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Article: Mistletoe perks not limited to kisses.(Health & Fitness)(Alternative approach)
- Article from:
- Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, IL)
- Article date:
- December 5, 2005
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2005 Paddock Publications. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Byline: Patrick B. Massey, M.D.
Although we see mistletoe as a nice Christmas decoration, for centuries it has been considered to have many wondrous medicinal properties. Indeed, modern research suggests that it might hold some secrets to treating cancer.
Mistletoe was reportedly used as a healing plant by the Celts, Vikings and ancient Greeks. In the Celtic language, mistletoe means "All Heal" and it was believed to increase fertility and energy and bring good luck and blessings. Enemies who met beneath mistletoe would lay down their arms, exchange a friendly greeting, and keep a truce until the next day. Thus began our custom of using mistletoe as a ...