The Physick Garden: Ancient Cures for Modern Maladies

The intriguing tales of 80 plants that have been used to heal and cure our bodies – from ancient superstitions to old wives' tales that worked.

The intriguing tales of the plants that have been used to heal and cure our bodies – from ancient superstitions to old wives' tales that worked. Here are the ancient cures for modern maladies...

Plants have been used for centuries for their healing powers –to both positive and deadly effect. Through the ages, these herbal remedies have become enshrined in folklore, and so too the names we have given the plants and the old wives’ tales we continue to tell our children. Many have also found their way into modern medicine cabinets.

But were the Victorians dicing with death when they dropped angel’s trumpet in their tea? Can comfrey really be used to heal broken bones? And can St John’s Wort scare away more than bad spirits? Taking you around the body, from the brain to the bowels, The Physick Garden introduces 80 plants with curious medicinal pasts.


With surreal illustrations and lively tales, The Physick Garden will show thatsometimes there is method in the madness.