That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
What follows is a look at some evidence surrounding the common uses of mistletoe.
Keep in mind that no supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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The release of these neurotransmitters may help improve conditions likeinsomniaandepilepsy.
The lectins in mistletoe are thought to be responsible for the potential benefits of the herb on neurological disorders.
Mistletoe may help people with cancer in more than one way.
Research also suggests that mistletoe may effectively improve the quality of life of people with cancer.
Cardiovascular Health
Some research suggests that mistletoe may benefit cardiovascular (heart) health.
Other research has shown that mistletoe may have antioxidant properties.
Antioxidants are thought to improve circulation and protect the heart and blood vessels from damage.
Diabetes
Mistletoe has been used for generations to help balanceblood sugarlevels.
Mistletoe is also thought to stimulate the secretion ofinsulin, the hormone needed to remove glucose from the bloodstream.
One animal study suggests that mistletoe extract may protect liver cells fromfree radicaldamage, a possible side effect ofdiabetes.
Further research, including human trials, is needed to understand mistletoes potential role in balancing glucose levels.
Madeleine Steinbach / 500px Plus / Getty Images
What Are the Side Effects of Mistletoe?
When used in the recommended amounts, mistletoe is rarely associated with side effects.
However, side effects are possible when using mistletoe and may be mild or severe.
Severe Side Effects
Mistletoe rarely causes severe side effects.
Rare cases ofliver damageand toxicity have also been reported.
Only European mistletoe can be used therapeutically, as American mistletoe is unsafe.
Precautions
There is still much to learn about mistletoe.
Because of this, certain people should take extra precautions before using the herb.
Mistletoe is thought to be unsafe duringpregnancy.Therefore, you should avoid mistletoe if you are pregnant.
It is unknown if mistletoe is safe to use whilebreastfeeding.To be safe, avoid using mistletoe while nursing.
More research is needed to determine the overall safety of mistletoe.
like speak with a healthcare provider before using mistletoe, especially if you have any health conditions.
Dosage: How Much Mistletoe Should I Take?
There are no dosage recommendations for mistletoe.
This is due to an overall lack of information regarding the safety and effectiveness of the herb.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Mistletoe?
Although mistletoe overdose has not been reported, the herb may be toxic if taken in high doses.
you’re able to avoid mistletoe toxicity by taking the herb exactly as directed.
Interactions
Mistletoe may interact with various medications, as well as other herbs.
However, possible interactions are not well-documented, which means there is not much information available on this subject.
An interaction between mistletoe andantihypertensive medicationsis not well-supported by scientific evidence.
No interactions between mistletoe and medications, herbs, or foods have been properly reviewed in humans.
It is essential that you read the ingredients list and nutrition facts panel of any new supplement before purchasing.
How to Store Mistletoe
It’s important to store supplements properly to ensure proper shelf life.
Mistletoe should be stored in a cool, dry place that is kept from direct sunlight.
Mistletoe extracts don’t typically require refrigeration, but check the product label for storage instructions.
Discard mistletoe once the expiration date has passed.
Be sure to keep all supplements out of reach of pets and small children.
That’s why working with your healthcare provider regarding supplements is always best.
It’s important to know what to look for when choosing new supplements.
Food Sources of Mistletoe
Mistletoe in its raw form is not edible.
Eating mistletoe leaves and berries may cause an upset stomach and other side effects.
Some people use dried mistletoe to make tea.
Mistletoe is also sold in individual tea bags.
Some oral supplements, like capsules and tablets, may contain mistletoe in combination with other herbs and nutrients.
These are mostly used in Europe.
Summary
Mistletoe may be more than just a symbolic token of the holiday season.
More human trials are needed on mistletoe.
Discuss any herbs and supplements you plan to use with your healthcare provider.
American mistletoe is thought to be more toxic than European mistletoe.
It is considered embryotoxic (toxic to a fetus) and abortifacient (may cause spontaneous abortion).
At this time, mistletoe is not thought to interact with any medications.
No, mistletoe should not be used as a cancer treatment.
In Europe, mistletoe extracts are a popular complementary treatment option for people with cancer.
However, mistletoe should not be used in place of conventional cancer therapy.
Mistletoe extracts are mostly used as injectables and must be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
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