Useful herbs of the Rom – Part 1

Being an outdoor people and outside of the mainstream of society, the Rom learned to use what grew in nature. Science is constantly affirming the healing power of herbs.

This is only a partial list. Many of these herbs are also used by people in rural sections of the United States.

Adders tongue (Ophioglossum vulgatum): A fern that was crushed,cooked in oil,and strained,after which the oil was used to treat wounds. As the name suggests it was used to treat snake bite.

Agrimony: Also known as cocklebur or sticklewort, was used to treat eye troubles and as a compress for wounds.

Wild Angelica: grows alongside brooks and streams and produced a yellow dye. Stalks were blanched and eaten with bread and butter. The stems were chewed to relieve flatulence.

Balm, also called lemon balm: An infusion of the leaves was used to treat nervous troubles and fevers. It is a mild sedative and is an effective cure for insomnia. Balm is also used for headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, and queasy stomachs

Basil: A small amount (1/2tsp)of finely chopped leaves were added to a cup of hot water to ease stomach trouble and vomiting.

Bay: Not the common laurel used in hedgerows. Placed in containers of flour or grains and vegetables prevents damage from weevils. (ed. note, we do this today because it works!) Used to flavor stews and soups.

Blackberries: A tea made from the leaves is a cure for upset stomach. Blackberry brandy is an effective cure for diarrhea and will help in cases of the flu.

Blackthorn's young shoots are boiled in water and used as a toothache remedy.

Borage: Used to bring down fevers and treat depression. Leaves boiled or added to drinks.

Burdock: Leaves,flowers,or seeds were made into an infusion to cure rheumatism. The root is used as a blood purifier and to treat arthritis pain.

Butterbur: Leaves are used as tonic and to ward off fevers.

O. W. Newman