Holly

Latin Name: Ilex aquifolium, Ilex opaca is USA variety
Alternative Name: aquifolius, bat’s wings, christ’s thorn, holy tree, holm chaste, hulm, hulver bush, tinne
Forms Available: leaf

Holly – ilex aquifolium – The American variety is Ilex opaca.  A Druid sacred tree.  Sacred to the Winter Solstice, when it is used for decorating.  The leaf is dried and used as tea for fevers, bronchitis, bladder problems, and gout.  Steep a half ounce of the chopped leaf in boiled water for twenty minutes; take up to one cup a day.  The juice of the fresh leaf is helpful in jaundice; take one tablespoon per day.
CAUTION: the berries are poisonous!

Aromatherapy & Health Uses: The leaves of the holly are fever-reducing and a diuretic.

Other Uses: Holly, with it’s warrior-like bristles, is known as an herb of protection. Cast it about to repel unwanted animals and spirits. Sprinkle newborn babies with “holly water” to keep them happy and safe. Carry to promote good luck.