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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Ethnobotany![]() Ethnobotany - 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 Fields![]() Linnaeus' 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 Sibthorp![]() His 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 Route![]() This is not a central theme to any article but makes an appearance in several:
'Heath and Fortune' - China past & present![]() Gareth 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' - Wales![]() Wales'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 Arborello![]() Some thoughts on the origins of the distinctively shaped historic pharmacy jar.
Click on link below to download pdf file. ![]()
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