Mistletoe

Viscum album

Mistletoe is a parasite that thrives on many different species of tree. The best medicinal mistletoe is reputed to come from williow or oak trees. The tincture is used to treat high blood pressure, particularly with nervous tension and a raised pulse. It has also been used traditionally to treat epilepsy (petit mal) and limb twitching, or restless leg syndrome.

Actions:

• Vasodilator
• Hypotensive
• Diuretic
• Relaxant
• Anti-tumour (cytotoxic)

Uses:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Twitching limbs and restless leg syndrome
• Tachycardia

Components:

Low molecular weight proteins called viscotoxins. Lectins, which are larger polypeptides, saponins, alkaloids, tannins. Flavonoids.