Prickly holly

Prickly Holly: Poisonous shrub with medicinal properties

Prickly Holly, whose scientific name is Aquifoliaceae, is a plant with interesting characteristics and medicinal properties. It is also known by various popular names such as pandora, Swabian thorn and thorny oak, and its leaves have a pharmaceutical name - Ilicis aquifolii folium (formerly: Folia Ilicis aquifolii).

The botanical appearance of prickly holly is an evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching a height of about 1-2 meters. Its leaves have a leathery texture and a sharp-toothed, spiny shape that makes it recognizable among other plants.

The flowers of the prickly holly are white or reddish and are located in the axils of the leaves. This plant is native to southern China, but can also be found in Germany, where it grows in beech forests, sometimes found in mixed woodlands. Also, prickly holly is not rare in the foothills of the Alps.

One of the important aspects of prickly holly is its active ingredients. Its leaves contain tannins and bitterness. These components give the plant its special properties.

The prickly holly is used in some places, especially in Switzerland, as a medicinal plant. It was used to treat various diseases such as influenza, rheumatism, bronchitis and was sometimes used as a diuretic. However, it is worth noting that its medical use is currently quite rare.

Although prickly holly has medicinal properties, it should be remembered that this plant is also poisonous. Therefore, before using it for medical purposes, you should consult a qualified healthcare professional and follow his or her recommendations.

In conclusion, the prickly holly is an interesting plant with unique characteristics. Its poisonous properties are combined with potential medicinal properties, making it a subject of study and interest in science and medicine.