Don't swallow the mistletoe

Q: Somebody gave me real mistletoe for decoration and told me it had medicinal value, too. Is that true?

-- P.G., Portland, Ore.

A: No. American versions of mistletoe only have kiss-attracting value. Our version, which is derived from phoradendron, is actually toxic when taken internally.

The European form of mistletoe, derived from Viscus album, however, is digestible and endowed with potent health benefits, particularly immune-boosting properties; studies support its complementary use in cancer treatment. Some Web sites sell mistletoe tea, but be careful that you get the Viscus album version.

Suzanne Somers made mistletoe famous years ago when she took a European brand called Iscador as part of her treatment for breast cancer. Weleda makes the American brand called Iscar, which is registered as a homeopathic medicine in the United States. More information can be found at iscador.com or usa.weleda.com.

Q: Every winter I get sick, and I'm always confused about what to buy over the counter to help me breathe. What is the difference between a decongestant and an-antihistamine?

-- J.D., Denver

A: Basically, decongestants unstuff your nose and antihistamines dry mucous.

Let's talk about decongestants first. They allow more air to flow. You know you need one if you have to breathe through your mouth. There are hundreds of oral products that contain decongestants. One of the most well-known is Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), but because it stimulates the heart, it isn't recommended for people with blood-pressure problems or heart conditions. These drugs are sometimes kept behind the counter to keep them out of the hands of abusers looking to chemically alter them into "buzz'' drugs.

Nasal sprays, such as Afrin, also unstuff a clogged-up nose. They work fast, bringing relief in minutes. But don't use them for more than three days. Babies can use nonmedicated saline sprays to ease breathing or, even better, run a humidifier.

Antihistamines dry mucous and ease itchy, scratchy throat, itchy eyes, sneezing and runny nose. Drugs like this sit at the doorway of your body's cells and prevent them from dumping out histamine, a chemical notorious for causing misery.

As the discomfort lifts, you may get sleepy. Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton and Tavist are popular brands. Drowsiness can be a good thing if you take these antihistamines at night, but if you take them during the day, their use could impair your driving and your ability to operate machinery. Don't take these and drive. Take them at night only.

Claritin and Alavert are nondrowsy antihistamines that can be taken during daytime hours without fear of sedation. Consult your doctor if you've got narrow-angle glaucoma or urinary or prostate problems.

You can combine both decongestants and antihistamines. There are many multi-tasking formulas sold over the counter.

This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist. Her column is published Tuesdays on Life. To contact her, visit dearpharmacist.com.