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lsandersonThe Claim: Don't Eat the Mistletoe. It Can Be Deadly
By ANAHAD O’CONNOR
THE FACTS
That Christmas bough of mistletoe has a legendary reputation for romance, but it is also widely considered as lethal as it is festive. At this time of year, poison control centers warn of the dangers of the plant, typically sending out “holiday safety” fliers that advise, among other things, to keep mistletoe out of the reach of children and pets, lest there be fatal consequences. Most experts say that all parts of the plant can be toxic, though it is the berries that are particularly dangerous.
In reality, studies show that mistletoe is not quite as hazardous as it is made out to be. The plant does in fact contain harmful chemicals like viscotoxins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress, a slowed heartbeat and other reactions.
But in studies of hundreds of cases of accidental ingestion over the years, there were no fatalities and only a handful of severe reactions. One study published in 1996 looked at 92 cases of mistletoe ingestion and found that only a small fraction of patients showed any symptoms. Eight of 10 people who consumed five or more berries had no symptoms, and 3 of the 11 people who consumed only leaves had upset stomachs.
Other studies have found similar effects, suggesting that while mistletoe can be toxic, its lethal reputation is not quite deserved.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Mistletoe is not deadly. But it can be hazardous, so don’t eat it.
By ANAHAD O’CONNOR
THE FACTS
That Christmas bough of mistletoe has a legendary reputation for romance, but it is also widely considered as lethal as it is festive. At this time of year, poison control centers warn of the dangers of the plant, typically sending out “holiday safety” fliers that advise, among other things, to keep mistletoe out of the reach of children and pets, lest there be fatal consequences. Most experts say that all parts of the plant can be toxic, though it is the berries that are particularly dangerous.
In reality, studies show that mistletoe is not quite as hazardous as it is made out to be. The plant does in fact contain harmful chemicals like viscotoxins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress, a slowed heartbeat and other reactions.
But in studies of hundreds of cases of accidental ingestion over the years, there were no fatalities and only a handful of severe reactions. One study published in 1996 looked at 92 cases of mistletoe ingestion and found that only a small fraction of patients showed any symptoms. Eight of 10 people who consumed five or more berries had no symptoms, and 3 of the 11 people who consumed only leaves had upset stomachs.
Other studies have found similar effects, suggesting that while mistletoe can be toxic, its lethal reputation is not quite deserved.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Mistletoe is not deadly. But it can be hazardous, so don’t eat it.
