Is Mistletoe Poisonous?

The familiar mistletoe of Christmas, American mistletoe (Phoradendron flavescens), is commonly used in decorations during the holiday season. Mistletoe has many memories and tales attached to it, as well as believed medicinal uses or treatments. This festive plant, however, has long been considered toxic. So, is mistletoe poisonous like some rumor it to be?

Many poison control centers and individuals warn others to keep mistletoe out of reach of children and pets, but why?

Although, some studies show that mistletoe may not be as dangerous as some say or think it is, mistletoe can, in fact, be considered a poisonous plant. Mistletoe contains hazardous chemicals that can cause a variety of reactions, such as a slowed heartbeat, gastrointestinal issues such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as weakness and drowsiness. Death can even occur due to ingestion of mistletoe, so it's very important to seek immediate medical care if you, your child, or your pet consume mistletoe.

In fact, every part of this parasitic plant can be toxic, including the white berries and green leaves that are very popular as Christmas decorations. The chemicals that make mistletoe poisonous include lectin, phoratoxin, beta-phenylethylamine, and tyramine.

So, how can one avoid any ingestion by children or pets, yet still decorate with mistletoe around the holidays? Here are some tips to use mistletoe carefully:

1. Make sure mistletoe is above the reach of children and pets. Perhaps, hang it at entrances or on high mantels in your home.

2. Tell your children or visiting children not to touch the mistletoe, and warn them that it is very poisonous. Also, make sure children know to tell you immediately if any accident occurs with the mistletoe. For example, if a berry fell and a child or pet ate it.

3. Make sure to discard of the mistletoe plants around your home as soon as you see signs of the leaves wilting. A withering mistletoe plant is more likely to lose leaves or berries and be ingested by a child or pet.

4. Spread the word that mistletoe is poisonous! Make sure your friends and family know this, as there have been many rumors that mistletoe can be used to make tea, which is still quite toxic!

This lovely plant can be used safely for holiday and Christmas decorations as long as you are careful about it. However, if it worries you too much, find a safer decorating alternative during the holiday season, such as fake mistletoe or perhaps some twinkling lights or non-toxic holiday scented candles!

Sources:
http://www.cookiebabyinc.com/poisonousplants/americanmistletoe.html
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/11/health/11real.html
http://www.drugs.com/enc/mistletoe.html
http://www.mountlehmanllamas.com/mistletoe.html