In the early settlement days of this area, doctors were few and far between. Pioneers had to rely on their own knowledge of herbs and plants for homemade medicine. These are just some of the plants found in a pioneer garden at Stanhope Heritage Museum, and what they were used for.
Basil – To calm the stomach
Borage – A tincture from the roots was used for menstrual disorders
Chives – Antibacterial oil can be made from the stems
Echinacea – An immune system stimulant and anti-oxidant
Foxglove – To alleviate hear pain
Horehound – To soothe coughs
Hyssop – An expectorant
Mullein – Tea made from these leaves was used for coughs, cramps and general pain relief
Oregano – An antispasmodic when taken as tea
Rosemary – A common circulatory stimulant and anti-oxidant
Rue – To alleviate “chest complaints”
Tansy – Tea made from the leaves was though to cure colds, fevers and stomach aches
Yarrow – Crushed leaves were used to staunch bleeding; a tea was used for “lung complaints”
NOTE: This information is for interest and education only and is not meant to be medical advice.
To visit the Museum & Gardens, check out http://stanhopemuseum.on.ca