Themes Page:
Historical Medical Botany
Many themes in these articles have their roots in the Chelsea Physic Garden (the historic apothecaries' garden of London) but extend to Pennsylanvia, Uppsala and Nuremberg:
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EthnobotanyEthnobotany - the study of the use of plants by peoples - appears a modern activity. But it was a pursuit of historical botanists searching for effective treatments for disease.
Linnaeus in the FieldsLinnaeus' early career as a physician is not widely known, at least outside Sweden. Among the studies of his own country was the collection of traditional medicines of the people, a pursuit he recommended to young physicians.
'Reading Classics' - John SibthorpHis life's work was to study the flora of Greece travelling the country and talking to people, following the writings of the ancient Greek physician Dioscorides.
West Side Story - the Haida First Nation, Canada.Some thought provoking issues on the collection of ethnobotanical material from First Nation peoples in British Columbia.
The Silk/Spice RouteThis is not a central theme to any article but makes an appearance in several:
'Heath and Fortune' - China past & presentGareth Evans experienced China's ancient and sophisticated medicinal traditions first hand, as did extraordinary 19th century plant-hunter Robert Fortune in his own time.
'Sacks & the City' - Nuremberg'Sacks' refer to the merchants that grew prosperous in the trade associated with the spice trade.
'The Importance of being Wormwood' - WalesWales's historic maritime links with southern Europe is partly demonstrated by the spice and herbs that were imported directly into its harbours.
The Origins of the ArborelloSome thoughts on the origins of the distinctively shaped historic pharmacy jar.
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