For most of us, mistletoe is a sprig of a plant that is used decoratively during Christmas to get friends, family, strangers, and love interests to give us a holiday peck. It is traditionally hung in doorways at holiday time. Is mistletoe more than just a decoration? The answer is a resounding yes!
The History of Mistletoe
The tradition of kissing under Mistletoe started with the Scandinavian legend of Balder. He was the god of Peace, slain with an arrow made of Mistletoe. He was subsequently restored to life at the request of the other gods. Because of the way he died, Mistletoe was then given to the goddess of Love for safekeeping. It was ordained that everyone who passed under it should receive a kiss to show that the branch had now become an emblem of love.
The name mistletoe is derived from a Celtic word meaning “heal all”.
Surprisingly, mistletoe can be ingested and has numerous health benefits you are almost certainly not aware of.
Mistletoe Benefits
Stress, Insomnia, and Depression
Mistletoe is a potent nervine. A nerving is an herb that strengthens the nervous system. Mistletoe lowers cortisol, bringing the nerves down to a lower stress affected level.
Mistletoe has been used as a sleep relaxant for centuries. This herb impacts the release of neurotransmitters that calm the nervous system, allowing for a good night’s sleep.
Heart Health
Mistletoe is classed as “hypotensive” (it brings blood pressure down). It reduces cardiovascular tension and blood pressure while bringing in new blood, blood sugar, and healing to areas long cut off, tensed up, or weakened.
Mistletoe has also been found to upregulate the nitric oxide pathway. A lack of nitric oxide to the heart can lead to heart failure.
Boosts Immunity
Mistletoe stimulates the immune system. It is antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial. It helps the body fight off illness.
Respiratory Health
Mistletoe calms the respiratory system and relieves irritation in the bronchial tubes. It is often helpful in cases of asthma.
Mistletoe Even Supports the Prevention of DNA Damage
A study published in 2012 named “Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine” found that Mistletoe extracts from plants grown on lime, locust, and hedge-maple trees, significantly protected against nuclear DNA damage. Methanolic extracts were shown to prevent oxidative DNA damage, although its activity is dependant on the host tree.
Typical Mistletoe Use Guidelines
Mistletoe Tincture
Take 1ml to 4 ml up to 3 times a day or as directed by a Herbal Practitioner.
Mistletoe Tea 1-2 teaspoons cut herb per 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes. Remove herbs and drink.
Happy Holidays from the Office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C.!
Wishing you well this coming year.
We hope to see you for an appointment soon.
Chiropractor | Nutritionist in Ft Myers, FL.
Chiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent it as soon as possible?
Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor, and nutritionist in Fort Myers can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.
239-332-2555