from the Herbalist

Mistletoe is an herb of paradox — both poison and medicine, death and renewal.
Handled with respect, it teaches us balance: that calm can be powerful, and stillness can heal.
It’s one of my favorite winter herbs for grounding the heart and mind when the world feels too loud.