Description
European Mistletoe is an evergreen hemiparasitic plant from the Santalaceae family. It grows on the trunks and branches of various deciduous trees, including oak, apple, poplar, lime, and other host species, drawing water and mineral nutrients from them.
The plant forms characteristic spherical clusters of repeatedly branched green stems. Its leaves are opposite, leathery, and yellow-green, while the fruits are white, translucent berries that mature during winter.
European Mistletoe is a well-established botanical raw material used in the production of herbal products, extracts, and specialised botanical formulations.
Basic Information
- Latin name: Viscum album L.
- Common name: European Mistletoe
- Part used: herb (Herba Visci albi)
- Additional parts used: leaves and berries
- Origin: Bulgaria
- Raw material type: wild-harvested
- Harvest period: December – March
Other Names
- Mistletoe
- European Mistletoe
Herb Characteristics
European Mistletoe is a perennial evergreen plant that develops on a wide range of host trees. Its stems are yellow-green, repeatedly branched, and form compact spherical growths.
The leaves are thick and leathery, remaining green throughout the year. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, while the white sticky berries are among the plant's most distinctive features.
For herbal applications, young stems and leaves are typically harvested and carefully dried to preserve the quality of the botanical material.
Chemical Composition
- viscotoxins
- lectins
- flavonoids
- triterpenes
- phenolic compounds
- organic acids
- choline
- polysaccharides
Lectins and viscotoxins are among the most extensively studied constituents of European Mistletoe and are considered characteristic compounds of the species.
Suitable for the Production of
- herbal teas
- dry extracts
- liquid extracts
- tinctures
- food supplements
- botanical extracts
- herbal blends
- specialised botanical formulations
Medicinal Properties and Effects on the Body
European Mistletoe is traditionally associated with the following properties:
- antioxidant activity
- circulatory support
- cardiovascular support
- calming properties
- traditional use in European herbal practice
Traditionally, European Mistletoe has been included in herbal formulations intended to support normal circulatory function and general well-being.
⚠️ Important Notice
The berries of European Mistletoe contain biologically active substances that may cause adverse effects if used improperly. The use of the raw material should comply with applicable regulations and recognised good manufacturing practices.
Forms Available
Available as:
- whole dried herb (Herba Visci albi)
- crushed herb (Herba Visci albi)
- cut material in custom sizes upon request
- herbal powder
Quality and Documentation
Upon request, the following may be provided:
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)
- technical documentation
- additional documents upon request
Inquiry
Contact us for current availability, samples, and a quotation based on the required quantities, preferred processing form, and raw material specifications.