Holly

Generic name: Ilex Aquifolium L. (English Holly)., Ilex Opaca Aiton. (American Holly)., Ilex Vomitoria Aiton. (Yaupon).
Brand names: American Holly, Appalachian Tea, Cassena, Christmas Berry, Deer Berry, English Holly, Holly, Indian Black Drink, Indian Holly, Oregon Holly, Yaupon

Usage of Holly

Chemical studies to elucidate the constituents of the Ilex species, including I. pubescens, I. vomitoria, and I. asprella, have been published.West 1977, Kashiwada 1993, Nahar 2005, Palumbo 2007 However, clinical trials for holly are lacking.

See also monograph for related Maté species (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil. var.) for which limited clinical studies have been conducted.

Holly side effects

The leaves of most species are generally considered to be nontoxic, although the spines of some leaves may tear or puncture skin and mucous membranes.

Before taking Holly

Documented adverse effects. Avoid use. Low birth weight, birth defects, and premature birth have been recorded for the related species I. paraguayensis (maté).Ernst 2002

How to use Holly

There are no clinical applications for holly to form a basis for dosing.

Warnings

Although no fatalities have been reported, case reports exist of human toxicity. Ingestion of the holly berry can cause vomiting or diarrhea, and may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Stupor has been associated with poisoning. Saponins are found in some species of Ilex, but their absorption through intact mucosa is minimal. Saponins generally cause severe diarrhea and GI upset.Rodrigues 1984, Arena 1979, HolidayHint 2004

What other drugs will affect Holly

None well documented.

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