People mostly know mistletoe as a plant that is hung on doorways during Christmas time as an assurance of marriage and a prediction of long life and happiness. However, mistletoe has not always been associated with kissing. Records of the medicinal use of mistletoe to treat diverse ailments come before the time of Christ. It is widely known today as a medicinal plant to treat cancer. It also helps other problems such as hypertension and diabetes. It boosts the immune system and fights against inflammation. Unfortunately, it has to be taken in small amounts due to its toxicity at higher doses.
It is possible to grow your own mistletoe by placing fresh seeds from mature berries onto the bark of a suitable host tree. This semi-parasitic plant requires a host tree for nutrients and water, and a slow, patient process—germination can take two years, and it may take five or more years for the plant to mature and produce berries. You will also need to be aware that mistletoe is dioecious, meaning you may need to plant multiple seeds to ensure you have both male and female plants for berries to form.
Now, I bet this wasn’t something you were going to read about on this newsletter! I do wish you a merry Christmas!
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Stay natural!
~Dr. Amanda P. Cartwright