Although many people in the western world associate
mistletoe with certain cultural traditions or decorations, it comes in a wide variety of forms, on multiple
continents, and is actually a broad term. In fact, there are more than 900 species belonging to
73 different genera, so there is quite a bit of diversity. Some species and
varieties are toxic, most notably the Eastern mistletoe found in America. The
broad popularity of mistletoe in America has perpetuated the idea that all
mistletoe is dangerous, which is completely false.
It can also be used in the form of tinctures
or teas. Now, let’s take a closer look at the
many health benefits of mistletoe.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MISTLETOE
Health benefits of mistletoe includes:
Lower Blood Pressure
While this isn’t the most commonly praised
benefit of mistletoe, the extract does have a measurable
effect on hypertension, which affects millions of people around
the world. By lowering blood pressure, its extract is able to ease the
strain and stress on the cardiovascular system,
and also cutting down on the impact of atherosclerosis. The hypertension reduction
of mistletoe extract can help prevent strokes, heart attacks, and coronary heart
disease. It also helps to slow the pulse, which also helps to reduce the
exertion of the heart. These benefits are particularly prevalent in European
and Japanese mistletoe species.
Cancer Treatment
Arguably the most important and widely studied
aspect of mistletoe’s health benefits is its role in treating cancer. The effects of
mistletoe on cancer are manifold. Some studies have focused on mistletoe’s
reduction of symptoms following chemotherapy, which can be exhausting and
painful. Other research has also directly linked its extract with anti-cancer
activity, more than 50% of cancer patients now integrate some element of
it in their treatment regimen.
This rapid increase of popularity and demand
for mistletoe has also sparked interest in further research, which has
certainly paid off. It has been found that in certain types of cancer,
it can cause apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. Subsequent
research has connected mistletoe extract to a higher overall quality of life
for patients, tumor shrinkage, and healthier blood counts. For this health
benefit alone, it should be on your radar!
Promote Good Sleep
Mistletoe is known as a very effective nervine
agent, and has been in use in traditional settings for hundreds of years. If
you suffer from insomnia or restlessness when you
sleep, using it to brew a strong tea might be the answer for you. The
chemical components of mistletoe impact the release of neurotransmitters that
calm you down, soothing the nervous system, and allowing for healthy, restful sleep.
The nervous system is strongly linked to our Circadian rhythms, so calming down
our nerves can regulate our sleep cycle and give us the rest we need.
Soothe Respiratory Distress
The nerve-soothing aspect of mistletoe makes
it ideal for calming the respiratory system in case of distress or irritation.
From sore throats to coughing and bronchial
inflammation, mistletoe has shown its ability to calm
the irritation and lower the discomfort and tightness in the chest.
Prevent Diabetes
The anti-diabetic potential of this herb is a
relatively new area of research, but it has been practiced traditionally for
generations. Research has shown that it does have 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 the levels in the body and lessening the severity of the disorder.
It is commonly prescribed as a natural remedy for those suffering from
diabetes.
Ease Menstrual Distress
If you suffer from excessive cramps and
menstrual pain, then using this plant in those instances is a wonderful
option. You can brew a strong mistletoe tea, which calms muscle spasms and
inflammation, helping to release that tension and cramping.
Always speak to your doctor before adding a strong nervine tonic like mistletoe
to your diet, particularly if you are pregnant or considering getting pregnant.
Eliminate Inflammation
For hundreds of years, tinctures of mistletoe have
been prescribed for inflammation of the
body, both inside and out. Arthritic pain is probably the most common form of
inflammation for most people, and a tincture of this herb can do wonders
to ease that pain and increase range of motion as you age. Internally, this
anti-inflammatory capacity can be good for digestion and gastrointestinal issues
as well.
Reduce Snoring
While this may not seem like a serious issue,
it certainly is if you’re sleeping next to a snorer! A cup of this herbal tea
before going to sleep can soothe the nerves and promote restful sleep, while
also soothing respiratory distress. Together, this means a much lower chance of
snoring while you sleep!
A FINAL WORD OF WARNING!!!
Again, the particular variety of mistletoe
used in herbal remedies is very important. Only
purchase mistletoe extract from a trusted and trained herbalist or medical
professional. The injection of the extract should only be done by a
professional or by an individual after appropriate training. Before adding a
strong substance like mistletoe to your health regimen, always speak to your
doctor to ensure that it’s a good choice for you, based on your current health.
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