Download Medicine Digestive Plants

Plants for treating Digestive Disorders
Tree Peony
Named after Paeon, doctor to the Greek Gods, who supposedly found the
plant on Mount Olympus. She used the roots to heal Hades, God of the
underworld, when he was wounded by Heracles.
The lady of the manor would use peony roots and seeds to cure illnesses
such as stomach ache and diarrhoea. Some historical sources from the
Middle Ages say that herb collectors had to take great care not to be
seen by a woodpecker whilst collecting digging for peony roots, or the
bird might peck their eyes out.
Quince
Throughout the Middle Ages quince were used at every wedding feast as
the fruit was seen as a symbol of love and happiness. The Romans saw the
fruit as a symbol of the goddess Venus. There are representations of her
in wall paintings and mosaics in Pompeii where she is often seen holding a
quince. Quince was made into a syrup which could be added into drinks.
This would help to settle the stomach and cure dysentery and diarrhoea.
Cornflower
Corn flower has a long history of herbal use. In France it is still used
today as a remedy for tired eyes. The flowers were ground and the pulp
extracted and made into an eyewash for tired eyes and conjunctivitis.
Traditionally it is said to work best for tired eyes.
During the Middle Ages cornflower was most commonly made into an
infusion to help cure chapped lips and sooth mouth sores or ulcers. It was
also used to add scent to shampoo and give a nice smell to pot-pourri.
Figs
In Ancient Greece athletes were fed almost entirely on figs as they
believed it would increase their strength and swiftness. Figs are also a
symbol of the ancient world; being celebrated for the beauty of their
leaves and the sweetness of the fruit.
In the Middle Ages figs were used for their mild, laxative action and
were popular as a remedy due to their widespread availability. They were
simply eaten or pulped for their juice. Although this was a popular cure,
the fruit were only available in the summer months.
Part of Heritage Explorer Case Study
Planning activities at an historical site; Farleigh Hungerford Castle
Medicine and Plants