We found a lovely herb today. This is Betony, Stachys officinalis. It is a member of the Mint family (Lamiaceae) and it flowers from July until September.
Betony is a wonderfully useful herb. It has been used since Roman times to protect people from sorcery. It is planted in graveyards to keep the ghosts still and tying the leaves around your neck can prevent bad dreams and specifically prevent “Frightful Nocturnal Goblins.”
I can tell you that it does all of these things and it really works. I haven’t seen a frightful nocturnal goblin for ages. I love flowers with magical properties.
The plant also has a long history of use as a herbal medicine and was regarded as a panacea with a thousand virtues. Unfortunately unlike it’s magical properties most of the medicinal claims have now been disproved and it is really just a lovely herb with a beautiful name. (and white magic)
I think I have some in my garden, it is pretty.
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Thank you Gin and I bet there are no goblins in your garden 🙂
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I love your up-close photos showing all the small markings/details of Betony. Your personal recommendation is great, too! Thanks so much for your like of my haiku+poetry today. I bookmarked your website and anticipate coming back for more.
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Thank you Elouise 🙂
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You’re welcome!
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That is one pretty, delicate herb; don’t think I have ever seen it before. The dog … adorable!
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Thank you Debra 🙂
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This is beautiful!
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I am so glad that you liked it Sandi 🙂
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I like all your posts. Thanks for sharing!
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What a lovely plant, magical or not!
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Thank you Eliza 🙂
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I need some! Those frightful nocturnal goblins are causing havoc!
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Maybe the frightful nocturnal goblins are just misunderstood 🙂
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