Mistletoe is another plant strongly associated with winter and Christmas. The tradition of kissing beneath it seems to have come from Norse mythology, from a particular story of a mother goddess loosing her son to a spear made from mistletoe only to have her tears of grief bring him back to life. In gratitude her tears become the white berries of the mistletoe and it is forever after known as a healing plant of friendship and love. She also promises to kiss anyone who passes beneath it, bestowing her blessing upon them.
In Celtic tradition mistletoe was one of the most powerful plants, used as a talisman to cure illnesses, antidote poisons, ensure fertility, protect against witchcraft and was also a sign of peace and goodwill. This plant was collected by the Celtic Druids five days after the New Moon following winter solstice.