Mistletoe : Phoradendron leucarpum

Uses: Indians used infusion of mistletoe roots and berries to induce abortion or applied the infusion externally to treat rheumatism. Recent research has identified active ingredients that have the potential to treat cancer and hypertension. The custom of kissing under the mistletoe began more than 2000 years ago. Mistletoe was a sacred plant of the druids in northern Europe. The Druid priests would cut mistletoe from a holy oak tree with a golden sickle. The branches had to be caught before they touched the ground. The priest then divided the branches into sprigs and distributed them to the people, who hung them over doorways as protection against thunder, lightning and other evils. The folklore, and the magical powers of this plant, blossomed over the centuries It is also used an a decorative plant during the Christmas season.

Notes : Mistletoe is photosynthetic but it produces modified roots which invade the host plant’s tissues and obtains water and minerals from the host. It is not generally considered to be a serious parasite and in most cases does little harm to the host tree. The seeds which produce a sticky material are easily dispersed by birds and when transported to another tree, the sticky seeds adhere to the bark providing a favorable site for germination and growth. All parts of the plant are poisonous and human deaths have resulted from ingestion of mistletoe, particularly the berries.