Mistletoe therapy, used primarily as an adjunct treatment for cancer, leverages the biological activity of extracts from the mistletoe plant (Viscum album). This therapy works through several proposed mechanisms, aiming to enhance the body's natural defenses and directly target cancer cells. Key compounds in mistletoe extracts include lectins, viscotoxins, and various bioactive polysaccharides. Lectins, particularly mistletoe lectin I, are known for their dual role in stimulating the immune system and inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. They bind to specific carbohydrates on the surface of cells, which can activate immune responses and lead to the production of cytokines like tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukins. These cytokines are critical for orchestrating the immune system's attack on tumor cells. Viscotoxins, another component, have cytotoxic properties. They can disrupt cancer cell membranes, leading to cell lysis and death. Additionally, mistletoe extracts are thought to modulate the activity of immune cells, such as increasing the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells and enhancing the phagocytic activity of macrophages. This immunomodulatory effect helps in recognizing and destroying cancer cells more effectively. Clinical studies have suggested that mistletoe therapy may reduce side effects of conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, potentially by enhancing overall immune function and improving patient resilience. Moreover, patients often report improved quality of life, including better appetite, reduced pain, and improved sleep. While these mechanisms present a compelling case for mistletoe therapy, the scientific community continues to call for more rigorous, high-quality clinical trials to conclusively determine its efficacy and safety. Despite promising preliminary results, mistletoe therapy remains a complementary approach, often integrated with standard cancer treatments rather than replacing them.

Mistletoe therapy, used alongside precision oncology, represents an innovative approach in cancer treatment. Precision oncology tailors treatments based on individual genetic profiles and tumor characteristics, aiming for maximal efficacy with minimal side effects. Mistletoe extracts, containing bioactive compounds like lectins and viscotoxins, complement this by enhancing immune response and inducing cancer cell apoptosis. Integrating mistletoe therapy can potentially improve patient outcomes and quality of life, as it may reduce the side effects of conventional treatments and support the body's natural defenses. Ongoing research seeks to validate and refine these integrative strategies in oncology.