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The “Banckes Herbal”, A Boke of the propreties of herbes called an herball was the first printed English Herbal. Published by Richard Banckes in 1525, it is based on a series of early English herbals. Today, only a few copies are known to exist. The initial first 1525 edition was compiled from existing manuscript sources […]

Eclectic medicine, founded by Dr. Wooster Beach in the early 19th century, was a reaction to the harsh and often harmful practices of conventional medicine at the time (bloodletting, heavy use of toxic chemicals). The term “Eclectic” was first used by Constantine Samuel Rafinesque to describe physicians who used whatever was beneficial to their patients.

Plant lore is a rich and ancient tradition, intertwining botany with mythology, superstition, and cultural symbolism. Across different cultures, plants have been revered not only for their medicinal properties but also for their spiritual significance. For example, the oak tree was sacred to the Druids, representing strength and endurance. The Druids exorcised evil spirits with

Paradisi in Sole (Paradisus Terrestris), is a beautiful early modern English horticultural book written by John Parkinson and published in 1629. John Parkinson (1567-1650) was a prominent English botanist and apothecary. Born in Nottinghamshire, he began his career as an apprentice apothecary in London. His dedication and expertise led him to become the personal apothecary