Holly – uses and health benefits

Stechpalme

Holly has year -round green foliage that is ideal for use as a natural hedge element or as an ornamental feature on a patio. The compact, stocky growth behavior is also typical. However, holly also offers various health benefits.

General overview

The holly is not, as the name might suggest, a true palm tree. The “palm” part of the name results from the use of the tree in a Christian tradition: On Palm Sunday in parts of the Christian world, the branches of various willows, boxwood, holly and other plants are consecrated as “palm”. Holly is an evergreen, upright shrub or tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall and 300 years old.

Holly is native to western and central Europe. Some varieties are popular ornamental plants in gardens or parks. The plants are dioecious. This means that there are female and male hollies. However, only the female holly bears fruit . The leaves are oval, thick and leathery. They have up to seven spines on the edge. The shape of the leaf varies towards the top. The white petals of holly stand in the leaf axils and have four petals.

The fruits are red, berry-like and about the size of a pea. They appear in autumn and shine in winter. This can be seen from afar. Holly fruits often remain on the bush until the following spring. The holly is a beautiful plant that many people enjoy during the austere months of the year as well. When collecting, it should be noted that holly is under strict nature protection in many European countries.

Occurrence and cultivation

Holly is found in the Mediterranean, North Africa and Southeastern Europe at high elevations and climates to match. In Central Europe, the plant only grows up to 1,800 meters. The holly prefers lime-poor, nutrient-rich soils. The shrub form grows in mixed forests, with holly being common in Germany, where it is protected under the Federal Species Protection Ordinance, in the foothills of the Alps, west of the Rhine and in the northern lowlands. It thrives in shady, semi-shady, but also full sun locations and deep, humus-rich, preferably lime-free soil. The only important thing is that it never dries out completely. The holly does not tolerate long periods of drought or waterlogging. It is generally frost hardy.

Application and effect

Due to its high ornamental value, holly is very popular at Christmas time to embellish arrangements and wreaths. Not only the leaves, but especially the red berries are a beautiful sight thanks to their bright color. The berries are also an attractive eye-catcher in a festive bouquet. However, care should be taken with children in the household because the leaves and berries contain urolic acid and polyphenols .

Consuming these toxins leads to diarrhea , vomiting , and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The first symptoms can appear after eating just two berries, with 20 to 30 berries being life-threatening. The holly is also used as an evergreen hedge in the garden as a pretty privacy screen. For birds, the holly offers good protection in the form of a nesting place or hiding place. In addition, the berries provide a source of food for many birds in winter.

What does holly help against?

importance to health

Holly is used internally and externally. In folk medicine, for example, it is used as a decoction for a feverish cold and flu. The berries are also said to be diuretic . This also explains the suspected effect on gout, rheumatism and kidney stones. Coughs and fevers are also among the diseases that are treated with the leaves of the holly.

The plant is also good for the psyche, as it helps to become more balanced and calm. Holly is also popular for a side stitch. In general, it is said to have a cold-relieving, fever -reducing, expectorant, antispasmodic , diuretic, intestinal-regulating, rheumatic and tonic effect. Decoctions are also said to be helpful for fractures and bumps.

Since the leaves of the holly contain the toxic substances to a lesser extent than the berries, only these are used to alleviate the various ailments. The leaves can also work against tiredness and weakness, so they are suitable for various tea blends that strengthen the body in general. Although the applications with medicinal herbs often have a positive effect on the various complaints, it is advisable to always consult a doctor in advance.

 

Dorothy Farrar

Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.

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