I. Aquifolium : History, etc. 



decoction of roots of the Holly, but the bark of 

 the root is the most powerful, fomented on places 

 out of joint, doeth help them much and also helps 

 to consolidate broken bones." 



A writer in Hardwickes Science Gossip in re- 

 ferring to the medicinal properties says: "Later 

 on the bark and leaves were used in fomentations, 

 and the dried and not dried berries were reputed 

 to possess very opposite qualities when swallowed. 

 In my young days, when I suffered from chil- 

 blains, I was told that if I would only submit to 

 have them whipped with freshly gathered Holly- 

 leaves till the blood flowed, they would soon heal 

 and never again appear. I had not the courage 

 to try this remedy, but I believe it is still used 

 in some country places." 



This cure for chilblains is still recommended 

 in villages in Cheshire. 



On the virtues of the seeds taken in doses of 

 ten or twelve, in cases of constipation, Culpepper, 

 Gerard, Parkinson, and Johnson, all wax eloquent, 

 whilst Johnson, who published a Herbal m 1633, 

 warns everyone against taking birdlime, made 

 from Holly, inwardly, and goes on in language 

 more forcible than polite to describe the evil 

 effects produced on persons who should be un- 

 wise enough to take a dose. 



Strange to say, at a later date one writer re- 

 commends a decoction of the bark as a cure for 

 a cough, whilst in Sowerbys English Botany, II. 



43 



