Spearmint has been a popular herb in both culinary and medicinal uses for centuries, being prevalent in early medieval times and probably long before. Originating in the Mediterranean, it soon became widespread. It’s name in Spanish, yerba buena, which means “good herb”, points to its popularity and use for many things. Spearmint has been found in English gardens since at least the 9th century, and was brought over to the Americas on the first voyages.
Yarrow has an ancient relationship with mankind, and has many uses, but yarrow's main effect and what it is most famous for is its ability to aid in the healing of wounds. Yarrow also helps with circulation, aiding in breaking fevers by causing sweating, and aiding in digestion.
Jamaican dogwood has been used by bush doctors as a traditional remedy for nerve pain, migraines, insomnia, and nervous tension. It was also used as an external wash for any skin compliant. To cure a headache, crushed leaves are tied around the head so one can inhale the essence.
This week, we'll be looking into the medicinal attributes of common chamomile. The Latin name for this plant is Anthemis nobilis. Its other names include: True Chamomile, Noble Chamomile, Manzanilla, Maythen, Roman Chamomile, English Chamomile, Garden Chamomile, Ground Apple, Low Chamomile, and Whig Plant. Chamomile became popular in the Middle Ages in English gardens for its distinct scent of apples, which is where it gets the names of chamomile (from the Greek kamai-melon or ground-apple) and Manzanilla (“a little apple” in Spanish). It was specifically used as part of green paths so it could be walked on to release the scent. It was also known as the ‘Plant’s Physician’ because it contributes...
This week, we'll be taking a look into the world of Lavender. The Latin name for Lavender is Lavandula angustifolia. It's other names include: Alhucema, Common Lavender, English Lavender, French Lavender, Garden Lavender, Huile Essentielle de Lavande, Lavanda, Lavande, Lavande à Feuilles Étroites, Lavande Anglaise, Lavande Commune, Lavande Fine, Lavande Officinale, Lavande Vraie, Lavandula, Lavandula angustifolia, True Lavender. Lavender has an ancient relationship with the peoples of the world. Documentation of its use goes back over 2,500 years when Egyptians used it in mummification, and in perfumes. Romans used lavender for cooking, incense, and to scent the waters in their baths. It is actually from the Romans that lavender gets its name,...