Mistletoe

(Viscum album L., Loranthaceae),

Also Called: Birdlime Mistletoe.

Description: A green parasite in large tufts, 3090cm (12-36in), on the branches of many common deciduous trees, especially apple, lime, more rarely on oak or evergreens, very rarely on conifers. The root system of mistletoe pene
trates to the wood of the host tree from which it draws its mineral nutrients and water.
Part Used: Leafy branches, fresh or dried.

Habitat and Collection: Common in southern England and the west Midlands, rare in the north, absent from Scotland and Ireland. Collected throughout the year but generally in winter and dried at not greater than 45`C (113°F).

Constituents and Action: Little known but very heat-sensitive; possibly albumins (viscotoxin) and derivatives of choline. A mild hypotensive and tonic. May prevent the growth of certain tumours if applied directly to or in the tumour. Any cardiac action is disputed.

Usage: Mainly for hyper-tension; preferably in the fresh state or in the proprietary medicines that are available. It should not be used in the treatment of tumours except under medical supervision and the principle responsible for this action is not resorbed by the intestine.