Solomon’s Seal. (Polygonum multiflorum) syn. Lady’s seal; St. Mary’s seal. A perennial member of the Liliaceae family growing to about 40cm in light woodland in Europe and Asiatic Russia. It has a round stem, emanating from a thick creeping rhizome, bearing numerous alternate ovate to elliptic leaves in two rows. Its white, drooping and aromatic flowers grow singly or in pairs from the leaf axils.
The generic name comes from the Greek, meaning “much jointed”, and the common name is believed to derive from a belief that the triangular scars left on the rootstock from the previous year’s growth resembled the great seal of King Solomon, which is also thought to be the origin of the Star of David. Another explanation is that when the root stock is cut transversely, Hebrew characters are revealed that gave rise to the theory that Solomon, “who, knew the diversities of plants and their virtues” had set his seal of approval on them. Nice theory.
The ancients were aware of the plant, and Galen recommended it for improving the complexion, but cautioned against internal use. However, Gerard stated that “…among the vulgar and coarse people of Hampshire, the like of which, Galen and Dioscorides could not have dreamt of, or believed existed on the same earth, being much taken with drink and therefore prone to falling and suchlike, do stamp the root and soke it in small ale, and drink of it until it sodereth and glues the bones together”. He also informs us that “….if applied when fresh and green to the eye doth take away in one night those black and blew spots, gotten by women’s willfulness in stumbling on their husband’s fists”.
Culpeper informs that the Italian dames “…scoureth away freckles and blemishes and ugly spots, with a decoction of the root”.
The plant contains Convallarin, Asparagin, resin, starch and pectin. It is astringent, demulcent, tonic, hypoglaecemic and vulnerary. Nineteenth century herbalists were most enthusiastic about the plant’s ability to stop bleeding from the lungs caused by tuberculosis, and stopping up dysentery. Modern herbalists and homeopaths still recommend it for inflammation of the bowels, piles and pulmonary complaints.
In times of famine, the roots were soaked and then dried and made into bread. In certain parts of Anatolia the roots are boiled and eaten; they claim it is very similar to asparagus in flavour. The macerated flowers have a long reputation as a love potion and aphrodisiac. A decoction of the root is claimed to cure erysipelas and rashes arising from exposure to irritating plants.
The black fruits of the plant are poisonous.
Solomon’s seal is a very attractive and popular plant in cottage gardens in Europe.
Next week….Dead nettle.
