Herb Folklore: Traditional Uses & Natural Remedies from History

We know herbs make great garden and kitchen companions. They also have a long history as natural remedies—and many unusual uses! Read on…

• Anise: Romans paid taxes with it; used in cough drops.
• Basil: Precious to Italian lovers, sacred in India. Italian men wore sprigs to signal marriage intent. Basil tea aids digestion. Tomato juice + fresh basil eases headaches.
• Borage: Romans believed antidepressant; Celtic warriors took for courage.
• Caraway: Scented perfumes/soaps; Greeks used for upset stomachs.
• Chervil: Eating whole plant cured hiccups; warmed old/cold stomachs.
• Chives: Bunches hung in homes drove away diseases and evil.
• Dill: Romans made wreaths/garlands; keeps witches away.
• Fennel: Bunches drove off witches; used in love potions and as appetite suppressant.
• Garlic: Gave strength/courage. Aristotle noted guard against fear of water. Widely used against evil powers.
• Lovage: Chewing dried root keeps awake. Warms cold stomach, aids digestion. Bathwater additive for skin problems.
• Marjoram: Greeks believed it revived spirits of those who inhaled it. Wedding wreaths/garlands.
• Mint: Cured hiccups, counteracted sea-serpent stings. Romans wore peppermint wreaths. Bathwater for fragrance.
• Oregano: For "sour humours" plaguing old farmers. Scorpion/spider bites.
• Parsley: Wreaths, funeral ceremonies. Repelled head lice, attracted rabbits.
• Rosemary: In hair improves memory. Under pillow protects from evil spirits.
• Sage: Promoted strength/longevity; cured warts. American Indians used as toothbrush.
• Summer Savory: Believed aphrodisiac; some thought cure for deafness.
• Tarragon: In shoes before long walks for strength. Relieved toothache, antifungal.
• Thyme: Burning rids house of insects. Bed of thyme = fairy home.

Anyone with sage in the garden reputedly does well in business.