The cow dung flower

Spring is well underway here on the Northern Frontier and the cowslips are nodding in the breeze. The cowslip Primula veris is a member of the primrose family. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, and they know about such things, the name is derived from the Old English cú cow + slyppe a slimy substance and means 'cow-slobber' or 'cow-dung'. A rather unfortunate name for such a pretty little plant but an accurate reflection of the fact that in the wild cowslips tend to sprout from old cow-pats.

Herbalists have used cowslips since ancient times. Cowslip wine, which I can remember my grandfather making from the petals, was used as a sedative and the whole plant was used to treat coughs and bronchitis. The cowslip is also known as Palsywort on account of its alleged efficacy in treating spasms, cramps, rheumatic pain and even paralysis. Prior to the 17th century wort simply meant a plant, herb, or vegetable, used for food or medicine and in plant names is indicative of ancient use in treating different ailments and organs, e.g. lungwort, spleenwort, liverwort.

Finally a tip that might, one day, come in useful. Apparently, if a woman washes her face in milk which has been infused with Cowslips, then her beloved will be drawn ever closer to her. Oh, and don't let us forget that the plant has the ability to split rocks containing treasure and can help you find hidden fairy gold.

Useful little devils aren't they?