The Meaning of Herbs : Myth, Language and Lore

The Meaming of Herbs presents vivid portraits of herbs favoured through the ages, drawing on botanical, mythological, and historical sources worldwide. In ancient Rome, for instance, a leaf of basil placed in the hand of the dead was said to ensure that the gates of heaven would open for them. An age-old legend asserts that when Mary washed Jesus' swaddling clothes she left them on a lavender bush and ever since, the smell of heaven has lingered on the plant. Recipes, spells, mystical applications, and the lore of each herb in the book is delightfully examined. Decorated with brilliantly colorful collages, The Meaning of Herbs is a delightful exploration of the language and lore of nature's most healing and mysterious gifts, herbs.