Historical Physicks: Medicinal Herbs

As published in the Herald, November 2002

The use of herbs in medieval medicine was widespread. The Sisters of St. John feel that agrimony and betony would be helpful to stockpile, and that linen was also needed. Why?

With the coming of a harsh winter, there would be much sickness and injury; colds and fevers from exposure and dampness, lung diseases and burns from the indoor fires, wounds from tumbles taken outside in the poor weather.

Agrimony was extensively used for wounds. When mixed with mugwort and vinegar, it was used for back pain. A wonderful herb, it was also called cockleburr or sticklewort. While a common herb, it was used in great quantity. Betony was good for the sweats. It grew in the woods, so would not be that common among the grapevines around the abbey.

Linen, of course was used for bandages, wash cloths, and bed coverings.

Source: A Modern Herbal 


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