Healing Garden

A History of Medicinal Plants

RHS Lindley Library

Healing Garden title picture
Illustration of Mint from Hieronymus Bock ‘De stripium / Hieronymus’, 1552.

The healing power of plants

The desire to harness the healing power of plants is centuries old and throughout much of history, before the age of modern medicine, the natural world around us was the only source of remedies for our ailments.

For hundreds of years our cultivation efforts centred around the medicinal, rather than the ornamental, value of plants. Many species that we grow today for their appealing flowers and scents were initially of interest for their assumed healing properties. This exhibition reveals some of the fascinating histories that are hidden in plain sight in our own back gardens. Focusing on popular herbs and flowers, it will look at how our understanding of these plants has changed over time and investigate their use for healing today.

Illustration of mint from Hieronymus Bock, De stripium / Hieronymus, 1552. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Who were the first herbalists?

The medicinal benefits of many plants were well known to ancient Greek, Roman and Arab physicians and their uses were repeated and refined over thousands of years. The earliest forms of managed gardens were created specifically to provide plants for culinary or healing purposes. They provided food for the local community and resources for herbalists and healers.

What is a herbal?

Medicinal plants could also be collected from the wild, a practice known in the 1600s and 1700s as ‘simpling’. The plants, known as ‘simples’, were gathered for use in herbal remedies including tonics, oils and ointments. Information on treatments can be found in botanical encyclopaedias, known as ‘herbals’. These detailed publications, written by botanists, herbalists and physicians, contained descriptions of plants and set out their many different uses. They were one of the earliest mass-produced texts, as new printing technologies were adopted across Europe during the 1400s and 1500s.

What did early printed herbals contain?

There were no standard formats for the early printed herbals of the late 1500s, 1600s and 1700s. The information they contained could be set out in many different ways: ordered by plant or by ailment, with lists arranged alphabetically, or in other groupings favoured by the author. Produced many years before standardised systems of plant classification were established, they often included indexes of both Latin and common names.

What did early herbals look like?

Most entries in the books comprise a description of the plant, where to find it, and what it can be used for. Often an illustration is included, to help with identification in the field. In the earliest works, the illustrations were very basic – so much so that we know that publishers could even reuse the same plates in different works to illustrate different plants! Developments in printing technology allowed for increasingly more accurate depictions. The woodcuts of the early 1500s gave way by the end of the century to metal plate engravings, allowing for finer detail and shading.

Image: Parsley, from Leonharto Fuchsio De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Science and superstition in early herbals

Within their texts, the herbalists relied heavily on observation and experience but they also drew upon classical teachings, mythology and folklore. Seamlessly interweaving science and superstition, the herbals make for a compelling read. In many cases, associations were based on physical appearances. The colour, shape, or patterning of a plant might link it to a particular body part or ailment with similar features, or the feel of a plant on the skin or against the tongue, as ‘hot’ or ‘cool’ and ‘dry’ or ‘moist’, could lead it to be recommended or avoided.

Image: View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Man, as illustrated in Culpeper's Family Physician, and Sibleys Occult Sciences. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Herbals and modern science

Astrology was also important and the movements of the stars were factored into diagnoses. By the 1900s, however, botany had been developing as a new and independent science and medical botanists sought to distance themselves from the herbals and their writers’ interest in abstract concepts. Whilst the rationales were discredited, many of the herbalists’ findings still hold true today and have now been proven and explained by modern science.

Image: View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Woman, as illustrated in Culpeper's Family Physician, and Sibleys Occult Sciences. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The healing power of plants

The desire to harness the healing power of plants is centuries old and throughout much of history, before the age of modern medicine, the natural world around us was the only source of remedies for our ailments.

Coloured woodcut illustration depicting Mentha rubea and Mentha satiua [mint]

Image: Coloured woodcut illustration depicting Mentha rubea and Mentha satiua [mint]. From the book 'De stirpium Hieronymi Tragi' by Hieronymus Bock. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Coloured woodcut illustration depicting Mentha rubea and Mentha satiua [mint]. From the book 'De stirpium Hieronymi Tragi' by Hieronymus Bock. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

For hundreds of years our cultivation efforts centred around the medicinal, rather than the ornamental, value of plants. Many species that we grow today for their appealing flowers and scents were initially of interest for their assumed healing properties. This exhibition reveals some of the fascinating histories that are hidden in plain sight in our own back gardens. Focusing on popular herbs and flowers, it will look at how our understanding of these plants has changed over time and investigate their use for healing today.

Who were the first herbalists?

The medicinal benefits of many plants were well known to ancient Greek, Roman and Arab physicians and their uses were repeated and refined over thousands of years. The earliest forms of managed gardens were created specifically to provide plants for culinary or healing purposes. They provided food for the local community and resources for herbalists and healers.

Woodcut illustration of a herbalist

What is a herbal?

Medicinal plants could also be collected from the wild, a practice known in the 1600s and 1700s as ‘simpling’. The plants, known as ‘simples’, were gathered for use in herbal remedies including tonics, oils and ointments. Information on treatments can be found in botanical encyclopaedias, known as ‘herbals’. These detailed publications, written by botanists, herbalists and physicians, contained descriptions of plants and set out their many different uses. They were one of the earliest mass-produced texts, as new printing technologies were adopted across Europe during the 1400s and 1500s.

Woodcut illustration of a herbalist

What did early herbals contain?

There were no standard formats for the early printed herbals of the late 1500s, 1600s and 1700s. The information they contained could be set out in many different ways: ordered by plant or by ailment, with lists arranged alphabetically, or in other groupings favoured by the author. Produced many years before standardised systems of plant classification were established, they often included indexes of both Latin and common names.

Woodcut illustration of parsley

What did early herbals look like?

Most entries in the books comprise a description of the plant, where to find it, and what it can be used for. Often an illustration is included, to help with identification in the field. In the earliest works, the illustrations were very basic – so much so that we know that publishers could even reuse the same plates in different works to illustrate different plants! Developments in printing technology allowed for increasingly more accurate depictions. The woodcuts of the early 1500s gave way by the end of the century to metal plate engravings, allowing for finer detail and shading.

Parsley, from Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542

Image: Parsley, from Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Parsley, from Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Science and superstition in early herbals

Within their texts, the herbalists relied heavily on observation and experience but they also drew upon classical teachings, mythology and folklore. Seamlessly interweaving science and superstition, the herbals make for a compelling read. In many cases, associations were based on physical appearances. The colour, shape, or patterning of a plant might link it to a particular body part or ailment with similar features, or the feel of a plant on the skin or against the tongue, as ‘hot’ or ‘cool’ and ‘dry’ or ‘moist’, could lead it to be recommended or avoided.

View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Man

Image: View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Man, as illustrated in Culpeper's Family Physician, and Sibleys Occult Sciences. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Man, as illustrated in Culpeper's Family Physician, and Sibleys Occult Sciences. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Herbals and modern science

Astrology was also important and the movements of the stars were factored into diagnoses. By the 1900s, however, botany had been developing as a new and independent science and medical botanists sought to distance themselves from the herbals and their writers’ interest in abstract concepts. Whilst the rationales were discredited, many of the herbalists’ findings still hold true today and have now been proven and explained by modern science.

View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Woman

Image: View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Woman, as illustrated in Culpeper's Family Physician, and Sibleys Occult Sciences. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: View of the Celestial Influx on the Body of Woman, as illustrated in Culpeper's Family Physician, and Sibleys Occult Sciences. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The remedies

Illustration of a Peony, from Hieronymus Bock 'De stripium / Hieronymi Tragi' c.1582.

Peonies as a treatment for epilepsy

The roots of plants of the genus Paeonia (peony) family have historically been used to treat a variety of ailments. In particular, they were recommended for children with epilepsy, with the roots “either taken inwardly, or hung about their necks”. In the herbals of the early 1600s this condition was known as the ‘falling sickness’. By the publishing of Elizabeth Blackwell’s herbal in 1737, however, the modern name can be seen as she notes the peony’s use for “Epilepsy, Apoplexy and all kinds of Convulsions”.

Image: Illustration of a Peony, from Hieronymus Bock De stripium / Hieronymi Tragi c.1582. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The foxglove extract that is used in heart treatments

Digitalis purpurea (foxglove) was also used to treat the ‘falling sickness’. Foxgloves are now known to be poisonous, however the drug digoxin, which comes from the plant, is used to help to correct irregular heart rhythms and its anticonvulsant properties have been investigated for their effects on epilepsy. The chemicals needed to make digoxin cannot be synthesised, they can only be obtained from living plants.

Image: Copper engraving of Foxglove, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell A Curious Herbal Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The medicinal uses of rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) has been known throughout history as an aid for the memory. In the early printed herbals, it was recommended to “helpeth a weake memory” and according to John Parkinson could remedy “all other cold diseases of the head and braines, as the giddiness or swimming therein, drowsiness or dulnesse of the minde and senses like a stupidnesse”. For Nicholas Culpeper, the flowers in particular were said to "strengthen the brain exceedingly, and resist madness". Oils made from the leaves or flowers could be applied to the temples, or the plant could be eaten with meats or taken in wine.

Rosemary retains a reputation for improving circulation to the head and is still used in treatments for nervous tension and headaches. Modern scientific investigations have shown it can help to maintain the brain chemical acetylecholine, low levels of which are linked to forgetfulness and Alzheimer’s disease.

Image: Copper engraving of Rosemary, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell A Curious Herbal Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Lemon balm to treat stress and anxiety

On matters of happiness and wellbeing, the early herbalists were prone to drawing on the knowledge of the ancient physicians. Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) was valued for its restorative properties. John Parkinson quotes ancient Greek physicians who stated the plant would “cause the minde and heart to become merry” and “revive the fainting heart falling into swounings”. The herb has long been used to treat stress and anxiety and it is still enjoyed today for its uplifting lemony fragrance.

Image: Engraving of lemon balm, from Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The historic uses of mugwort

They also had a critical eye though, and denounced what they saw as “idle superstitions”. On Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort), Parkinson quotes the Roman naturalist Pliny:

"that if a traveller binde some of the herbe about him, he shall feel no weariness at all in his journey: as also that no evill medicine or evill bease shall hurt him that hath this hearbe about him"

Parkinson did not support Pliny’s theory, however he did recommend the juices of the plant for overdoses of opium – a use that still stands today as mugwort can help relieve the symptoms of withdrawal.

Image: Copper engraving of Mugwort, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell A Curious Herbal Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Treating skin conditions with honeysuckle

The garden favourite Lonicera periclymenum (honeysuckle) came highly recommended for problems with the skin. It was a plant that needed careful handling though, as its different parts had different properties – as identified by John Parkinson: the leaves are ‘hot’ and can irritate and burn but the flowers are ‘cool’ and useful for soothing. The flowers were applied externally in distilled water or as an infused oil and were used to “cleanse the face and skinne from morphew, sunburne, freckles, and other discolourings”. Honeysuckle can still be used to treat sunburn and heat-sensitive skin issues. It has also been found to contain salicylic acid, an aspirin-like compound that can be helpful against fevers.

Image: Copper engraving of Honeysuckle, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The soothing and cleansing effects of jasmine

Varieties of Jasminium (jasmine), introduced to the UK in the mid-1500s, were also noted for similar soothing and cleansing effects. The herbalists disagreed amongst themselves, however, on whether to work with the leaves or the fragrant flowers.

Image: Engraving of Jasmine, from John Edwards A select collection of one hundred plates 1775. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The popularity of valerian as a medicinal plant

Valeriana officinalis (valerian), also known as ‘Setwall’, was a favoured treatment in the early herbals for a wide range of ailments. It was recommended for sickness and pain, for inclusion in ‘counterpoisons’, and was noted in particular by Nicholas Culpeper as "being of great service in malignant fevers and pestilential distempers".

It was so frequently used that John Gerard was led to remark upon its popularity:

"it hath been had (and is to this day among the poore people of our northerne parts) in such veneration amongst them, that no brothes, pottage, or phisicall meates are worth anything, if Setwall were not at one end: whereupon some woman poet or other hath made these verses:

They that will have their heale, Must put Setwall in their keale"

Valerian is recognised now for its effectiveness as a sedative. It helps to reduce the level of nerve activity in the brain, relieving anxiety and encouraging sleep. Whilst its curative properties may have been exaggerated by early herbalists, it certainly would have given their patients rest and temporary relief from their symptoms.

Image: Copper engraving of Valerian, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Peonies as a treatment for epilepsy

The roots of plants of the genus Paeonia (peony) family have historically been used to treat a variety of ailments. In particular, they were recommended for children with epilepsy, with the roots “either taken inwardly, or hung about their necks”. In the herbals of the early 1600s this condition was known as the ‘falling sickness’. By the publishing of Elizabeth Blackwell’s herbal in 1737, however, the modern name can be seen as she notes the peony’s use for “Epilepsy, Apoplexy and all kinds of Convulsions”.

Image: Peony. From Hieronymus Bock, De stripium / Hieronymus, 1552. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Peony. From Hieronymus Bock, De stripium / Hieronymus, 1552. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The foxglove extract used for heart treatments

Digitalis purpurea (foxglove) was also used to treat the ‘falling sickness’. Foxgloves are now known to be poisonous however the drug digoxin, which comes from the plant, is used to help to correct irregular heart rhythms and its anticonvulsant properties have been investigated for their effects on epilepsy. The chemicals needed to make digoxin cannot be synthesized, they can only be obtained from living plants.

Image: Copper engraving of Foxglove, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Foxglove, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The medicinal uses of rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) has been known throughout history as an aid for the memory. In the early printed herbals, it was recommended to “helpeth a weake memory” and according to John Parkinson could remedy “all other cold diseases of the head and braines, as the giddiness or swimming therein, drowsiness or dulnesse of the minde and senses like a stupidnesse”. For Nicholas Culpeper, the flowers in particular were said to "strengthen the brain exceedingly, and resist madness". Oils made from the leaves or flowers could be applied to the temples, or the plant could be eaten with meats or taken in wine.

Image: Copper engraving of Rosemary, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Rosemary, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Rosemary retains a reputation for improving circulation to the head and is still used in treatments for nervous tension and headaches. Modern scientific investigations have shown it can help to maintain the brain chemical acetylecholine, low levels of which are linked to forgetfulness and Alzheimer’s disease.

Lemon balm to treat stress and anxiety

On matters of happiness and wellbeing, the early herbalists were prone to drawing on the knowledge of the ancient physicians. Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) was valued for its restorative properties. John Parkinson quotes ancient Greek physicians who stated the plant would “cause the minde and heart to become merry” and “revive the fainting heart falling into swounings”. The herb has long been used to treat stress and anxiety and it is still enjoyed today for its uplifting lemony fragrance.

Image: Lemon balm. From Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections

Image: Lemon balm. From Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections

The historic uses of mugwort

They also had a critical eye though, and denounced what they saw as “idle superstitions”. On Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort), Parkinson quotes the Roman naturalist Pliny:

"that if a traveller binde some of the herbe about him, he shall feel no weariness at all in his journey: as also that no evill medicine or evill bease shall hurt him that hath this hearbe about him"

Parkinson did not support Pliny’s theory, however he did recommend the juices of the plant for overdoses of opium – a use that still stands today as mugwort can help relieve the symptoms of withdrawal.

Image: Copper engraving of Mugwort, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Mugwort, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The treatment of skin conditions with honeysuckle

The garden favourite Lonicera periclymenum (honeysuckle) came highly recommended for problems with the skin. It was a plant that needed careful handling though, as its different parts had different properties – as identified by John Parkinson: the leaves are 'hot' and can irritate and burn but the flowers are 'cool' and useful for soothing. The flowers were applied externally in distilled water or as an infused oil and were used to “cleanse the face and skinne from morphew, sunburne, freckles, and other discolourings”. Honeysuckle can still be used to treat sunburn and heat-sensitive skin issues. It has also been found to contain salicylic acid, an aspirin-like compound that can be helpful against fevers.

Image: Copper engraving of Honeysuckle, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Honeysuckle, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The soothing and cleansing effects of jasmine

Varieties of Jasminium (jasmine), introduced to the UK in the mid-1500s, were also noted for similar soothing and cleansing effects. The herbalists disagreed amongst themselves, however, on whether to work with the leaves or the fragrant flowers.

Image: Hand-coloured engraving of Jasmine. From John Edwards, A select collection of one hundred plates, 1775. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Hand-coloured engraving of Jasmine. From John Edwards, A select collection of one hundred plates, 1775. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The popularity of valerian as a medicinal plant

Valeriana officinalis (valerian), also known as ‘Setwall’, was a favoured treatment in the early herbals for a wide range of ailments. It was recommended for sickness and pain, for inclusion in ‘counterpoisons’, and was noted in particular by Nicholas Culpeper as "being of great service in malignant fevers and pestilential distempers".

Image: Copper engraving of Valerian, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Valerian, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

It was so frequently used that John Gerard was led to remark upon its popularity:

"it hath been had (and is to this day among the poore people of our northerne parts) in such veneration amongst them, that no brothes, pottage, or phisicall meates are worth anything, if Setwall were not at one end: whereupon some woman poet or other hath made these verses:

They that will have their heale,
Must put Setwall in their keale"

Valerian is recognised now for its effectiveness as a sedative. It helps to reduce the level of nerve activity in the brain, relieving anxiety and encouraging sleep. Whilst its curative properties may have been exaggerated by early herbalists, it certainly would have given their patients rest and temporary relief from their symptoms.

Hyacinth: a popular but poisonous historic diuretic

Many plants throughout the course of history have been recommended to help with kidney and bladder problems, but Hyacinthus (hyacinth) must possibly be one of the most unusual examples. Elizabeth Blackwell records that the roots “are used and esteemed by some diuretic” and encourage urination. We now know that all parts of this plant are poisonous!

Image: Copper engraving of Hyacinth or Hare Bells, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Hyacinth or Hare Bells, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Dandelion as a natural diuretic

More success might have been achieved with other plants. Nicholas Culpeper recommends a preparation of the roots or leaves of Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) in white wine. John Gerard however, may have favoured Petroselinum crispum (parsley) – noting the value of a broth of the leaves to ‘provoke urine’ and use of the seeds to ‘dissolve the stone’. Whilst less appealing to the gardener’s eye, both plants have proven uses as natural diuretics.

Image: Dandelion. From Leonharto Fuchsio De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Dandelion. From Leonharto Fuchsio De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Mint to aid digestion

Members of the genus Mentha (mint) feature in all of the early printed herbals. There are many different varieties – a herbalist's nightmare as they all had different, and sometimes contradictory, properties. John Parkinson identifies at least 12 different varieties and sets out their uses for different ailments. Elizabeth Blackwell on the other hand, prefers to generalise, stating the plant is “esteem'd good for all disorders of the stomach”. Today, mint is known to aid digestion, and peppermint in particular is often a component in over the counter remedies for irritable bowel syndrome.

Copper engraving of Mint, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections

Copper engraving of Mint, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections

As a palatable herb, the leaves could be eaten fresh but they were also taken in boiled or powdered forms. A “juyce taken with vinegar” – effectively a mint sauce! – was recommended to “stayeth bleeding”. In this respect though, it is likely that the plant is of greater value at the dining table than in the doctor’s surgery.

Lungwort for the lungs – and throat

For respiratory diseases, many herbalists recommended Pulmonaria officinalis (lungwort). The plant's spotted leaves were thought to represent diseased lungs, this was taken as a sign of its usefulness in treatments and the plant’s common name ‘lungwort’ comes from this association. Modern scientific studies have revealed the leaves have a high mucilage content (a viscose fluid produced by all plants). This may account for some of its perceived benefits, as the fluid’s syrupy qualities soothed the throat.

Image: Copper engraving of Spotted Lungwort, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Spotted Lungwort, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The medicinal uses of marjoram and thyme

Thymus vulgaris (thyme) and Origanum vulgare (marjoram) were also given to those ‘troubled with shortnes or straightnesse of breath’. Both plants are now known to have antispasmodic properties which may have helped to ease breathing. The herbals also recommended their use for a range of other ailments, including unusual conditions such as ‘worms of the belly’ that thankfully are rare in the UK today.

Image: Marjoram. From Leonharto Fuchsio De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Marjoram. From Leonharto Fuchsio De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Primrose as a healing ointment

For first aid in the garden, in the 1600s and 1700s you may have found yourself turning to the delightful Primula vulgaris (primrose). According to Nicholas Culpeper, “of the leaves of Primroses is made as fine a salve to heal wounds as any that I know”. In an appendix to the main herbal, Culpeper provides instructions for making salves, or ointments, using base mixtures made of oil, wax, honey, and vinegar in varying proportions. In his entry for primroses, he urges his readers to share this simple knowledge and begs them “do not see your poor neighbours go with wounded limbs when an halfpenny cost will heal them”.

Image: Copper engraving of Primrose, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of Primrose, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

White nettle as an anti-inflammatory

We no longer consider primroses for this purpose, but the anti-inflammatory properties of other key plants in the herbals – such as Hypericum perforatum (St John’s wort) and Lamium album (white nettle) – can make a useful contribution to the healing process.

Image: Copper engraving of White Nettle, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Copper engraving of White Nettle, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Daffodil bulbs and their historic use in dressing wounds

Bulbs of Narcissus (daffodil) were known for their drying qualities and it was believed this made them effective healers of surface wounds. According to John Gerard:

"the rootes of Narcissus stamped with honie and applied plaistersise, helpeth them that are burnt with fire and joineth togither sinewes that are cut insunder".

Daffodil bulbs are now known to be poisonous, however modern scientific investigations have found that the drug galantamine, which comes from the bulbs of Galanthus (snowdrop) and Narcissus (daffodil), is an effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

Image: Hand-coloured engraving of Daffodils. From John Edwards A select collection of one hundred plates, 1775. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Image: Hand-coloured engraving of Daffodils. From John Edwards A select collection of one hundred plates, 1775. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Remember

Just like conventional medicines, herbal medicines will have an effect on the body, and can be potentially harmful if not used correctly. They should therefore be used with the same care and respect as conventional medicines. Check the NHS advice: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/herbal-medicines/

Copper engraving of Hyacinth or Hare Bells, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell, 'From Elizabeth Blackwell A Curious Herbal', Vol.1, 1739.

Hyacinth – a popular but poisonous historic diuretic

Many plants throughout the course of history have been recommended to help with kidney and bladder problems, but Hyacinthus (hyacinth) must possibly be one of the most unusual examples. Elizabeth Blackwell records that the roots “are used and esteemed by some diuretic” and encourage urination. We now know that all parts of this plant are poisonous!

Image: Copper engraving of Hyacinth or Hare Bells, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell, From Elizabeth Blackwell A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Dandelion as a natural diuretic

More success might have been achieved with other plants. Nicholas Culpeper recommends a preparation of the roots or leaves of Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) in white wine. John Gerard however, may have favoured Petroselinum crispum (parsley) – noting the value of a broth of the leaves to ‘provoke urine’ and use of the seeds to ‘dissolve the stone’. Whilst less appealing to the gardener’s eye, both plants have proven uses as natural diuretics.

Image: Dandelion, from Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Mint to aid digestion

Members of the genus Mentha (mint) feature in all of the early printed herbals. There are many different varieties – a herbalist's nightmare as they all had different, and sometimes contradictory, properties. John Parkinson identifies at least 12 different varieties and sets out their uses for different ailments. Elizabeth Blackwell on the other hand, prefers to generalise, stating the plant is “esteem'd good for all disorders of the stomach”. Today, mint is known to aid digestion, and peppermint in particular is often a component in over the counter remedies for irritable bowel syndrome.

As a palatable herb, the leaves could be eaten fresh but they were also taken in boiled or powdered forms. A “juyce taken with vinegar” – effectively a mint sauce! – was recommended to “stayeth bleeding”. In this respect though, it is likely that the plant is of greater value at the dining table than in the doctor’s surgery.

Image: Copper engraving of Mint, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Lungwort for the lungs – and throat

For respiratory diseases, many herbalists recommended Pulmonaria officinalis (lungwort). The plant's spotted leaves were thought to represent diseased lungs, this was taken as a sign of its usefulness in treatments and the plant’s common name ‘lungwort’ comes from this association. Modern scientific studies have revealed the leaves have a high mucilage content (a viscose fluid produced by all plants). This may account for some of its perceived benefits, as the fluid’s syrupy qualities soothed the throat.

Image: Copper engraving of Lungwort, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.2, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

The medicinal uses of marjoram and thyme

Thymus vulgaris (thyme) and Origanum vulgare (marjoram) were also given to those ‘troubled with shortnes or straightnesse of breath’. Both plants are now known to have antispasmodic properties which may have helped to ease breathing. The herbals also recommended their use for a range of other ailments, including unusual conditions such as ‘worms of the belly’ that thankfully are rare in the UK today.

Image: Engraving of Marjoram, from Leonharto Fuchsio, De historia stirpivm commentarii insignes, 1542. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Primrose as a healing ointment

For first aid in the garden, in the 1600s and 1700s you may have found yourself turning to the delightful Primula vulgaris (primrose). According to Nicholas Culpeper, “of the leaves of Primroses is made as fine a salve to heal wounds as any that I know”. In an appendix to the main herbal, Culpeper provides instructions for making salves, or ointments, using base mixtures made of oil, wax, honey, and vinegar in varying proportions. In his entry for primroses, he urges his readers to share this simple knowledge and begs them “do not see your poor neighbours go with wounded limbs when an halfpenny cost will heal them”.

Image: Copper engraving of Primrose, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

White nettle as an anti-inflammatory

We no longer consider primroses for this purpose, but the anti-inflammatory properties of other key plants in the herbals – such as Hypericum perforatum (St John’s wort) and Lamium album (white nettle) – can make a useful contribution to the healing process.

Image: Copper engraving of White Nettle, after an original by Elizabeth Blackwell. From Elizabeth Blackwell, A Curious Herbal, Vol.1, 1739. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Daffodil bulbs and their historic use in dressing wounds

Bulbs of Narcissus (daffodil) were known for their drying qualities and it was believed this made them effective healers of surface wounds. According to John Gerard:

"the rootes of Narcissus stamped with honie and applied plaistersise, helpeth them that are burnt with fire and joineth togither sinewes that are cut insunder".

Daffodil bulbs are now known to be poisonous, however modern scientific investigations have found that the drug galantamine, which comes from the bulbs of Galanthus (snowdrop) and Narcissus (daffodil), is an effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

Image: Copper engraving of a Daffodil. From John Edwards, A select collection of one hundred plates, 1775. Credit: RHS Lindley Collections.

Remember

Just like conventional medicines, herbal medicines will have an effect on the body, and can be potentially harmful if not used correctly. They should therefore be used with the same care and respect as conventional medicines. Check the NHS advice:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/herbal-medicines/

More exhibits from the RHS Lindley Library

Created by RHS Lindley Library.

Based at the Royal Horticultural Society’s headquarters at Vincent Square in London, the Lindley Library holds a world-class collection of horticultural books, journals and botanical art.

Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

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