Mistletoe - Feed Ingredient

Mistletoe refers to several species of parasitic plants in the Viscum or Phoradendron genera, with Viscum album (European mistletoe) being the most recognized medicinal variety. The leaves and stems are typically harvested and dried for use in traditional herbal remedies.

Mistletoe contains biologically active compounds such as viscotoxin, lectins, and flavonoids. These have been studied in other species for potential immune-modulating and cytotoxic effects. However, mistletoe is also known to be toxic, particularly in raw or improperly processed forms, due to the presence of these compounds.

There is no equine-specific research supporting its use, and due to its toxic potential, mistletoe should not be fed to horses unless under strict veterinary direction.