A cure for the plague

Tormentil (Potentilla tormentilla syn. Thormantle; Shepherd’s knapperty) is a perennial member of the family Rosaceae.

It grows up to 20cm in acid soil in woodland and pastures and is native to Europe and Asia. It has a strong rhizome that smells of roses, with erect slender stems supporting coarsely toothed leaves terminating in small bright yellow flowers. The common name is derived from the Latin – tormentum – pain, a reference to the plant’s potential for relieving stomach aches.

Tormentil was a very popular treatment for cholera and plague in medieval times and much regarded by the Elizabethans. Culpeper states, “Tormentil is most excellent to stay all fluxes of the nose, mouth and belly. A decoction or juice thereof, expels any venom or poison as the pox, plague or measles; it is an ingredient in all antidotes and counter-poisons. It resisteth putrefaction and is a powerful remedy for all outward wounds and sores. It is most effectual for the piles.”

Parkinson, the Elizabethan apothecary, suggested “…with God’s help it will resist the poisons, plague and horrors, and the shaking fit.”

The plant contains tannins, glycodide, tormentilline, quinoric acid, resin and phlobaphene.

Tormentil has been used by herbalists for centuries to treat diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, enteric irritations, vaginal infections, piles, laryngitis, pharyngitis, bleeding gums, mouth ulcers, slow healing wounds and scrofula (swollen lymphatic gland of the neck).

A tincture made from the rhizome is believed to inhibit the growth of bacteria and to give relief in cases of irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease.

Some modern stomachics contain tormentil and are of benefit to those travelling in countries where the food or water may be of an uncertain provenance.

The root of tormentil provides a dull red dye and is used by Laplanders to colour leather. In parts of Scotland, the tannin from the plant is favoured over oak bark for curing leather.

Next week: Sumach.

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