Mistletoe is a medicinal plant that has been used to stimulate the immune system, reduce anxiety, and improve cardiovascular health. How is it used? Find out!
The mistletoe, whose scientific name is Viscum album, is a plant with berries, leaves and stems that are used for medicinal purposes. Although there are an estimated 1,300 species, the European mistletoe is the most common when it comes to improving health.
According to a publication in the pharmaceutical encyclopedia Drugs , it is a hemiparasitic species that grows on host trees such as oak, birch and apple. This means that, although the photosynthesis of the mistletoe is independent, it obtains water and nutrients from its host.
Now, since ancient times it has also been part of ceremonies and legends. Not only is it a symbol of the winter season, but it was used in fertility rituals and as therapy against diseases. What does science say about its benefits? We’ll tell you then.
Health benefits of mistletoe
An article published through the Archives of Pharmacal Research medical journal states that mistletoe has been studied for its medicinal composition. It, which includes substances such as lectins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, sterols, lignans, terpenoids, alkaloids and fatty acids, among others, gives it the following properties:
Immunomodulator.
Hepatoprotective.
Neuroprotective.
Antimicrobial.
Antifungal.
Anti-inflammatory.
Cardiac protector.
Antidiabetic
However, despite the research, for now there is not enough evidence to affirm its efficacy and safety. Anyway, the aforementioned study concludes that, in the future, mistletoe may be the basis for new complementary therapies to support the treatment of various diseases. What benefits are attributed to it?
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