Bach Flower Remedies – Holly

Species: Ilex aquifolium

Group: Oversensitivity to influences and ideas

Keywords: Jealousy. Envy. Hatred. Lack of love.

“But should we…develop real sympathy towards our fellow-men, this quality will once and for all make cruelty impossible, for we should shun the very act with horror because of our fellow-feeling.”
~ Edward Bach

This prickly tree is native to western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia. Along the west coast of the United States and Canada, it has become very invasive, quickly spreading into native forest habitat, where it thrives in shade and crowds out native species.  While songbirds like Cardinals, Robins, and Cedar Waxwings can safely consume shiny red Holly berries, all parts of this evergreen plant are poisonous to humans, and the sharp, spiny leaves can cause painful cuts to the skin.

Dr Bach wrote of Holly, “For those who are sometimes attacked by thoughts of such kind of jealousy, envy, revenge, suspicion. For the different forms of vexation. Within themselves they may suffer much, often when there is no real cause for their unhappiness.” – The Twelve Healers

Emotional disharmony indicating Holly:

• Jealousy
• Envy
• Feelings of Hatred
• Lack of connection with others

Positive character qualities of Holly:

• Generosity
• Compassion
• Love
• Inner harmony

Daily use of the Bach flowers provides gentle emotional support. Negative attitudes are transformed into positive virtues as the body’s self-curative potential strengthens emotional health and restores inner harmony.

“And may we ever have gratitude in hearts that the great Creator in all His glory has placed the herbs in the field for our healing.“ ~ Edward Bach