ENCYLOPEDIA
Mistletoe
Mistletoe (Viscum album) is a semi-parasitic plant, synthesizes nutrients itself, while water and mineral salts are taken from the tree feeder. The needs of mistletoe are negligible to the ability of the host, and as a rule mistletoe does not harm him.
Mistletoe Disorders and Threats:
Mistletoe is safe when consumed in appropriate quantities. However, larger amounts are dangerous and cause serious side effects. Mistletoe may cause vomiting, diarrhoea, cramps and other side effects. Short-term, frequent use of European mistletoe can cause liver damage.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding
Mistletoe is dangerous when taken orally or injected under the skin during pregnancy. It can stimulate the uterus and cause miscarriage.
There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking mistletoe if you are breast-feeding.
"Autoimmune diseases", such as multiple sclerosis (SM), lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or other conditions
Mistletoe can make the immune system more active, and this can increase the symptoms of autoimmune diseases. If you have one of these conditions, it is best to avoid European mistletoe.
Cardiac disease
There is some evidence that European mistletoe can make heart disease worse. Don't use it if you have heart problems.
Liver disease
There are concerns that taking European mistletoe may harm the liver. Theoretically, mistletoe can worsen liver disease such as hepatitis. People with a history of liver disease or liver disease should avoid European mistletoe.
Organ transplantation
Mistletoe can increase the activity of the immune system. This would be a problem for people who have received organ transplants. A more active immune system may increase the risk of organ rejection. If you transplanted the organ, avoid mistletoe.
Operations
Mistletoe may affect blood pressure. There is a concern that this may interfere with blood pressure control during and after surgery. Stop taking mistletoe at least two weeks before your surgery.
Mistletoe – general description
Mistletoe is a plant growing on several different trees. The fruit, leaves and stems of the European mistletoe are used to produce medicines.
Mistletoe is used in heart and blood vessels diseases, including hypertension, "arterial hardening" (arterial atherosclerosis), internal bleeding and hemorrhoids; epilepsy and seizures of children; gouts; mental conditions such as depression and anxiety; sleep disturbances; headache; absence of menstruation; signs of menopause; and for "blood cleansing".
Some use mistletoe to treat mental and physical exhaustion; reduced side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy; as a sedative; and for the treatment of coclus, asthma, dizziness, diarrhoea, and liver and gallbladder conditions.
Mistletoe – Action and Trivia
For a good sleep
Mistletoe is known as a very effective nerve agent. The chemical components of mistletoe affect the release of neurotransmitters that calm the nervous system and allow for a healthy, calm sleep. The nervous system is strongly linked to our daily rhythms, so calming our nerves can regulate our sleep cycle and give us the rest we need.
It relieves respiratory distress
The soothing nervous mistletoe aspect makes it ideal for calming the respiratory system in case of anxiety or irritation. From sore throat to cough and bronchitis, he demonstrated the ability to relieve irritation and reduce chest discomfort and tightness. There is a psychological connection between the act of coughing or wheezing that can occur in an asthmatic attack, and the panic and mental anxiety that causes a feedback loop. It can stop this neural connection and at the same time calm the mind and body.
Diabetes
Antidiabetic potential of this herb is a relatively new area of research, but has been practiced traditionally for generations. Studies have shown that it has the ability to lower blood glucose levels in laboratory tests, and other findings have shown that the extract stimulated insulin production in pancreatic cells, helping to regulate levels in the body and reducing the severity of disorder. It is commonly prescribed as a natural drug for people with diabetes.
Strengthens the immune system
One of the most important health benefits of mistletoe is its effect on the immune system. This is one of the reasons why this herb is so valued in the treatment of various chronic diseases, as it simultaneously strengthens the impaired immune system and protects it from external diseases. Antibacterial, antioxidant and antiviral properties of this herb make it an excellent line of defense for the body, regardless of the disease or condition of the immune system.
Calms the nervous system
If you suffer from anxiety, manifested by physical tics, restless sleep, tremor, or other physical/mental symptoms, the mistletoe can act as a complete nervous tonic for the body, lowering the level of stress hormones and lowering the nerves to a reasonable level.
It relieves menstrual pain
If you suffer from excessive contractions and menstrual pain, using this plant in such cases is a great option. You can make a strong mistletoe tea that calms muscle spasms and inflammation, helping to release this tension and cramps.
Effects on inflammation
For hundreds of years, mistletoe tinctures were prescribed for inflammation of the body, both inside and outside. Joint pain is probably the most common form of inflammation in most people, and the tincture of this herb can do wonders to relieve this pain and increase the range of motion as you age. Internally, this anti-inflammatory ability can also be good for digestion and gastrointestinal problems.