William Salmon’s Botanologia: The English Herbal, or History of Plants (1710) stands as a monumental work in the tradition of English herbals, offering a comprehensive guide to the plants of the British Isles and their medicinal applications. Published during the early 18th century, this extensive volume reflects the era’s burgeoning interest in empirical science and practical medicine. Salmon, a physician and prolific author, endeavoured to provide a detailed account of plants, encompassing their physical descriptions, medicinal properties, and therapeutic uses. His work aimed to serve as a practical reference for physicians, surgeons, and apothecaries, aligning with the utilitarian ethos of the time.

The structure of Botanologia is methodical, with each plant entry detailing its Latin and English names, a physical description, habitat, and the season of flowering. Salmon meticulously categorised plants based on their perceived qualities—such as hot or cold, dry or moist—and their medicinal virtues. The book also includes instructions on preparing remedies, often combining various plant materials to treat specific ailments. This approach underscores the era’s holistic view of medicine, where the boundaries between botany, chemistry, and pharmacology were not distinctly defined.

Illustrations play a significant role in Salmon’s herbal, with numerous woodcuts accompanying the plant descriptions. These images not only serve to identify plants but also reflect the artistic conventions of the period. Some editions of Botanologia feature hand-coloured engravings, adding an aesthetic dimension to the scientific content. The inclusion of such illustrations demonstrates the intertwining of art and science in early modern botanical studies, where visual representation was crucial for both identification and education.

Salmon’s herbal also holds historical significance beyond its botanical content. It is among the earliest English texts to mention the cultivation of the tomato in North America, specifically in the Carolinas. This reference highlights the expanding botanical knowledge of the time and the increasing awareness of plants from the New World. Additionally, Salmon’s work reflects the commercialisation of medicine during the period, as he was known to sell medicinal preparations and remedies, blurring the lines between medical practice and commerce.

Botanologia is a testament to the rich tradition of herbal literature in England, encapsulating the medical and botanical knowledge of the early 18th century. Its detailed descriptions, practical approach, and historical insights offer a window into the medical practices and botanical understanding of the time. While some of its medicinal claims may seem outdated by today’s standards, the work remains a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of herbal medicine and the historical context in which it developed.