THE Christmas tradition of couples kissing under the mistletoe originally stemmed from a belief that this plant, which stayed green even in winter, could produce and increase sexual power.In a few parts of the world it was regarded as being so potent that it could increase the productivity of the soil, be used as a fertility drug for cattle, and it was also used as a cure for impotence in humans.

The ancient British Druids believed that the mistletoe’s magic potency extended far beyond just conferring fertility. It was thought to cure almost any disease and was therefore known as “all healer”.

Sprigs fixed above doorways of homes were said to keep away lightning and many kinds of evil. As the plant had no roots it was believed that it grew from heaven. An old wives tale has it that a girl who had not been kissed under the mistletoe would be barren. Now it is only an excuse to take innocuous liberties.