Mistletoe

(Mistletoe)
Sanskrit: बांदा Botanical: Viscum album Linn.

Banda (Viscum album) is a parasitic plant that grows on trees. It is found in the Himalayan region at altitudes of 3000-9000 feet. Its synonyms in Hindi are Banda and Bandha. The plant is described as growing on various host trees. It is used in bleeding disorders, fractures, and as a uterine tonic. It is semi-parasitic, absorbing nutrients from the host tree. The leaves and branches are used medicinally. Different varieties grow on different trees, and the properties may vary depending on the host tree. Dose: 1-2 tola.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Viscotoxin, Lectins, Flavonoids
Also Known As
English: Mistletoe, European Mistletoe
Sanskrit: बांदा, वृक्षादनी, वृक्षरुहा, परभृता
Hindi: बांदा, बॉंदा

What is Mistletoe (Banda / बांदा)?

Banda (Viscum album) is a parasitic plant that grows on trees. It is found in the Himalayan region at altitudes of 3000-9000 feet. Its synonyms in Hindi are Banda and Bandha. The plant is described as growing on various host trees. It is used in bleeding disorders, fractures, and as a uterine tonic. It is semi-parasitic, absorbing nutrients from the host tree. The leaves and branches are used medicinally. Different varieties grow on different trees, and the properties may vary depending on the host tree. Dose: 1-2 tola.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
  • Raktastambhana (hemostatic)
  • Garbhashaya Balya (uterine tonic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Mistletoe by Condition

Explore how Mistletoe is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.