European Mistletoe
What is it?
European mistletoe (Viscum album) is a plant that grows on several different trees throughout the world. The berry, leaf, and stem are used as medicine.
European mistletoe contains chemicals that might stimulate the immune system and kill certain cancer cells, but it’s not clear if these effects occur in the human body.
People use European mistletoe for various types of cancer, including head and neck cancer, bladder cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Most research has evaluated European mistletoe injections given by a healthcare provider. There is very little research on the use of European mistletoe taken by mouth.
Is it effective?
Possibly Ineffective for …
- Head and neck cancer. Injecting European mistletoe extract into the skin before or after surgery or radiation for head and neck cancers does not improve survival. It’s not clear if taking European mistletoe by mouth helps. Injection products can only be given by a healthcare provider.
- The most serious type of skin cancer (melanoma). Injecting European mistletoe extract into the skin after surgery for melanoma does not improve survival or reduce the risk of the cancer returning. It’s not clear if taking European mistletoe by mouth helps. Injection products can only be given by a healthcare provider.
There is interest in using European mistletoe for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is there concern for the safety of its use?
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy: European mistletoe is likely unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. It might stimulate the uterus and cause a miscarriage.
Breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if European mistletoe is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
“Auto-immune diseases” such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions: European mistletoe might cause the immune system to become more active. This could increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases. If you have one of these conditions, it’s best to avoid using European mistletoe.
Leukemia: European mistletoe might make leukemia worse. If you have leukemia, don’t take European mistletoe.
Organ transplant: European mistletoe might make the immune system more active. A more active immune system might increase the risk of organ rejection. If you have had an organ transplant, avoid European mistletoe.
Surgery: European mistletoe might affect blood pressure. This might interfere with blood pressure control during and after surgery. Stop taking European mistletoe at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Are there any drug interactions?
Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
European mistletoe might lower blood pressure. Taking European mistletoe along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. Monitor your blood pressure closely.
Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
European mistletoe can increase the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking European mistletoe along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications.
Are there any interactions with herbs and supplements?
Are there any interactions with food?
What dose is used?
By what other names is the product known?
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