When it comes to mistletoe, many people associate it with the holiday season and the tradition of kissing under it. But have you ever wondered how mistletoe was known by the Vikings who discovered it? Was it snow berries, love berries, white tear drops, or dung on a stick? Let's dive into the fascinating history of mistletoe and its connection to the Vikings.

The Vikings, known for their exploration and conquests, were also keen observers of nature. They came across a peculiar plant during their travels, which they later named mistletoe. However, it wasn't any of the options mentioned earlier. Mistletoe was actually known to the Vikings as "mistiltain" or "mistiltan," which means "dung on a stick" in Old Norse.

So why did the Vikings refer to mistletoe as "dung on a stick"? This name was given to mistletoe because of its unique way of growing. Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that attaches itself to trees, absorbing nutrients and water from its host. Vikings noticed that mistletoe would often grow on tree branches where birds had left their droppings. Hence, the name "dung on a stick" was coined.

Despite its unflattering name, mistletoe held a special significance for the Vikings. They believed that mistletoe had magical properties and could bring good luck and fertility. Mistletoe was seen as a symbol of peace, and it was often used during peace negotiations and gatherings.

Over time, mistletoe became associated with love and romance. The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is believed to have originated from the Norse mythology. According to one myth, when the god Balder was killed by an arrow made of mistletoe, his mother Frigg wept tears of white berries. These tears brought Balder back to life, and Frigg declared mistletoe a symbol of love and vowed to kiss anyone who passed under it.

So, the next time you come across mistletoe during the holiday season, remember its Viking origins. It may have been known as "dung on a stick" by the Vikings, but today, it represents love, peace, and the joy of the festive season.

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