INTRODUCTION. 



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extensively used in South America, an account 

 of which will be given hereafter. The bark and 

 berries of some species are highly astringent, 

 and valuable as medicines. An infusion of Ilex 

 vomitoria is used by some of the southern tribes 

 of American Indians at the opening of their 

 councils, to produce the effect indicated by the 

 name. After having indulged in this strange 

 ceremony for two or three successive days, the 

 senators proceed to their deliberations. Several 

 other species are used as tea. 



