Botanicum Medicinale: An Herbal of Medicinal Plants on the College of Physicians List Describing Their Medicinal Virtues by Timothy Sheldrake is a significant work in the history of botanical medicine. Published in 1759, this comprehensive herbal provides detailed descriptions of medicinal plants recognized by the College of Physicians. The book is renowned for its meticulous engravings and thorough documentation of plant properties, making it a valuable resource for both historical and practical studies in herbal medicine.

The volume comprises 251 pages, featuring 118 hand-colored copper-plate engravings by C.H. Hemerich, based on Sheldrake’s original drawings. These illustrations are notable for their artistic quality and accuracy, capturing the intricate details of each plant. The text accompanying each illustration offers insights into the plant’s habitat, parts used in medicine, and its medicinal virtues, often including names in multiple languages. This multilingual approach reflects the global recognition and utilization of these plants in various medical traditions.

In addition to plant descriptions, Sheldrake includes tables to assist in understanding the climatic requirements for cultivating exotic plants, indicating his forward-thinking approach to practical herbalism. The inclusion of such information underscores the book’s utility not only as a medicinal guide but also as a horticultural reference. Despite Sheldrake’s untimely death before the completion of the project, the existing work stands as a testament to his dedication to the field of botanical medicine.

Botanicum Medicinale is more than just a catalog of plants; it is a historical document that bridges the gap between traditional herbal practices and the emerging scientific approaches of the 18th century. Its enduring value lies in its detailed illustrations, comprehensive plant profiles, and the insight it provides into the medicinal plant knowledge of its time.