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Mistletoe Extract is also believed to lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and relax tight muscles, although these effects have not yet been scientifically validated. Other unverified uses included treatment of internal bleeding, convulsions, gout, hysteria, whooping cough, asthma, dizziness, loss of menstrual cycle, diarrhea, chorea (rapid, jerky movements), and rapid heartbeat. Because of its calming effect, Mistletoe is used as a tranquilizer for various nervous conditions and for the treatment of mental and physical exhaustion. It is also used as long-term therapy to prevent hardening of the arteries. A parasitic plant, Mistletoe lives on fruit trees and poplars by tapping nutrients from the host. According to ancient folklore, the wood of the cross carried by Christ was made from Mistletoe, and the plant was therefore "punished" by being banished from the earth and forced to depend on other plants to survive. The custom of kissing under the Mistletoe is thought to be connected with the plant's legendary (and unproven) power to increase fertility. The leaves, twigs, and berries are all medicinal.
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