Can I eat mistletoe berries?
Quick Answer
No
Mistletoe berries are considered toxic and can cause serious harm if ingested. They should not be eaten.
What Is It?
Mistletoe berries are the small white berries produced by the mistletoe plant, a parasitic plant often associated with Christmas traditions.
Historical Context
Historically, mistletoe and its berries have been used in various cultures for medicinal purposes, but they are not safe to eat.
How to Tell
Signs of mistletoe berry ingestion can include stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and even seizures in severe cases.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating mistletoe berries poses several health risks due to their toxicity.
- Gastrointestinal upset: The most common symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.
- Cardiac problems: In severe cases, ingestion can lead to abnormal heart rate and low blood pressure.
- Seizures: In extreme cases, seizures can occur.