Herbs'o'Majic, or, '...lovely, lovely, lovely...'

Bergamot, M.didyma. - flower(s).

[; For a little addit. decorative...I then added this enchanting picture (on the right) of a Bergamot-flower. 

Of course, the plant already was on our former herbs-post presented, but I've noted that the Bergamot(s) often grow on their flower-heads an additional flower, in a manner shown - that growing straight through the other flower. ...I suppose, that could be from due the over-fertilizing on my plant, but actually this peculiarity is also quite carefully examined on  Metamorphozen des Planz (book by J.W.Goethe, late 1790s) - If care view that book, rather old, but was sometime prior discussed here. ; Actually, Goethe on that uses roses as the examplery about this - But that either not surprising itself...I just suppose this kind of growth must be rather more common at some typical old garden-plant, typically bred via mixing a new breed from several close species, or of some 'co-species'. (Like the case from said examples.) Maybe so... ]

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 ; ...Some 'Quots': 

”... I'm glad you like oleander because I loved it almost the best – that and cloves.

Frangipanni is a lovely scent too, but heavier and I don't know how long the trees take to grow. For it is a tree. When it isn't flowering it's quite bare and black. Then it flowers and looks and smells like heaven.

I read all the news from Indonesia I can find but it's very contradictory depending a bit on the politics of the editor.” ; ”...Unless I can rest I'm going to crack up utterly. The spring is broken as they say en francais. If it could be a place near trees that would be heaven. Trees plus a river is too much to ask.” ; ”...A cow looked in at the window yesterday. She had such a calm expression. It did help. Also there are a few trees. I hope we can stay here peacefully for a few months – long enough to smooth the book out. Do you know I wish I had the courage to write a really mad book. It would have been finished ages ago. But I have not. It is the sane orderly background I find so difficult in this case.” (Jean Rhys) ; ...selected of letters written for Maryvonne Moerman, Peggy Kirkaldy, Francis Wyndham, and, Selma vaz Diaz, btw –49 to -61 ; (Sourced from or quoted via: Jean Rhys, Letters 1931-1966 - fp. 1984. Selected and ed. by Francis Wyndham and Diana Melly.)

”... The garden was very large and surrounded by other gardens. It breathed out into the night the heavy smell of well-manured earth given over to producing flowers and constantly forced into fertility. …

The garden, like Camille, also seemed to despise the house. Huge trees, which showered down the black, calcined twigs which fall from elms in their old age, protected it from neighbours and passers-by. A little farther on, in a property for sale and in the playground of a school, stood isolated pairs of similar old elms, relics of a princely avenue which had formed part of a park which the new Neuilly was fast destroying.

'Where are you, Alain?'

Camille was calling him from top of the steps but, on an impulse, he refused to answer. Deliberately, he made for the safer refuge of the shadows, feeling his way along the edge of the shaven lawn with his foot. High in the sky a hazy moon held court, looking larger than usual through the mist of the first warm days. A single tree – a poplar with newly opened glossy leaves – caught the moonlight and trickled with as many sparkles as a waterfall. ...”

(Colette) ; from Le Chatte, ie´The Cat', a novellette (;p. 63-4, at Vintage 2003 reprint.)

“She lay quiet, content to argue no longer, her arms round him, like a sleepy siren. The woman-scent breathed out of her, a powerful wordless propaganda against all altruism and all justice. … They went their favourite table in the corner. Hermione played with some grapes, but Ravelston was very hungry. He ordered the grilled rumsteak he had been thinking of, and half a bottle of Beaujolais. The fat, white-haired Italian waiter, an old friend of Ravelston's, brought the smoking steak. Ravelston cut it open. Lovely, its red-blue heart! In Middlesbrough the unemployed huddle in frowzy beds, bread and marg and milkless tea in their bellies. He settled down to his steak with all the shameful joy of a dog with a stolen leg of mutton.”

(Orwell) ; from Keep the Aspidistra Flying, p. 1936 (;p. 123 - on 1970s reprint.)

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The Plants  - Herbs-post 2.

; The Undesigned Chapter, pt XIX.

 

It's probably wise not write too many words on backgrounds of this herbal-chapter. (These mainly comprise together some hobbyist, self-acquired knowledges. I-O-W, not much forethought views about any particular herb in question.) However, the short quotes above (of the trees, ao), I mainly selected because I originally thought of to represent some good flowering trees along our following herbal-selections. ...and now seems it my notes on trees been postponed all the time, due of this other stuff around. But don't worry – I just decided that while waiting for that we can alternatively have along plentysome of the quoted word, on the trees, picked from my recent and former readings of the old belles lettres. And – believe it or not – there will be plentysome. Almost every one and other of the old fiction writers has devoted some sentences/paragraphs/books worth on the trees. Many – like above referred Orwell too, btw – certain often depict, or tend have put the trees (and landscapes) to a very purposeful uses on their fiction. (...That far wider a story, and not a singular comprihensive study/research ever having crossed my paths - While maybe, likely there are...) After all, the trees so important part on everything we daily sense and observe around us - it' s almost unavoidable that them so common are featured in the old literature.

...From other aspects to mention then said, this 'additional' post on herbs mainly because I, sort of, considered there quite many Mediterranean-originated cultivars at my plants. Seasonal or perennial (and biennal), sowed, or bought originally as small plant/seedlings. ...I could, of course, have listed various other from the 'regular favorites' in the most typical garden herbs, et sim. (Such as Basil, Parshley, Menthe(s), Lavender, Sage - all are very appreciated and renown kitchen-/bathroom herbal decoratives, also from their past medicinal uses, and, sometimes considered to 'health-boosters'.) ...But I thought all these for more or less the common-place plants, and resultatively were left out of this. (Sage I besides not grown, I'm little superstitious.) But mainly that simply from the matter of selecting...the selected are just some I at the most recent Summer happened for cultivate. And to mention, that on these latitudes (closeby the North Pole - well...joke :), of course, these Mediterranean cultivables mainly are kept as small indoor plants.

The accompanying reason for these herb-posts is the simple fact that I think my resistence to flu's, colds (and several other forms of the disease) seems greatly improved ever since I started 'chewing' some herbs. (...More or less regularly, of course on winters one has not similarly fresh herbs available). I think, that must have helped me not fall on illnesses of that kind (influenza, et sim), or at least reduced that to about some half the less in cases - likely. The other favored explanation to reasons of that I have, is that it could be due from me having greatly reduced any meats on my dietary choices. ...Sure these are mainly some guessin' - But not without some experience from a few years time. I think having gained some personal evidence on the subject, so to say. Then, on the other hand, I mostly avoid infectant rich places such as the shopping malls and kindergardens – not to mention that meat-counter. And, generally I also keep my fit, regularly or irregularly. But, in fact, I believe all that also has to do, lots, w. these 'herbal-selections' (...not these herbs, at this post presented, at least not any manner precisely...and fx the 'bunch of plants' at the above paragraph mentioned makes some part, too.) - that I've increasingly grown and eaten. Convinced on that – Actually it's so that I feel now physically lot more healthier, in spite of that my other habits on eating/doing things aren't anyhow greatly imbettered, (merely the other way around).

; But let's now move for the main part, namely herbs'n'majic...

(I make no apologies, but of course, probably about each of the mentioned there are likely more precise and comprihensive stuff about herbs on various pages of the 'web'. Also, I've only grown these in the limits my circumstances can provide – ie our short, variable summers. Therefore, like said, here only combined a few words largely basis my own findings, flavoured w. variety from 'funny detail'. Say, this been written for the fun of it...)

Selections:

Rosemary 

(Rosmarinus officinalis) ; First and foremost of these species common known as herbs - and of which several appear trees/bushes by origin/natively - we have the Rosemary....I've perhaps more experience about it than on any other from (these) plants. I've had a small tree a few years now, and, on this Spring I also sowed a few seeds of the Rosemary on claypot. ; As we've also referred to Rosemary at earlier posted herb-chapter(s) - fx here, I only make short reference to histories/background from it's various medicinal use. Plant's natural range covers most of West Mediterranean region. 
 

Rosemary, flowers. Nicely scented, too.

;...Seems that, traditionally (in the christian beliefs) it been since long considered as the symbol of Mother Mary (...hence Rosemary, I suppose...[ ;...But, in fact seems the english naming derive of word rosmarin, or rõsmarínum, of the French and/or Latin origin. (ie: from terms 'rõs' plus 'marínus', that meaning marine - Soforth, the etymology mainly referring for original coastal range of the plant.)]). Yet, these honorable histories, like most often in case from plants, herbs esp. – seem to be even older. Namely, the ancient Egyptian beliefs are mentioned also having known the plant and considered it's green foliage to symbolizing the immortality of the soul. - But I'm a bit suspective from all such old stories or about the likehood of their any 'correct' interpretation...so I say no more on that.

; Of the Rosemary's capabilities as a good healing plant, ao, it's noteworth that the essential oils are said to: '...improve circulation, alleviate rheumatic and neuralgic pain, aid digestion, relieve flatulence and have antispasmodic properties.' - Among the most usual adviced 'remedies' made is fx an advice from a few leaves infused w. warm water - bit of sugarines added, perhaps – and that indeed does have miraculous easing effect on the stomach, also provides certain internally warming effect. (Additionally it said make a good relaxement on stress and for to relieving mental tiredness, and nervousness.) Fresh needles are usable on footbaths too – Albeit that not recommended in the evening, as it might turn out too refreshing...nightsleeps considering, namely. Said not recommended of to  use during pregnancy (Many herbs actually arent.) Naturally Rosemary is rather renown and common used as the kitchen herb, too. (And also, like usual, it been at the time popular on manufactures for 'elixirs of youth' in during some past centuries...But I say no more about such frivolous stuff either.)

; ...Like said, along w. my small tree, this year I cultivated some Rosemaries on the clay-pot too. Sowing is rather simple. The seeds are first stored (in the refrigerator, fx) for some time - about Month, I think it was... - then removed and sowed. But, them take quite some time from germinate. Once emerged the growth is slower at least for another Month (,or about one and half.) ...And, actually seems the best results would probably be achieved from planting the pre-grown seedlings on garden, sunny place as possible. The cultivation on pot is perhaps bit more tricky task (fx the fertilizing is then needed add) but at least I noted my plants growing relative fast during the best summery season - Once they had got well started (That wasn't perhaps not until the midst from June.) ; ...The tree has most lovely flowers (See pic) that appear on around Feb-March – but to flower the plant needs be kept indoors at the proper cold temperature past winter, and on as good a light as possible (I've noted it rarely having made any greater number of flower-buds, not having an ideal place for it. Yet, during a good summer and on good soil it can make flowers at summer-time too.)

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(Common) Myrtle  

Myrtle, a twig (and a small insect.)

(Myrtus communis) ; Seems that Myrtle would have been regarded as one among the most sacred plants during antique, fx; 'sacred...in ancient times to all the peoples of Mediterranean.' It was/is at several cultures symbolically used on (religious) ceremonies, important at matrimony, and also otherways associated for happy marriage, and love. The ancient Grecians consecrated it (,along w. several other plants) for the Aphrodite, goddess of love, and (their) feminine ideal of the beauty. Likewise the Romans, (poss.) adopting the custom consecrated Myrtle to Venus. Also, on Old Testament it's mentioned w. respect too, and 'the garlands of myrtle' were carried by brides at their wedding days costume. During the middle-ages it seems also remained highly appreciated from it's various herbal uses. And further still, fx acc. '...the Arabic mythology Adam brought the plant for Earth from the Garden of Eden.' - Not surprising then to find out that myrtle has most enchanting flowering. Plus it has rather pleasant scent too.

; ...Plant seems also of it's native range originated on Mediterranean region (Or, at least having therefore arrived rather early at times...by any human timescales considering) . The natural range reaching until western slopes of Himalaya. In the Northern Europe it is mostly (usually) kept as an Household-plant, indoors– the overwintering having it's tricks (ao, to permit the flowering, needs adequate light and 8-12 C from some ideal temperatures). Also it's noted proper keep suitably moistured, ie the regular watering most important (And preferably no chalk on waters, so I've actually used the rainwater). During the summery season seems said it most favorable keep outdoors, and naturally at as much sunshine as possible. 

; ...However, from it's curative properties I'm not quite so much assured than is commonly taken for granted, albeit seems (it) fx 'has always been considered to have numerous curative powers', and fx; '...the dried leaves are used in folk medicine as a remedy for diarrhoea, bladder complaints and respiratory infections.' From the main herbalistic uses, in the past at least, seems as well mentioned the use as anticeptic (Indeed the leaves seem have good antibacterial qualities). ...Along w. that, the berries juice is mentioned fx been used on blackening the hair, and – around the 18th century, as some sign from the 'begins from early cosmetics', the angel waters said been/is manufactured of flowers and leaves. (Myrtle as the one substance on that. On the said century that sort of 'liquid' was considered for some guarantee on the skin retaining it's freshness and probably also for a secret to an 'eternal youth', etc...that usual stuff, in brief. Plenty similar tales on the plants, several at the time from foreign origins or imported, flourished and entertained the peoples appetite for romantical imaginations during that 1700ies.) I don't actually believe to half from medicinal properties of myrtle, but has to be admitted, all the said honorable origins and uses wouldn't probably exist without some real basis.

; Besides, to me it would be rather waste using it's leaves on any purposes – herbal or cosmetical – since I've actually had my plant only from since last year and it's still quite small. (The growth appears rather slow, albeit during the good season somewhat faster. It mostly needs the good sunshine, of course. ) ; The seeds are also not too difficult for germinate, when kept on good continuous sunshiny place and well adequate heat (ie, means the greenhouse temperatures here). I actually had a couple of self-sowed seedlings but the other didn't make it past last winter. Yet, they seem say that the plant only starts from growing at the second year...and indeed it's much larger by now, even some flower-buds did emerge, so I'm hopeful it maybe even would bloom when brought indoors soon. Normally, w. good care, it can flower from April to Aug., it said. ...But I guess that's merely at the ideal conditions. Additionally, some extra light, if not necessary, at least recommended on overwintering period. Also, having grown it of the seeds myself, the plant now should appear somewhat well-adapted on overwintering at these conditions. (And in case you wondered...not having grown that w. any wedding-decoratives in mind, just for the fun of it.)

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Bay Laurel 

Bay Laurel, a leaf.

(Laurus Nobilis) ; ...Another good example on nice-flowering trees/bushes. Quite the contrary for previous example, I've not hopes or any plans from grow Bay laurel-seedlings by my own. (I read some place – poss. from that Jekka's herbal - that of some about 100 seedlings someone had only a singular plant surviving to an actual Laurel-tree. Growing it by oneself, from the seed or seedlings, demands much well-care, ideal moisture, ao, good light...and yet the result not very certain.) 

; ..It is also quite fragile for any colds. (The leaves easily get a bit of the spoil on cold, even without any frost.) So, I've actually noted my bought plant quite difficult for make grow proper well – not even dared much hope it makin' any flowers on Spring, as that's the usual time. Also, I've not any proper idea what the amount fertilizer one should need use if growing the Bay Laurel on pot. Not much is needed, though. ; ...So that much of the reasons why I not cared provide any photo from my 'ragged' plant here either. But, actually it's also (relative) enduring plant, 'cause it doesn't need that much sunlight to a succesfull overwintering as one would suppose. For over-wintering in the room temperatures, however, the recommend is keep it well-moistured but not wet. (Also, my difficulties w. it's may originate from the few mistakes I did on it's early growing, ao of cutting the twigs quite too much, maybe the soil on pot should be better too, perhaps. We'll see... Any good growth actually seems dependent on how precise well you can imitate the 'ideal' conditions, and at the moment not any possibility to that...)

; The Bay Laurel's natural range covering the forests of Mediterranean region, where it grows for s small tree. (Of antique it also is said that Romans actually planted avenues of Bay laurel trees leading for the palaces of their emperors – guess it could be still on quite the resembling uses on the warmer Mediterranean countries, I guess. Reminds me of some place..somewhere.) In the Northest continental European part it is usually kept as an ornamental plant at gardens. ; But from it's high appreciation in the historical 'antique', everyone possibly has heard of the laurel crowns which were decorating the heads of the victorious generals, heroes and poets, and such people alike (statues and other busts incl.) Also seems it noted that (for the Greeks) Bay Laurel was '...sacred to Apollo and his son Asclepius, the gods of healing and medicine.' - That should tell most from how very appreciated it been, of it's medicinal value (Naturally, still is.) At that era, was also 'regarded as the panacea to all ills.', seems it remarked. Furthermore, fx the Hildegard von Bingen's famous medieval herbal appears said from recommended it on asthma, angina of the chest and the fevers. ; But, in combined, the Bay Laurel not only is usable as flavouring plant but has very healthy properties that were recognized, fx by many old herbalists, since long in the past. (...While most people of course mainly use, or are better familiar w. the plant from the culinary uses of those leaves, on the soups and broths, etc. Actually myself no exception for the rule...)

[And finally, seems yet it also adviced not for to confuse the leaves to several likewise lovely plants, but some which are noted rather poisonic, from varying degree: namely (not to confused with) the Common Oleander (Nerium oleander) ; Cherry-bay (Prunus laurocerasus) ; Laurustine (Vibernum tinus)]

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Common Thyme 

(Thymus vulgaris) ; There seems be numerous species, poss. from longer breeding history and by natural origin them grow at quite a wider range. In the overall genera (of the 'thyme'-s, w. the related plants) there are species all the way from Greenland until West-Asian region. As an old garden spice it has also spread for most elsewhere places. (I just suppose mine were most regular some here, ie T.vulgaris, but many numerous garden varieties seem also mixed bred of the plant, fx T. x citriodorus, T.camphoratus...new breeds on the market yearly, seems it. And, also there is T. Serphyllum...which apparently a natural variety, as it's regular name Wild Thyme.) As a herb it has been used, from since past ages, in the treatment of the coughs and for the digestive disorders, ao. The leaves contain thymol, which gives the plant it's characteristic fragnance.

; ...It also appears quite warm-demanding, and, therefore here takes quite some time to grow well - not to be planted too early on Spring. However, seems said also for a perennial plant, yet I'm not quite sure how likely the over-wintering here. Possible at least, on a good place, and if it happens to be a warmer winter...And as nowadays most of the cold Months don't seem been much cold recently, merely these 'greenhouse-winters' we're now awkward pleasant well growing of got used on, the overwintering somewhat likelier. (Not generally too probable, as the plant tolerates only limited amount frost.) Notably, the preferable soil should appear rather low-nutrient, almost sandy. 
 

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris).

Anyhow - see the picture beside - I placed some seeds to grow on the metal-case on the Late Spring. Of course, not shows from quite good manners to represent any beer-cans alongside here, not too good a habit any healthy reasons considered – But, on the other hand, in lack of other good company, beer always makes the good accompaniment...Once you make very certain not to enjoy that too often. Besides, I considered that good place of growing thymes, 'cause the can heats well. Planted that around late of May, I suppose, and the flowerings appeared ca. last week on the July. (But flowerings from Thyme are actually rather tiny, almost unnoticeable, so I cared not picturing them separately. Besides, in the pic the leafs look slight worn out, poss. from due arrival from first colds. Or, perhaps it was merely from overmuch heat, can't recall at the moment...)

; In the old beliefs - if we again refer for some, but briefly - Thyme fx seems been used by ancient Egyptians as one of the herbs important on process from embalming [...acc. Cassell's: '... to preserve (as a body) from putrefaction by means of spices and aromatic drugs; to imbue with sweet scents ; (fig.) to preserve from oblivion. ']. (In fact, however, there were number of aromatic herbs used on embalming the dead - of which, several later are referred/known w. the term 'tham', that also likely origin for the greek word 'thumus'.) But the use itself not anyhow unlikely, characteristically thyme(s) have a certain purifyin', desinfenctive scent. ; Additionally, to some further 'proofs' from it's purificative qualities, it had a consecrated place also on the old pagan/christian traditions. So, fx it said that the '...Ghauls considered it to be a powerful anticeptic.' ...And also acc. resembling old 'legends' it said (that) in the medieval 'rituals' enjoying drinks containing some thyme, it was believed from to permit seeing some fairies. - So now you know, not any photographical fakeries needed, neither any unhealthy hallucinogenics, just enjoy a few tonics made of the thyme... :) The source doesn't seem provide any actual description of those beliefs, though. Supposedly not too wizardry, or not solely anti-christian origin/a practice.
 

; Along w. the Rosemary and due from it's good anticeptic qualities Thyme was in the past(s) also used on court rooms for to protect ”good folks” from falling on victim of the typhoid fever. - Which at the time was common on prisoners, due because of inhuman conditions of their imprisonement cells, the inferior diets offered for the prisoners, plus the other reasons (ao, lack from any real healthcare, medicinery, any physicians in the modern sense.) 

; Finally to mention also that it: '...was one of the herbs cultivated under Charlemagne's orders in the imperial gardens and the monasteries' [...Btw; the said 89 herbs on that 'Charlemagne order' also contain fx Rosemary, Sage, ao. ...Of which you can fx conclude that not all the governmental regulations - whether that by a monarchial reign or a modern democratic - necessary would appear disadvantageous. (...But that 'Charlemagne reign' was on existence around ca 800, or for some centuries prior/after from the said year. Later it transformed/was integrated to the Holy Roman Empire...or about so.)]. ; ...Common Thyme well early seems regularly presented on most 16^th century herbalist books (Culpepper, et sim, likely, possibly...I'm likely to believe that parts of it's 'magical' characteristics traceable to the longer tradition it seems viewed of some connection for the - so called - afterlife. Quite interesting, anyhow, both mythologically and culturally viewed.) ; And, furthermore emphasized, that similarly as the other presented good 'Mediterranean'-plants above (Rosemary, Bay Laurel, Myrtle), it too always had an established place as the kitchen/culinary herb. (And mostly the said herbal uses, of phantastical and evidentual kind, are near forgotten.) – But surprisingly, I've actually not any precise idea on which foods it appears used on. On fish dishes, I just suppose. Anyway, and as also usual to most herbs, dried leaves have the stronger aroma. (But the scent maybe stronger on freshly picked leafs.) ...To mention, then of the good advice: '...not to be used in any large quantities or for an extended periods of time.' So be it.

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Dill/Fennel ...as grown on greenhouse.

Dill, or Fennel (Anethum graveolens) ; ...Guess'll most of us, consider dill to a regular garden-yard spice, almost naturalized also at these Northern corners. As I was visiting the Amsterdam on Spring I acquired some seeds of dill. These easily grew for larger cultivations and I therefore harvested of my fennels already around the late from June. (Actually, nearly the best part on dill that it's very suitability for grow within other cultivations, or inbetween the other plants. Only requirements are a good sunshine and adequate lot of moisture.) As to show of their (ie seeds') Central European origin, them grew very effectively on greenhouse – but yet rather more poorly on open, as the summer was rather mild. ; Dill/Fennel cultivated worldwide, presently and fx seems it having naturalized on Mediterranean since from long at pasts. Likewise said – resembling on that many spices we now recognize commonly, but little misleadingly considered for 'European' plant – It actually originated from Near East/-Asia, and was brought for the temperate zone very early on times. Nowadays it's mostly used to culinary purposes, and I also noticed that in the South of Europe mainly the seeds are used, but on more North the leafs (and stamina). That so due because leafs generate more of a taste (plus vitamins, or smtgh else equally important) if grown at the colder climate – and vice versa.

; But, from the dill (as herb) we shall limit our findings to the mention that earlier it was used, for example, ao, on treatment for coughs, and headache, and – like expectable – as an aid of the digestion (Of course, that appears quite easy to believe.) ...Considering the headaches not any 'miracles' (like from aspirin) expected, however, but - acc. my personal opinion - I've found the claim of having some real basis. ; Along that – and like said from many useful palatable plant - seems it favored as the remedy for most various diseases and ills, by number from herbal 'auctors', also quite invariably. Whether or not all that also should then represent any trustable evidence. ...Finally, and if getting little mystified at the closing, seems mentioned too that these plant(s) also said been listed already on the ancient Egyptian herbal-scrolls, approx. 5000 y. in the past.

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Milk thistle 

Milk Thistle (notice leafs.)

(Silybum marianum) ; Like the latin name also would (possibly) suggest, here we have yet another plant w. herbal qualities, and which in the past, during the medieval, was consecrated for 'her holiness', Mother Mary. (Guess' hence it's other common name; 'Our lady's thistle'. Actually the name derived from those white markings on it's leaves, see of the the pic. At the time, those were filled w. symbolical meanings – and, probably rather versatile beliefs, as that (said) referred for/symbolized the milk of Christ's mother.) ; The flower-heads were actually the used part on some herbal treatments, and that been practically also a reason for it's old cultivation history at gardens/monasteries. ...Don't know about any effectiveness, I only planted it this year of curiosity, but fx said from: ”...fruit husks contain a substance known as silymarin, which is used in preparations for acute liver diseasea and as a preventative supplement for a variety of liver-related problems.” (...even it's thorny leaves were in the past used for preparement of treatments of 'liver and gall bladder complaints'.) Whatever the actual origin of these herbalistics, the religious faith or any real knowledge/experimentation, main usable part were seeds on the flower-heads. More of a faith, or not...I choose not speculate. Let's just say that I don't suppose not necessary proven it's healthy effects, yet I care not from deny any of that, 'cause most all plants do have their own particulars - some appear (very) beneficial, some can even be lethal.

 

; But notably, like the typical manner for the thistles, it's a biennal plant – on the 1^st year grows only the basal rosette, flowers appearing on a year two. ...Or, so I read – and (likely) just for my surprisement it did flower already ca mid-July, this year. ...Guess, it might've been from that I had pre-grown the seeds indoors, more usually the plant appears probably just sowed straight to the soil. Whichever the reason... 

; Generally people also don't so much appreciate the Thistles for garden plants (...ao, due because from their strong roots and rich production of the tiny seeds which easily can turn for the troubles to any gardener as some space-conquering weed-plants...but as in the case from any biennals, removing each of the flowerings, that, in time, should effectively prevent the seeds spreading. And so you can grow something else for it's place for subsequent years.) Personally I just do love thistles, as the thistles also are very good attractants of the insect pollinators; bees, butterflies, eagerly visit. (Albeit not necessary for particularly plentysome at this species...It's flowers also, when finally grown, did seem relative small – Unless that might've then been part due from this summers weathers.) ...By origin it's range seems contain the South-western Asia, and, the Mediterranean-regions.

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St. John's Wort 

(Hypericum perforatum) ; This is then yet another species here which seems has on it's name some biblical references (For John the Baptist, ...or perhaps that was that other John? ...the one who had the revelation, or was it even by some other apostle? Well, it's important to be very precise, check about that by yourself...) Anyway, in case of this plant I personally prefer a term of my own, 'our honorable cruxadero' – as good a name as any other. And likewise, that only very jokingly of course, as the 'cruxaderos' weren't known from been too particularly honorable (or, if they were it was kind of 'twisted moral', typical for the time.) The flower (below) anyway, looks a bit like cross, doesn't it?

St. John's Wort, a flower. 

; The plant natively grows all over European region, and, elsewhere. Actually it's the sole species listed at this that by natural origin grows here. But there is several close species as well, and some of them in very much resemblance for it. Their particular genus of plants hypericaceae (...likely.), but only St.John's Wort seems traditionally had been more noted about any medicinal uses. ; ...Yet, while the St.John's Wort has a long history from various medicinal use, more lately it seems said mostly gained some renown of it's uses on treatment for mental-related 'diseases', etc (acc. BNG; ”Its application as a herbal remedy for anxiety and mild depression has been validated in scientific studies.”) ...However, it's use not recommended  without any proper guidance, or w. aid of some actual herbal medicinal advisor, seems noted - due because the vegetative oils contained can resultatively have some physically harmful effects, if the remedies aren't properly prepared. (Or. alternatively cause some other negative side-effects.) Of externally, it seems been in the old times used as fx treatment to skin conditions, ao.
 

; ...But, personally I did sew this said plant on my garden due because of it's lovely flowers – and because, it a natural plant (The bees also visit the flowerings frequently, and that flowering lasted well late until some mid-September this year. Around early July it already was beginning to bloom...lot's of flowers, 'cause quite plentyful plants of it side by side seem succesfull for to grow at rather small, limited space.) ...I was slight surprised for see how large the flowers did grow, 'cause on the places I've mostly seen it (nutrient poor and sandy soils, mostly), them often appear lot smaller. ; Of the cultivation/place in garden: It mainly favors plenty sunshine and relative poor soil – But generaly it's cultivation very easy, and, also is a durable perennial, w. practically not any care needed.

; ...Seems that there are also plenty (lot) old folk's 'medicinal'-beliefs, and even witchcraft-type "knowledges" circulated around the St. John's Wort; 'The herb was believed to drive away evil spirits and protect against witchcraft.', ...ao, etc. But then - interesting to mention - there's in contrast, and perhaps it mainly tells about the preservative and transformative nature of these old traditionel stories, also tales about the plant been  tied on the witches broomsticks (Or, altenatively as some spicings on the devil's coffee pot...but I'm slight suspective from the origins of that belief, or at least from about the source I possibly might've read that too...) ; Probably you could also have kind of vivid childhood memories on these kinda beliefs. ...Ya know, the witch and the stick and that pot...plus the cat and the hat, some other usual passengers on that moonlight-drive, of course, ...and all those imaginous and such blood-stopping stories there used to be told in the old days (At the moonlit nights. I mention not anything of the werevolves, vampires, neither of the 'little folk'. etc. The view-point at this was about witches, besides.) ; Not any too particular interest on that kind stuff – I'm not any witch. Nonetheless, these kind 'visions' tend give you some...kicks. And once you know the tricks, well, I ain't too grave about these kind of things, I always have a place for some good...switch. Or it's - sort of - some kinda 'second life' ya know. That really seriously not meaning anything too stiffen boring. Merely, fantastically, it's actually the moods I mean by this – Think for example about those 'fool's day'-customs we on that earlier chapter (above  referred) wrote a bit: The ruler and the joker changin' places, etc. Humorously...but seriously. Not any blasphemies...but having certain bliss. (Full Moon, light sifting from behind the twigs of the mossen elms, the old owl against the sunset sky, cat in the church-tower, common lizards swirling their eyeballs...that kinda stuff.) Some describe these things to smtgh that 'flickers', but I call it simply to a...switch. ; Wouldn't bother for anything elsemuch typical otherways – costumes, false noses, warts, whatever, - none of it besides even has any similar tension as it had in times from those good old childrens books, these days. 
(And don't forget to do your exercises, as well.)

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Origan / Oregano 

(Origanum vulgare, ssp vulgare) ; Last but not the least. ...this one I actually selected almost solely due it has nice flowers. It's quite a common cultivated here as well and seems easily grow on most soils. ; The facts are, shortly as possible to mention, that there are also in the Origanum-family a number of resembling plant. Them grow/are spread via human inhabitants for most any places of Earth, belonging to large family from lamiaceae (scientfic. the mints, or deadnettles-family.) ...Then there are also some other species known by name Oregano, but which are of completely different plant-family. ...And then there's yet also Marjoram (Origanum majorama), said for belong to that 'bunch of plants' which were been considered 'sacred for Aphrodite, goddess of love' (I notice at antique there were several, but their particular symbolical importance of course likely was slight differing.) (It said) the plant also was known during the ancient Egyptian cultures, by name from the 'Osiris plant'. (Was by earliest brought for Europe not until ca the 1500ies.) But, that not the same species as Origan, and besides '...it's medicinal use has now been questioned.' (Leaving that for the mention.) ; Yet marjoram is the close species to origan/oregano, but it also said known from only cultivated form (at Europes likely), from hence also it's regular name as Sweet marjoram – in contrast to Origan/Oregano sometimes been known by name for the Wild marjoram. (Also variance from the local hybrids there are been found.)

 

Origanum (.ssp vulgare.).

; A Mediterranean 'variety' (of Origan, the plant said acc. Wikip. to have originated of Italian peninsula, natively) is usual spice fx on the pizza, also has the stronger taste – but otherways this naturalized variety growing here is much similar. Historically the plant likewise had some variety of uses, incl. due it's scent and as the desinfectant. To the Northern European regions it's assumed spread via roman conquests/influence, by earliest ...Supposedly, because similarly seems believed of several of these mentioned. And hence it not either much surprising from said also been known by the ancient Egyptians. Likely, that maybe could also mean instead the Marjoram-spec. (But actually most of these guessings of mine only some 'pearl-fishing', like the English say... ) (As usual), noted that 'herb contains essential oils, tannins and flovonoids...', ...etc.

; It normally not much flowers on my garden – merely because the common advice is to gather leaves prior that. But if you let it grow until late summer, it's nice mild scented flowers remain well late for the Autumn too. And naturally it also most easily overwinters. And to mention of Origanum - like most other species from that plant-family lamiaceae (Rosemary, Thyme fx, of here mentioned) - it's flowerings as well lot attract the bees. (In the summery days while watching the bees on my garden flowers, I noticed that at least some of them paid most of their visits on it. On it's case too, the bloomings last quite long.)

; ...If taking slight excursion for the 'tales and stories', phantasies and some ”pre-fiction”,...Seems of the myths worth mention then, fx, that (goddess) Venus from earliest is said having cultivated the oregano. And, acc the same Greecian mythologies – which indeed are varying, often even quite contradictory - the king of Cyprus had a servant whom the Gods(...Humph!) transformed for an Oregano-plant (As the punishment to having dropped a vase containing some perfumes – namely, the servant had then fainted of horror to have committed such a mistake.) ; ...I've always had my suspicions about these antique-mythicals of the gods and goddesses 'business'. ...'Guess (that) servant having not bothered about the incident at all, them (Gods, w. big alphabet) would probably instead rewarded him generously. ...It has, I think, something peculiarly and awkwardly similar, btw, to the modern day politics; Who'll be the quickest this year - or what's left from it - of shattering the earlier promises, betraying one's principles along w. the his/hers until that far supported party, and will probably - get rewarded. Isn't it, a bit, 'godly' realm after all...don't ya think? After all, we live at times where people usually, take a necessary precautions beforehand for not believing half the words uttered by any politician. And I don't say it anyhow pointingly; In general it's unwise from trust for anyone that earns remarkably more than you do. (However, I only daresay that don't pray the false gods, to some kinds eternal wisdom...)

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; And...that was all about from our slight views on the herbs, this time. I meant also fx provide the recipe of that 'herbal-mixture', recommended for the treatment on coughs. ...but you can quite as well check it of the E.Hoppe's classic book on herbal garden, of where I learned that (Året runt i örtagården. From ca early 1980s.) ; Subsequently, on some time of the unforeseen future at the moment – we'll possibly can include also additional chapter, that about native and traditional herbs here (ie, some that can be easily gathered of the Northern natures.) For example, I actually considered as decoratives to this flowers from the Germander speedwell (V.chamaedrys), and/or Woodland Cranesbill (G.sylvaticum) – both lovely most blooming natural species. (Albeit the latter mentioned has not herbal uses, as it has some toxics. But among it's genera, there of course also is 'Herb Robert', G. Robertianum, a plant of which 'the historic herbals are full of praise'.) Both from the former mentioned I've actually also grown to my garden plants. But any post from the native species would then be in the time being, etc...

...The said tree. How lovely!

[; In the meanwhile, here a pic of species I noted from growing in between of street-pavings/stones, while visiting that Amsterdam on Spring. Guess' it's an acer- (Maples) by species, I only suppose, but might've even mistake on that. Anyhow, how enchanting an example of the multisided and limitless capabilities the trees have from enriching the variety of life. ] (; W-G.)

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; (Some of the short quoted sentences on text originate for BNG's Medicinal Plants (of Britain and Europe) and/or Jekka's Herb Book (p. -94)...and poss. of a few other herbals, I've not perhaps happened from mention in the text. Them mostly just as some references, if you wish to check on any more particulars about from these said plants, I advice taking some look on at least few other sources too. (From some good old and new books on herbal plants, and their histories. I intend myself too...while I might've any time.)

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