Herbal Stories of Simples & Worts
The Massachusetts Bay Colony... Year of Our Lord 1621
Nestled along the rugged coast of New England, the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 17th century was home to a fascinating interplay of herbal wellness practices. Among the early settlers and indigenous tribes, the use of simples and worts—herbs used individually or in combinations for healing—played a pivotal role in daily life. As we look back at these practices, we uncover a treasure trove of wisdom that continues to inspire our modern herbal lifestyles.
The Role of Simples in Colonial Wellness
In a time when apothecaries were rare and access to physicians was limited, simples (single herbs used medicinally) were the cornerstone of wellness. Colonists relied on their knowledge of European herbal traditions, often blending it with the wisdom of the local indigenous tribes, who introduced them to native plants like sassafras, witch hazel, and yarrow.
Historical Insight: Parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme were common herbs in colonial herb gardens, prized not only for their culinary uses but also for their medicinal properties. Parsley was believed to support digestion, sage was used to ward off infections, rosemary was thought to enhance memory, and thyme symbolized courage and was often used in remedies for respiratory ailments.
Worts and Herbal Combinations
The term "worts" referred to herbal combinations crafted for specific ailments. Colonists and indigenous healers alike would prepare poultices, teas, and tinctures using worts tailored to individual needs. These remedies were carefully documented in household journals, many of which serve as historical records of herbal knowledge.
Hands-On Craft: Create your own "Colonial Apothecary Kit" using modern equivalents of 17th-century recipes. Include dried herbs like sage and thyme, small glass jars for tinctures, and labels with the herb’s traditional uses. This hands-on activity connects members to the rich history of herbal medicine.
Indigenous Contributions to Herbal Wisdom
The settlers of Massachusetts Bay owed much of their survival to the indigenous tribes, who shared their profound understanding of the land and its plants. From the soothing balm of wintergreen to the anti-inflammatory properties of wild cherry bark, these shared practices laid the groundwork for a unique herbal tradition.
Craft Idea: Teach members how to make a salve inspired by indigenous practices using beeswax, olive oil, and an infusion of herbs like yarrow or calendula. This simple yet powerful remedy honors the contributions of Native American herbal wisdom.
We hope that you’re excited to celebrate the New Year with Herbal Traditions!
Until Next Time...
I am...
Phil Wilson...
And here’s to living an Herbal Lifestyle With You!