The ancient Druids of Britain and Gaul used to harvest Mistletoe from its host tees during the Winter Solstice celebrations. They actually believed that the mistletoe harbored the spirit of the tree that hosted it. They would cut it down from the trees and catch it, never allowing it to touch the ground. Afterwards they would distribute it to the village people, who in turn hung it over their doors to ward off bad tidings and evil spirits.

All parts of the mistletoe plant are poisonous, especially the leaves, but it has also been used in cancer research and medication for several years.
Source(s):
http://www.candlegrove.com/mistletoe.html
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002883.htm
http://mahalo.com/Christmas_Mistletoe

Permalink | Report