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QR 1 Pulminaria Officianalis (Lungwort)

According to the 'Doctrine of Signatures', which stated that something about the plant resembled the ailment it could be used to treat, the spotted leaves of this herb were thought to have the appearance of diseased lungs. Astrologer and physician Nicholas Culpeper (1616-1654) describes in his book Culpeper's Complete Herbal - A book of natural remedies for ancient ills that Lungwort was an excellent remedy for horses with broken-wind (airway obstructions) if the herb was boiled in beer.

For more historic 'recipes for remedy' and further information, please follow the links below.

IMPORTANT - Warning: Please do not pick, take or eat any plant, fruit or berry from the Garden even if you think that you know what it is. Reference to any medicinal or curative properties of plants or to the recipes noted are historic and for the interest of visitors and should not be used or relied on as this may cause harm. Neither the Artist nor the Chelsea Physic Garden will be held liable if people disregard this advice.

Wellcome Trust's recipe books

The British Library

Unicorn Cookbook

Illuminated Manuscript

Culpepper's English physician; and complete herbal

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