herbs
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Mediaeval people cherished chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) for spring cleansing, digestion, and boosting the mood, symbolising new life with its flavour, similar to anise. It was used in soups, particularly Lenten ones, teas, and as a digestive aid, sometimes as a magical form of protection . It was called ‘myrrhis’ because it smelled similar to myrrh,…
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Lovage (Levisticum officinale), a tall, leafy perennial with a strong scent, was popular in mediaeval times, used for medicinal purposes, in cooking and famously, in love potions because of its name, from Middle English ‘love-ache’, where ‘ache’ meant parsley. Its use dates back to the 12th century. Medicinal Uses- Medieval people used all the parts…
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Vervain (Verbena officinalis) is another fascinating medieval herb with a rich history! Here are some interesting facts about vervain: Magical and Superstitious Uses Sacred herb: Vervain was considered a sacred herb in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, and was associated with the gods. Protection and purification: The herb was believed to offer protection against evil…
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Rue (Ruta graveolens) is another fascinating medieval herb. Here are some interesting facts about it: Medicinal Uses Digestive aid: Rue was used to treat digestive issues, such as indigestion, bloating, and gas. Menstrual relief: The herb was used to ease menstrual cramps, bloating, and other symptoms associated with PMS. Anti-inflammatory: Rue’s anti-inflammatory properties made it…
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Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is a fascinating herb with a rich history. It is a hardy perennial herb with fern-like leaves and bright yellow flowers, growing up to three feet tall. It prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade and is commonly found growing in rough ground, on field boundaries. Tansy contains compounds such…
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Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum) is a fascinating herb. It is a shrubby, perennial herb that can grow quite tall, up to 3-4 feet. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It’s fairly low-maintenance but may need pruning to ensure it stays bushy and healthy. In mediaeval times: Qualities: Modern Use: Mediaeval Folklore: Culinary uses: Precautions:
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Winter savory (Satureja montana) was used more in medieval times than today. It grows to between 10 and 40 cm (4 and 16 in) tall. The leathery, dark green leaves are opposite, oval-lanceolate or needle-like, 1–2 cm long and 5 mm broad. The flowers appear in summer, between July and October, and range from pale lavender or pink to…
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Mandrake (Mandragora officinarum) is a fascinating and infamous medieval herb! You may have heard of it through Harry Potter these days, but it is real and had some strange tales attached to it. Here are some interesting facts about mandrake: Magical and Superstitious Uses Protection and good fortune: Mandrake was believed to offer protection and…
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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 Culinary Uses Magical and Superstitious Uses Other Interesting Facts Overall, betony was a highly valued herb in medieval times, and its uses ranged from medicinal and…
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Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) was commonly used in medieval times, but has fallen out of popularity now. Here are some fascinating facts about hyssop: Medicinal UsesRespiratory issues: Hyssop was used to treat coughs, colds, and respiratory problems, such as bronchitis and asthma.Digestive aid: The herb was used to soothe digestive issues, like indigestion and bloating.Wound healing:…
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