Written by Edzard Ernst and the CAM-Cancer Consortium.
Updated August 30, 2009

Mistletoe (Viscum album)

Abstract and key points

  • Mistletoe (Viscum album) is a semiparasitic plant.
  • The evidence for any benefit from mistletoe extracts both for curative as well as supportive/palliative therapy is weak.
  • Mistletoe is generally well tolerated and safe

Mistletoe (Viscum album) is a semiparasitic plant growing throughout Europe, Asia and North Africa. Extracts of mistletoe are highly popular in cancer care, particularly in Europe. They are usually injected subcutaneously. Proponents of this therapy claim that it improves quality of life, strengthens the immune system, has a positive impact on tumour remission and survival of cancer patients.

However, the evidence to support these claims is weak. Some studies have generated encouraging results but their methodological quality is often wanting.

Mistletoe is generally well tolerated and safe.

Citation Edzard Ernst, CAM-Cancer Consortium. Mistletoe [online document]. http://www.cam-cancer.org/CAM-Summaries/Biologically-Based-Practices/Mistletoe. August 30, 2009.

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