Mistletoe (Viscum album)
Photo: George Chernilevsky · Public domain
- Licensed photo
Overview
European mistletoe (Viscum album) is a parasitic evergreen shrub that forms large clumps on host trees, producing narrow leaves, yellowish flowers, and sticky white berries. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for conditions such as seizures and headaches, and in Europe injected extracts are sold as prescription drugs and promoted as a cancer treatment. NCCIH says European mistletoe is not a proven cancer treatment and should not be used for cancer outside clinical trials.
Traditional uses & properties
Cancer: MSK says mistletoe is used as a cancer treatment in Europe, but the FDA has not approved mistletoe as a treatment for cancer or any other medical condition.
Amounts reported by sources
Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.
Safety & precautions
Professional Supervision: Potentially toxic and must be used carefully. Pregnancy: Can act as an abortifacient; avoid. Blood Pressure & MAOIs: Interactions may cause sudden drops in pressure; do not combine with antihypertensives. Berries: Especially toxic; best avoided in internal use.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to Europe and northern Asia, mistletoe grows on deciduous host trees (especially apple). Leaves and branches (and sometimes berries) are harvested in autumn.
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Frequently asked questions
What is Mistletoe (Viscum album) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Mistletoe (Viscum album) as follows: Cancer: MSK says mistletoe is used as a cancer treatment in Europe, but the FDA has not approved mistletoe as a treatment for cancer or any other medical condition.
How is Mistletoe (Viscum album) prepared?
Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.
What safety cautions apply to Mistletoe (Viscum album)?
Professional Supervision: Potentially toxic and must be used carefully. Pregnancy: Can act as an abortifacient; avoid. Blood Pressure & MAOIs: Interactions may cause sudden drops in pressure; do not combine with antihypertensives. Berries: Especially toxic; best avoided in internal use.