Romeo and Juliet, true love?
Are Romeo and Juliet really the most romantic of all lovers? Or is their love more folly, infatuation and teenage angst?
Lavender and Mullein
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)
A Roman introduction to this country, its name derives from the Latin verb 'lavare' to wash, showing where it was frequently used to perfume both body, clothing, bedding and house. Lavender was more commonly used in cooking in the past than it is today, when it is considered to be an 'acquired' taste. We use the flowers to flavour butter, batters and sauces just as the Tudors did. And it was also a medicinal plant, making an ointment which was slightly antiseptic and good for applying to minor burns, cuts and grazes. The smell of lavender was also believed to relieve headaches and induce sleep.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
You may be surprised to see this plant listed here but it has a long history of use as an herbal remedy. The flowers were macerated in oil to make a common treatment for ear aches and infections. The oil was also thought to be good for skin problems such as severe rashes and eczema.