Pagan Origins of Modern Mistletoe Traditions

The Role of Druids, Celts and Norse Mythology

Sep 7, 2009

Mistletoe was revered by the ancient Druids both magically and medicinally. It's possible that modern mistletoe traditions have their roots in ancient beliefs.

The practice of kissing under mistletoe at Christmas is believed to have originated in Victorian times. Interestingly, this innocent practice may have its roots in the Pagan belief that mistletoe was an excellent plant used to bring about fertility.

Mistletoe and the Ancient Druids

Pliny the Elder, a Roman historian interested primarily in natural history, recorded valuable information about the Druids and their religious and healing practices. These ancient priests of Celtic lands revered mistletoe as sacred. Pliny stated in Natural History, XVI, 95 that, "The Druids — that is what they call their magicians — hold nothing more sacred than mistletoe and a tree on which it is growing...Mistletoe is rare, and when found, it is gathered with great ceremony, and particularly on the sixth day of the moon."

In the scene quoted above, the Druids are preparing for a ritual sacrifice which involves a white-robed priest carrying a golden scythe while climbing an oak tree to ritually cut the mistletoe. According to Pliny, it was the Valonia oak the Druid's believed was the most sacred tree to gather mistletoe from and that it would heal poison and encourage fertility.

Mistletoe in Celtic Art

Celtic art is resplendent with what are believed to be mistletoe motifs. Some artifacts have been found that resemble human male heads adorned with a crown of comma-shaped leaves that resemble mistletoe. Historians believe these finds may be representations of crowned Druid priests.

Mistletoe in Norse Mythology

In one Norse tale, there is a connection between mistletoe and the Norse god Balder. A most beloved son of Odin, Balder had dreams that he was in danger. The goddess Frigg was sent to receive oaths from all living things that they would not harm Balder. Oaths were made from everything but mistletoe, a plant the goddess thought too young to harm the god. A dart made with mistletoe by the mischievous god Loki would become Balder's downfall.

Medicinal Properties of Mistletoe

Viscum (mistletoe's Latin name), is actually a parasitic plant that grows on trees and bushes. The plant is toxic if eaten, but its medicinal properties have been utilized in extracts, tinctures and infusions. Depending on the type of mistletoe, it is believed to be helpful for health concerns such as circulatory problems, menstrual and respiratory issues.

Mistletoe's Use in Magic and Tradition

According to Scott Cunningham, author of Magical Herbalism, mistletoe is a popular herb for protection used in amulets and talismans. Some gather it as the Druids did on the sixth day of the moon (six days after the new moon) to add authenticity to their own practice and honor these ancient Pagans. When people kiss under the mistletoe, they're bringing together old traditions and new practices in harmony.

The copyright of the article Pagan Origins of Modern Mistletoe Traditions in Paganism/Wicca is owned by Patricia Deneen. Permission to republish Pagan Origins of Modern Mistletoe Traditions in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.