What is it about this powerful plant, that moves us to plant kisses on others?
This holiday season, should you find yourself standing awkwardly beneath the mistletoe with someone you barely know, change the subject and fascinate your suitor with the Lowdown on Mysterious Mistletoe.
1. According to livescience.com, the tradition of kissing beneath mistletoe started in ancient Greece. It was used in marriage ceremonies because of its association with fertility.
2. Although capable of growing on its own, Mistletoe is a parasite. The plant attaches itself to the host (usually a tree) and grows out from the branches.
3. Mistletoe is poisonous to humans but is an excellent source of food for birds, while butterflies use the nectar, and bees gather pollen from it.
4. During Medieval days, folks believed mistletoe possessed mystical powers, which could bring good luck to a family during December and ward off evil spirits.
5. The name Mistletoe comes from two Anglo Saxon words: ‘Mistal’ (meaning dung) and ‘tan’ (meaning stick). That leaves us with a “poop stick.” Share this tidbit with your would-be suitor, and it may make them a little less likely to want to kiss beneath it.
Whether or not you use Mysterious Mistletoe to decorate your home for the holidays is up to you. We offer up other suggestions in our article 5 Ideas to Deck the Halls in Your Home.