Medieval medicine used herbs in its various forms dates back to antiquity. They were often used to heal the bodies. Many of them are used today, but have been around for centuries. During the Middle Ages, people believed that four distinct "humours" existed: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. If you had a serious illness, you would consult a physician to restore the balance.
Monasteries were famous for their herb gardens. They also traded with other monasteries for exotic seeds and plants. Most monasteries also had gardens that were dedicated to medicinal plants. The serving plan of St. Gall monastery in 1390 C.E. It shows a garden used for medicinal herbs. Medicinal herbs were considered a specialty in the middle age, when doctors did not practice medicine. Many of their patients were sent to hospices. The monks of monasteries dedicated a lot of their time to the cultivation and harvesting of these herbs.
These herbs were often used in teas, salves and drinks depending on where they came from. Many of these herbs were derived from pre-Christian belief systems and therefore considered safe. In addition, herbal remedies were believed to be based on the medieval Christian doctrine that signatures reveals everything's origin and purpose. The effects of a medicinal herbal remedy were considered miraculous and healing.
Many of the plants that were used in medieval medicine contained active herbal ingredients. Willow bark, which was used to ease pain during the Middle Ages, is similar in function to today's salicylic acid used to make aspirin. Monasteries could also be used for psychic plants, like echinacea. People kept them there to protect themselves. Hyssop, lavender, and thyme are just a few of the most common herbs used in medieval medicine.
Herbs used in medieval medicine were generally grown in three categories, but some were grown solely for their aesthetic value. Herbs were used to both ornamental and medicinal purposes. It wasn't until the 1500s that these herbs were discovered to have medicinal properties. Draughts at this time contained many herbs like echinacea, mint, and others. People could also find a variety herbal medicine at the apothecary located in villages and towns.
Many ailments were treated with herbs in medieval medicine. Many herbs can be grown and used for both cooking and medicinal purposes. You can plant herbs in your backyard or kitchen for medicinal purposes. All you need is a simple harvest. Keep them dry in a cool, dark place that has good air circulation. Some herbs are the same when dried.
FAQ
When to plant herbs
Plant herbs in spring when the soil temperatures are 55 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be in full sun to get the best results. For basil indoors, plant seedlings in potting mix-filled pots and let them grow until they produce leaves. When the plants have started to grow, transfer them into bright indirect sunlight. After about three weeks, transplant them to individual containers and continue to water them regularly.
What vegetables can you grow together?
Because they are both fond of similar soil conditions and temperatures, it is easy to grow peppers and tomatoes together. They work well together as tomatoes need heat to ripen and peppers need lower temperatures for optimal flavor. To grow them together, you can start seeds indoors around six weeks before planting. When the weather is warm, transplant the pepper and tomato plants outside.
How can I tell what kind of soil is mine?
It is easy to tell the difference by the color of your dirt. Organic matter is more abundant in dark soils than those with lighter colors. You can also do soil tests. These tests can measure the soil's nutrients.
Which layout is best for vegetable gardens?
The best vegetable garden layout depends on where you live. You should plant vegetables together if you live in a city. If you live in a rural location, you will need to space your plants out for maximum yield.
Statistics
- As the price of fruit and vegetables is expected to rise by 8% after Brexit, the idea of growing your own is now better than ever. (countryliving.com)
- Most tomatoes and peppers will take 6-8 weeks to reach transplant size so plan according to your climate! - ufseeds.com
- According to the National Gardening Association, the average family with a garden spends $70 on their crops—but they grow an estimated $600 worth of veggies! - blog.nationwide.com
- Today, 80 percent of all corn grown in North America is from GMO seed that is planted and sprayed with Roundup. - parkseed.com
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How To
Organic fertilizers to be used in the garden
Organic fertilizers are made of natural substances like manure, compost and fish emulsion. The term "organic" refers to using non-synthetic materials in their production. Synthetic fertilizers are chemicals that are used in industrial processes. These fertilizers are commonly used in agriculture, as they can provide nutrients to plants quickly without the need for complicated preparation. However, synthetic fertilizers pose risks to human health and the environment. These fertilizers also require high amounts of energy, water and time to make. Synthetic fertilizers also pollute surface and groundwater through runoff. This pollution is detrimental to humans and wildlife alike.
There are many organic fertilizers available:
* Manure is produced when livestock eat nitrogen-rich foods (a plant nutrient). It's made of bacteria and enzymes which break down the waste to simple compounds that can be taken by plants.
* Compost is a mixture from vegetable scraps, grass clippings and decaying leaves. It is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, boron, molybdenum, chlorine, and carbon. It is porous so it retains moisture well and releases nutrients slowly.
* Fish Emulsion is a liquid product made from fish oil. It has the ability to dissolve oils, fats and is very similar to soap. It also contains trace elements, phosphorous and nitrogen.
* Seaweed Oil - A concentrated mixture of minerals taken from kelp, red and brown algae, as well as green algae. It contains vitamins A and C, iron, and Iodine.
* Guano is excrement from amphibians, seabirds, bats and reptiles. It contains nitrogen, sulfur, chloride and carbon.
* Blood Meal - the remains of slaughtered animals. It is rich in protein which is useful for feeding birds and other animals. It also contains trace minerals like phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen.
Make organic fertilizer by combining equal parts manure, fish emulsion, and compost. Mix well. If you don’t possess all three ingredients you can substitute one for the other. You can mix one part of the fish emulsion with two portions of compost if you don't have enough.
Spread the fertilizer evenly on the soil with a shovel, or tiller. You should spread about one quarter cup of the fertilizer per square foot. You'll need to add fertilizer every two weeks until new growth appears.