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The word 'mistletoe' is of uncertain etymology; it may be related to German Mist, for dung and Tang for branch, since mistletoe can be spread in the feces of birds moving from tree to tree. However, Old English mistel was also used for basil.

European mistletoe, Viscum album, is generally considered a poisonous plant that causes acute gastrointestinal problems including stomach pain, and diarrhea along with low pulse. However it has a long history of use in (herbal) medicine and has garnered a lot of attention (and studies) for its anti-cancer properties.

The name was originally applied to Viscum album (European Mistletoe, Santalaceae), the only species native in Great Britain and much of Europe. Later the name was further extended to other related species, including Phoradendron serotinum (the Eastern Mistletoe of eastern North America, also Santalaceae).

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Ferne Streich

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2y ago
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13y ago

Mistletoe (viscum album) is evergreen parasitic unisexual plant used in European countries for Christmas decorations. Its origin comes from the Celtic religion and ritual in pre Christian period and practice to cut Mistletoe with a golden sickle by the Druids as magic potent for immortality, reincarnation and bond of love.It was used by the pagan community to ward off evil by hanging Mistletoe and holly branches at the doorway in homes.

The pagan myth of god Balder who was cared by all trees except the Mistletoe which was overlooked by the god was used by god Loki to make a Mistletoe arrow and wound god Blader. The goddess of love Freya took the arrow and god Bladerthanked her with his love.This belief became a practice to make mistletoe a symbol of immortality and love in the Christian period and was included in Christmas festivity to mean fidelity and good luck with sharing and caring for ones partner by expressing ones love and fidility by kissing under the Mistletoe or to turn ones enemies into friends together in this life-giving power of Christmas under the Mistletoe.

Myths of St Nicholas (Santa Claus) first met his love under the Mistletoe is a common belief .

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11y ago

mistletoe comes from Europe i have no idea where in europe though but just look it up or see if anybody else has any answers.

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14y ago

Please refer to the Related Links.

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Q: Where did mistletoe originate?
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Related questions

Where does mistole originate from?

In addition to Europe and North America, mistletoe is also found in Australia and Korea.


True or false are mistletoe and holly Christmas symbols that originate in Italy?

Mistletoe was held sacred by the Norse peoples and the Celtic Druids. Holly was used by the ancient Romans at the Roman Saturnalia festival. To avoid persecution, early Christians would hang holly on their doors during this festival. Therefore, mistletoe probably originated in Great Britain and holly in Italy (Ancient Rome).


What is mistletoe called in England?

Mistletoe!


What is the plural of mistletoe?

Mistletoes is the plural of mistletoe


What are the songs in the album under the mistletoe?

mistletoe


Where does mistletoe live?

Mistletoe is a parasite that lives on other trees, Oak trees have Mistletoe in them quite often.


How do you say mistletoe in Germany?

Mistletoe in German is: Mistel


What does mistletoe?

Mistletoe was thought to be sacred by the Ancient Europeans.


What is the French word for mistletoe?

mistletoe in French is gui.


Is mistletoe a parasitism?

Mistletoe is counted as a half parasite.


hang this plant to kiss under?

The answer is mistletoe!


Do rabbits eat mistletoe?

No, mistletoe will poison a rabbit.