Elizabeth's Herbarium
Aside from her "official" role as historian, Elizabeth's other useful position within the League is as an herbalist. Schooled in the ancient art by her late aunt, she is knowledgeable about the medicinal, household, and cosmetic applications of various plantlife. This was not an unusual skill among the Victorians, though a number of their means of using the plants are no longer used. (In some cases, they're no longer legal -- for example, opium was commonly used in the Victorian era, and came from poppies.)
Elizabeth doesn't write much in her diary about using the plants, but that's because it's such a normal everyday thing to her that she doesn't give it much thought. But for those who might be interested in learning about some of what lives in her herbarium, here is an incomplete list of herbs and some of the things for which they were (and are) used. For further information on the subject, I recommend the excellent Herbs2000, the source of my information here.
Basil -- The leaves and flowers are used, as is the plant's essential oil. Medicinally, it may be ingested to help with migraines, depression, insomnia, indigestion, and colic, among other conditions. Applying the juice from the leaves can lessen the sting of insect bites, as well as repel insects. In cooking, it is frequently used in tomato dishes such as pesto and tomato soup.
Chamomile -- The entire plant can be used. The most common medical application is the drinking of chamomile tea, which eases a number of complaints including nausea, headache, fever, and diarrhea; it's also a wonderful stress reliever. Topically, it helps with skin troubles such as burns and ulcers. Chamomile is even known to encourage the regeneration of liver tissue. It is frequently included in cosmetic infusions such as bath salts and shampoos.
Dandelion -- The leaves and root are used. The leaves are good for treating high blood pressure and for use as a diuretic; unlike most diuretics, dandelion leaf will not cause a potassium deficiency, having an abundant supply of the mineral. The leaves also make a rather tasty salad. Dandelion root is a highly effective detoxifying agent, good for things such as acne, psoriasis, arthritis, and constipation. Both the leaves and the root help prevent the development of gallstones.
Ginger -- Either fresh or dried, this spicy herb is often used in various recipes. It makes a delicious tea. Medicinally, it can help stave off coughs and colds, or ease them; it's also good for motion sickness, headaches, and strep throat, among other maladies. Pregnant women may find that it provides relief from morning sickness. Candied ginger is a real treat.
Ginseng -- For centuries, ginseng was used throughout Russia, China, and other parts of Asia as a sort of medical cure-all. In modern times it's available in pill form to assist with various maladies, including depression and anemia. It has been known to cause insomnia, leading many to tap into its properties as an energy booster.
Goldenseal -- Used by Native Americans for centuries in the treatment of various ailments, though its original utility was to ease arrow wounds. In bathwater, it can help relieve measles and other skin inflammations; when mixed with warm water, it can be gargled to treat mouth sores, ulcers, or gum disease. When ingested, it can ease menstrual cramps, gastroenteritis, and certain kinds of indigestion, among other maladies. It is available in a capsule form, which is good for fighting respiratory infections.
Hawthorn -- Also known as May Blossom, this plant is identified by its pretty white flowers. The flowers, berries and leaves are all useful in the regulation of blood pressure and sustaining a healthy heart. They can act as a diuretic and are considered helpful during menopause. The berries are also useful in the treatment of dysentery and diarrhea.
Hops -- Most commonly recognized as an ingredient in beer, hops have been valued for their medicinal properties for centuries. They are an effective sedative, and in their dried state can be stuffed into pillows for soothing sleep. When ingested, they are a good remedy for various stomach ailments such as indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome. An infusion of hops and vodka or brandy can help fight infections, both topically (when applied to wounds and covered with gauze) and internally. Rinsing your hair with a hops brew -- yes, even beer -- can help prevent dandruff!
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