What's the history behind mistletoe and why do we use it at Christmas

Mistletoe's history as a symbol and its association with Christmas stems from ancient traditions and mythology. Here's a breakdown of its origins and why it became a beloved part of Christmas celebrations.

Ancient Roots

1. Druids and Celts:

   • The Druids (Celtic priests) revered mistletoe as a sacred plant. It was associated with fertility, vitality, and protection, likely due to its ability to thrive during winter when most plants were dormant.
   • They harvested mistletoe with great ceremony, using golden sickles and ensuring it never touched the ground, as they believed it held divine properties.

2. Norse Mythology:

   • Mistletoe plays a role in the myth of Balder, the Norse god of light and purity. According to legend, Balder's mother, Frigg, made all plants and objects promise not to harm him, but she overlooked mistletoe. Loki, the trickster god, used mistletoe to kill Balder. After his death, Frigg declared mistletoe a symbol of love and peace, leading to the custom of kissing beneath it as a sign of reconciliation.

Medieval and Renaissance Traditions

• Healing Powers: In medieval Europe, mistletoe was considered a powerful remedy for various ailments and a charm to ward off evil spirits. Its evergreen nature made it a symbol of life and hope during the dark winter months.

Christian Influence

• Although mistletoe was initially a pagan symbol, it was incorporated into Christmas traditions in the Middle Ages as Christianity spread across Europe. Its evergreen leaves and association with vitality and renewal resonated with the Christian theme of eternal life.

Victorian England and Modern Traditions

• The custom of kissing under the mistletoe became popular in Victorian England. It was considered a charming and slightly mischievous tradition. According to folklore, refusing a kiss under mistletoe was bad luck.
• A sprig of mistletoe was often hung in homes during the holiday season to symbolise goodwill, love, and hospitality.

Why We Use It at Christmas

• Symbol of Love and Unity: Mistletoe represents love, reconciliation, and connection, aligning with the themes of togetherness and joy during the Christmas season.
• Winter Decor: Its vibrant green leaves and white berries bring natural beauty to winter celebrations.
• Cultural Tradition: Over time, mistletoe became a festive emblem of Christmas, carried forward by popular culture and holiday customs.

Mistletoe continues to symbolise love and hope, making it a meaningful addition to modern Christmas traditions.

To create meaningful Christmas gifts I have taken sprigs of real living mistletoe and created solid sterling silver mistletoe sprigs permanently frozen in time, so that you can have an everlasting heirloom Christmas decoration. Each mistletoe sprig is unique, and has been hallmarked by the Assay Office.

There are two styles of Silver Mistletoe, the Sterling Silver Mistletoe Decoration and the Sterling Silver Mistletoe Kisses in a Shadow Box

Both are ready to gift and will be gift wrapped. You will also be supporting MIND with every purchase. 50% from each sale this year will go to MIND.