Viscum album is the botanical name for the genus Viscum, which means "sticky." It is from the plant family known as Loranthaceae. There are several different common names that this herb is also known by, including European mistletoe, mistel, birdlime mistletoe, all-heal, devil's fuge, lignum crucis, and mistletoe.
This plant grows on the branches of several different kinds of trees, particularly lime, apple, and ash hawthorn. Historically, it has been used as a treatment for sterility and as an antidote for certain types of poison. In more modern times, it is routinely used to treat a variety of different types of medical disorders and conditions.
For women, viscum album may be used as an herbal remedy to treat menopausal issues, including hot flashes, breathing difficulties, hormonal imbalances, and heart palpitations. It is also used to help regulate circulatory issues and feelings of mild to moderate anxiety. Other female conditions that are sometimes treated through the use of viscum album are menstrual disorders, chronic cramping, bleeding after childbirth, and female infertility.
Viscum album isn't only considered beneficial for women, however. It has also been used to treat a number of cardiovascular conditions, including the prevention and treatment of stroke, hardening of the arteries, heart disease, heart flutters, and circulatory problems. People who suffer from high blood pressure may also use viscum album to treat some of the side effects that frequently result from that condition, including buzzing in the ears, dizziness, and visual disturbances.
Some nervous system conditions have also been treated with viscum album, such as nervous disorders, convulsions, headaches, dizziness, and delirium. It may also be helpful in treating bleeding from the lungs or intestines caused by dysentery or typhoid, as well as general disturbances in blood circulation.
Some people have reported using viscum album to help speed up their metabolic rate when trying to lose weight. It is also recommended by some healthcare practitioners for the treatment of certain chronic metabolic disorders, as well as diabetes. As an external treatment, viscum album has been used for the treatment of sores, ulcers, chills, frost bite, and varicose veins.
It is important to note that this type of herbal remedy should only be used under the recommendation of an herbal practitioner or physician. If taken in excess, large doses of viscum album can have a harmful effect on the cardiovascular system.