18 November
2023
Does anybody know what this is all about?
During the drive on rural roads thru Lithuania, multiple times, I saw trees that looked like the ones in the picture. First, I thought those clumps were birds’ nests. Then I realized they are not. My friend mentioned that this is a result of some kind of disease in the tree.
Does anybody know what this is all about?
It is hemiparasite, meaning that it takes water and minerals from the host plant and does the rest by itself (through photosynthesis). Considered not harmful and it is even protected in some countries (like Lithuania, you can’t harvest it without special permit).
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viscum_album
From it you can extract one of the strongest toxins in the world, hence no wonder that it was part of the shamans and wizards rituals, also it is said that it has some psychedelic effects, not suggesting to try it out though đŸ™‚
Nowadays it is used in alternative medicine in a fight with cancer, as some say that toxins are affecting cancer cells stronger than healthier ones.
Interesting thing is, that it grows very easily in natural conditions, but barely in the lab.
Wow! I had no idea!! Thank you!