Her War

Interpreting Women's Lives during the American Civil War

Herbs P

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Peppermint
It has a strong, agreeable odor, a pungent, aromatic taste, giving a sensation of coldness in the mouth.  Its medical properties are aromatic, stimulant, and stomachic.  It is much used to obviate nausea and relieve flatulent colic.  The essential oil and essence are the forms in which it is employed in medicine, and they are also largely used in confectionery and cordials.

[Thomas Stuart McFarland, a farmer near Belgrade, Newton County, in southeast Texas, reported that he had mint in his garden as of April 18, 1839, but does not specify species. He reports spearmint specifically on April 16, 1840.]

Pennyroyal
It is used for colds, and also as an emmenagogue.  Its essence will sometimes relieve the toothache.

[Thomas Stuart McFarland, a farmer near Belgrade, Newton County, in southeast Texas, reported that he had pennyroyal in his garden as April 16, 1840.]