The New Murrey and Blue blog

Betony (Stachys officinalis) is a perennial herb that has been used for centuries in medieval medicine, cooking, and even magic! Here are some fascinating facts about betony:

Medicinal Uses

• Headaches and migraines: Medieval herbalists used betony to treat headaches, migraines, and even vertigo.
• Digestive issues: Betony was used to soothe digestive problems, such as indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea.
• Wound healing: The herb was applied topically to treat wounds, cuts, and skin conditions like eczema.

Culinary Uses

• Tea and infusions: Betony leaves and flowers were used to make a tea that was said to have medicinal properties.
• Cooking: The leaves were used in salads, soups, and stews, adding a slightly bitter flavor.

Magical and Superstitious Uses

• Protection: Betony was believed to offer protection against evil spirits, curses, and even snakes.
• Dreams: Medieval people believed that betony could induce prophetic dreams and improve sleep quality.

Other Interesting Facts

• Name origin: The name “betony” comes from the medieval Latin word “betonica,” which was derived from the Celtic word “bewton.”
• Folklore: In medieval folklore, betony was said to be a favorite herb of the elves.

Overall, betony was a highly valued herb in medieval times, and its uses ranged from medicinal and culinary to magical and superstitious.